Ancient skimmer box

[JoyfulNoise]

Is it a bad idea to test functionality of the main drain by bypassing the skimmer completely? (u-bend in skimmer box connecting the two pipes)

I would only attempt that if I were certain that the main drain line is free of debris so as to not potentially clog the main suction line AND if someone were there to help turn off the pump in the event you lose prime.

I’m not sure why you want to do that test in the first place?

 

[AlexPowell]

I would only attempt that if I were certain that the main drain line is free of debris so as to not potentially clog the main suction line AND if someone were there to help turn off the pump in the event you lose prime.

I’m not sure why you want to do that test in the first place?

It would be useful for holiday periods to bypass the skimmer box entirely and draw from the main drain. If this is not a good idea, let me know and I will most likely forget about getting the main drain working