If you have a pool next to your garden, you know the problem: as well as an idyllic atmosphere, this unfortunately also means that there are always branches or leaves in the pool.
A pool skimmer helps:
Simple pool filters quickly become clogged with so much dirt on the surface. A pool skimmer is a gadget that uses a special surface movement to filter dirt out of the water. It could also be called a surface vacuum cleaner.
The best offers reviewed:
BeyondSurfing presents the best skimmers from 2024 and provides all the information you need to make your purchase decision easier.
The best pool skimmer 2024?
Content
In a hurry? Our pool skimmer favorite:
- Favorable price
- Fully automatic
- Easy to clean
- Simple attachment
- Suitable for various models
- Stainless steel
- Simple design
Pool Skimmer Checklist
- Types: There are different types of skimmer: from hose skimmers to float skimmers. A distinction can also be made between automatic and manual skimmers.
- Price: A skimmer doesn’t have to be expensive – depending on the material and technology, they are available from as little as 20 $.
- Brands: The Bestway and Intex brands are good and experienced manufacturers of skimmers.
- Installation: The product can be installed without assistance. There are built-in skimmers and hook-in skimmers with brackets for the pool.
- Size: Some models are more suitable for large pools, others for small ones.
Also interesting: The most popular inflatable pools 2024.
The top 6 pool skimmers in 2024
Best fully automatic pool skimmer
1. Bestway Flowclear hanging skimmer
Advantages
- Favorable price
- Fully automatic
- Easy to clean
- Simple attachment
- Suitable for various models
- Stainless steel
- Simple design
Disadvantages
- Not for steel wall pools
- Can only be used with a filter system
Summary
When reviewed, this pool skimmer performs particularly well among the surface skimmers. That’s because it has an unbeatable price. At the same time, it does a thorough job of cleaning and is easy to fit.
The hose is included in the pool skimmer set supplied. This is simply attached to the filter pump. It is important that it has an output of at least 2,006 l/h. Only then can the skimmer work thoroughly.
Once connected, the product works automatically. The material is rustproof and lightweight. It can be mounted flexibly.
Conclusion
A very affordable and effective skimmer from an experienced manufacturer. If you have the right tank and the right pump for operation, you will be very satisfied with the product.
The set cannot be combined with steel wall pools. A different model must be selected for these.
Product details
Operating mode: Automatic | Size: 49 x 20.6 x 64.01 cm | Weight: 1.57 kg
Customer ratings
Very good value for money and thorough cleaning: this comment is repeated by several reviews. Some customers note that, contrary to recommendations, they have managed to attach the skimmer to a steel wall pool without any problems. The 3 adapters allow flexible mounting. If you install the product correctly, you will have a clean pool without much effort.
Around 10% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The openings in the filter are too large for one customer. He recommends the use of additional skimmer socks. These can be bought cheaply on Amazon. The locking ring must be tightened from time to time, otherwise the skimmer will sit too loosely on the edge of the pool.
FAQ
Best cheap pool skimmer
2. intex skimmer deluxe for large pools
Advantages
- Favorable price
- Removable filter basket
- Also compatible with steel wall pools
- Chlorine tablets compatible
- Several adapters in a set
- Simple assembly
- Robust polypropylene
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for small pools
- Only for pumps from 3,028 liters/hour
Summary
The Intex skimmer is called Deluxe because it can clean very large pools particularly powerfully. It reliably fishes leaves and insects from the surface.
Assembly is easy even for non-professionals. The bracket can be combined with many different pools, even pools with steel walls or frame pools. The bracket can be easily adjusted in width.
The filter basket can be removed from the skimmer for particularly easy cleaning. The contents can then be tipped into the organic waste garbage can. If chlorine tablets are used, the residual waste garbage can must be used.
Conclusion
A powerful and reliable skimmer that can be used flexibly. The ideal choice for large pools.
The product only works effectively with pumps with a capacity of 3,028 liters/hour or more. Ensure the correct fit.
Product details
Operating mode: Automatic | Size: 33.2 x 24.8 x 21.2 cm | Weight: 1.92 kg
Customer ratings
Customers make several recommendations for this model. The experience with the skimmer is predominantly very good. From the function to the design, everything is just right here. It is also very easy to install. Most reviewers would buy the product again. It is relatively large and therefore perfect for XXL pools. Delivery is very fast.
Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 10% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
A customer complains that the price fluctuates. From time to time, the model is on offer and can then be had for even less. However, the price is already low anyway. Another reviewer mentions that the wrong product was delivered to him. He was able to return it without any problems.
FAQ
Best pool skimmer including pump
3. Bestway Flowclear Skimatic 2-in-1 filter pump
Advantages
- With pump in set
- Hose-free operation
- Quiet operation
- Filter cartridges included
- Can be combined with all pools
- Modern design
Disadvantages
- High price
- Heavy dead weight
Summary
This skimmer has a decisive advantage over the other products: It is also a filter. This means it can be operated without a separate filter or pump.
Independent operation means that no hose is required. This makes it visually very inconspicuous. However, the design is certainly impressive: modern and high-quality.
Filter cartridges are already included in the set. The flow rate is 3.974 liters/hour, which is very powerful. This means that the skimmer beats most other filters and pumps in terms of performance.
Conclusion
If you don’t yet have a filter or pump, this product comes with a skimmer already combined with them. A powerful hygiene helper at a reasonable price.
If you want to spend less than 50 $, choose a different product.
Product details
Operating mode: Automatic | Size: 46.5 x 47 x 31.5 cm | Weight: 7.14 kg
Customer ratings
The suction power is good and you can see how effectively the product works: The filter is full after a week. It operates very quietly and is easy to use. The water quality is increased enormously. Customers would recommend the product to others. Shipping and delivery are also very fast.
Around 14% are neutral about the product, while 14% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
One customer complains that the bracket on his inflatable pool did not hold. Fortunately, the return policy is very accommodating and he was able to exchange the model.
FAQ
Further highlights
4. intex hanging skimmer deluxe
Advantages
- Suitable for all pools
- Robust polypropylene
- Removable sieve
- Durable
- Several adapters in a set
- Two brackets
- Powerful suction cup
Disadvantages
- Slides forward at air edges
- Turning screws come loose from time to time
Summary
This inexpensive skimmer from Intex is one of the best value offers among the models presented. It is the No. 1 Bestseller on Amazon and therefore permanently reduced in price.
The quality delivered is convincing. The model can be used flexibly and comes with various adapters and brackets. The filter basket in the skimmer tank is removable and therefore easy to clean.
The robust polypropylene material is very hard-wearing and durable. It can be combined with chemicals such as chlorine without any worries. It also withstands UV radiation in the long term.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a very affordable model, this is a solid skimmer. The only drawback is the weak screws, which have to be tightened from time to time.
Product details
Operating mode: Automatic | Size: 21 x 24 x 33 cm | Weight: 1.59 kg
Customer ratings
The workmanship is high quality and the material is durable. The scope of delivery includes everything needed for operation, including adapters. The height and width can be adjusted very easily. The water surface is thoroughly cleaned. There are even two different brackets in the set. Most customers say that the purchase was really worthwhile.
Around 10% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
One customer had the problem that the skimmer was drawing air. This damaged his pump. The screws need to be tightened from time to time so that it sits firmly on the edge.
FAQ
5. spirato skimmer for steel wall pools
Advantages
- Incl. Strainer basket
- With cover
- Suction plate
- Double seal
- Stainless steel screws
- Skimmer flap
- Permanently installed
Disadvantages
- Only for steel wall pools
- Complicated cultivation
Summary
This skimmer is a slightly different model: it is permanently installed. This means that installation takes a little more time than with a clamp model. On the other hand, this skimmer is much more stable.
The material is provided with a skimmer seal – the hole that is built into the pool wall is thus securely sealed. A skimmer cover is not necessary here, as the product is mounted vertically on the wall. Unlike other models, the water does not slosh in from above. The supplied suction plate is sufficient here.
The inlet nozzle and all installation parts are included in the scope of delivery, incl. Skimmer basket which can be removed for cleaning. The screws for fastening are made of sturdy stainless steel.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a particularly stable skimmer for the steel wall pool, you have come to the right place. Theoretically, the skimmer can also be set in concrete if a “real” pool is being built.
Customers with a pool that has an air ring as an edge must use a different product. The cultivation requires some manual skill.
Product details
Operating mode: Automatic | Size: 22 x 23 x 32 cm | Weight: 1.98 kg
Customer ratings
Hook-on skimmers are easily broken off by children. This is why customers recommend the product especially for families with children playing in the water. One customer also installed the model in a foil pool, i.e. not in a steel wall as recommended. Here too, the product is leak-proof. The skimmer also filters large quantities of water effectively.
Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
One customer notes that the skimmer basket cannot be fixed. During backflow, it sometimes floats out of position and jams the valve. A stone can help here.
FAQ
6. AONESY Pool Skimmer Manual
Advantages
- Very favorable
- Reinforced plastic frame
- Extra light
- Space-saving design
- Scratch resistant
- Incl. Telescopic pole
- Compatible with all basins
Disadvantages
- Manual operation
- Requires regular time investment
Summary
Some readers may find this product confusing: a landing net. However, a skimmer is ultimately a very light and fine landing net and it can work automatically or be operated manually.
This model includes a telescopic pole in the set. It can be extended to 1.2 m and is light as a feather. The very fine net effectively fishes insects, coarse dirt, leaves and sticks out of the water.
It is very easy to use, takes just a few minutes and is particularly environmentally friendly: no electricity consumption and no waste of water. Assembly is completed in just a few seconds.
Conclusion
If you are looking for an environmentally friendly, cost-effective and simple skimmer solution, you have come to the right place.
Customers who prefer not to invest any labor need an automatic skimmer.
Product details
Operating mode: Manual | Size: 1.2 m long | Weight: 280 g
Customer ratings
The landing net is really very light and easy to handle. It works in a particularly environmentally friendly way, which was especially important to some customers. The material and design is stable and practical. The bar can be adjusted very smoothly. The price is really reasonable for the quality that is delivered. Cleaning also only takes a few minutes.
Around 7% are neutral about the product, while 26% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
One customer broke the thread during assembly. The material is kept very thin to make the landing net as light as possible. So you have to be careful when handling them, especially when turning them.
FAQ
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Bestsellers: The most popular pool skimmers
(**Last update 2024-09-16)
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Buy a pool skimmer:
How to make the right decision
Theresa Kasch ★★★★★
(Pool owner from Hamelin)
To find the best skimmer, a number of factors need to be taken into account. The ideal product must match the type of pool and should be made of high-quality material. The buying guide will tell you what else you need to consider.
What you need to consider when buying a skimmer
When looking for the best pool skimmer, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:
- Operating mode
- Comfort
- Durability
- Filter/mesh quality
- Guarantee
- Material
Operating mode
A compromise must be made here between user-friendliness and costs. Automatic skimmers cost more than manual ones, but work independently.
Manual skimmer
- Particularly precise
- Inexpensive
- Suitable for all pools
- Environmentally friendly
- Workload
- Work only selectively
- No permanent hygiene
Pro tip: Manual skimmers can often also be found in specialist garden shops at reasonable prices.
Automatic skimmer
- Work automatically
- Permanent hygiene
- Thorough
- No work required
- Power consumption
- Not suitable for every pool
- More expensive
Comfort
1 Manual skimmers – “landing nets”: Manual skimmers are easy to use and relatively uncomplicated. All you have to do is push the net through the water and collect the dirt.
2 Automatic skimmers: The automatic and self-contained skimmers only need to be switched on and off. As soon as they are connected to the power supply, they can simply work independently.
The most strenuous part is the installation – after that, customers only have to empty the filter basket from time to time. There are screw systems for attachment (less work) and permanently anchored systems that require a hole in the pool wall (suitable for steel wall pools).
Durability
Everyone wants a product to last as long as possible. Skimmers are not very expensive and even though 1 $ products may seem appealing at first glance, they can cost more money in the long run. This is because they usually only last a few days. For long-term durability, you should invest at least $ 20.
The higher the price, the higher the quality of the material used. An example would be polypropylene or stainless steel. Trustworthy companies with good customer service offer additional protection. Bestway and Intex, for example, should be mentioned here.
Building on experience:
Another clue can be found in the customer reviews. Over time, reviews accumulate on Amazon: it is therefore not always worth buying the very latest product, but rather looking at the reports of other users.
Filter/mesh quality
A pool skimmer net that is large enough to let the water through easily and yet fine enough to catch as much dirt as possible is ideal. At the same time, customers also want a network that lasts a long time.
If the net tears after a few uses, the skimmer is unusable. In these cases, use customer reviews and buying guides as a guide.
Warranty necessary?
Material
A skimmer is exposed to a lot of sunlight. This means that it is constantly bombarded with UV rays. It is advisable to choose UV-resistant material: Polypropylene is a good candidate for this. Also metal, of course, but this is only used for permanently installed basins. For above-ground pools it is a bit difficult.
Manual skimmers are an exception here. One thing in particular counts for these materials: lightness. UV radiation does not play such a big role, as they are not in the sun for long, but can be stored in the shade.
No tests have yet been carried out by the market leaders Consumer Reports and Öko Test.
Well-known brands and manufacturers?
Customers who rely on experience and quality can rely on a product from the leading manufacturers.
The best-known and most popular skimmer brands & manufacturers include:
- Bestway
- Intex
A skimmer in use
These videos will give you an insight into the function of various skimmers:
Permanently installed:
Suspended skimmer:
The cleaning:
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about pool skimmers
How does a skimmer work?
The suction is sufficient to pull the water surface towards the surface cleaner. However, it is not so strong that swimmers are attracted to it. The dirt is secured in a collection basket. This can be emptied manually.
But there are also skimmers that look like very fine landing nets. They are used to skim off the dirt manually.
Is a pool skimmer necessary?
How do you use a skimmer in the pool?
There are also manual skimmers that are not installed at all. They are used like a landing net.
Can pool skimmers be retrofitted?
Things get a little more complicated with pools that are permanently set in concrete: here you should seek the help of a professional. The skimmer is best set in concrete during construction.
Can I put chlorine pills in the pool skimmer?
Conclusion: The most popular pool skimmers reviewed
A good pool skimmer is an essential part of effective hygiene in the pool. It cleans where no robot vacuum cleaner or filter can reach: on the surface. However, there are many differences between the models and not all of them are suitable for all pools.
The buying guide also provides laypersons with an overview of the top products and most important features. This enables customers to make a purchase decision that really pays off. Turn from a passive consumer into a responsible buyer today.
Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.
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