Skimmer Low Flow - Clog?

[Tazam77]

We have an in ground pool. When opening it the skimmer line has bad flow. It can't even prime the pump.

There is some buildup on the skimmer side of the pipe that has been there for a few years. Chlorine? It feels like rubber.

 

[pooldv]

Definitely not chlorine. That is something that should not be there, caulk, plumber's putty or whatever it is. Get as much out as you can. A plumber's snake might help.

 

[ps0303]

One of those openings should be closed off. I've seen some were there is a flap that is held in place with a screw and it comes loose and then when the flap moves off the hole, the pump will not prime. Sometimes too it is a screwed in plug. Yours looks like maybe it was a screwed in plug and over time is has deteriorated and now is gone.

 

[Tazam77]

My pool supply guy thinks this is 24 years of putting chlorine in the skimmer basket. "Chlorine binder".

 

[ps0303]

Yes do not put the chlorine pucks in the skimmer. Get a floater or the chlorine feeder attached to your system.

Did you plug one of the holes and get it pumping again?