Newbie questions about increasing circulation, need for skimmer and auto cleaner

[Susan Betancourt]

Hello peeps,
I’ve had my pool for 2 months now and am still in love! Thanks for all your help with maintenance and chemical information.
I now have the following question:
1) how can I increase circulation so that the pump/filter works better?
2) can I get an automatic cleaner (that won’t break the bank) if I only have a 0.48HPpump?
3) should I add a skimmer to the mix? If so, recommendations?
Thanks in advance!
You guys are amazing!!!
Susan
Miami, FL

 

[kellyfair]

Honestly, if there is room in the budget, I think my first step would be a better pump/filter.

 

[DanF]

A good robot cleaner will take demand off your pump/filter, as no debris will enter the filter. Pump can then focus on skimming.

 

[Susan Betancourt]

Honestly, if there is room in the budget, I think my first step would be a better pump/filter.

I’m guessing that the sand filter is good enough just not sure how big the pump needs to be.
How do I determine what size pump? 1HP? 2HP? 3HP? I’m sure there’s a point where it just costs more to run. Any suggestions?

 

[Susan Betancourt]

A good robot cleaner will take demand off your pump/filter, as no debris will enter the filter. Pump can then focus on skimming.

Would I need to put in a skimmer then? The pool didn’t come with one.

 

[DanF]

Would I need to put in a skimmer then? The pool didn’t come with one.

Sorry, I just looked at your pool type and I am not familiar with them. Perhaps someone else can chime in.

 

[cowboycasey]

Susan, You would need the intex skimmer and that would help you a bunch... As far as a robot it may be overkill for your size pool as the robot probably costs just as much as your pool did.. about 600 to 700 dollars... I would probably just get a good vacuum and call it a day...

Amazon.com : Intex Deluxe Wall Mount Surface Skimmer : Swimming Pool Maintenance Kits : Patio, Lawn & Garden

Amazon.com : Intex Deluxe Wall Mount Surface Skimmer : Swimming Pool Maintenance Kits : Patio, Lawn & Garden

smile.amazon.com

This would be the next size pump you could get but it is only a 1 speed, a 2 speed is better...

Amazon.com : XtremepowerUS 13" Sand Filter with 3/4HP Pool Pump 4 Way Valve 3450 RPM Above Ground Pool Set with Stand : Garden & Outdoor

Amazon.com : XtremepowerUS 13" Sand Filter with 3/4HP Pool Pump 4 Way Valve 3450 RPM Above Ground Pool Set with Stand : Garden & Outdoor

smile.amazon.com

 

[kellyfair]

I can vouch for the over the wall skimmer... it actually worked really well!