How to Seal a Pool Skimmer Leak

One of the most important components of a properly functioning pool system is the skimmer. The pool skimmer is a device that sucks in floating debris from the surface of the pool water and collects it in a basket for easy disposal. Although skimmers are durable devices, they can sometimes develop leaks when they separate from the pool wall or develop small cracks. Fixing skimmer pool leaks is a simple task that can be accomplished using pool putty.

Things You'll Need

• Pool putty

Instructions

1. Examine the pool skimmer to determine which part is leaking. Look first at where the skimmer attaches to the pool wall. If there is a gap, that is where the leak is occurring. Additionally, examine the exterior and interior of the skimmer for small cracks that might be leaking.

2. Open the pool putty packaging and pull off a marble-sized amount of each of the two types of putty.

3. Knead the two pieces of putty together until they are well mixed.

4. Place the putty onto the pool skimmer in the location of the crack and press in firmly with your fingers. When sealing a gap between the skimmer and pool wall, roll the putty out into a thin string shape and wrap it around the entire edge of the skimmer. Press in with your fingers to secure the putty to the skimmer.

5. Wait 20 minutes and turn on the skimmer to see if the leak has been repaired.

Tips & Warnings

• Putty can be applied underwater if necessary.

References

• Swimming Pool Parts: Swimming Pool Repair Tips
• Pool Repair: Pool Leak Repair