What does the rectangular white flat does in a skimmer box for above ground pool?

[vaindioux]

Hi

I am asking because the previous one was broken, it would not stay in place anymore, it seems the hinges were worn. So we ordered another and until it arrived ran the pool without one for 5 days. Nothing bad happened, so I wonder what that flat does?
You can see it under water in the pic below.



Thanks

Pat

 

[suep]

It allows for debris floating on the surface to be removed from the pool more easily than without it, it keeps that debris in the skimmer basket area when the pump shuts off, and it prevents gulps of air from entering the pump and filter system while people are in the pool.

 

[vaindioux]

Thank-you very much for the detailed answer.

Pat

 

[pooldv]

Yep, good answer suep! It is called a weir and it creates velocity at the water surface to create more efficient skimming of debris from the pool. Without it your skimming will become almost nonexistent.