What Does a Pool Skimmer Basket Do?

Pool skimmer baskets help keep the filtering and pump systems of the pool working at optimum level and grab the debris before it sinks. It is the front guard in the filtering system.

Function

Pool skimmer baskets are used to catch debris that floats around the pool and gets pushed into the basket on the side of the pool. It keeps the debris from getting further into the filter and pump systems.

Identification

Pool skimmer baskets are inserted into a cutout area on the wall of the pool. They are removed and cleaned by lifting a lid that is flush with the pool deck on the side of the pool, then removing the basket.

Considerations

Although pool skimmer baskets will catch whatever comes into them, it may be necessary to add a sock liner to prevent loose hair and smaller items from getting past them into the filtering and pump systems.

Expert Insight

Small animals like rodents and frogs are sometimes trapped in the pool skimmer baskets when they fall in the water and can't find a way out of the pool.

Features

The pool skimmer basket is removable. You lift it out to give it a thorough cleaning and then put it back in again. It should be checked and cleaned daily, especially in high-usage pools where everything from bandages to hair and small pool toys get caught in the pool skimmer basket.