Top Water Automatic Pool Skimmers

Floating debris is the bane of any pool owner's existence. Leaves, bugs, pollen, and other unsightly stuff sitting on the surface make your pool look gross and uninviting. Skimming by hand with a net is tedious and time-consuming. Wouldn't it be nice if you could just set it and forget it? Enter the automatic pool skimmer.

Automatic pool skimmers are game-changers when it comes to keeping your pool's surface pristine. These ingenious devices sit right at the waterline and use a vortex to suck up all that nasty floating crud so you don't have to. Keep reading to learn all about how automatic skimmers work their magic!

How Do Automatic Pool Skimmers Work?

Automatic pool skimmers utilize a simple but effective mechanism to remove debris from the water's surface. The main components are:

• A floating weir door that adjusts to the water level
• A skimming vortex that draws in leaves, bugs, and other debris
• A filter basket to collect all the gunk
• A water pump that keeps everything flowing

The weir door floats on top of the water and creates an adjustable opening that debris can be sucked through. As stuff gets drawn into the skimmer, a vortex action spins it around the filter basket so it gets caught and removed from the pool. The pump provides constant water flow to keep the vortex spinning and the skimming action going.

Types of Automatic Pool Skimmers

There are two main types of automatic pool skimmers:

• Floating skimmers - These have a floating mechanism that allows them to remain on the waterline as the level fluctuates. They're the most common type.
• Wall-mounted skimmers - As the name suggests, these attach to the pool wall. The weir door still floats to adjust for water level changes.

Floating skimmers are convenient since you can place them anywhere and don't have to install anything. But wall-mounted types often have a bit more power and efficiency. Choose the one that best fits your pool setup and needs.

The Mechanics Behind Auto Skimming

Let's take a closer look at how those main components allow automatic skimmers to keep your pool surface so clean:

The weir door (also called the float valve) is a critical piece. It's a floating flap that adjusts to the water level. This ensures debris gets drawn in despite fluctuations. Many weir doors are made of durable foam that withstands weather and sun.

The float apparatus allows floating skimmers to ride right at the waterline without sinking or tipping over. Floats are sealed and filled with foam for maximum buoyancy. They keep the skimmer stable despite waves or water movement.

Having control over the flow rate allows you to customize the skimming vortex. Higher flow = more power to rake in floating debris. Being able to dial in flow based on pool conditions gives you better results.

Benefits of Automatic Pool Skimmers

Ditching the pool skimming net for an automatic skimmer offers some great perks. Here are a few of the biggest benefits:

Improved Water Circulation

The constant pulling action of an automatic skimmer improves overall water circulation in your pool. This helps chemicals mix in evenly. Improved flow also keeps surfaces cleaner by not allowing stuff to settle.

No More Surface Debris

Automatic skimmers effortlessly suck up all types of floating gunk - leaves, bugs, pollen, seeds, etc. The waterline is left clean and clear instead of constantly collecting debris.

Low Maintenance

Say goodbye to spending time manually skimming with a net every day. Just empty the filter basket occasionally and let the auto skimmer handle the rest. It's like having a robotic pool cleaner minus the cost.

Installation Tips for Automatic Pool Skimmers

Getting your automatic pool skimmer set up properly ensures it will work as efficiently as possible. Here are some tips:

Skimmer Placement

Try to position the skimmer near the area where debris tends to collect the most. For example, placing it on the upwind side will catch leaves and pollen blown into the pool by prevailing winds.

Attachments & Accessories

Take advantage of handy add-ons like debris bags to collect all the gunk or anchors to keep the skimmer from drifting around the pool.

Plumbing Requirements

Floating skimmers don't need much plumbing - just hook up the hose from the skimmer to your pool's return line. Wall-mounted types require integrating into your pool's filtration system.

Top Models of Automatic Pool Skimmers

With dozens of automatic pool skimmers on the market, it can be tricky choosing the right one. Let's look at some of the top options:

Reviews of Top Brands

Going with a major brand you can trust is always a safe bet. Here are some of the leading manufacturers:

Known for high-quality pool products, Hayward's automatic skimmers consistently earn rave reviews. The Kingshark skimmer is a customer favorite for its durable construction and easy installation.

Pentair is another premier name in pools. Their Kreepy Krauly skimmer line features options for in-ground and above-ground setups. The Lil' Kreepy model is perfect for smaller pools.

Zodiac makes the beloved Cyclonic Leaf Catcher automatic skimmer. It delivers powerful performance thanks to 3 intake nozzles that maximize the vortex.

Key Features to Look For

Whether choosing one of the big brands above or a different option, keep these features in mind:

Higher flow rates (measured in GPM or gallons per minute) equate to more skimming power. Look for at least 35-40 GPM.

Models with durable weir doors and good adjustability are less likely to malfunction over time.

Look for built-in controls to adjust flow rate or vortex power based on debris conditions.

Automatic vs. Manual Pool Skimmers

Is it worth splurging on an automatic skimmer when a handheld net costs so little? Let's compare the pros and cons of each option.

Convenience & Ease of Use

Automatic skimmers are hands-free and require next to no effort. Manual skimming with a net is time-consuming, tedious work.

Effectiveness in Debris Removal

The vortex action of automatic skimmers collects debris more thoroughly than sporadic net skimming.

Ongoing Maintenance

Automatics require periodically emptying the basket while manual skimmers need no maintenance. But automatics save you time not skimming daily.

For most homeowners, the convenience and superior performance of automatic skimmers make them well worth the investment over DIY manual skimming.

Problems and Solutions for Automatic Pool Skimmers

While very reliable, automatic skimmers can develop a few common issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

Clogging

Large debris like leaves can clog the weir door opening or basket. Carefully clear obstructions and clean basket regularly.