Routine maintenance and cleaning
Keeping skimmers and baskets working
The skimmer is the pool’s first line of defence. When it stops pulling debris off the surface, leaves sink and stains and algae follow.
Skimmers draw water from the surface, catching leaves, insects, dust and floating oils before they sink. Inside each skimmer is a basket and, at the opening, a floating flap called a weir that keeps debris from drifting back out when the pump stops. A full basket, a missing or stuck weir, or a water level that is too high or low all stop the skimmer doing its job.
Routine guides describe one part of regular pool care and how to do it properly.
Baskets need emptying often — sometimes daily during leaf drop or after windy days — and inspecting for cracks, which let debris through to the pump. The water level should sit around the middle of the skimmer opening: too high and the surface flow slows, too low and the skimmer gulps air.
The short version
Empty baskets often
A full basket stops skimming and starves the pump.
Check the weir door
A stuck or missing weir lets debris float back out.
Keep the level right
Around the middle of the opening.
Skimmer care
Baskets
Emptied before they are full, and replaced when cracked or misshapen.
Weirs
Free to move, not jammed by debris or missing entirely.
Lids
In place and intact, so the skimmer is safe and debris-free from above.
Quick skimmer checks
- 01
Look at the water level
Mid-opening is the target.
- 02
Watch the surface
Floating debris should be drifting towards the skimmer.
- 03
Check for cracks
In baskets and lids.
Common questions
How often should skimmer baskets be emptied?
As often as they fill — sometimes daily in leaf season or after storms.
Why does debris stay on the surface?
A full basket, a stuck weir, a high water level or weak circulation.
Can a cracked basket damage the pump?
Debris passing through can reach the pump basket and impeller.
Should skimmer lids be removed for cleaning?
Only briefly while emptying the basket. Lids keep debris, children and pets out of the skimmer.
Related pool care guides
- Backwashing a sand filterA routine task that prevents the same trouble.
- Cleaning the pool waterlineA routine task that prevents the same trouble.
- Keeping a pool clean when dogs swimPool care for a related situation.
- Protecting the pool during garden worksPool care for a related situation.
This guide sits under pool cleaning. Browse all pool care guides. We look after pools at homes and commercial properties across Dubai.
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Next step
Skimmers not keeping up?
Send a photo of the skimmer and the water level. We will check whether circulation needs adjusting.