A surface skimmer automatically removes leaves and debris from your pool or pond. It holds the particles in its filter basket - and in this way the water surface is kept nice and clean. Find out what to look out for when buying such a skimmer.
A surface skimmer keeps the pool clean of coarse dirt
Our recommendations
our recommendation
Intex Deluxe hanging skimmer for Intex pools, large filter basket Ø 16 cm, connection Ø 40 mm
25.89 EUR To the product| Type | hanging skimmer |
|---|---|
| material | plastic |
| Required pump power | at least 3,785 l/h |
| Ø filter basket | 16 cm |
| hose connection Ø | 40mm |
| handling | terrific |
The Intex deluxe hanging skimmer is one of the most popular pool skimmer on Amazon. Numerous reviewers are very positive about this surface skimmer. Above all, the apparently absolutely convincing suction and filter performance is praised. In addition, all the fittings and hoses you need appear to be included (but no pump). Most buyers find the workmanship to be good - the skimmer should do an excellent job over a long period of time. Sometimes the attachment can become a fiddly job, but according to the unanimous opinion, it is basically possible for anyone to attach the hanging skimmer to the pool. The practically height-adjustable suction device can be perfectly adapted to the respective pool conditions.
our recommendation
Steinbach skimmer set S1, skimmer, pool inlet nozzle, suction plate, 060900
EUR 39.90 To the product| Type | built-in skimmer |
|---|---|
| material | plastic |
| Required pump power | n/a |
| Ø filter basket | n/a |
| hose connection Ø | n/a |
| handling | Well |
According to the manufacturer, the built-in skimmer S1 from Steinbach is suitable for almost all steel wall pools. In addition to the skimmer itself, the scope of delivery also includes a pool inlet nozzle and a suction plate for a floor cleaner. In this way you can install a comprehensive cleaning station in your pool and keep the water clean and clear at all times. Most reviewers on amazon.de are enthusiastic about this skimmer - the price-performance ratio should be great. Many a customer complains about the (missing) lockability of the skimmer basket. It is recommended to put a pebble in the basket as a weight, for example. This prevents the filter basket from rising when the pump is switched off.
our recommendation
Bestway Flowclear suspension skimmer for filter systems from 2,006 l/h
19.87 EUR To the product| Type | hanging skimmer |
|---|---|
| material | plastic |
| Required pump power | at least 2,006 l/h |
| Ø filter basket | 16 cm |
| hose connection Ø | 38mm |
| handling | terrific |
The Bestway Flowclear hanging skimmer impressed the Amazon reviewers in particular with its good quality and functionality at a reasonable price. As far as the specific properties are concerned, this model is similar to our comparison winner: The surface skimmer for easy hanging is made of robust, rust-free plastic and comes with an easy-to-clean dirt basket. It should always automatically adapt to the current water level and fully fulfill its purpose - but only if the pump capacity is sufficient. Therefore, several users advise only using the surface skimmer together with a sand filter system. Then enough suction power arrives at the surface.
Purchase Criteria
fitness
The most important criterion is that the surface skimmer fits your water oasis. For example, for an above ground pool with soft side walls and a generally air-filled rim, we recommend a hanging skimmer that you hang on a wide hook. In contrast, a wall-mounted model is usually used for a permanently installed pool with a steel wall. And: Depending on how big the pool is, you need a more or less powerful skimmer or possibly two of them.
Type
hanging skimmer: The hanging skimmer is particularly useful for an above-ground pool. It is attached to the edge of the pool with a hook in just a few simple steps. The basket on the skimmer acts as a filter.
built-in skimmer: The in-ground skimmer is designed for an in-ground pool with a steel wall. It is screwed in or even concreted in. It usually has its own pump.
swimming skimmer: The floating skimmer floats on the water surface. It is connected to the pump (often not included in the scope of delivery) with a flexible hose. Tip: Since it is constantly changing its position on the water, such a skimmer should only be used in a pond and not in a pool - there it could massively disturb the swimmers.
material
Most surface skimmer are made of steel or plastic. Steel versions are more robust and generally of higher quality, but also more expensive to purchase. Make sure that it is stainless - i.e. corrosion-resistant - steel. Plastic models are usually cheaper, but often less resistant, which has a negative effect on the service life. Important: The processing quality must be right. Features: tight bolts and rings, and a material coating that resists pool chemicals.
pump power
Choose a surface skimmer with sufficient pump capacity. This is when the skimmer can pump all the water in the pool or pond once in ten hours. In principle, the pump power should of course be as high as possible. Guide values: at least 2,500, preferably 5,000 liters per hour. Note: This criterion only plays a role if you choose a surface skimmer with its own pump. Otherwise the pump performance depends on your external pump.
handling
The surface skimmer should be powerful and easy to use. For example, it is important to have a relatively large filter basket that can be removed quickly and easily. Then you can quickly remove accumulations of dirt in the filter basket without first having to get the entire surface skimmer out of the water. Also make sure that the surface skimmer can be installed without undue effort and can be easily connected to your pool or pond - it is also essential that the diameters of the connections harmonize.
youtubefrequently asked Questions
What is a surface skimmer?
A surface skimmer, also called a surface skimmer, is a device for the pool or pond. It is used to automatically remove leaves and coarse dirt from the water surface and thus keep it permanently clean. As a result, the gardener has less manual work. In addition, the skimmer relieves the actual filter system.
How does a surface skimmer work?
The surface skimmer is located at the level of the water surface. There it sucks in the water and catches leaves and coarse dirt in its skimmer basket. The surface skimmer then directs the cleaned water back into the pool. Due to the "preliminary work", the filter system in the pool only has to take care of finer dirt particles.
How do I install a surface skimmer?
You only need to hang in a hanging skimmer according to the manufacturer's instructions and adjust the height and width appropriately. Installing a surface skimmer for wall mounting is more involved. A hole is cut in the outer wall of the pool at the level of the water surface in order to screw the skimmer into it.
How long should the skimmer run?
This depends on the size of the pool or the filling quantity and the performance of the pump. Basically, we advise not to let the surface skimmer run all day - this would drive up the electricity costs. Our tip: Run the skimmer for three to four hours a day during the summer months.
Which brands offer good surface skimmer?
Some of the best known and most popular brands of surface skimmers include Intex, Bestway and Steinbach. Chemoform, Elecsa, Fluidra, Sunsun and well2wellness also offer good models.
Where is the best place to buy a surface skimmer?
Surface skimmers are usually available in all well-stocked hardware stores and garden centers and, of course, in specialized pool and pond shops. You can enjoy a large selection and an uncomplicated ordering process at Amazon.