Closing off the skimmer hole

[xray328]

How do I go about closing off the skimmer hole when doing pump/filter maintenance? When I open the pump lid it fills/overflows with water (obviously). I'm sure it's something simple, just not sure what.

Thanks!

 

[Richard320]

An expanding plug. Google "expansion plug winterizing pool" and go from there. My local mom-n-pop ace hardware also has corks and rubber stoppers in the housewares section.

 

[Bama Rambler]

My vacuum hose is in 3' sections I just stick the end of one of those in the suction port and let it hang out of the pool.