Pond skimmers are an essential part of any pond.
This handy device removes unwanted solid waste from the water to keep it clear and healthy for fish and plants.
Pond skimmers are crucial, especially if you have fish in your pond. They’re also handy for preventing clogging or algae growth. The question is: How do pond skimmers work?
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about pond skimmers, the right size to pick, and more. Let’s dive in!
How Do Pond Skimmers Work?
A pond skimmer is a device that sits in the water of your pool or container, collecting dirt and other materials before they get into circulation.
It can work in ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water to improve water quality and increase oxygen levels.
Debris, such as leaves and pine needles, can clog up your filter and cause problems with water circulation. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep your pond clean and clear!
You can find pond skimmers made of mesh, wire, or netting. Whatever the material, it should have holes big enough for water to travel through yet small enough to catch most waste particles.
Some skimmer models use an electric pump to send air bubbles through their center column. These bubbles bring along any floating particles with them as they rise to the surface.
Pond skimmers are often used with a waterfall or fountain because they create more turbulence in the water. This helps propel debris up onto this mesh screen.
The skimmer then collects the debris until you clean out the basket.
Do I Need a Pond Skimmer?
If your pond has a lot of debris and floating leaves, or if you want to keep the pond clean and clear, then yes!
Pond skimmers remove debris from the water surface so that it doesn’t become trapped in the filter or clog up pipes leading from your pump.
If these particles settle on the bottom of your pool, they can cause algae growth. They can also create unpleasant smells that make swimming less pleasant for everyone involved (humans and animals).
If you’re not sure whether you need a skimmer for your pond, here are some signs that it might be time to get one:
- If the water gets too dirty or murky. This could be from leaves and debris that have fallen into your pond.
- If you notice a build-up of algae on the sides of the pond, which could be because of poor circulation.
If you don’t invest in a pond skimmer, you’ll have to spend your entire life removing leaves, twigs, and other debris from your pond. Believe me, it won’t be fun!
What Size Pond Skimmer Do I Need?
Skimmers come in different sizes and shapes, but most fit into standard pond filter systems.
The first thing to consider is the size of your pond or water feature. The skimmer must be large enough to handle the volume of water being circulated and cleaned.
If your pond is small (1000-3000 gallons), it’s best to get a smaller skimmer. If it’s large (3500+), you need to find a skimmer with a larger capacity.
Next, identify how deep your pond is or how deep it needs to be for fish and plants to thrive below the surface. For deeper ponds, choose a bigger skimmer with more powerful suction capabilities.
Remember: A bigger pond skimmer not only collects more waste, but it also has a larger basket. As a result, you won’t have to empty the waste as frequently as you would with a smaller pond skimmer.
Why Is My Pond Skimmer Not Working?
Pond skimmers are a critical part of your pond health.
They play a vital role in keeping your pond clean, healthy, and safe for your fish. Unfortunately, they’re also prone to a couple of malfunctions.
There are several reasons your pond skimmer might not be working. Here are the most common ones:
1 – The Skimmer Basket is Clogged
A blocked screen or basket inside the skimmer is the most common reason for pond skimmers not working. Check these parts first before jumping to any conclusions.
An accumulation of uncleaned debris may be the reason behind your clogged skimmer basket.
If this is true, clean the old debris inside your skimmer before using it again. Otherwise, you’ll get more clogs!
2 – The Pump Has Stopped Working
This is usually because of a mechanical failure in the motor or a loose connection. If you have a submersible pump, check if there’s water coming out of the holes at the bottom.
If not, then there’s something wrong with the pump itself. If this is the case, it’s best to either get it replaced or hire a professional to have a look at it.
3 – Something Is Blocking the Pipe
If the pump is running, but no water is coming out of the pipe, there must be something blocking the pipe somewhere. The most common causes of this problem are:
- Algae or duckweed on the water surface, blocking off the pipe opening.
- Debris has fallen into your pond and gotten stuck in your pipe opening.
If either of these things has happened, clean the pipe with an old toothbrush so that it can start working again smoothly.
4 – The Water Level Is Too Low
Another reason your skimmer isn’t working is if the water level in your pond has dropped too low.
Because pond skimmers remove debris from the surface of your water, they only work when there is enough water present.
Types of Pond Skimmers
The best pond skimmers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The type you choose depends on your pond size and the amount of debris you want to remove from the water.
There are three primary types of pond skimmers, each with its advantages and disadvantages:
1 – Floating Pond Skimmers
These are just like they sound. They float on top of your water and skim off debris.
They come in many shapes and sizes, but they all work the same way. They pull debris into a basket or strainer that you must clean out periodically.
A floating pond skimmer works best for small ponds with little to no fish, as it doesn’t have much filtering ability for larger bodies of water.
2 – Submersible Pond Skimmers
A submersible pond skimmer sits on the bottom of your pond or other body of water.
This type of skimmer filters out large amounts of debris before they reach your pump and filter system.
A submersible pond skimmer allows you to clean the filter more thoroughly than other types. This is because it’s closer to the bottom, where debris accumulates.
3 – Pond Skimmer Boxes
These devices have box-like shapes, with one side open for collecting debris and another for returning clean water into your pond.
They work through an adjustable flow control valve or filter system attached directly to them.
Final Thoughts
In the end, pond skimmers can provide a valuable service in your garden, which will help keep both your fish and plants healthy and happy.
Pond skimmers are available at many price points and styles.
Whether you choose a floating, submersible, or box, there’s a pond skimmer out there that’s right for you!
Ben has a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering. When not constructing or remodeling X-Ray Rooms, Cardiovascular Labs, and Pharmacies, you can find him at home with wife and two daughters. Outside of family, He loves grilling and barbequing on his Big Green Egg and Blackstone Griddle, as well as working on projects around the house.
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