Skimmer Door Requirement

[GypsmJim]

First post...

I've had an algae problem recently and learned enough here to solve the problem. So, I figured I should join...

Now just a simple question...

Recently had the flapping door in the skimmer get stuck twice, thus stopping the waterflow and starving the pump. Once it was a drowned bird, the other time a pine cone that must have been blown in by a heavy windstorm. My question is why do I need the door anyway? What are the bad consequences if I remove it?

TIA

 

[woodyp]

Hop in the pool, remove the weir door, get to jumping up and down and you will see what effect it has.

 

[Accident]

We have a circular weir in the skimmer basket. I like it a lot as it doesn't involve a hinged door.

For the full answer to your question, it controls the flow of water to the skimmer basket and also prevents migrating debris entering back into the pool when your pump is off.

 

[JoyfulNoise]

Even though the skimmer is pulling water in, there is water flow in and out due to wave action. Without the Weir door, anything floating on the surface of the water would flow in and out of the skimmer. As well, when the pump shuts off, anything in the skimmer would eventually float back out into the pool.

 

[pooldv]

The weir also increases surface water velocity into the skimmer causing more debris to be sucked into the skimmer.

 

[GypsmJim]

OK, I get it. Thanks for the advice.