Illustration.
What it does
The skimmer box draws water from the pool surface, where leaves and insects float, and the basket inside catches them before the water reaches the pump. A full basket starves the pump of water, which is hard on the pump and the filter.
How often to empty it
Check it every few days, and daily in autumn or after a storm. Turn the pump off before lifting the basket.
Finding the right replacement
Skimmer baskets are not universal. The basket must match your skimmer box's make and model, which is often moulded inside the box or on its lid. Measure the old basket's diameter and height, and note the handle shape, before you buy. A cracked basket lets leaves through to the pump basket and impeller.
The vacuum plate and lid
A vacuum plate sits on top of the basket so a suction cleaner or hand vacuum can connect through the skimmer. The lid on the coping keeps feet and kids out of the box; replace it if it cracks, because it is a trip and safety hazard.
A floating lid or a leaf net over the pool in autumn saves you emptying the basket twice a day.
Signs a basket needs replacing
Replace the basket if it is cracked, the bottom has holes, the handle has snapped, or it no longer sits flat in the skimmer box. A broken basket lets leaves through to the pump basket and can let debris reach the pump impeller, which is a costly repair. Sun and pool chemicals make plastic brittle over the years, so check the basket each time you empty it.
Skimmer socks
A skimmer sock is a fine mesh bag stretched over the basket. It catches hair, pollen, fine leaves and dust before they reach the pump and filter, which helps keep the filter cleaner. Socks need emptying or replacing often, because a clogged sock reduces flow. They are cheap and popular in pools under trees.
Keeping the skimmer working
Keep the water level halfway up the skimmer opening. Too low and the skimmer sucks air, which can damage the pump; too high and it cannot skim the surface. Check that the weir flap (the floating door at the skimmer mouth) moves freely and is not stuck or broken, because it stops debris floating back into the pool when the pump stops. Top up the pool in hot, dry weather.
Pump baskets
The pump has its own basket, the last line of defence before the impeller. Check and empty it as well, turning the pump off first and releasing pressure where needed. Make sure its lid o-ring is clean and seated, or the pump may suck air.
Buying a replacement
Take the old basket, a photo of the skimmer box's markings and the basket's measurements to a pool shop, or match them against the supplier's basket chart online. Common Australian skimmer brands have different basket shapes, so check the model before ordering.
Our short answer
Empty the skimmer basket every few days, daily in leaf season. Replace it when cracked or brittle with a basket that matches your skimmer box's make and model, and keep the water level halfway up the skimmer opening.
Why baskets matter
A clear skimmer basket keeps water flowing to the pump, lets the skimmer pull leaves from the surface, and protects the pump from debris.
Skimmer lids
A cracked or missing skimmer lid is a trip hazard; replace it with one that fits the skimmer model.
Skimmer basket handles
If the handle breaks, replace the basket; lifting a full basket by its edges can crack it and spill debris into the skimmer line.
Common questions
Are pool skimmer baskets universal?
No. Match the replacement to your skimmer box's make and model.
How often should I clean my skimmer basket?
Every few days, and daily when leaves are falling.