Photo: SkimmerMotion
Pools, whether in-ground or above-ground demand cleanliness. It is only possible if you have the right tools to use. Among these tools, you need the best pool skimmer which is able to pick the minutest particles in the water.
These are needed to remove all kind of pollutants and substantial dirt from the pool. The manual ones have mesh net installed that capture all the particles whether it is debris, pollens or leaves.
These days, different types of pool skimmers are available in the market such as: automatic, self-contained, and manual. These differ in functionality and cost.
We will here make some recommendations on all the kinds of pool skimmers that you can consider for purchase. Let’s take a look.
In this post:
- 10 Best Pool Skimmers – Review
- 1. PoolSkim USA Pool Skimmer – Pool Skimmer with Self-Adjusting Mechanism
- 2. Intex 28000E – Cost-Effective Automatic Pool Skimmer
- 3. ProTuff Products Pool Skimmer – Manual Skimmer with Lifetime Guarantee
- 4. Swimline 8040 – Most Compatible Pool Skimmer
- 5. Haywards SP1091LX – Most Durable Pool Skimmer
- 6. Swimline 8039SL – Most-Affordable Pool Skimmer
- 7. Milliard Skimmer Net – Heavy Duty Pool Skimmer
- 8. Swimline 8051SL – Pool Skimmer With Adjustable Handle
- 9. FibroPool Skimmer Net – Pool Skimmer with Dual Layer Fibromesh
- 10. SkimmerMotion Automatic Pool Skimmer – Energy Efficient Automatic Skimmer
- How to Buy the Best Pool Skimmers
- Conclusion
10 Best Pool Skimmers – Review
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. PoolSkim USA Pool Skimmer (Self-Adjusting Mechanism) |
| |
 | 2. Intex 28000E (Cost-Effective Automatic Skimmer) |
| |
 | 3. ProTuff Products Pool Skimmer (Lifetime Guarantee) |
| |
 | 4. Swimline 8040 (Most Compatible) |
| |
 | 5. Haywards SP1091LX (Most Durable) |
| |
 | 6. Swimline 8039SL (Most-Affordable) |
| |
 | 7. Milliard Skimmer Net (Heavy Duty) |
| |
 | 8. Swimline 8051SL (With Adjustable Handle) |
| |
 | 9. FibroPool Skimmer Net (With Dual Layer Fibromesh) |
| |
 | 10. SkimmerMotion Automatic Pool Skimmer (Energy Efficient Automatic Skimmer) |
|
PRODUCT |
|---|
1. PoolSkim USA Pool Skimmer (Self-Adjusting Mechanism)
|
2. Intex 28000E (Cost-Effective Automatic Skimmer)
|
3. ProTuff Products Pool Skimmer (Lifetime Guarantee)
|
4. Swimline 8040 (Most Compatible)
|
5. Haywards SP1091LX (Most Durable)
|
6. Swimline 8039SL (Most-Affordable)
|
7. Milliard Skimmer Net (Heavy Duty)
|
8. Swimline 8051SL (With Adjustable Handle)
|
9. FibroPool Skimmer Net (With Dual Layer Fibromesh)
|
10. SkimmerMotion Automatic Pool Skimmer (Energy Efficient Automatic Skimmer)
|
1. PoolSkim USA Pool Skimmer – Pool Skimmer with Self-Adjusting Mechanism
Photo: PoolSkim USA
- Remove: Dust, Leaves, Bugs, Hair, Pollen
- Frame: Plastic
- Net: Nylon Mesh
One of the most incredible features of this product is that it is self-adjusting. This means, that as the level of water goes up or down, the skimmer adjusts itself accordingly.
It is constructed with plastic material which will not react being in water. Once you have attached it to the pump system of the pool, the water will undergo filtration process and all the substantial dirt and debris will be eliminated.
All kind of particles are trapped inside the nylon mesh installed in the skimmer before the water flows back inside the pool.
Starting from the installation to routine cleaning, everything about this skimmer is worth appreciating.
It is suitable for the buyers with larger pools that don’t mind spending a good amount of money on the pool skimmer. However, the automatic functionality will surely save your time and effort of manual cleaning.
Pros:
- Self-adjusting
- Great in performance
- Suitable for everyday cleaning
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Expensive
2. Intex 28000E – Cost-Effective Automatic Pool Skimmer
Photo: Intex
- Remove: Leaves, Bugs, Sunscreen Sludge, Debris
- Frame: Plastic
The Intex Deluxe pool skimmer is an automatic product but relatively much cheaper than the competitive models. This is suitable for the removal of leaves, bugs, debris, and all other elements.
It is compatible with the above-ground pools and skim away all the debris and substantial dirt in the water. It constantly works and does not let the pollutants to sit on the ground of the pool but eats them as soon as they appear.
Furthermore, it comes with a connector hose used for mounting the skimmer. You just have to attach it to the pool pump and the skimmer will start to cleanse the water.
High-quality polypropylene plastic is used in the making of the skimmer which is completely unaffected by the chemicals inside the pool.
All the dirt and elements are collected in the stringing basket that you can remove when it is filled to its capacity. It can be reinstalled easily for continual usage.
On the downside, it is not self-adjustable, and you may have to bring it to the surface as the water level goes up and down.
Pros:
- Automatic skimmer available on economical price
- Easy functionality
- Unaffected by chemicals
- Suitable for above ground pools
Cons:
- Does not self-adjust according to the water level of the pool
3. ProTuff Products Pool Skimmer – Manual Skimmer with Lifetime Guarantee
Photo: ProTuff Products
- Remove: Leaves, Insect, Debris, Small Particles
- Frame: Aluminium Alloy
- Net: Nylon Mesh
ProTuff skimmer rake is the top-rated pool skimmer in our list. Another key point of this product is that it comes with lifetime guarantee. This means that ever in life if your skimmer breaks, you get replacement of the product.
There is an 18-inches aluminum alloy frame, firm and non-oxidizing. No matter for how long you dip the rake inside the water, no damage will happen to the frame.
As far as the net is concerned, the nylon mesh is pretty durable and glued to the frame firmly that even the harsh usage will not take of the mesh from the frame.
Also, the element capturing tendency of this model is surprisingly great. There is a winged handle that offer firmness and comfort. All you need to do is to glide scoop the rake inside the water and catch all the dirt.
It is available in a variety of different sizes. The downside is that as a manual skimmer, this one is a bit expensive.
Pros:
- Comes with lifetime guarantee
- Durable Mesh
- Rust-resistant alloy frame
- Winged handle for added support
Cons:
- Little expensive
4. Swimline 8040 – Most Compatible Pool Skimmer
Photo: Swimline
- Remove: Leaves, Debris, Small Particles
- Frame: Plastic
- Net: Fine Mesh
Although this is a basic skimmer rack for manual cleaning, the best thing about this product is that it is compatible with most of the telescopic wands for cleaning. This also means that there is no more hassle of confined reach of the rake.
The frame is made of plastic that does not react to the chemicals inside the pool.
The usage is pretty simple as you just have to scoop all the minute and large dirt and debris from the water and eliminate it. To capture the dirt, fine mesh is used inside the frame that catches all kind of dirt.
The curved edges ensure that no damage can happen to the pool sides because of the rake. This way, you pool is safe from scratches and wear. This product is suitably priced and comes with decent quality.
However, there is no warranty with this product to secure your purchase.
Pros:
- Fits most of the telescopic wands
- Economical
- Curved edges
- Plastic material non-reactive to chemicals in the water
Cons:
- No warranty
5. Haywards SP1091LX – Most Durable Pool Skimmer
Photo: Hayward
- Remove: Large Leaves, Particles, Bugs, Dirt, Debris
- Frame: Plastic
This product from Haywards is suitable for above-ground pools. It is made of high-quality ABS plastic material that is unresponsive to the chemicals in the water. It is also UV-resistant which makes it pretty durable among the counterparts.
The skimmer has to be attached to the pool pump and thus it will constantly attract the contaminated water, and sanitize it by removing all the substantial and minute dirt.
The top and front access is given to the basket from where you can remove it to take off the elements.
Unlike other products, this model comes with a basket where all the dirt and particles are collected. However, due to its small capacity, you may have to eliminate the collected debris from the basket repeatedly before it floats back into the pool.
This product is suitable for people with above-ground pools and who wants a simple product with basic functionality.
Pros:
- Extremely durable skimmer made of ABS plastic
- UV Resistant
- Catches all kind of large and minute dirt
- Suitable for above-ground pools
Cons:
- The debris may float back inside the pool if not constantly removed from the basket
6. Swimline 8039SL – Most-Affordable Pool Skimmer
Photo: Swimline
- Remove: Leaves, Particles, Debris
- Frame: Plastic
- Net: Nylon Mesh
This pool skimmer from Swimline is the most affordable product constructed with heavy-duty plastic that does not react to the chemicals inside the pool. This way, the durability of this model is safeguarded by the brand.
The working mechanism is simple as you just have to draw it inside the pool and scoop the debris and substantial dirt outside. This one is capable of eliminating leaves, and all kinds of elements.
The tapered front end is shaped in such a way that you don’t have to make a lot of efforts to do the cleaning task. The sturdy plastic frame and nylon mesh makes a perfect combination for effortless cleaning.
This product is suitable for the buyers that want to buy economically priced skimmer rake. However, you don’t get the wand along with this model.
Pros:
- Most affordably priced
- Durable
- Tapered front end
- Nylon mesh grabs all kind of dirt in the pool
Cons:
- Wand is not available with the product
7. Milliard Skimmer Net – Heavy Duty Pool Skimmer
Photo: Milliard
- Remove: Bugs, Debris, Leaves
- Frame: Aluminium
- Net: Nylon Mesh
This product has got an aluminum rim which ensures heavy-duty construction of the skimmer. The frame is completely rust-resistant and will not react to the chemicals in the pool as well. Also, the rounded edges will gently move against the pool lining.
As far as the handle is concerned, you can completely trust it for the strength and durability. It will not bend or break even if you have applied a lot of force while cleaning the pool.
Plus, it is detachable which means that you can easily take off the larger handle and attach the frame to the smaller handle for small pools.
This product is suitable for everyday cleaning. The pricing and designing is done thoughtfully.
It is not just suitable for the pools but also makes a perfect fit for hot tub cleaning. The only problem is that you may have to use it a little carefully near the pool lining or the alloy frame will damage it.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty construction
- Does not damage pool lining
- Suitably priced
Cons:
- Smaller in size
8. Swimline 8051SL – Pool Skimmer With Adjustable Handle
Photo: Swimline
- Remove: Fine Particles, Leaves, Bugs
- Frame: Plastic
Well, this product from Swimline is another considerable option to explore. It comes with 48-inches long adjustable telescopic wand to increase the reach of the skimmer.
The construction of wand is done with aluminum material which increases its durability.
The plastic frame doesn’t react to the chemicals inside the pool. The high-quality mesh used with this model ensure that all the fine particles and large elements are carefully eliminated from the pool.
This model is suitable for the people who want to buy a simple manual skimmer on an affordable price. However, if you fancy warranty then this product will disappoint you because there is no warranty with this model.
Pros:
- 48-inches adjustable wand
- Plastic does not react to chemicals
- Rust-resistant wand
- Economically-priced
Cons:
- No warranty
9. FibroPool Skimmer Net – Pool Skimmer with Dual Layer Fibromesh
Photo: FibroPool
- Remove: Debris, Pollens, Bugs, Leaves
- Frame: Aluminium
- Net: Poly Mesh
This skimmer from FibroPro is a professional-grade product. It comes with dual-layer Fibromesh that don’t just make it extra durable but also helps in picking the tiniest dirt element from the pool.
It comes with 18-inches extra-large mesh which will minimize the cleaning time. The heavy-duty aluminum frame is lightweight and comes with ABS coating to make it completely rust-resistant.
Also, the maneuver is easy because of the less resistant edges. This way, the pool lining is also protected from any kind of damage caused by skimmers.
This product is suitable for all those who wants something of decent standards. The skimmer will be helpful in routine pool clean-up.
Sadly, the skimmer does not come with a telescopic wand which manes that you will have to make a separate purchase for that.
Pros:
- Comes with dual-layer Fibromesh for more efficiency
- Heavy-duty aluminium frame
- Easy manoeuvre
- Pose no threat to the pool lining
Cons:
- Does not come with a wand
10. SkimmerMotion Automatic Pool Skimmer – Energy Efficient Automatic Skimmer
Photo: SkimmerMotion
- Remove: Smaller Debris, Particles
- Frame: Plastic
SkimmerMotion Automatic is the best floating pool skimmer in the market that effortlessly remove all the dirt and substances from the pool.
It does not use a lot of energy, and you can simply pair it up with the pool vacuum cleaner to run. This way, it helps in saving energy cost to a great extent. However, you will have to check with the vacuum compatibility as this model is not compatible with many pool vacuum cleaners.
It touches all the difficult to reach areas efficiently, thus leaving clean water everywhere.
The sleek profile and compact design make an eye-pleasing sight as this product performs its task inside the pool. The plastic construction is durable and safe.
No wonder this model will be appreciated by many buyers because of its functionality and efficiency.
Pros:
- Saves a lot on energy bills
- Compact design
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Offer deep-cleaning of the pool
Cons:
- Not compatible with various pool vacuum models
How to Buy the Best Pool Skimmers
Photo: Intex
This part of pool skimmer review will cover the essential tips to make your purchase worth every penny spent.
1. Type of Pool Skimmers
The pool skimmers are available in three different types. These vary in how they operate, how much they cost, and how efficient these are. Let’s take a look:
Automatic Skimmer: The skimmer is attached to the pool pump. Water is sucked using the hose and the paddlers and propellers move the tool on the pool surface.
The movement of these skimmers is not pre-set. They float in random directions to prevent get stuck at one place in the pool.
These skimmers have to be re-deployed on the routine basis. Also, these are expensive than the manual skimmers.
Thanks to the innovation in automatic products, these days you can also find remote control pool skimmers that make the task pretty easy, on a push of a button. Surely, such products are way more expensive than the basic ones.
Our best recommendation of the automatic skimmer is PoolSkim USA Pool Skimmer as it adjust itself as per the water level and comes with amazing features of an automatic product.
Manual Skimmer: There are many buyers that stick to the conventional options in pool skimmers. Well, this one is a basic skimmer, made with fine mesh attached to a frame and a pole.
This does not require electricity for operation, but the user has to operate it manually. The manual skimmers are not best for filtering the water but simply to collect large particles floating in the water.
They come with a hose that is attached to the pool outlet system and pump from where suction is supplied and debris is collected as you manually move the skimmer.
These are relatively cheap and decently clean the easy-to-locate objects from the pool.
Self-Contained Skimmer: These can also be referred to as solar skimmers because these are powered by sunlight.
If compared with the former two types, this one is relatively new in the market. There are built-in panels that harness power from the sun. This means that the skimmer will only function in the sunlight.
The tendency of capturing fine and substantial dirt from the pool is quite decent. The cost of self-contained skimmers is more than both the former types mentioned.
But, at the same time, these considerably reduce the power bill that you use for the pump to operate. The shortcoming is quite evident that this type cannot work in the nighttime.
Buying Advice
Clearly, if you want cleaning to be done automatically then buy the best automatic pool skimmer that will handle the entire cleaning task solely. The reach and efficiency of these skimmers is better than any other. But for this, you will have to spend a hefty amount.
And if a purchase on budget is your priority then manual skimmers are the ideal choice to make. Because of the drawbacks of self-contained skimmers, we don’t really recommend these to the buyers.
2. Types of Pool
Other than the skimmer type, you also have to consider the type of pool before buying the best product.
Skimmers for Above Ground Pools: It is important for the above-ground pool skimmer to have a safety cover. The interaction of these skimmers is also different from how the skimmers interact with the in-ground pools.
These skimmers should be such that don’t harm the pool lining. Also, these products are mostly equipped with bolts and screws.
It’s best to use a skimmer rake or floating ones for the above ground pools. However, if you still want an automatic model then consider the Intex 28000E pool skimmer as it is the finest model for above-ground pools.
Skimmers for In-Ground Pools: Most of the skimmers used in in-ground pools are latched to the pool-side concrete, just below the level of the water.
As the water reaches the skimmer to the pool’s pump, it is filtered from substantial dirt and debris.
3. Durability
All the pool skimmers are not created with the same aesthetics. This means that there is always a difference between the quality and life of the products.
You need to purchase the one that performs efficiently and is durable enough to serve for the longest time. We have made some pretty strong recommendations in this pool skimmer review that are made with high-quality mechanism for long-lasting usage.
4. Mesh Quality
If anything, that can determine the filtration of the skimmer is the quality of mesh used in it. You need to find a mesh that has sufficient sized holes to allow the water to easily flow.
But at the same time, the holes shouldn’t be too large to let go of the dirt and debris. It is important to buy the mesh that lasts and have the tendency to capture anything.
Also, it may have to endure wear and tear so best is to look for a durable material and is durable to serve for a long time.
5. UV Resistant
Considering the fact that a pool skimmer is in constant contact with UV rays, you need to make sure that the product is completely UV resistant.
A manual skimmer can be stored indoors, but the same won’t be the case with automatic skimmers that are attached to the pool wall.
Plastic skimmers are more popular in the niche, but they are not as UV resistant as metal skimmers with UV-resistant coating.
Make sure to purchase suitable product if you want to safeguard durability.
Conclusion
Cleaning pool is challenging but with the right tools in your hand, you can do the task effortlessly. We have recommended all kind pool skimmers so that our readers can have choice as per their requirement.
If you are on a serious budget and need a product that is durable and great in performance then pick Swimline 8039SL pool skimmer. It is decent in quality and available on a low price.
If you want a product that leave no scope of substantial dirt inside the pool then FibroPool Skimmer Net is also a remarkable choice to make.
Sources
- 5 Pool Skimmer Types – doityourself