You may be curious to know how to remove your pool skimmer flap if you notice the operation isn’t good or it needs cleaning. The skimmer flap is instrumental in preventing debris from clogging up your pool’s filter system. But every now and then you should remove and clean or replace it to keep it working efficiently. In this blog post, we are going to guide you on removing a skimmer flap and briefly discuss how a robot pool cleaner works with the skimmer to keep your pool sparkling clean.
What is a Skimmer Flap?
The skimmer flap: The most efficient part of your pool’s filtration system Perched inside the pool skimmer, it controls water movement and collects debris from the surface. It also stops larger objects from entering the system so it can only capture smaller particles in the skimmer basket.
Reasons That You Might Want to Remove the Skimmer Flap
But before we jump into the removal process, let’s review some common reasons you need to remove the skimmer flap:
Cleaning: Over time, dirt and debris can clog the flap and prevent water from flowing correctly; this will reduce the efficiency of your pool vacuum or robot pool cleaner.
Wear on Skimmer Flap: Over time, the skimmer flap can also wear out or become damaged and may need to be replaced.
Routine Maintenance: Regularly removing and cleaning the flap is necessary to avoid clogs in the filtration system as part of routine pool care.
Kil Image of a Skimmer Flap Removal Process
The removal of a skimmer flap is usually a simple endeavor. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Turn Off the Pool Pump
Before you begin, make sure to turn off the pool pump so that there isn’t any suction while you’re removing the flap. This will help you remain safe and also protect the integrity of the system.
Locate the Skimmer Flap
Locate the skimmer flap found in your pool skimmer. It is usually attached to the skimmer basket, and it is most commonly made from flexible rubber or plastic.
Unplug the Flap from the Skimmer
Depending on how your skimmer has been designed, the flap can either be clipped, pinned, or screwed on. Gently pull the flap away from the skimmer assembly. Loosen any screws, if it is held in place with them, using a screwdriver. For clips, remove them cautiously.
Inspect and Clean the Flap
Next, remove the flap and check it for any wear, damage, or blockages. Finally, wipe off debris or dirt that may be lodged on the flap to aid functionality. You could wash it off with a hose or a gentle brush for stubborn dirt.
For Construction: Switch Out the Flap (If Needed)
If the flap itself is damaged, that’s when it needs to be replaced. When you buy, ensure you get the appropriate size, and style of the flap for your skimmer model. Replacing a flap is usually as simple as snapping it in, or fastening it with screws or clips, depending on how your skimmer is constructed.
Does The Pool Robotic Cleaner Help With Skimmer Maintenance?
Although the skimmer-type flap assists in debris filtration, a pool robotic pool cleaner such as Beatbot AquaSense Pro can do the tough cleaning work for your pool. These mechanical advancements take place on the pool floor, walls, and within the waterline, ensuring the complete removal of dirt and debris. Although a swimming pool robot cleaner relies on the skimmer system, it is an independent unit that works alongside it to keep your swimming pool free of dirt, grime, and debris.
Some Beatbot models (such as the Beatbot iSkim Ultra) can even operate alongside your pool’s filtration system. They also collect smaller particles and dirt that may not be filtered out through the skimmer or vacuum robot.
Integrating Skimmer and Robot Pool Cleaner
In keeping the pool clean, a robotic pool cleaner pairs perfectly with a skimmer flap. The skimmer flap also prevents larger debris from entering the system which can lead to clogging, while the robot cleaner does its job scrubbing surfaces and cleaning areas traditional vacuums can’t reach. Partnered together, they provide a level of cleanliness and efficiency that is second to none.
Once you’ve taken care of your skimmer flap, you can let your robot pool cleaner take care of the small details to keep your pool fine-tuned.
Removing a Skimmer Flap, Cleaning the Pool
Removing and maintaining your skimmer flap is part of ensuring your pool’s filtration system runs smoothly. By keeping the flap clean and replacing it if needed, you will reduce blockage and keep the water flowing properly. Combining this with a robot pool cleaner like the Beatbot AquaSense or Beatbot AquaSense Pro means your pool is always in perfect ready condition.
When you use a vacuum cleaner for a pool or a swimming pool robot cleaner, these tools work together to form the ultimate cleaning system for your pool.
