Best Above Ground Pool Skimmers: Well, in this post, I would be walking you through various aspects of a pool skimmer to help you make an informed buying decision.
Moreover, I would be throwing light on the “must-have” features in your pool skimmer so that you can easily narrow down the options, and make a smart buying decision.
Lastly, I would be responding to the queries related to the best pool skimmers to help you clear your doubts.
But, before that, I would be asking you a couple of questions in order to improve the quality of our comprehensive buying guide.
So, what is your favorite pool skimmer brand?
Secondly, how much are you willing to spend on your favorite pool skimmer?
How often do you read product reviews before buying a product?
Enough of asking questions, let’s begin an in-depth discussion on pool skimmers.
What Is The Best Above-Ground Pool Skimmer For The Money?
Frankly speaking, all the above-ground pool skimmers that made it to our list are of high quality and worth the investment.
However, our editor has handpicked a couple of pool skimmers for you that have outperformed their competitors by a huge margin in our evaluation process.
Moreover, these skimmers have also received amazing feedback from our clientele which clearly depicts the quality that they possess.
Does let us know in the comment section what you think about our editor’s recommendation.
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Top 10 Best Above-Ground Pool Skimmers Review
Well, before we dive deep into the pool skimmers that made it to our review list, please allow us to explain the process that we follow to evaluate the product.
First and foremost, our core consulting team comes up with the umbrella of parameters on which the product needs to be evaluated, in this case, the product is a pool skimmer.
Each evaluating parameter is given a certain weightage depending upon its ability to influence users’ buying decisions.
Moving further, we evaluate the product on these parameters and assign certain marks which totally depend upon its performance in the test.
Finally, we do the summation of the marks obtained by the product in the evaluation process, and thus, review the top 10 products.
In case, you’ve any doubts or queries related to the evaluation process, you can reach out to our core consulting team via email.
So, without any further ado, let’s begin…
Solar Breeze – Automatic Pool Cleaner NX2 Cleaning Robot
If you’re like me and love automating non-productive work then definitely, Solar Breeze is a good fit for you.
When it comes to pool surface skimming, you can blindly trust solar breeze as the manufacturer claims to remove up to 95% of debris effortlessly.
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Since it is solar-powered so you can expect huge savings on electricity bills in the long run.
Though it uses the sun’s energy still it can work for several hours after sunset which is definitely something to brag about, isn’t it?
Other than cleaning leaves, debris, and specks of dirt, it is also capable of filtering your pool water making it clean and safe for the swimmers.
The USP of this solar skimmer is that it can collect more debris with less effort because the mesh-collection area is almost twice that of an in-wall skimmer.
Unlike some cheap skimmers, it doesn’t face the problem of getting stuck in one place, and the credit goes to the AI technology that it comes with.
So, if you love innovation, AI, and the latest technology, and love trying them, then definitely, this solar-powered skimmer is for you.
Dunnrite Hydro-Net Remote Controlled Pool Skimmer
Dunnrite is a remote-controlled pool skimmer and is powered by a heavy-duty rechargeable NI-MH battery.
Moreover, the battery is powerful enough to last up to 5 hours, and the remote control range is 100 feet.
The package comprises the skimmer, battery, and charger.
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The assembling process is newbie-friendly, and you can easily learn to operate the machine without any professional help.
It comprises two powerful motors that aren’t very quiet and work independently.
However, you need to maintain it properly so that it lasts longer.
All you need to do is to ensure that it is fully dry after you’re done with the skimming process, and then keep it in a safe place, out of the reach of kids.
The skimmer has a robust construction and is uniquely designed to help you achieve an optimum result.
SkimmerMotion – The Automatic Pool Cleaner, Skimmer & Clarifier
So, here I come with a high-quality high-performing automatic pool skimmer known for its cost-effectiveness, design, robust construction, and durability.
As per my knowledge and experience, it is one of the most sought automatic pool cleaners.
The USP of the SkimmerMotion is its capability to remove specks of dirt, organic debris, etc from your pool surface that is smaller than 1 inch without the use of chemicals.
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In short, you’ll not only save a good lump sum on chemicals in the long run but also, the pool chemistry would be maintained with ease.
The skimmer is user-friendly, quick, and affordable.
With the help of this skimmer, you would be able to cover the entire surface of your swimming pool in an epigrammatic span of time.
The good thing about this skimmer is that it is compatible with most vacuum cleaners, and thus, makes your work less lethargic.
However, if your pool is deeper than 8 feet then this is not the RIGHT device for you.
On the downside, SkimmerMotion only works with suction or vacuum pool cleaners and cannot be connected to electric or pressure pool cleaners such as Polaris 260, 280 360, or 380, Pentair Pressure cleaners: RACER, PLATINUM or LEGEND.
Whenever you want to use SkimmerMotion, all you need to do is to attach it to any of the most popular bottom vacuum cleaners or Automatic Pool Cleaners (APC).
Moreover, you can’t remove leaves bigger than 0.8” with the help of this device so it’s a big drawback, indeed.
For bigger leaves, you might be needing a wall skimmer.
Though it comes with some flaws still a great investment, indeed as the pros completely dominate the cons.
Intex 28000E Deluxe Wall-Mounted Swimming Pool Surface Automatic Skimmer
The Intex Deluxe 28000E is a surface automatic skimmer that is known for catching leaves, specks of dirt, and debris before they sink to the bottom of the pool.
It can be easily installed on the sidewalls of your pool, and for automatic skimming, you must connect it to the filter pump.
The automatic skimmer is uniquely designed and constructed and doesn’t get affected by the pool chemicals, and the credit goes to the durable polypropylene plastic construction.
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Well, to be honest, for the effective working of this automatic skimmer, you need an Intex filter pump with a minimum flow rate of 800 gallons per hour.
Moreover, you’ll not find any difficulty in cleaning the strainer basket at all, and it can be removed instantly, and as a result, you can save a lot of your time for sure.
As a pool consultant for a decade now, I can affirm that the skimmer is of high quality and you’ll never regret investing in it for sure.
Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer
The Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer is one of my favorites for sure, and there is more than one reason for it.
Not only is it updated to match the needs of today’s above-ground pools but it also delivers high performance with ease.
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The Hayward SP1091LX is quite popular among pool owners because of multiple reasons including top and front basket access, large debris collection basket, heavy-duty UV-resistant construction, and many more.
Since the skimmer comes with a one-piece body construction so you can expect it to be robust, durable, and stable.
In layman’s terms, it comprises almost all the ingredients necessary for a high-quality high-performing skimmer.
The product has proved its mettle time and again, and so I recommend it wholeheartedly.
ProTuff Pool Skimmer Nets
Well, to be honest, the Pro-Tuff Skimmer Net is one of the best automatic pool skimmers if not the BEST, and there is more than one reason for it.
The good thing about the Pro-Tuff pool skimmer is that you can use it for cleaning both the top as well as the bottom of your pool with ease.
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Unlike a cheap skimmer or pool rake, the Pro-Tuff allows you to empty debris and specks of dirt once in a while, and the credit goes to the deep and durable net that it comes with.
Moreover, it also comes with a durable and abrasion-resistant nylon bag which is without any doubt stronger and more durable than the double catcher net offered by some close competitors.
Another thing that I really admire about this idiosyncratic product is its ability to equally clean both big and small pools with ease.
Needless to say, the skimmer is capable of handling both mildew and mold without any hassle.
Many of you wouldn’t be aware of the fact that the product comes with a LIFETIME GUARANTEE, and is definitely, something to brag about, isn’t it?
“As per the manufacturer’s lifetime product warranty, contact us for FREE replacement parts or a complete replacement of the entire pool If any portion of this heavy-duty pool skimmer net ever breaks, fails, or tears”
Not only the skimmer is affordable but also operates hassle-free and faster.
Needless to say, the Pro-Tuff Pool Skimmer Net is highly durable and comes with a super-strong 18″ Aluminum alloy.
If we talk about the frame then it’s of a high quality and you wouldn’t be facing problems such as bending, twisting, or even breaking under load.
However, if you’re looking for additional security then you can take the help of a “winged” handle.
All in all, one of the best professional pool net worth investing into.
I’ve been personally using it for quite a few years now, and trust me, I’m more than delighted to recommend it to my clientele as well as readers of izzysmarthomeguide.com.
U.S. Pool Supply Professional Heavy Duty 20″ Swimming Pool Leaf Rake with Deep 16″ Net Bag
So, here I am again with an idiosyncratic high-quality swimming pool leaf rake that is not only beginner-friendly but also cost-effective and durable.
Needless to say, the heavy-duty 20″ skimmer is packed with superlative features to help you achieve the optimum result with ease.
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The unique design of the net bag helps clean the organic debris, specks of dirt, leaves, etc in a quick and hassle-free manner.
Moreover, the heavy-duty 20″ frame adds endurance and durability to the skimmer and is safe for use in any type of pool.
Furthermore, the manufacturer has full confidence in its product and thus provides a year warranty.
Trust me, the net is relatively more spacious and would collect a good amount of leaves.
The 16″ net is a unique blend of large volume and scoops designed to achieve your maneuver throughout the pool effortlessly.
Since the net comprises mesh nylon material which is known to be chemical-resistant so you can expect it to last longer than its close competitors.
All in all, one of the best above-ground pool skimmers is NOT THE BEST.
Trust me, you’ll never regret investing in this skimmer even though you’re on a shoestring budget.
Do I still need to convince you?
Milliard Pool Skimmer Net Leaf Rake with Deep Bag
Well, the Milliard Pool is one of the best skimmer nets for beginners.
It is not only gentle on pool siding and liners but also, comprises ABS plastic rim and nylon netting making it a preferred choice for commercial pools.
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The skimmer is high-flexible and allows you to attach a standard 1 1/4″ extension pole to the handle for poolside cleaning.
Moreover, the handle is robust and sturdy and wouldn’t break at all.
The skimmer comprises a deep bag and fine mesh, and thus it allows you to clean specks of dirt as well as large cleanup at one go.
To tackle the pool sides in an effective way as well as prevent it from getting damaged, the skimmer is uniquely designed and comes with curved edges.
Whether you wanna clean the surface of your pool or the bottom, the Milliard Pool Skimmer is good to go.
So, what are you waiting for?
Swimline 8039SL Heavy Duty Leaf Skimmer
Many of you might not be aware of the fact that Swimline was founded in 1971, and is definitely, one of the leading manufacturers of high-quality and cost-effective pool products.
In the past, I’ve tried quite a few Swimline products, and I can affirm that they are worth the investment.
To be honest, you might be surprised to know that at its inception, Swimline was the largest manufacturer of in-ground and above-ground pool liners, covers, and all related accessories.
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Definitely, the USP of this budget skimmer is a super-strong structural molded frame.
Of course, the manufacturer hasn’t compromised at all on the quality of the skimmer.
It’s ideal for skimming leaves, insects, as well as other trash from the surface of the water.
The skimmer is not only durable and long-lasting but also flexible and affordable.
Moreover, the fine-mesh basket comes with a tapered front edge which is a great help when it comes to scooping debris, specks of dirt, etc.
Not only does it last longer, but also, is capable of attaching to all the extension poles.
In simple words, the Swimline 8039SL will match up to your expectation if it will not EXCEED.
Sabuy Heavy Duty Deep-Bag Swimming Pool Leaf Net Skimmer
The Sabuy 18-inch skimmer has a robust construction, and the credit goes to the super-strong aluminum alloy frame.
Moreover, the heavy-duty deep bag wouldn’t twist, break, or bend under the pressure of overloading.
The Winged handle adds to the stability.
The skimmer is highly flexible and can be easily connected to the standard-size telescoping pool pole with the help of a built-in quick-connect clip.
As compared to the double-layer polypropylene netting, the Sabuy 18″ heavy-duty nylon pool bag is more durable, stronger, and abrasion-resistant.
Whether you own a small-sized pool or a commercial one, the skimmer is well-equipped to deal with debris, specks of dirt, and leaves in an efficient way.
The skimmer is uniquely designed to be used by any type of pool and would safeguard your pool from scratch.
Last but not least, the skimmer is backed by 18 months guarantee which shows the trust of the manufacturer in its offering.
Hayward SPX1082CA Basket Assembly Replacement for Select Hayward Automatic Skimmers
So, here I come with yet another automatic pool skimmer that is known for its durability, longevity, and of course high quality.
The Hayward SPX1082CA can easily fit a wide range of models with ease and will do the needful without the need for professional help.
Needless to say, the brand Hayward is a well-known and well-trusted brand, especially in the pool domain, and the product carries the legacy forward successfully.
Frankly speaking, even though you’re on a shoestring budget, you can easily afford this automatic skimmer.
Not only is it easy to maintain but also, convenient to use.
All in all, if you love the brand Hayward then the probability is very high that you’ll enjoy using this automatic skimmer as well.
Best Above Ground Pool Skimmer Buyer’s Guide
Frankly speaking, this is an important section wherein we discuss all the important parameters that you shouldn’t “overlook” when it comes to buying an above-ground pool skimmer.
It’s my humble request, especially to the newbies to pay special attention to this comprehensive buying guide.
In case, you couldn’t find your favorite above-ground pool skimmer then I can assure you that after grasping the information that we’re gonna share in a while, you would be able to find your favorite skimmer with little to no help.
Rest assured, we’ve done a fantastic job in coming up with this comprehensive guide on “pool skimmer” so spend some time on this section to reap the maximum benefit from it.
Am I clear?
Compatibility
Well, to be honest, if you’re a new pool owner, then you might be wondering about all the fuss that is surrounding the skimmer, right?
Don’t worry, I was also in a similar situation quite a few years ago.
But, now things have changed for me, and today, I’ll share with you all the information that I’ve gathered over a decade.
Will that work for you?
Whenever you’re planning to buy a skimmer, it is equally important to check for compatibility.
Frankly speaking, the type of pool you own is significant when it comes to fitting a skimmer properly.
Let’s have a quick look at the most common types of skimmers:
- Thru-wall
- Floating
- Vacuum-compatible
- Solar
At times, the selection of a type of skimmer can drastically influence your end result.
In most cases, just by going through the instructions, you would be able to find out whether a particular type of skimmer would sync well with your pool or NOT.
It goes without saying that there are skimmers that are compatible with certain brands.
On the other hand, you’ll also find brands that are versatile for a range of installations.
Let’s understand it with an example.
Well, some skimmers are incompatible with inground pools so you need to be very careful while you’re expediting your selection process.
At the same time, you’ll also find skimmers that are connected via pool hoses, that is, they can work for either an inground or above-ground setup.
Debris Capacity
When it comes to finding out the debris capacity that might be perfect for your skimmer, you need to ask a couple of questions yourself.
For example, do I want to catch tiny bugs in my skimmer?
Moreover, do I’ve piles of leaves decaying in my pool?
Do I need to filter out sand, soil, pollen, etc on a regular basis?
To be honest, our team of experts has taken a lot more questions into consideration before coming up with the top 10 best pool skimmers for the money.
There are skimmers available on the market that uses suction force to pull in small bugs and pollen.
Others feature large baskets or even trays to tackle large leaves.
However, all these features and variants might confuse you if you’re just starting out.
So, the best thing that you can do is to figure out the most common form of troublemaker and do the needful accordingly.
Might it be specks of dirt, leaves, organic debris, or whatever, select the skimmer that has specialized in removing that particular troublemaker?
Power Source
There are skimmers that rely totally on the movement of the water to tackle debris, bugs, dirt, etc.
The best example could be thru-wall options.
But, as per my knowledge and understanding of the pool dynamics, it might not be the best option in certain cases wherein you need to opt for the powered options.
And, my best bet in this regard would be solar-powered skimmers.
They have done a fantastic job in the past when it comes to getting rid of leaves, bugs, hairs, etc.
Furthermore, vacuum-powered skimmers follow along with your pool vacuum as it completes its cleaning cycle.
Of course, there are other skimmer types that work through your pool’s pump via the input and output connections.
Needless to say, they heavily depend upon suction to attract debris and trap it in filters or bags.
However, you need to empty the bag on a regular basis to prevent the skimmer’s performance from getting hampered.
Price Point
If you’re ready to invest a good amount of money on a regular basis then definitely, you can run your pool flawlessly.
But, the choice of the skimmer might save you quite a few bucks for sure.
For example, a solar skimmer comes with a huge upfront cost but at the same time, in the long run, it will be highly cost-effective because it operates on free fuel, that is, sunlight.
Moreover, if you own an above-ground pool then a solar skimmer might not be an imperative requirement.
On the other hand, an in-ground pool definitely, requires a solar skimmer to save your precious time as most of these pools have a problem of continuous leaves dropping into them.
An automatic skimmer could be a great fit if you spend a good amount of time on manual skimming every day.
Just jot down the hours that you spent skimming every day in order to find out whether an automatic pool skimmer would save you time or not.
Moreover, it is highly recommended that you replace the damaged skimmer as soon as possible in order to help the swimmers experience a safe and debris-free swimming ambiance.
The best way to evaluate a skimmer, be it solar-powered, robotic, or whatever is by considering the value that a specific skimmer brand or model brings to the table and balancing them with the upfront cost of the skimmer.
To be honest, I use a similar approach to find the “value for money” products for my clientele.
In case, you’ve any innovative evaluation methods for skimmers then do let us know in the comment section, we would be more than happy to inculcate it in our comprehensive buying guide on pool skimmers.
Does it make sense?
Warranty
I highly recommend my clients opt for a product that comes with at least a year of warranty.
If a manufacturer is giving a warranty of 3 to 5 years then it simply shows the trust and confidence that the brand has in its offering.
Buying a product without a warranty will put you at high risk for sure.
Additional Features
I’ve seen quite a few of my clients giving preference to dual-function products, that is, a single product offering two functions.
The reason they give is that why invest in two separate products when a single one can do the job of both, and trust me, nothing is wrong with it.
But, at the same time, it is your sole responsibility to also find out how good a specific product is at offering two different functionality.
Because of the high demand of our clients, we’ve also given some marks to the skimmers that come with additional features.
For example, if a skimmer makes cleaning your pool simpler then you can take it as an additional feature, isn’t it?
As per my knowledge and experience in the pool domain, a skimmer plus cleaner product would be preferred over a skimmer-one type product for sure.
Correct me, if I’m wrong.
Similarly, skimmers with add-ons like chemical trays can help you balance your pool’s chemical makeup and pH with ease, isn’t it?
Moreover, a skimmer that connects to your pool’s vacuum doesn’t need any extra power source or supervision, thus, making it more user-friendly for sure.
Frankly speaking, I’ve covered almost all the essential ingredients that one might be looking for in a comprehensive buying guide.
In case, you think I’ve missed out on something then do let us know in the comment section.
FAQs
As promised to the readers of this blog and my clientele, I would be responding to the queries related to the best pool skimmer for the money to help you clear your doubts regarding buying or otherwise.
In case, you also have any queries or doubts, feel free to ask us in the comment section.
As a beginner, how can I maintain my pool swimming?
Most of the newbies, might not be aware of the fact that the last part of your above-ground pool skimmer is the access hatch, and rests directly above the collecting or strainer basket.
It not only helps you to ensure the emptying of your basket quickly but also, a hassle-free flow.
Moreover, you can optimize your pool cleanliness by keeping your skimmer clean.
Even you can use a suction pipe for your vacuum when cleaning your skimmer.
Should I spend money on new skimmer parts?
Definitely, you should spend money on skimmer parts if they add tangible value.
However, keep your budget well in control and avoid any extravaganza.
In layman’s terms, don’t pay more than you can afford.
How can I determine the best above-ground pool skimmer?
To be honest, “best” is a relative term, and what might be best for you may not be for someone else.
So, first and foremost, you need to be crystal clear with your requirement and budget.
Then, try to find out the skimmer that comes with the “non-negotiable” features that we’ve discussed in the buying section of the best pool skimmer.
Or, else, you can go through different brands and models available on the market and compare their prices and see which one is best as per your requirement and budget.
You can also take the help of product descriptions, instruction manuals, and product reviews in order to narrow down the options.
Should I buy a pool skimmer online?
To be honest, the simple and precise answer would be, it DEPENDS.
If you’re not used to buying online then it might be a completely new experience that might be fruitful or not, depending upon your expectation.
On the other hand, online shopping does come with certain benefits.
For example, you’ll get the product delivered to your doorstep without any additional cost to you.
Secondly, most of the e-commerce websites are comprised of the users’ feedback about the product which will help you to understand which product you shouldn’t opt for and vice-versa.
Lastly, online shopping will save you a lot of time which is definitely something to brag about, isn’t it?
What is the function of an above-ground pool skimmer basket?
Primarily, a basket facilitates the overflow of water into a suction system that goes to the filter.
A skimmer basket is used to collect debris, specks of dirt, and leaves from the swimming pool.
What is the best way to adjust a pool skimmer suction?
The problem with a skimmer is that it gets ineffective if it is lying flat or straight up.
First and foremost, you need to check the position of the skimmer weir.
Secondly, ensure that the water level is in the right position, that is, the water level shouldn’t be too high or too low.
How can I replace an above-ground pool skimmer?
Again, an interesting question, indeed.
Taking out the coping stone that surrounds it is involved in Pool Skimmer replacement.
Moving further, 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 it with the coping stone.
It’s A Wrap
First and foremost, I would like to thank you for being with us till the end.
Moreover, I along with my core consulting team have put loads and loads of effort to come up with this idiosyncratic guide on the best pool skimmer.
And, in case, you’ve liked our effort, then feel free to rate us on a scale of 1 to 5 with the latter being the best.
Cutting long-story-short, we’ve tried to cover every aspect of a pool skimmer to help you buy the best above-ground pool skimmer for the money.
All the above-ground pool skimmers that were made to our review list are of high quality and have been evaluated on a variety of parameters.
Trust me, you can invest in any of the pool skimmers that made our list and you’ll never regret that I can assure you.
Last but not least, share this piece of information with the ones who are in need of it.
After all, sharing is caring, isn’t it?
