Robotic Pool Cleaner: Does a Pool Skimmer Run All the Time?
When it comes to keeping your pool in pristine condition, a good pool skimmer can be a game-changer. However, one question pool owners often grapple with is whether the pool skimmer needs to run all the time. For busy individual juggling work, family, and personal interests like fitness and travel, efficiency in pool maintenance is key. Alongside modern tools like a robotic pool cleaner, understanding the role of your skimmer is crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy pool.
What Does a Pool Skimmer Do?
Your pool skimmer plays a vital role in removing debris like leaves, bugs, and other floating particles from the water’s surface. It’s essentially the first line of defense against contamination. A well-functioning skimmer reduces the burden on your filter and prevents larger debris from sinking to the bottom.But does this mean it needs to run non-stop? Not necessarily.
Should Your Pool Skimmer Run 24/7?
The idea of running a pool skimmer 24/7 might sound tempting for crystal-clear water, but it’s neither necessary nor energy-efficient. Here’s why:
- Energy Efficiency
Running your skimmer all day can significantly increase energy costs, especially in areas like the Southern United States, where pools are used year-round. Instead, most experts recommend running your pool’s pump and skimmer for 8–12 hours a day, depending on usage and environmental factors like weather and debris levels.
- Balance Is Key
Running the skimmer during peak times—like after heavy use or on windy days when debris is likely to fall into the pool—helps keep the water clean without overworking your system. Outside of these times, tools like a robotic pool cleanercan step in to manage the heavier cleanup tasks.
- Preventing Overuse
Overusing your skimmer and pump can lead to wear and tear, reducing their lifespan. Strategically scheduling when your skimmer runs ensures it remains effective for years to come.
How a Robotic Pool Cleaner Complements Your Skimmer
For busy professionals, a robotic pool cleaner is the perfect partner to your skimmer, handling tasks that the skimmer can’t.
The Bottom Line
Does your pool skimmer need to run all the time? The answer is no. By running your skimmer for 8–12 hours a day and complementing it with a robotic pool cleaner, you’ll achieve a clean, well-maintained pool without unnecessary energy costs or wear and tear on your equipment.
For a busy senior executive like yourself, finding efficient ways to manage your pool is crucial. Balancing your skimmer’s schedule with the powerful cleaning capabilities of a robotic pool cleaner ensures your pool is always ready for family fun, relaxation, or a quick swim to cool off after a workout. With the right approach, pool maintenance becomes less of a chore and more of a seamless part of your lifestyle.
