As water freezes and expands, your skimmer becomes another vulnerability within your system.
Without protections in place, that pressure can easily crack your skimmer body or damage the connection plumbing!
Skimmer plugs (also known as a winterizing plug, or skimmer guards) are designed to compress in its place, taking on that expansion pressure instead of transferring it to the skimmer walls. Think of it as a shock absorber!
Installation Summary:
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Remove the basket, and blow out or vacuum the skimmer line.
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Thread the plug into the skimmer opening until snug.
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Add pool antifreeze to the plumbing, funneling into the skimmer plug and within the skimmer itself.
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Check for a tight seal.Â
Installation varies by method used; refer to the manufacturer's instructions for precise directions.
Finding the Right Size
Most plugs are designed by skimmer type and thread size, with common options like 1 1/2" or 2" fitting in most in-ground models. Always check your skimmer’s specifications or bring the old plug as a reference when purchasing a replacement.
In short:
A skimmer plug is one of those small, inexpensive parts that saves you from a big hassle later. Few minutes of prep now keeps your skimmer (and your spring opening) stress-free!
At Poolzilla, we carry a full range of winterizing essentials to make off-season care simple. From skimmer plugs to air pillows, cover pumps, and even other freeze protection accessories.