Skimmer Equipment /
How to Inspect Skimmer Equipment Before the Swimming Season Starts
A preseason skimmer check can reveal cracks, leaks, clogged baskets, and worn parts early, helping your pool circulate properly before opening day.
Archive date: this article was written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026 and given the earlier archive date of Jun 12, 2025 so the blog reads as an organized archive. It was not published on that date.
A safe visual check to begin with
Turn off the pump and verify that there is no chance of the system starting on its own before you put any skimmer components under inspection. Under no circumstances should one reach into suction equipment while it is in operation. Should you have to open the skimmer basket, leave the pump off and refer to the manual for guidance.
Start at the poolside and give the skimmer opening, lid and surrounding deck a thorough once-over. An effective preseason review will identify issues that could otherwise compromise water quality or the removal of debris.
Be on the lookout for:
- Any cracks in the lid, housing or throat of the skimmer
- Cover parts that are warped, loose or gone altogether
- Dampness or staining in the soil, which can be a leak
- Debris piling up at the opening
- Winter weather damage such as shifting or freeze wear
Do not put the pool back in service if the lid is not sitting flush; it is a trip hazard and an invitation for leaves and dirt to gather. Make the necessary repairs or get a new one.
Basket removal and cleaning
The pump should remain off as you take out the basket and empty it. Put on appropriate PPE like gloves and eye protection, particularly if there is sharp residue in the basket.
Once you have rinsed it, take a close look. You do not want a brittle or cracked basket to fail in the middle of the season and send larger pieces of debris into your filtration system. Check for:
- Cracks on the bottom or sides
- A weak handle or absent tabs
- Edges that are deformed and will not seat right
- Fine remnants from the winter
If the basket is damaged, replace it. Trying to patch it is not worth the trouble, and a poor fit will only lead to clogging and circulation issues down the line.
The weir and water level
Move the weir door by hand with the pump off; it ought to swing back and forth without any resistance. This is what draws in the floating matter.
Note any of the following:
- Squeaking, binding or an uneven action
- A hinge that is broken or a door that will not stay put
- Signs of wear that would hamper performance
Make sure the water level is in order as well. Too low and the skimmer will pull air and lose prime; too high and surface debris will go uncaptured. Any adjustments should be done per the pool manual.
Plumbing and potential leaks
Use this time to spot leaks before you reopen the pool. Go over the valves, unions and pipe connections on the equipment pad for anything loose or corroded.
Also examine the area for:
- Hairline fractures in the pool shell or skimmer body
- Moisture or stains hinting at a slow leak
- Air in the system on startup, a telltale of a suction problem
- A pump basket that has not been properly cleaned, as this can impact the entire system
Should you think there is a leak but be unable to find it, let a qualified professional handle the detection.
To restart and observe
Put the basket back in place and make sure the lid is secure. Fire up the pump and monitor the skimmer for a few minutes. You should see a consistent flow of water and normal weir movement, with no odd noises, vibration or air bubbles. If the skimmer is pulling air or the pump is running dry, shut it down and seek assistance. There is no point in testing a system that is giving you trouble.
Pitfalls to steer clear of
Some common errors include working on the skimmer with the pump on, putting force on plastic that is likely to crack, or restarting the pool with known electrical or plumbing defects. Do not use the pool if the safety or circulation gear is not in good order.
Time to bring in a pro
Structural cracks, electrical worries near the equipment, or plumbing that is beyond repair are reasons to call in a professional. The same goes for a skimmer that refuses to work right after you have given it a proper inspection, or when the source of a leak is not apparent.
Taking the time for a methodical inspection in the preseason is the best way to ensure the skimmer does its job, keeps the filter protected and the pool in safe condition for the months ahead.