A pool skimmer helps to get rid of the dirt and debris in the water. Over time, however, they can clog, which will prevent them from delivering peak performance. To prevent this from happening, regularly inspect the skimmer and get rid of the blockage.
With pool skimmers not working, the water can turn dirty and unhygienic. With this, keep on reading and we’ll let you know how you can unclog the skimmer line.
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Unclog Pool Skimmer Line
It does not take a pro to learn the basics of unclogging a pool skimmer line. You will need basic tools and the steps will be easy. Here are the things that you need to do to get rid of the clog.
1. Turn Off the Pool Pump
The first thing that you need to do to unclog the pool skimmer line to find the pool pump and turn it off. This is crucial for your safety, so don’t forget to do this before you start working. To prevent the pump from accidentally starting, it would be best to cut the main power supply.
2. Remove the Lid
Now, locate the skimmer in the swimming pool and get rid of the cover. It can be held in place by a twist-lock fastener or screws. This is found on the side of the swimming pool, usually rectangular or round. There is also a part that is attached to the swimming pool deck on the part where you are walking.
3. Lift Off the Basket
Once the skimmer is off, perform a quick scan of the skimmer line for any sharp object. Once it is free of hazards, look for the handle of the skimmer basket. After pulling the basket, empty the contents.
4. Inspect the Basket Holder
Now that the basket is out, inspect the lid. The cracks can also collect debris and can cause clogging. To do this, you will need a climbing snake. Run it through the pipe. If it suddenly stops, then there is most probably a clog. If there is a clog, wind the snake until it breaks free. You may need to repeat it if the clog is large. Pull the plumber’s snake and get rid of the debris.
5. Use a Garden Hose
As an alternative to using a plumber’s snake, you can also use a garden hose. Connect it to a water supply and turn it on. Let the water flow back to the intake. See if there is debris expelled from the pressure of the water. Scoop it out of the port.
6. Return the Skimmer Basket
After getting rid of the clog, it is now time to return the skimmer basket. Replace all the parts in reverse order based on what you have earlier taken out, make sure that they fit perfectly. The last thing put back is the cover of the skimmer. See to it that it is screwed tightly or that you twist the lid properly.
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7. Run the Pump
Once the skimmer basket and cover are in place, time to turn on the pump. You can now go back to enjoy the swimming pool. Pay close attention to the dirt and debris, making sure that the skimmer is doing its job properly.
Reasons Why Pool Skimmers Not Working
The main reason why the pool skimmer is not working is that it could be clogged. When this happens, it will not get rid of dirt and debris, and this affects the quality of the water in the pool. However, there are other possible reasons why it isn’t working, including the following:
- There is not enough water in the swimming pool. The water should reach the level of the skimmer so that it will work. Otherwise, it will suck nothing.
- Problems with the pool’s filtration system may also prevent the pool skimmer from working properly. Without the suction power of the filter, the debris in the pool skimmer basket will end up going back to the water.
- The circulation pump might have a problem. The skimmer is using suction from the circulation pump, so when the latter is not working, the skimmer may also have issues.
Globo Surf Overview
A pool skimmer is used for collecting dirt and debris present in the water. Occasionally, the skimmer line can be clogged. When this happens, you need to get rid of the debris causing the blockage to maintain the peak performance of the skimmer.
As it has been noted above, to unclog the pool skimmer line, start by removing the cover of the skimmer. Take out the basket and get rid of the dirt and debris inside. Use a plumber’s snake to remove any clog on the hole where the basket connects. Use a garden hose to expel dirt that could have remained. Return everything
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