Zillions of tiny red bugs on my skimmer and ladder!

[georgiadawg]

I'm not sure exactly where to post this. I've had my above ground pool going on 6 years now and have never had this issue til now. This weekend we started seeing a zillion of these tiny red bugs all over the skimmer and the pool ladder. At first I thought they were chiggers, but now I'm not sure that is what they are. How can I get rid of these things?? They only seem to be congregating on the ladder and the skimmer, but it makes emptying the skimmer basket an issue and I don't want them to start floating around in my water.

I did go out and wipe down the surfaces with an insect repellent towelette. They seem to be a little better for a while after that.

Anyone have any tips and/or insight on these things?

Thanks!

 

[ajw22]

Some type of insecticide. Ask a pest control specialist in your area.

 

[JRF]

They are spider mites. I get them on my pavers. Look for an insecticide that works for those and I would wipe the skimmer and sides and even spray around the base of your pool. good luck!