Skimmer Question

So almost always…the two holes in a skimmer are:

  1. The suction line connected to the pump.
  2. Either an equalizer line that comes out on the pool wall below the skimmer…or it’s connected to the main drain…or both?
    Is this correct?
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I’ve been working with pools for a few years, and I’ve only ever seen the two options you’re talking about when the second skimmer hole (usually the one closest to the pool wall) is in use. It’s either connected to the main drain to improve circulation or to a wall hole (called an equalizer line) for the same purpose. These secondary holes generally help protect the pump if the water level drops below the skimmer line.

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@Sadie If the secondary hole is connected to the main drain, you can check quickly by blowing air into the hole in the skimmer. If you see bubbles coming from the wall hole, then it’s not connected to the main drain.

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2, It is either one thing or another, or neither.

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@Terryanne Why can’t it be both?

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From what I’ve seen, this usually holds true. About point 2, it often appears that if there’s a wall equalizer, the main drain and skimmer are plumbed separately, and you can adjust the flow rate of each.

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@Umbrielle Our pool is just as you described. I can make a strong vacuum in the skimmer holes by adjusting the main drain and skimmer lines in the pump room.