Skimmer Equipment /
How to Store Pool Skimmer Accessories So They Don’t Crack
Clean, dry, and store skimmer baskets and lids out of sun, pressure, and freezing temperatures to reduce cracking and keep the skimmer working safely.
Archive date: this article was written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026 and given the earlier archive date of Dec 9, 2025 so the blog reads as an organized archive. It was not published on that date.
The Cause of Cracked Skimmer Accessories
It is not uncommon for pool skimmer components – the baskets, weirs, lids, handles and other small pieces – to develop cracks. UV rays, cold snaps, impact and the stress of storage are the usual culprits. Over time plastic will grow brittle, particularly on parts that have been left out in the open for months at a time.
When a part is compromised it can allow debris to get past the basket and put unnecessary strain on the pump and filter by impeding flow. Proper storage is the best way to stave off the need for a replacement.
Storing: Clean and Dry First
Before putting anything away, make sure to eliminate any dirt, leaves, oils or sanitizer residue. For your own safety, wear gloves if you are dealing with sharp edges or heavy debris, and always shut down the pump before you open the skimmer lid or remove the basket. Adhere to the equipment manual when doing so.
Moisture has a way of leaving stains and hastening the breakdown of a part, so let everything dry completely before it goes into a bin or cabinet. Should there be chemical residue, stick to what the label says for cleanup; there is no call for making do with a mixture of cleaners.
Keep Them Out of the Sun and Under No Pressure
Plastic will warp and dry out in the heat of the sun, so leave windowsills, hot attics, vehicle trunks and the area around the equipment pad alone. A lidded bin in a climate-controlled garage or a shaded indoor shelf is preferable.
To avoid crushing or twisting the pieces while they are in storage:
- Refrain from piling heavy tools on top of a lid or basket
- Make sure the container is big enough for the largest item
- Maintain the part’s natural form
- Put a soft cloth between any fragile items that might rub
A good rule of thumb is to label your bins by brand or model to avoid forcing a mismatch later on.
Cold Weather and Pre-Use Inspection
Freeze-thaw cycles can exploit a minor flaw and turn it into a split as the plastic becomes more brittle in the cold. Empty the water from your attachments and bring them in ahead of a hard freeze; do not let them sit in standing water or wet snow.
An inspection is in order before you put a part back in service. Look for warped edges, white stress marks, broken handles or a lid that does not seat properly. If you see damage, replace the piece. Do not rely on tape or glue for a temporary fix, as it is likely to give way once the pump is on. And never attempt to access the skimmer basket with the pump running.
If a component is frozen solid or you cannot remove it safely, let it warm up or have a pro look at it.
When to Put Down the Tools
Some of the most frequent errors are leaving accessories in the direct sun, storing them damp, or keeping a cracked part in the rotation long after it should be retired. For your safety, stay out of the water if you have any concerns about electrical faults or the condition of the pool.
There is value in a simple routine of cleaning, drying and shielding your gear from the elements. But if a skimmer part is prone to cracking, the body or lid seat appears damaged, or you are in doubt as to which replacement is right for your pool, it is best to contact a qualified pool professional. The same applies if the issue could be tied to plumbing or structure.