Winter is a season of rest, both for pool owners and their pools. As temperatures drop and pool usage declines, the time comes to prepare for winterization—an essential step to ensure your pool survives the cold months unscathed. Among the many decisions involved in this process is one often overlooked: should a pool skimmer be covered for winter? This seemingly small choice can have lasting effects on your pool’s health, functionality, and long-term maintenance costs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the purpose of a pool skimmer, whether or not it should be covered in winter, and how proper winter pool care can preserve your investment. Whether you’re a first-time pool owner or have years of experience, this article will provide all the information you need to make the best decision for your specific pool setup and climate.
Understanding the Role of the Pool Skimmer
Before diving into the winterization aspect, it’s important to understand what a pool skimmer does and why it’s such a vital part of your pool system.
What Is a Pool Skimmer?
The skimmer is a device installed at the pool’s waterline, usually on the wall or an external box. It acts as the first line of defense in collecting debris such as leaves, bugs, oil, and other floating contaminants. It also houses the skimmer basket, which catches larger debris, and is connected to the pool pump, helping circulate and filter the water.
How the Skimmer Contributes to Pool Health
The skimmer plays a significant role in:
- Removing surface debris and oils before they sink to the bottom.
- Preventing clogging in the pool’s filtration system.
- Helping maintain water clarity and chemical balance.
- Reducing strain on the pool pump by trapping large particles early.
Because of its importance, the skimmer must be maintained and protected appropriately, especially during seasonal changes like winter.
Do You Need to Cover Your Pool Skimmer for Winter?
This is the central question many pool owners ask each fall. The short answer is: in most cases, yes, a pool skimmer should be covered for winter. But the reasoning varies based on your climate, how your pool is winterized, and the type of skimmer you have.
Why Covering the Skimmer Is Recommended
Here are the key reasons experts recommend covering your skimmer during winter:
- Prevent Water from Freezing: If water sits in the skimmer, it can freeze in cold temperatures, causing the plastic or PVC material to crack.
- Keep Debris Out: An open skimmer can allow leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris to fall into the plumbing lines, leading to clogs and potential damage.
- Protect Against Ice Expansion: Expanding ice inside the skimmer basket or pipes can deform or break the components, leading to costly repairs in spring.
- Aesthetic and Safety Maintenance: Covering the skimmer prevents it from being an open trap for water and debris, which can lead to algae growth and slipping hazards.
Signs Your Skimmer Wasn’t Winterized Properly
If you neglect to cover your skimmer for winter, your pool may suffer the following:
- Cracked skimmer baskets or housing due to ice.
- Debris buildup inside the plumbing, requiring disassembly to clean.
- Algae growth and staining inside the skimmer and connected plumbing.
- Increased springtime maintenance costs and repairs.
Skimmer Winterization in Different Climates
The need to cover your skimmer also depends on the climate you live in:
| Climate Type | Winterization Requirement |
|---|---|
| Freezing (cold winters, temperatures below 32°F) | Covering and winterizing the skimmer is critical to prevent freeze damage. |
| Mild (occasional frost but rarely freezes) | Skimmer should be drained and covered, but risk is lower than in freezing climates. |
| Warm (no freezing or frost) | Covering may still be beneficial to reduce debris accumulation but is optional. |
So, while covering the skimmer is not universally mandatory, covering the skimmer is always a smart practice—especially if your area experiences cold winter temperatures.
How to Properly Cover a Pool Skimmer for Winter
Now that we’ve established the importance of covering your skimmer, let’s go through the right process. Winterizing your skimmer involves more than just placing a cover on it—it should be part of a full winterization strategy that includes the pool, filter, and pump.
Step-by-Step Guide to Skimmer Winterization
- Turn Off the Pump and Power Source: Before any work begins, ensure the pool pump is completely shut off.
- Remove the Skimmer Basket and Plugs: Take out the skimmer basket and any threaded drain plugs
- Drain Standing Water: Use a wet-dry vacuum, sponge, or towel to remove any remaining water from the skimmer box and plumbing lines.
- Insert an Air Pillow (Optional): If you’re using a winter cover over the entire pool, placing an air pillow in the deep end prevents ice from putting pressure on the pool walls.
- Cover the Skimmer: Place a skimmer cover over the opening. Alternatively, use a PVC skimmer plug or expandable foam plug to seal the line.
- Store the Skimmer Basket Indoors: Storing the basket avoids UV fading, brittleness, and damage from freezing temperatures.
- Ensure a Secure Seal: Your skimmer cover should be tight-fitting and durable. If needed, use pool-safe tape to reinforce it.
Choosing the Right Skimmer Cover
Not all skimmer covers are created equal. Consider the following factors when choosing one:
- Material: Opt for durable rubber or plastic covers that can withstand cold weather and UV exposure.
- Fit: Ensure the cover fits your specific skimmer type (standard wall-mounted skimmer, in-floor cleaner, or above-ground models).
- Water Resistance: A good cover should be both waterproof and airtight to prevent moisture buildup inside the skimmer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Covering a Pool Skimmer
Improperly covering your skimmer isn’t just ineffective—it can actually cause damage instead of preventing it. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure a successful winterization process.
Using Duct Tape or Improvised Covers
Just because something seems to “cover” the skimmer doesn’t mean it works properly. Duct tape, plastic wrap, and DIY covers often fail to create an airtight seal and deteriorate quickly in outdoor conditions.
Leaving the Skimmer Basket Inside During Winter
Many skimmer baskets are made of plastic and can become brittle over time. If left in place, they can crack from freezing water or from expanding ice in the skimmer box.
Failing to Drain the Skimmer Properly
Water left inside the skimmer can freeze and expand, leading to cracks in the walls or pipes. Be sure to drain all water and dry off interior surfaces before covering.
Using the Wrong Type of Plug
Some pool owners insert a standard threaded plug back into the skimmer to seal it. However, this fails to account for hydrostatic pressure from groundwater that can push up through the bottom drain. Always use an anti-freeze plug or air pillow as instructed.
Skimmer Issues Post-Winter: What to Watch For
Even with proper preparation, some skimmer problems can arise when pool season resumes. Winterization may prevent the worst-case scenario, but not all damage is avoidable—especially in unpredictable climates.
Cracked Liner or Housing
If a skimmer’s housing or the surrounding pool wall develops hairline cracks during the winter, it’s likely due to freezing water inside or hydrostatic pressure. This may require professional repair.
Leaking Seals
The gaskets around the skimmer may dry out or shrink in low temperatures. Upon reopening the pool, check for leaks around skimmer connections, and replace seals as needed.
Discolored or Brittle Skimmer Basket
Exposure to snow, rain, and cold can damage an exposed skimmer basket. If it shows signs of warping, fading, or extreme stiffness, replace it.
Additional Winter Pool Care Tips
While the skimmer is a critical component in your winter pool care system, it’s not the only part that requires attention. Let’s review other key areas of winter pool maintenance that complement skimmer protection.
Use a Winter Pool Cover
A durable winter cover is a must. Whether you have a solid cover or a mesh safety cover, it should be in place before the first frost to reduce the amount of debris and moisture that enters the pool.
Balance the Water Chemistry
Before closing your pool for the season, test and balance your water to reduce the chance of algae growth, staining, and corrosion over the winter. Use a winterizing chemical kit to simplify this process.
Winterize Pool Equipment
In addition to the skimmer, ensure pumps, filters, and heaters are winterized. Draining the water from these units and applying protective oils or antifreeze can prevent internal damage.
Monitor Pool Water Level
If the water level drops too low in winter, it can expose the pool lining or increase the risk of the cover sagging and collecting rainwater. Use a submersible pump to remove any excess water from the cover as needed.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Your Pool Skimmer’s Winter Health
So, should you cover your pool skimmer for winter? The answer is a resounding yes. Covering the skimmer is a small but critical step that protects your pool from unnecessary damage and extends the life of your pool equipment. Whether you live in a region with freezing winters or a milder climate, the benefits of covering the skimmer—such as preventing cracks, reducing debris buildup, and maintaining better water quality—far outweigh the effort involved.
A properly maintained skimmer ensures that your pool is ready to go when the warming weather returns, saving you time and money in the long run. Incorporate skimmer coverage into your full winterization plan, and you’ll enjoy cleaner water, fewer repairs, and a longer pool life.
By following the expert tips outlined in this guide, you’ll not only protect your pool’s physical structure but also ensure it remains a joy rather than a burden. Take the time this fall to cover that skimmer—it’s one of the smartest things you can do for your pool’s health.
Resources and Recommended Products
While this guide has provided a framework for proper skimmer winterization, here are some products that pool owners frequently recommend:
- Skimmer Covers: AquaStar, Leslie’s, and Hayward offer durable, climate-adapted covers.
- Air Pillows: Pentair and Intex provide a variety of reusable air pillows for ice protection.
- Skimmer Baskets: Check compatibility before ordering. Many brands offer reinforced winter baskets designed for cold temperatures.
For further winter pool guidance, consult your pool manufacturer’s official documentation or reach out to local pool service professionals.
Proper pool care is more than just seasonal chores—it’s an investment in the beauty, safety, and longevity of your backyard oasis. As you prepare for winter, don’t overlook the power of simple protections like covering your pool skimmer. The small effort today will lead to big rewards when warm, inviting swims return in spring.
Should I cover my pool skimmer for winter?
Yes, it’s generally recommended to cover your pool skimmer during the winter months as part of proper pool maintenance. Covering the skimmer helps prevent debris such as leaves, dirt, and twigs from collecting inside, which can cause clogging and potential damage when the pool is reopened. In colder climates, covering the skimmer also protects it from freezing temperatures that could crack the plastic or affect the internal components.
However, it’s important to consider your specific pool setup and local climate when deciding how much coverage your skimmer needs. Some pool owners use mesh skimmer covers, which allow water to flow through while keeping out larger debris. Others may opt for more durable covers if the pool is completely closed and not in use. If your region experiences harsh winters, covering the skimmer is a small but effective step in maintaining the overall health and functionality of your pool system.
Can I leave the pool skimmer uncovered during winter?
You can leave the pool skimmer uncovered during winter, particularly if your area doesn’t experience heavy debris accumulation or freezing temperatures. In such conditions, the skimmer basket alone may be sufficient to prevent major clogs. However, without a cover, there’s an increased risk of debris buildup, which can complicate the process of reopening your pool in the spring.
If you decide against covering the skimmer, monitor it periodically during the off-season to ensure it hasn’t become overloaded with leaves or other debris. In areas that do get freezing weather, leaving the skimmer exposed can potentially lead to water freezing inside the skimmer box, causing cracks or damage to the pool wall. Therefore, even if you leave it uncovered, ensure it’s part of a comprehensive winter pool care plan.
What kind of cover should I use for my pool skimmer?
The type of cover you should use for your pool skimmer depends on your climate and how thoroughly you close your pool for the season. Mesh skimmer covers are commonly recommended because they allow water to pass through while blocking large debris such as leaves and twigs. These are ideal for pools that are chemically balanced and covered during winter, as they prevent unnecessary clogging of the skimmer basket.
Alternatively, solid plastic or insulated skimmer covers may be advised in areas with harsh winters, especially where freezing is a concern. These covers provide an extra layer of protection against frost and moisture buildup inside the skimmer. Whatever type you choose, ensure the cover fits securely in or over the skimmer to prevent it from blowing away or becoming ineffective during high winds or storms.
What happens if I don’t cover my pool skimmer during winter?
If you don’t cover your pool skimmer during winter, you risk allowing leaves, dirt, and other debris to accumulate inside it. This debris can settle into the skimmer basket, making it harder to clean when you reopen the pool and potentially interfering with the pump’s performance. In some cases, decomposing organic matter like leaves can contribute to water discoloration and algae growth, especially if your pool cover has gaps or is improperly sealed.
Additionally, in cold climates, leaving the skimmer exposed could allow water to freeze inside the skimmer box, leading to cracks or damage in the surrounding structure. Even if the water doesn’t freeze, ice expansion can cause fittings and components to shift or break. Skipping the use of a skimmer cover may seem like a minor oversight, but it can complicate the process of reopening your pool and increase maintenance time come spring.
How do I properly install a skimmer cover for winter?
Properly installing a skimmer cover starts with cleaning the skimmer basket and removing any existing debris before winter closure. Choose the appropriate type of cover for your climate — a mesh version in milder areas or a solid, insulated version in colder regions. Place the cover securely over or inside the skimmer, depending on the design, ensuring there are no gaps for debris or water to enter.
For best results, use clips or bungee cords if your skimmer cover comes with attachment points to keep it in place. This prevents the cover from being dislodged by wind, rain, or snow. If you have a solid cover, it’s also a good idea to place a small weight or cover stabilizer inside the skimmer to ensure the cover stays down and doesn’t lift due to pressure changes under ice formation. Installing the skimmer cover correctly contributes to a smoother and more efficient pool reopening process.
When should I remove the skimmer cover in spring?
You should remove the skimmer cover shortly after removing your pool cover in the spring, as part of the initial pool reopening process. Before removing the cover, check the skimmer area for signs of debris buildup or water accumulation. If a mesh cover was used, it should have kept the interior relatively clean, making this a quick task.
Once the cover is removed, inspect the skimmer basket for remaining debris and clean it thoroughly before reinserting it into the skimmer box. If your pool uses an automatic skimmer system, ensure all components are free of ice or blockages before restarting the pump. Removing the skimmer cover at the right time helps your pool resume normal filtration and circulation more efficiently.
Are there alternatives to covering the pool skimmer for winter?
Yes, there are alternatives to covering the pool skimmer, especially in areas where winter conditions are mild. One common alternative is simply removing the skimmer basket and storing it indoors to prevent breakage or deformation from cold temperatures and debris accumulation. With the basket removed, the skimmer opening can be sealed with a solid plate or foam plug to prevent water loss and debris entry.
Another option is using a winter pool cover that extends over the entire pool surface and fits securely around the skimmer area. If the overall pool cover is well-installed and high-quality, it may offer sufficient protection to the skimmer without the need for a secondary cover. While not always necessary, covering the skimmer specifically can add extra protection, especially for pools located in wooded or windy areas where debris is abundant.