The 7 Best Pool Skimmers 2020 Reviews & Top Pick

UPDATED: Jan 03, 2020.

Debris, bugs, and leaves in your swimming pool don’t just make it look ugly; they affect its water balance, stain its surface, and even consume its chemicals. So what you require is the best pool skimmers as they are vital apparatus for pool maintenance as well as ordinarily draining operations and pool water filtering.

Jump to Top 7 Best Pool Skimmers 2020

Apart from the skimmer which is installed in your swimming pool, you might require additional automatic skimmers, manual skimmers, and surface cleaners with durable fine mesh and handy poles. With the best skimmers on the market today, you will make your facility look beautiful once more in no time.

Let’s check out pool skimmers buying guide and their review to help you make an informed decision when you hit the market.

At a Glance: Our Top Recommendations for Best Pool Skimmer:

• ProTuff Net Leaf Skimmer Rake (Top Pick)
• U.S. Pool Supply Swimming Pool Leaf Rake (Top Rated)
• Milliard Pool Skimmer Net Leaf Rake (Editor Choice)
• Swimline 8039SL Heavy Duty Leaf Skimmer
• Sabuy Swimming Pool Leaf Net Skimmer Rake

5 Types of Pool Skimmers

The type of swimming pool you own is the first thing you should consider when choosing the best pool skimmers, and then you need to consider the three main types of skimmers on the market today.

Types of Pool

There are two types of swimming pools:

1. Skimmers for Above Ground Pools

Generally, an above ground swimming pool skimmer should have a safety cover. Also, the way the skimmer interacts with the pump and the pool is different from an inground pool skimmer. Finally, an above ground pool skimmer is attached with bolts and screws.

2. Skimmers for Inground Pools

Most in-ground swimming pool skimmers are attached to the concrete of your pool sides, just below the water level. As the water gets via the skimmer to the pool’s pump for circulation, it’s filtered and debris is removed.

Types of Skimmers

There are three main basic types of pool skimmers which are available for both the inground and above ground swimming pools:

1. Manual Skimmers

A manual skimmer is simply a fine mesh attached to a pole. This kind of skimmer doesn’t require any electricity to operate other than the user to maneuver it – but this skimmer isn’t the best for filtration purpose; just collecting large floating particles. The skimmer comes with a hose that attaches to your pool pump and outlet system, offering suction to filter debris as you move the skimmer around your pool.

2. Automatic Skimmers

An auto pool skimmer attaches to the pump inlet of your pool. As water is sucked via the hose, small propellers or paddles move the tool around the surface of your pool. The majority of auto pool skimmers enjoy randomized movements to avert them from being stuck in one area in your pool, but other needs to be re-deployed regularly.

3. Self Contained Skimmers

This type of skimmer is relatively new and is powered by sunlight which is harnessed on built-in panels. The unit requires the sun to move around your facility, filtering small and large particles alike. Solar pool skimmers are more expensive than both the automatic and manual pool skimmers, but they reduce your swimming pool power usage by enabling you to operate the pumps as much as 65 percent less.

Important Features of the Best Pool Skimmers

Now that you understand the types of skimmers, you probably should know the features to look for in these skimmers. There are at least three features that should be on top of your features list:

1. Price

Obviously, the price is a major factor for most pool owners. You don’t want to spend more on a tool than you should. So, when quality isn’t compromised, we would recommend you watch out for the price.

2. Durability

All pool skimmers aren’t created equal, so ensure that you look at the material the tool is made of and the reviews. You don’t want to buy a product that has a lot of negative reviews from previous users – maybe it is breaking a lot.

3. Ease of Installation

For auto pool skimmers, we would recommend a thorough investigation of how the product is installed before you purchase it. If you can install a complicated unit, then go for it! And record a YouTube video when installing it! But if you are like the majority of us who prefer simplicity, this is surely a feature you should consider.

Choosing a Pool Skimmer

Having to spend more money on a skimmer might save you a lot of trouble in the future, but this doesn’t mean you spend more or a tool you can spend less and still get the same service. So, how do you choose the best swimming pool skimmers?

Best skimmer should propel with the wind – A unit that floats with the wind is quite effective as it uses the natural water currents and tension in cleaning your pool. The skimmer uses the surface tension to move around your facility, thus leaves, debris, and insects are sucked up easily. A self-propelled skimmer, on the contrary, might be rough for your pool because of its jerking motion. It causes more wear and tear and in the long run cost you money to repair.

Best skimmer conveniently attaches to your pools system – A pool skimmer that doesn’t attach to your pool system doesn’t improve the flow of water in your swimming pool. Simply said, the water in your facility will not be safe because it’s dirty. A unit attached to the filtration system cycles more water, thus making your swimming pool safer and cleaner.

Best skimmer doesn’t require an additional accessory to function – To eliminate additional cost on your pool skimmer, go for a unit that functions effectively without the need for extra accessories. Some people are asked to buy a net as well as the skimmer, but you don’t need to spend more with the perfect skimmer.

Best skimmer should be UV resistant – There are hundreds of pool skimmers on the market that are made of cheap material that wear under the sun’s heat over time. The best skimmer should be made of a UV resistant material that remains strong for a long.

Best skimmer has a warranty – It’s hard to trust any product without a warranty. With today’s market, you cannot be guaranteed of getting the right quality in a product. This is why it is vital to buy a skimmer that is covered by a long-term warranty so that you have it refunded or replaced when it doesn’t work as advertised.

Benefits of Pool Skimmers

A swimming pool is a great fun for a family who has it, but it comes with some responsibilities and tasks to keep it running effectively. The maintenance and care of a pool itself, as well as its water, is the main reason why people buy skimmers to keep the water sanitized and clean.

A pool skimmer removed dirt from your pool and helps to keep its water clean and free of contaminants. The skimmer captures the particles before they get to the bottom of your pool.

A pool skimmer comes with a basket and a cover and has an open channel that sucks in the water. This enables easy circulation of your pool’s water and thus prevents the development of algae and other harmful material and bacteria.

Top 7 Best Pool Skimmers on the Market

This section reviews the 7 top rated pool skimmers you can find in the market today.

ProTuff Net Leaf Skimmer Rake

ProTuff Net Leaf Skimmer Rake is made from a super strong 18 inches aluminum alloy frame that doesn’t break, twist, or bend under any load. Its strength is then enhanced by a tightly secured winged handle that adds to its stability. Another great feature of this tool is that it connects easily to the ordinarily telescoping pool with its built-in connect clip. The best thing about ProTuff is that this producer gives you a 100 percent lifetime guarantee of this product – if it breaks or tears, you can request to get a replacement free of charge.

The other feature of this product is the deep, durable, and abrasion resistant nylon bag which is stronger than the double catcher net offered by other companies. It is also very easy to move this skimmer and it’s able to resist mildew and mold, maintaining its integrity while handling big swimming pools.

Pros

• Suitable for all types of pools.
• Guard against scratching of pools.
• Easy Maneuverability.

Con

• Not suitable for picking silt.

U.S. Pool Supply Professional Heavy Duty 20” Swimming Pool Leaf Rake 

One brand that I like is the U.S. Pool Supply, and they have this professional heavy-duty pool leaf rake that lasts for long. It is a product that lets you clean your facility faster and collects all debris and leaves.

I find it to be easy to fit on standard size telescopic pool poles and can clean all types of pools thanks to its plastic frame that is safe for all surfaces.

Pros 

• Wide easy scoop edge
• Durable deep netting 
• One-year warranty

Con 

• No telescopic pole 

Milliard Pool Skimmer Net Leaf Rake 

If you are a novice in pool cleaning, then I have a model that I can recommend you called the Milliard Pool Skimmer Net Leaf Rake. It also acts as a great replacement unit and is made of an ABS plastic rim as well as nylon netting. 

Another thing I like about this model is the ability to last for years, and it easily attaches to all extension poles to give you a better reach. 

Pros 

• Depp bag for extended cleanup
• Easy to attach to a pole 
• Curved edges that are safe for all pools

Con

• Not for professional pool cleaners 

Swimline 8039SL Heavy Duty Leaf Skimmer

Here is a model that I would recommend for a person looking for a super-strong leaf skimmer for cleaning the pool. It is a structural molded unit that comes with a sturdy plastic frame as well as a fine-mesh basket.

Another feature that I love of this leaf skimmer is the tapered front edge that helps to collect debris with ease. It is a unit that guarantees to provide value for the money.

Pros 

• Tapered front edge
• Offers value for money
• Easy to use

Con

• Not quite durable 

Sabuy 18” Heavy Duty Deep-Bag Swimming Pool Leaf Net Skimmer Rake

Another rake that I found to be useful is this model from Sabuy, and it has a sturdy aluminum frame that makes it last longer. It also features a winged handle that adds to its stability and can connect to all standard telescoping pool poles.

The model easily cleans up to 18” due to its wide mouth and can collect all debris and dirt. Another feature I like is the tapered maneuverability that helps to maintain your pool.

Pros 

• Unique and safe 
• 100% guarantee 
• Easy to maintain 

Con

• Slightly expensive 

Hayward SPX1082CA Basket Assembly Replacement 

Here is a replacement model that you can use to replace your worn-out pool skimmer basket.  It easily fit a variety of model, making it universal and a solution that can bring peace of mind.

The unit comes from a reputable brand that has been shown to provide quality models and lasts for years. It is also quite affordable – you don’t need to break a bank to buy it.

Pros 

• Fits most assembling 
• Quite affordable 
• Easy to maintain 

Con

• A replacement unit

PoolSkim Pool Skimmer and Pool Cleaner

PoolSkim Pool Skimmer and Pool Cleaner is an award-winning tool with a long-lasting patented design. You can expect the skimmer to last as it’s constructed from high-quality PVC and polyurethane connectors. The skimmer works pretty well with other pool cleaners to offer a shiny swimming pool. It is an auto skimmer that rests on the water level and forms a big whirlpool that sucks dirt on the surface of the pool toward the whirlpool and drags debris out of the pool. These include grass, seeds, leaves, and bugs, making it the best skimmer for the money.

If your swimming pool in-built filter is a chore to clean, this skimmer will save you that energy-draining chore and also provide you an easy-to-clean alternative inform of a nylon mesh bag that gathers all of your pool’s dirt. You can operate this skimmer around the clock and it connects perfectly to your pool’s system and takes minimal energy to operate.

Pros

• Light and easy-to-use.
• Comes with an easy-to-clean bag.
• Can be used 24/7.

Con

• Suitable for huge particles.

Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer

Hayward Dyna-Skim for above ground pools is amongst the most trustworthy and reliable skimmers on the market today. Due to its huge basket for collecting leaves and debris, it helps to clean your swimming pool faster and keeps your pool sparkling clean throughout the year. It features a high-quality US resistant ABS material, front and top basket access as well as easy disconnect of pipes.

The product comes with a snap-in (removable weir) and 1.5 inches female straight tube threads. Hayward is an automatic skimmers producer who has been in the industry for 3 decades and all its products have been redesigned to suit the needs of today’s user, so is the Hayward SP1091LX. What is even amazing about this particular skimmer is that it comes with all the accessories required when installing it.

Pros

• Comes with a removable
• Made of highly-quality ABS material.
• Perfect for large pools.

Con

• No winter plate.

SkimmerMotion – The Automatic Pool Cleaner

SkimmerMotion removes all debris and particles smaller than one inch from your pool surface without the use of chemicals. In fact, it is able to remove debris or particles before they mix or reach the base of your swimming pool. The unit travels in a parallel motion with your vacuum cleaner covering the whole swimming pool surface to reach where other skimmers can’t reach. Another great feature of this skimmer is the compatibility, which is an add-on gadget that adapts to all bottom vacuum cleaners in your swimming pool.

The product is engineered to be effective, sleek, and compact and has an aesthetic design that makes it pleasing while in your swimming pool. Designed and made in the US, SkimmerMotion is made of the best quality and produces a whirlpool suction power that eliminates surface debris and particles.

Pros

• An effective product.
• Made of high-quality
• Removes all debris and particles.

Con

• Not energy efficient.

Intex Deluxe Wall-Mounted Swimming Pool Automatic Skimmer

Intex Deluxe Wall-Mounted Swimming Pool operation is based on the amazing venture effect. One side of its hose is connected to the skimmer and the other to your pool’s outlet where the water returns to the pool via the pump. It helps catch debris and leaves before they settle at the bottom of your swimming pool. This auto leaf tool works together with the filter pump for faster surface skimming.

The skimmer is well designed and does a great job skimming your pool and its filter basket is big enough to catch a reasonable amount of dirt and prevent it from blocking the filter. This perfect for inground pools unit attaches easily to your swimming pool metal frames or pool’s sidewalls with a changeable bracket and attaches to pump for effective skimming.

Pros

• Easy to mount.
• Constructed of quality materials.
• Automatically removes dirt from your pool.

Con

• Brackets often get lose.

Gator AutoSkim – Automatic Pool Cleaner

Gator AutoSkim is an auto skimmer that clean and clarify your swimming pool surface within minutes. It moves smoothly around your pool surface just like the best auto pool cleaner would do and it’s even able to clean the sharpest corners of your pool. Its efficiency doesn’t depend on the water current or wind, thus works even in calm weather to remove dust, debris, leaves, bugs, and pollen. Another feature of Gator is that it’s able to continuously recycle your pool surface water to its filtration system, clarifying it.

Another thing you will notice about this tool is that it operates with almost all auto suction kind pool cleaners out there today. Unlike most pool skimmers, this unit is able to collect even the finest of dirt.

Read More: Top 7 Suction Pool Cleaner

Pros

• Collects small particles.
• Cleans the pool effectively.
• Able to recycle your water for better cleaning.

Con

• Doesn’t work with pressure cleaners.

Solar Breeze – Automatic Solar Powered Pool Cleaner

Powered by Solar energy, Breeze NX Auto Pool Skimmer saves you operation cost that you would incur against other skimmers. This auto-regulated skimmer has proven to be very effective for busy users since it offers them with the much-needed help to save both energy and time. Devoid of manual operation, you can simply put the machine inside your pool by switching on the switch and within minutes, it removes almost 95 percent of the accumulated debris, such as leaves, oil, pollen, and dirt from the surface of your pool.

One of the unique features which make this skimmer one of the best on the market is its ability to work without using electrical power. Hence, it is eco-friendly, effortless, and economical. It also comes with a built-in and conventional floating dispenser that evenly distributes chemical both outside the wall and on the surface.

Pros

• Doesn’t produce noise.
• Comes with a one-year warranty.
• Comes with durable motors.

Con

• Only work when there is sunlight.

How Pool Skimmers Work

A pool skimmer draws in water from the surface of your swimming pool, where most contaminants, such as hair, body oils, debris, and sunscreen, dwell. A skimmer is designed to pull the top 1/3 inch of your pool water. Its suction power is quite light such that you cannot notice it when swimming.

An essential element of this tool is the floating barrier, which is a hanging door situated inside the opening. It is hinged at the base and helps to ensure that the water being suck into the tool is limited to the top layer, maximizing the number of contaminants that are collected from your pool while optimizing efficiency. In addition, the angle of floating barrier ensures that the debris cannot get out of the skimmer.

Once the contaminants and debris pass via the floating barrier, they flow into a collection basket, which catches huge pieces of debris, including twigs. Attached to the collecting basket is the suction pipe, which is the driving power behind the skimmer. Furthermore, there is an equalizer line, which prevents your skimmer from sucking air if the water level gets low.

Here is a video that shows how a swimming pool skimmer works.

FAQs about Pool Skimmers

Here are a few frequently asked questions about pool skimmers:

How do I maintain my pool skimmer?

The last part of your pool skimmer is the access hatch, which rests directly above the collecting or strainer basket. This enables you to empty your basket frequently to ensure the best flow. In addition, you may use your skimmer suction pipe for your pool vacuum when cleaning your skimmer. Keeping your skimmer clean will optimize your swimming pool cleanliness.

How much should I spend on new skimmer parts?

The best advice we can give you concerning the price of a pool skimmer part – do not pay more than you can afford. Do your research and choose the unit that offers you the best value for the money and that’s within your budget.

How can I determine the best pool skimmer for my needs?

Before you settle on a certain skimmer, go through different brands, compare their features and prices and see which one is the best in your eyes. Here, you may read the product description and read the previous customers reviews. You will the producer view of the product and then the user, unbiased, view of the product. You should also see the prices of products in the category. Finally, you need to determine the needs of your swimming pool – the kind of debris you wish to collect.

Is there a benefit of buying a pool skimmer online?

First of all, the biggest benefit of buying any product online is having the product at your doorstep, where you can check whether it will suit your needs. Another benefit is that you save a lot of time when you choose online as opposed to jumping from one store to the other.

What is a pool skimmer basket and what does it do?

A pool skimmer basket is a part of your swimming pool system that facilities the overflow of water into a suction system that goes to the filter. A skimmer basket collects debris from your swimming pool. You will be surprised by what you will get inside a skimmer basket.

How to Adjust Pool Skimmer Suction?

Check the position of the skimmer weir – the skimmer gets ineffective if it is lying flat or straight up. Ensure that the water level is the right position (not too low or too high).

Alternatively, install an add-on leg that takes leaves to the skimmer.

How to Replace Pool Skimmer?

Pool Skimmer replacement involves taking out the coping stone that surrounds it. Then you remove the plumbing line and pull it out to replace it with a new one.

Once it gets secured, return the plumbing line and secure with the coping stone. 

How to Install Pool Skimmer Door Flap?

Follow these steps:

• Shut off your pool pump and filter
• Remove the skimmer cover from the top
• Reach the skimmer flap inside the skimmer from behind
• You will feel two lock pins that you need to press simultaneously to free the flap.
• Pull it from the wall
• Insert the new flap and insert on of the lock pins 
• Insert the other pin and release them to secure the skimmer flap

Should Pool Skimmer be on all the Time?

It is recommended to keep the skimmer running around the clock although it is not necessary. That means you should shut it off sometimes to save energy. 

Conclusion

The best swimming pool skimmers should be affordable, be easy to install, and have all the necessary features required to clean your swimming pool. One such tool to consider is the PoolSkim Pool Skimmer and Pool Cleaner. It collects are kinds of dirt including bugs, leaves, seeds, and grass to make your pool sparkling clean will offering value for your money.

You can get more information about: Pool water test kits, pool shock, pool heater, Chlorine Tablets,Salt Water Chlorinator, Pool Algaecide