Low Skimmer Suction

[Bluestream]

I have a 44x20 rectangular pool with two skimmers + weir doors and two main drains. Currently the valves are open to all, but I get very little suction to my skimmers. In fact, my circulation isn't great all around since leaves stay stagnant and float right by the skimmers. I have two holes under each skimmer basket, though neither seem to have any suction pressure. My variable speed pump runs at 2400rpm 9 hours/day. My filter is clean and is at 10 when pump is on.

Is there anything I can do/check to ensure my suction is operating properly? TY!

 

[PoolGate]

Close your main drains and bump your pump speed. I also try to keep a lower water level to improve suction into the skimmer housing.

 

[Bluestream]

When you say close, I assume you mean 'slightly close' which will divert more pressure to the skimmers?

 

[PoolGate]

You don't really need the main drains at all. You could leave them cracked a bit open just to keep the water in the drain line fresh. Lowering your water level will do a lot. Do you have a picture straight into your skimmers from water level?

 

[Bluestream]

Ok thanks, I will partially close the main drain. It's about 1/3 of the way up the skimmer inlet.

 

[an1vrsy]

You have a pool very similar to mine. With 2 skimmers and 2 mains drains, all plumbed with home runs to the pump, I could turn off each individually with valves. With an auto-cover I dont really have a need for skimming it is just for suction to the pump. Isolating the skimmers from the main drains does power up the skimming action though.