Many new pool owners wonder about the difference between a pool cleaner and a skimmer. It can feel a bit confusing at first. You see these parts of your pool and want to know what each one does to keep your water sparkling.
Don’t worry, it’s simpler than you think! We’ll break down the pool cleaner vs skimmer debate with easy steps. Let’s find out what keeps your pool clean.
What Does a Pool Skimmer Do
A pool skimmer is a vital part of your pool’s filtration system. It’s designed to remove debris from the surface of your pool water. Think of it as the first line of defense against floating trash.
How a Pool Skimmer Works
The skimmer is usually a small opening in the side of your pool. It has a basket inside to catch leaves, bugs, and other light floating items. As the pool pump circulates water, it draws water into the skimmer. This moving water pulls the surface debris into the basket. The water then continues through the filtration system.
Types of Pool Skimmers
Most in-ground and above-ground pools use built-in or deck-mounted skimmers. These are part of the pool’s structure. Some portable pools might use clip-on skimmers that hang over the edge. Regardless of the type, their main job is surface skimming.
Benefits of Using a Skimmer
Removes floating debris before it sinks and decays.
Reduces the workload on your pool filter.
Helps maintain water clarity.
Prevents clogs in your pool’s plumbing.
What Does a Pool Cleaner Do
A pool cleaner, often called an automatic pool cleaner or pool vacuum, is a device that cleans the bottom and sides of your pool. It’s responsible for getting rid of dirt, sand, algae, and other debris that settles on the pool floor or sticks to the walls.
Types of Pool Cleaners
There are several types of automatic pool cleaners, each working a little differently:
1. Suction-Side Pool Cleaners
These cleaners attach to your pool’s skimmer line or a dedicated suction line. They use the suction from your pool’s pump to move around the pool. The debris they pick up is then sent to your pool’s filter.
They are usually the most affordable option.
- Pros: Simple to use, affordable.
- Cons: Rely on pool pump power, can clog filters quickly, may not clean walls effectively.
2. Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners
These cleaners connect to your pool’s return line. They use the pressure from the water returning to the pool to power themselves. They often have a debris bag that collects dirt, reducing the load on your main pool filter.
Some models even have sweep tails that help scrub the pool floor.
- Pros: Don’t overload the main filter, can cover large areas, good for removing larger debris.
- Cons: Require a booster pump for some models, can be more expensive than suction cleaners.
3. Robotic Pool Cleaners
Robotic pool cleaners are self-contained units. They have their own motor and filtration system. You plug them into a power source, and they work independently of your pool’s pump and filter.
They can often clean the pool floor, walls, and even the waterline. They are generally the most effective but also the most expensive.
- Pros: Highly efficient, independent operation, excellent cleaning power, good for all pool surfaces.
- Cons: Highest initial cost, require electricity, need to be removed from the pool after use.
How Pool Cleaners Work
Regardless of the type, pool cleaners are designed to move around your pool. They use various mechanisms to scrub and vacuum the surfaces. Some have brushes that loosen debris, while others use suction to pull it up. The collected debris is either sent to your pool’s filter or collected in the cleaner’s own bag or canister.
Benefits of Using a Pool Cleaner
Removes debris from the pool floor and walls.
Keeps your pool looking clean and inviting.
Saves you time and effort on manual vacuuming.
Can improve water circulation.
Reduces the amount of dirt reaching your main pool filter.
Pool Cleaner vs Skimmer Key Differences
While both a pool skimmer and a pool cleaner work to keep your pool clean, they have very different roles and functions. Understanding these differences is key to maintaining a healthy and attractive pool.
Primary Function
Pool Skimmer: Removes floating debris from the surface* of the water.
Pool Cleaner: Removes settled debris from the bottom and sides* of the pool.
Location of Cleaning
Pool Skimmer: Operates at the waterline*.
Pool Cleaner: Operates on the pool floor and walls*.
How Debris is Collected
Pool Skimmer: Debris is collected in a basket* within the skimmer.
Pool Cleaner: Debris is collected in the cleaner’s own bag, canister, or sent to the main pool filter*.
Power Source
Pool Skimmer: Relies on the pool’s main pump* to draw water in.
Pool Cleaner: Can be powered by the pool’s pump (suction and pressure side) or have its own motor* (robotic).
Maintenance
Pool Skimmer: Requires regular emptying of the skimmer basket*.
Pool Cleaner: Requires emptying of its debris bag/canister*, and potentially cleaning filters or brushes.
When to Use Them
Pool Skimmer: Works continuously* as long as the pool pump is running.
Pool Cleaner: Typically used for a scheduled cleaning cycle* (e.g., a few hours a day).
Do You Need Both a Skimmer and a Pool Cleaner
Yes, you absolutely need both a pool skimmer and a pool cleaner for optimal pool maintenance. They are not interchangeable; they perform distinct tasks that are both essential for a clean pool.
The Skimmer’s Essential Role
The skimmer is your pool’s first line of defense. It catches leaves, pollen, bugs, and other light debris before it has a chance to sink to the bottom. If this debris sinks, it can decompose, clog your filter, and even stain your pool surfaces. A constantly running skimmer ensures this surface debris is dealt with immediately.
The Cleaner’s Essential Role
While the skimmer handles what floats, the pool cleaner tackles what sinks. Dirt, sand, algae, and heavier debris settle on the pool floor and walls. These can make your pool look dirty, feel gritty, and can be difficult to remove manually. An automatic pool cleaner efficiently removes this settled debris, keeping the entire pool clean.
How They Work Together
Imagine a skimmer as the “sweeper” that catches things as they fall from the sky. The pool cleaner is like the “vacuum” that cleans up what hits the ground. Without the skimmer, more debris would sink, forcing the cleaner to work harder and potentially overwhelming your pool’s filtration system. Without the cleaner, your pool floor and walls would quickly become dirty and uninviting. Together, they form a comprehensive cleaning system that keeps your pool sparkling.
Maintenance and Care for Both
Proper maintenance of both your skimmer and cleaner will ensure they work efficiently and last longer.
Skimmer Maintenance
Empty the skimmer basket regularly. Check it daily or every other day, especially during windy or leafy seasons.
Clean the skimmer weir gate if it becomes stuck or dirty. This gate helps to direct surface water into the skimmer.
Periodically inspect the skimmer body and plumbing for any cracks or leaks.
Pool Cleaner Maintenance
The maintenance for your pool cleaner will depend on the type:
Suction-Side Cleaners
Empty your pool’s main filter basket and skimmer basket more often, as they catch debris from suction cleaners.
Check the cleaner’s hose for any kinks or blockages.
Inspect the cleaner’s wheels and brushes for wear and tear.
Pressure-Side Cleaners
Empty the cleaner’s debris bag regularly.
Check the sweep tail for damage.
Inspect the hose for leaks.
Robotic Cleaners
Empty the cleaner’s filter basket or bag after each use.
Rinse the cleaner’s body and brushes with fresh water.
Store the cleaner in a dry, shaded place, not in the pool.
Periodically check the power cord for any damage.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, you might encounter problems with your skimmer or cleaner. Here are a few common issues and their solutions.
Skimmer Issues
Not enough water is being drawn into the skimmer:
Check if the skimmer basket is full and needs emptying.
Ensure the pool water level is high enough to reach the skimmer opening.
Verify that the pool pump is running and functioning properly.
Skimmer weir is stuck open or closed:
Clean any debris or gunk that might be preventing it from moving freely.
If it’s damaged, it might need replacement.
Pool Cleaner Issues
Cleaner is not moving or moving slowly:
For suction cleaners, check for hose blockages or kinks.
For pressure cleaners, ensure the booster pump (if applicable) is running.
For robotic cleaners, make sure it’s properly plugged in and the motor is running. Check if the debris tank is full.
Cleaner is not picking up debris:
Ensure the cleaner’s filter bag or canister is not full.
Check for blockages in the cleaner’s intake or hose.
For suction and pressure cleaners, make sure your pool’s main filter is clean.
Cleaner gets stuck in one spot or climbs walls too much (or not at all):
Adjust the cleaner’s hose length or weights (for suction cleaners).
Check for debris caught in the cleaner’s brushes or wheels.
Robotic cleaner performance can sometimes be affected by pool shape or surface.
When to Upgrade or Replace
Both skimmers and cleaners have a lifespan. If you notice consistent problems or damage, it might be time for an upgrade.
Upgrading Your Skimmer
While skimmers are generally very durable, you might consider an upgrade if:
Your existing skimmer is cracked or leaking significantly.
You have an older, less efficient model that doesn’t capture debris well.
You’re renovating your pool and want to install a more modern, larger capacity skimmer.
Upgrading Your Pool Cleaner
Pool cleaners, especially robotic ones, are replaced more frequently as technology advances and parts wear out. Consider upgrading if:
Your current cleaner is not effectively cleaning your pool anymore.
It’s costing too much in repairs.
You want more advanced features, like app control or better energy efficiency.
You have a new pool size or shape that your current cleaner struggles with.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Can a skimmer do the job of a pool cleaner
Answer: No, a skimmer is only designed to remove floating debris from the surface of the water. It cannot clean the pool floor or walls where dirt and debris settle.
Question: Is a robotic cleaner better than a suction cleaner
Answer: Robotic cleaners are generally more efficient and do a better job of cleaning the entire pool independently. Suction cleaners are more budget-friendly but rely on your pool’s pump and filter.
Question: How often should I empty my skimmer basket
Answer: You should empty your skimmer basket as often as needed, typically daily or every other day, especially if you have trees around your pool.
Question: Do pool cleaners need a separate pump
Answer: Suction and pressure-side cleaners use your pool’s existing pump system. Some pressure-side cleaners may recommend a booster pump for optimal performance, while robotic cleaners have their own self-contained motor and power supply.
Question: Can I use a pool cleaner without a skimmer
Answer: While you could use a pool cleaner alone, it’s not recommended for optimal pool health. Without a skimmer, surface debris will sink, making your pool much harder to keep clean and potentially damaging your filter.
Final Thoughts
Your pool skimmer and pool cleaner are essential partners for a crystal-clear pool. The skimmer acts as the first defense, capturing surface debris. The cleaner then tackles everything on the floor and walls. Both need regular maintenance to work their best. By keeping both systems clean and running efficiently, you ensure your pool is always ready for a refreshing dip.