Where Is Skimmer On Above Ground Pool?
Ever feel like your above ground pool skimmer is playing hide-and-seek? You’re not alone.
The short answer: it's usually about a quarter of the way down from the top of the pool wall—often near the ladder or filter. But depending on your pool’s design, it might be in a slightly different spot.
Knowing where it is (and what it does) saves you time, hassle, and stops your pool from turning into a murky mess. Stick around—we’ll show you exactly where to look and why it matters more than you think.
The Location of a Standard Wall-Mounted Skimmer
Positioned on the Upper Portion of the Pool Wall
Most hard-sided above ground pools have a wall-mounted skimmer. You’ll usually spot it about 20–25% down from the top. That’s the sweet spot for skimming off leaves, bugs, and other floaty bits before they sink.
Think of it as the pool’s first line of defence—it catches trouble while it’s still floating.
Connected Directly to the Pool's Filtration Pump
Outside the pool, it’ll look like a plastic or metal box bolted to the wall. That box connects straight to your filtration system. It’s like the front door to your pool’s cleaning crew.
Water flows through the skimmer first, then down into the pump and filter, getting cleaner at each step.
Designed to "Skim" the Top Layer of Water
Inside the pool, the skimmer has a rectangular or round opening just below the surface. That’s where it does the real work—drawing in water from the top and catching floating nasties.
Like a leaf net, only automatic and always working.
How a Skimmer Works
Water is Drawn from the Surface into the Skimmer Opening
As your pool pump runs, it creates suction. That pulls surface water into the skimmer opening.
Any leaves, petals, or creepy-crawlies drifting on the surface get caught up before they can sink.
A Removable Basket Catches Large Debris (Leaves, Insects, etc.)
Inside the skimmer is a basket—basically a mini bin for your pool. It grabs all the bigger bits, so they don’t clog the pipes or damage the pump.
Think of it as the kitchen strainer of your pool system. Empty it often, especially after windy days or BBQs near the pool.
Water is Then Sent to the Filter for Finer Debris Removal
After the big stuff gets caught, the water heads to the filter. That’s where finer particles—like pollen or sunscreen residue—are removed.
Clean skimmer basket = efficient filtration = clearer, safer water. Simple.
Types of Above Ground Pool Skimmers and Their Placement
Through-the-Wall Skimmers
Permanently Installed via a Cutout in the Pool Wall
These are the most common type for hard-sided pools. They’re built right into the wall during setup, using a specific cutout.
It’s a permanent fixture—solid, reliable, and efficient.
Most Common on Durable, Hard-Sided Above Ground Pools
If you’ve got a steel or resin pool, chances are you’ve got one of these. Brands like Intex and Bestway often include them in their kits.
They’re built to last the whole summer—and then some.
Considered the Most Effective and Reliable Type
Because they’re fixed and plumbed into the system, they’re not going anywhere. That means strong suction, consistent performance, and fewer problems.
For serious pool owners, this is the gold standard.
Floating or Hang-on Skimmers
Attached to the Pool's Edge or Hose
These are the quick-fix option. They either clip onto the pool edge or float freely while connected to a suction hose.
Set it up in minutes and you’re good to go.
Ideal for Inflatable or Soft-Sided Pools
Got a pop-up pool? These are your best bet. No drilling, no tools—just hook it up and let it drift.
They follow the water level too, which is handy if the pool isn’t always full to the same line.
Often Less Efficient, but Easier to Install and Remove
They’re not as powerful as wall-mounted skimmers, but they’re perfect for seasonal or occasional pool users.
You’ll just need to adjust or clean them more often.
The Importance of Correct Skimmer Placement
Optimal Skimming Requires Correct Water Level
Too much water? The skimmer can’t breathe. Too little? It’ll suck air—and that’s bad news for your pump.
Keep the water level about halfway up the skimmer opening for best results.
Placement Relative to Return Jets and Prevailing Winds
Here’s a pro tip: place the skimmer opposite the return jet or in line with where the wind usually blows across your garden.
That way, debris naturally floats toward the skimmer. Less effort for you, more efficiency from your pool system.
Have you checked out our other posts?
Why Are Above Ground Pools Round?
Above Ground Pool Alternatives
Above Ground Pool Ladder Alternatives
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