What is the main purpose of a pool skimmer?

The main purpose of a pool skimmer is to remove debris and contaminants from the surface of the water. A skimmer works by creating a suction that draws surface water into its basket, capturing leaves, bugs, and other floating debris before they have a chance to sink and contribute to water quality issues. This process is crucial for maintaining clean and clear water, as the surface layer of a pool is where most contaminants accumulate. By effectively managing this debris, skimmers help reduce the workload on the pool’s filtration system and contribute to the overall cleanliness of the pool, ensuring a more pleasant swimming environment.

The other functions mentioned, such as circulating water uniformly, adjusting chemical levels, or monitoring temperature, are tasks typically handled by other components of the pool system, such as the pump, chemical feeders, and temperature sensors respectively, rather than the skimmer itself.