Thanks for the reply. The return flow is away from the skimmer and there is a nice circular flow going around the pool.

There is no weir in the skimmer...just an open rectangle...and the water level is a tick under half way up.

We had a day of soaking rain here so I hope that will help with the pine pollen...still...it seems to be collecting on the surface...even after all the rain we had the last couple of days.

Still...the stuff collects on the surface like a film. Has abated somewhat with the rain but not as much as I'd like to see.

Will update this post in a few days.

thanks