Whether it is an in-ground or above ground swimming pool, having a personal oasis at home is one desirable dream for most people. However, a majority of them do not mind the hassle in installing and using it but hesitate to give their home pools proper maintenance.
Along with some other essential pool accessories like solar pool covers from outer debris or pool heaters for sufficient water temperature in all seasons, there are a few pool packages that include pool skimmers. Skimmers help people to clean up the pool far better.
We avoid gathering in crowded public pools for the fear of unclean water, therefore, it is important to keep the home pool purified with no particles sinking down its bottom. I have attempted to obtain a series of the best pool skimmers in this article.
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Table of Contents
- What Are Pool Skimmers?
- What Is the Best Pool Skimmer?
- Comparison Chart
- The 15 Best Pool Skimmers Reviews
- Solar Breeze NX2 Automatic Pool Skimmer
- Swimline 8039SL Pool Skimmer
- ProTuff Pool Net Skimmer
- Hayward SP1091LX Pool Skimmer
- SkimDoctor 2.0 Pool Skimmer
- Intex Deluxe Pool Surface Skimmer
- FibroPool Professional Pool Skimmer
- Milliard Pool Leaf Skimmer Net
- Evob Net Leaf Pool Skimmer
- Stargoods Net Pool Skimmer
- Solar Breeze NX Automatic Pool Skimmer
- PoolSkim Pool Skimmer
- Dunnrite Hydro-Net Pool Skimmer
- CJ Lifestyle Crystal Pool Rake Skimmer
- HydroTools Pool and Spa Skimmer
- How to Choose the Best Pool Skimmer?
- How Do Pool Skimmers Work?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Swim Network Overview
What Are Pool Skimmers?
A pool skimmer is either a built-in automatic gadget or a big net connected to a pole, which is used to collect a lot of different floating particles in the pool. Dead insects, oil from sunscreen, hair and leaves are all possible to sink down and contaminate a pool.
Basically, pool skimmers are helpful in assisting pool cleaners and pool filters to maintain the pH balance, filter and even drain out water faster. It is not simple to handle thousands of gallons of liquid in a pool, so people should keep it clean from the very start.
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Instead of constant water changing when dirt falls inside, a pool skimmer is in charge of gathering them all in one place and remains the best water condition inside. Even if it is sold separately, I believe pool owners should not miss such a chance to grab it.
What Is the Best Pool Skimmer?
It can be confusing to search for a fine pool skimmer through all of the contradictions claimed by a large number of different brands. There are people who have to spend a long time deciding which one is their most favorite. Some tailor-made options here might help.
- Best Overall: Solar Breeze NX2 Automatic Pool Skimmer
“Uses sun energy, automatic navigation, built-in chemical dispenser.” - Best Budget: PoolSkim Pool Skimmer
“Smart self-adjustment, connects to a return jet, IPEX award-winning.” - Best Rated: Swimline 8039SL Pool Skimmer
“Suitable for heavy-duty, high level of sturdiness, a snap adapt handle.” - Best Manual Pool Skimmer: ProTuff Net Skimmer
“Multiple basket sizing, abrasion-resistant, hold large debris quantities.” - Best Automatic Pool Skimmer: Hayward SP1091LX
“Dual access to the basket, elegant white painting, large debris collector.” - Best for In-Ground Pools: SkimDoctor 2.0 Skimmer
“Hands-free debris disposal, includes a skimmer sock, adjustable gates.” - Best for Above Ground Pools: Intex Deluxe Surface Skimmer
“Works with Intex tools, great suction power, polypropylene material.” - Best for Dog Hair: FibroPool Professional Pool Skimmer
“Commercially graded, for 1st-time owners, the handle cannot bend.” - Best for Tiny Bugs: Milliard Pool Leaf Skimmer Net
“Sturdy ABS plastic rim, deep bag capacity, can be used on its own.” - Best for Leaves: Evob Net Leaf Pool Skimmer
“A money-back guarantee, a durable frame, lightweight construction.” - Best for Fine Particles: Stargoods Net Pool Skimmer
“Front lip for scooping, universal holder, collects all kinds of debris.” - Best for Pollen: Solar Breeze NX Automatic Pool Skimmer
“Spreads chlorine evenly, 23.5-hour operation, rechargeable battery.”
Comparison Chart
While being offered some of the best selections available for pool skimmers on the market, people might still struggle to actually see the differences between them. It is essential to have several basic criteria in a table so you can compare these skimmers.
The 15 Best Pool Skimmers Reviews
Apparently, what matters the most when you plan to purchase a pool skimmer is that you have to dig deep into the product insights. Each of them carries different pros and cons so we should all take a look at this review section for full information.
Solar Breeze NX2 Automatic Pool Skimmer
(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)
By functioning entirely with pure solar power, this pool skimmer from Solar Breeze helps owners save a lot of electricity. It is claimed to eliminate up to 95% of debris floating on pool surfaces. There is a removable debris tray to handle large particles.
Moreover, another chlorine tray is included inside this skimmer for holding 2 trichlor tablets of 3 inches so the pool will be cleaned during its performance. The cleaning unit does not require to be connected with an extra hose or cord to work smoothly.
In case the pool skimmer runs into pool walls, its bumper wheels auto rotate and re-directs it to move elsewhere and continue cleaning. You can reduce the amount of using a filter pump for the swimming pool to two thirds since it has filtered the water.
Pros
- It works with solar power.
- It removes 95% of debris.
- It has a tray for chlorine.
- Does not need a hose.
- Its wheels can re-direct.
- The pump can work less.
Cons
- Its paddle stops moving.
See Also: 15 Best Floating Pool Chlorine Dispensers
Swimline 8039SL Pool Skimmer
(Best Rated)
It is not strange when there are customers who prefer debris scooping on their own rather than relying on robotic skimmers. That explains why the Swimline manual pool skimmer acquires such high online ratings of maneuverability, value for money and sturdiness.
This skimmer is structured from a strong molded frame that is long-lasting for a long period of time. All kinds of insects, leaves and other garbage can be skimmed out of the pool water surface with its mesh. The front edge is tapered to enable easier dirt collecting.
Pros
- It has many high ratings.
- It is powerfully molded.
- It grabs different garbage.
- Its front edge is tapered.
Cons
- Does not include a pole.
ProTuff Pool Net Skimmer
(Best Manual Pool Skimmer)
The pool skimmer from ProTuff is able to scoop gigantic piles of debris up to 50 lbs and its sides are slightly angled to clean around both round and rectangle pool sides. Its aluminum alloy frame cannot bend, break or twist under large garbage pressure.
It has a built-in connect clip to enable quick merging with a telescoping pole to clean up the pool. The double-stitched pool bag is manufactured with a wide mouth and no debris can get through this tapered mold-resistant basket then require re-bagging.
You only need to invest around 15 to 20 minutes to skim from the top to the bottom of a pool with this ProTuff skimmer. Its lifespan is seen as quite impressive compared to other pool rakes on the market. There is a 100% lifetime guarantee for this unit.
Pros
- It handles lots of debris.
- Its frame is unbreakable.
- It can clip with the pole.
- The nylon bag is sturdy.
- It saves time cleaning.
- It goes with a warranty.
Cons
- Does not include a pole.
See Also: 16 Best Dolphin Pool Cleaners
Hayward SP1091LX Pool Skimmer
(Best Automatic Pool Skimmer)
With a quick snap-in weir that is removable, this automatic skimmer from Hayward is installed right on the pool wall to suck debris inside it. Since it has a construction of heavy-duty ABS, the skimmer is both UV-resistant and sustainable to be used for long.
Its big debris basket can be accessed from the top and the front for better flexibility in emptying dirt out of this pool skimmer. It is stated by this brand to perform best with above ground pools. There is only one piece to build so people highly value its easy installation.
Pros
- It has a removable weir.
- It has resistance from UV.
- Two dirt basket accesses.
- One piece to construct.
Cons
- There are hairline cracks.
SkimDoctor 2.0 Pool Skimmer
(Best for In-Ground Pools)
The pool skimmer from SkimDoctor has the shape of a tower with corrosion-resistant fittings that enables a vortex to drag floating pool debris into the basket. All you need is to unscrew the tower for dirt removal out of the basket and this process is simple.
It contains a well-made mesh for the skimmer sock to trap different kinds of debris like bugs, leaves, dust and pollen, etc. This skimmer is built to fit most baskets due to its large and flexible internal width. Its installation progress only takes 5 minutes to complete.
By increasing the in-ground pool circulation and boosting its vacuum, this unit helps save a lot of irrelevant chemical supplies. The general lifespan of this SkimDoctor skimmer is considerable thanks to its durable fittings that are also chemical-resistant.
Pros
- Its fittings do not corrode.
- It enables easy removal.
- The sock captures dirt.
- It fits with most baskets.
- 5-min quick construction.
- It boosts water circulation.
- Its lifespan is quite long.
Cons
- Does not have a basket.
Intex Deluxe Pool Surface Skimmer
(Best for Above Ground Pools)
If there are pool skimmers that are not compatible with Intex pools, then there have to be others manufactured directly from this brand. Obviously, this skimmer requires an Intex pool filter pump of at least 800 GPH to ensure a proper water flow rate.
The Intex pool skimmer is capable of preventing debris from sinking down to a pool bottom and immediately gathering them. Its overall construction of polypropylene plastic is quite durable. This brand offers a manufacturer warranty within one year.
Pros
- Works with an Intex filter.
- For above ground pools.
- It stops sinking garbage.
- The material is durable.
- It has a 1-year warranty.
Cons
- Not for a Coleman valve.
FibroPool Professional Pool Skimmer
(Best for Dog Hair)
This FibroPool manual pool skimmer has an extra-large net size of 18 inches, which enables more dirt capacity and efficiency in cleaning. There is a second mesh layer to resist ripping. Although the net basket is huge, it will not lose the slightest floating debris.
Just like most powerful pool rakes, its alloy aluminum frame is coated with a tapered resin layer to both maintain the overall form and decrease limb fatigue in scooping. You needn’t worry much even if the pool has a vinyl liner since it will not damage it.
This pool skimmer is compatible with most standard telescoping poles, therefore they do not have to struggle in looking for one that fits. It also helps reduce the entire pool skimming process into half of the regular timing.
Pros
- Its XL net has two layers.
- It captures small debris.
- It has a powerful frame.
- It cannot damage pools.
- It works with most poles.
- It lessens cleaning time.
Cons
- Lacks a lifetime warranty.
Milliard Pool Leaf Skimmer Net
(Best for Tiny Bugs)
Being a professional manual skimmer for heavy duties, this rake from Milliard brings out the ability to capture both small and large debris from pool surfaces. The net can be used on its own or connected to a pole to reach for floating trash in a distance.
Its front edge is easily turned to make scooping easier for users. This skimmer bag has a tapered shape that minimizes the chance of dragging too low while carrying a lot of dirt inside. It is beneficial to clean both a swimming pool surface and bottom.
The plastic rim of this leaf net is quite sustainable but it will not do harm to poolsides and liners. It has a well-woven nylon mesh, which is suitable for new pool owners to do their first pool skimming. This rake handle is made to be sturdy and unbendable.
Pros
- It is a professional rake.
- It can be used by itself.
- The front edge can turn.
- It reduces the dragging.
- It does not harm liners.
- It is for new pool owners.
- Cannot bend its handle.
Cons
- It is unnecessarily heavy.
Evob Net Leaf Pool Skimmer
(Best for Leaves)
As a manual leaf net with a durable frame made out of plastic, this Evob skimmer is lightweight and sturdy at the same time. It has been pleasing a lot of first-time pool owners for being a replacement skimmer. A money-back guarantee is available for it.
After the skimmer has scooped out all of the existing leaves, bugs, algae and grass, the swimming pool will be sparkling clean. The good news is that it suits a variety of standard poles. This pool rake also works effectively for spas, fountains and ponds.
Pros
- Its frame is lightweight.
- It is for new pool owners.
- A guarantee for refund.
- It cleans lots of debris.
- It goes with most poles.
- It suits loads of places.
Cons
- The frame is bendable.
Stargoods Net Pool Skimmer
(Best for Fine Particles)
Whether you are having an in-ground or above ground pool in the backyard, the skimmer from Stargoods will work out alright and scoop out most floating debris. The unit contains rounded borders to avoid causing damages to the poolsides and liners.
Its well-made mesh bag is deep enough to be able to deal with both small and large cleanups without tearing apart too soon. You needn’t empty this net constantly since its capacity is great. The reach can be extended by attaching this skimmer with a pole.
Pros
- Its borders are harmless.
- The mesh is untearable.
- No frequent dirt emptying.
- It is attachable to a pole.
Cons
- It is not for concrete pools.
Solar Breeze NX Automatic Pool Skimmer
(Best for Pollen)
Not only does the Solar Breeze pool skimmer eliminate leaves and pollen from a pool surface, but it also captures floating sunblock oil. Since the robotic skimmer is operated with solar energy, its lithium-ion battery is fully rechargeable in daylight.
This skimmer is even programmed to filter the pool water so a filter pump can be excluded from this process. Afterward, it spreads out fresh chlorine evenly in the pool for sanitization. The dirt collection area is 2 times larger than an in-wall basket.
Its wheels are able to recognize sticky situations and rotate this entire unit to get out and continue skimming. The skimmer from Solar Breeze can run for a maximum of 23.5 hours per day and that is mind-blowing. You will be surprised how easy to use it.
Pros
- It traps floating pollen.
- It runs with solar power.
- It can filter the water.
- It spreads pool chlorine.
- Its dirt container is big.
- It works for 23.5 hours.
Cons
- It gets stuck on rocks.
PoolSkim Pool Skimmer
(Best Budget)
There might be a wide range of automatic pool skimmers that do not cost much, but not all of them are an award-winning cleaning machine. In order to attract debris like a magnet, it develops a venturi suction that it gets from the returning pool water.
The garbage will be drawn neatly into its clip-on bag with a solid nylon mesh. Rather than a filter pump as usual, this pool skimmer is connected to a threaded return jet, where water flows back into the pool and is taken advantage of as described earlier.
A whole pool cleaning process has been made much easier thanks to the PoolSkim skimmer. It even manages to adjust itself to become fully compatible with the pool water level. Of course, this unit will help reduce the pressure on the filtration system.
Pros
- It is an award-winning unit.
- It creates debris suction.
- The mesh bag is clipped.
- It adjusts with the water.
- Reduces load for filtration.
Cons
- Unusable with Intex pools.
Dunnrite Hydro-Net Pool Skimmer
(Best for Small Pools)
The pool skimmer from Dunnrite includes a net mesh attached to a boat. This boat will move around while its basket scoops out floating debris on the pool surface. Of course, it is functioned entirely by remote control within the range of 100 feet from it.
With a full NI-MH battery charge, the automatic pool skimmer can run up to 5 hours straight. Dunnrite has also included a free initial battery and a charger in the package for your convenience. If you have a small pool at home, this boat is an ideal option.
Pros
- It is a boat with a net.
- It is remote controlled.
- It runs up to 5 hours.
- Includes a free battery.
- It is good for small pools.
Cons
- The switch may break.
CJ Lifestyle Crystal Pool Rake Skimmer
(Best for Easy Glide)
This pool skimmer from CJ Lifestyle contains a well-tapered leaf net to help its users with maneuvering around a swimming pool to collect floating dirt. The skimmer offers an easy glide for scooping out floating debris without dragging the whole mesh bag down.
Although this unit is quite lightweight, its solid frame is made out of heated aluminum to prevent quick form degradation. Whenever you need to empty the net, you can flip it upside down for gathered debris to fall out. Its long handle is comfortable to hold.
Pros
- The net is well-tapered.
- Its basket is low-drag.
- The frame is aluminum.
- Easy to remove debris.
- It has a long handle.
Cons
- It does not suit gnats.
HydroTools Pool and Spa Skimmer
(Best for Spas)
In order to collect debris in small pools at spas, the HydroTools skimmer would be a recommended choice thanks to its compact size. It has an aluminum handle that is 12 inches long for a comfortable grip. The leaf net is made in a soothing turquoise color.
Pros
- It is suitable for spas.
- It has a long handle.
- Its net color is nice.
Cons
- The net is too small.
How to Choose the Best Pool Skimmer?
Focusing on the big picture is never the wrong approach, nevertheless, sometimes we may forget to consider minor details that can result in bigger problems in the long run. From what I can tell, the factors below should always be on the top prioritize list.
Untearable Net Mesh
Regarding most leaf nets on the market, all of them need to include at least one thick layer to deal with collected floating debris. Furthermore, a lot of brands choose to equip 2 to 3 layers of fine mesh for the net to be untearable.
Skimmer nets tend to be ripped apart when handling a large amount of debris so, to be honest, a large basket is not the best concerning all circumstances. You should go for manual skimmers with firmly stitched nylon mesh to ensure a considerable lifespan.
Filter Pump Connection
Apparently, a lot of automatic pool skimmers need to be connected to the pool filter pump to operate. Nonetheless, there have been a lot of cases when the skimmer is not compatible with one’s existing swimming pool filter pump.
The most important advice I would like to give potential customers is that they should always compare their filter pump with a targeted pool skimmer for compatibility prior to purchasing. Or else, you can try robotic ones that work independently without any connection.
Applicable Pool Design
Last but not least, considering the applicable pool design to install a pool skimmer needs to be one of your foremost priorities. Brands do not label their skimmers to work with in-ground or above ground pools beforehand for no reason.
For example, a wide range of pool skimmers are attachable on pool sidewalls but the pool has to be an above ground one. That is why customers should check for a pool skimmer description carefully before deciding to buy it so it suits their existing pools.
How Do Pool Skimmers Work?
Because pool skimmers are divided into two different types of automatic and manual, I would like to describe their performances separately. You should combine both the buying guide above and this function manual to decide which one is your preference.
For Automatic Pool Skimmers
Basically, automatic pool skimmers operate by pulling water in through a skimming action so that they eat up floating debris on pool surfaces before sinking to the pool bottom. Some even create a vortex suction in order to completely eliminate all dirt.
For Manual Pool Skimmers
Manual pool skimmers are mainly manufactured in the form of mesh bags and need direct human impact to capture pool debris. Users can grab its handle or connect to an extension pole for improved reaching, then maneuver on pool surfaces to scoop dirt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about pool skimmers.
Swim Network Overview
Rather than calling for the pool cleaning service multiple times, it is recommended for pool owners to purchase their own skimmers and clear out all floating debris in less than an hour. Either an automatic or a manual one is functional for your pool.
The best overall pool skimmer is definitely the Solar Breeze NX2 Automatic Pool Skimmer. Whereas the SkimDoctor 2.0 Pool Skimmer is commended as the best for in-ground pools. If you need to collect leaves, then the Evob Net Leaf Pool Skimmer will do.
Among all manual pool skimmers, the best one so far is ProTuff Pool Net Skimmer. In terms of scooping fine particles, most people choose the Stargoods Net Pool Skimmer. And the best skimmer for small pools would be the Dunnrite Hydro-Net Pool Skimmer.
Now, there might be a high possibility that you are not really interested in the pool skimmers I have presented in this article. It is perfectly fine and I just want to make sure that the buying guide above is beneficial enough for your shopping time of other machines.
So, what is your opinion on this article of the best pool skimmers available in 2024? I would love to consult it in the comment section below. In addition, I believe that you would like to share this informative article with friends and family via Facebook and Twitter.
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