Notes from the deep end

Practical articles for pool owners on skimming, water testing and choosing the right equipment.

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50 articles

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why Debris Blows Away Before You Can Skim It

Debris can drift faster than you can skim when wind, surface movement, or strong returns keep the water active. A few simple adjustments help.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Use a Leaf Rake to Remove Large Pool Debris Fast

A leaf rake helps pool owners remove leaves, twigs, and other large debris quickly with the right angle, steady passes, and safe handling.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

Best Tool for Picking Up Fine Debris on Pool Steps

A fine-mesh pool skimmer and soft nylon brush are usually best for fine debris on pool steps. Learn the safest cleanup order and when to call a pro.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Keep Pine Needles from Bypassing Your Pool Skimmer

Keep pine needles out of the pool by improving skimmer flow, maintaining baskets and filters, and reducing debris before it reaches the water.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why There’s Still a Film on Pool Water After Skimming

A film after skimming usually means oils, fine debris, weak circulation, or water balance issues. Use a safe sequence to find the cause.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Unclog a Pool Skimmer Throat Safely

A clogged skimmer throat reduces circulation and debris removal. Use safe, simple checks first, then call a pro if the blockage won’t clear.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why Floating Debris Circles the Pool Instead of Collecting

Circling debris usually means the water is forming a dead zone, skimmer draw is weak, or return jets are pushing floating debris away from capture.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Keep Leaves From Sinking to the Pool Floor

Stop leaves before they waterlog by skimming early, improving circulation, using a pool cover, and keeping skimmer baskets clear and equipment maintained.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

Safest Way to Skim a Pool with Sharp Debris

Use a long-handled net, turn off the pump before touching skimmer baskets, and wear PPE so sharp debris is removed safely without cuts or equipment damage.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Remove Twigs and Small Branches from a Pool Safely

Stop the pump before checking baskets, skim debris with the right net, and clear twigs early to protect water quality and avoid equipment damage.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why Return Current Pushes Debris Away from the Skimmer

If your pool debris keeps drifting away from the skimmer, the return current may be too strong or aimed poorly. Learn how to rebalance flow safely.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Skim a Pool When the Wind Keeps Changing Direction

Skim the surface where debris is drifting right now, work in short passes, and use circulation patterns to stay ahead of windblown leaves and pollen.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.