Skimmer Question

[TexasGeo]

Question that I've wondered about, but never asked. I have two holes in the bottom of my skimmers, one pulls suction and the other does nothing but collect trash and leaves which I periodically try to dig out. What's the other hole for?

 

[Texas Splash]

Typically the second line would go to a main drain if there was one. Many times builders only want to stock one kind of skimmer, so they stock the two line skimmer (for any situation) and simply plug the second line when there isn't a main drain or when the main drain is plumbed separately. There are a couple other scenarios (a balance line or reserve suction line), but those aren't seen quite as often.

 

[Richard320]

Look down below the skimmer and see if there's a mystery hole in the wall. If there is, it's a safety in case the skimmer basket gets clogged. Or it could go to the main drain. Easy way to find out, assuming the water is clear: stick a garden hose down the non-suction hole in the skimmer and have someone turn it on while you watch the main drain. If you see debris coming up out of the main drain, that's where it goes. Then you just need a diverter valve.

How it works:

 

[TexasGeo]

Ahh I think you're right. The main drain and each of the two skimmers are plumbed separately.

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No mystery hole in the wall, but I'll run a hose down the non-suction hole and check it out.