In-floor cleaning systems are on my list of pool gizmos to avoid:

1. They are energy HOGS, because the restrict flow so much, and typically force the use of an oversized pump.

2. Normally the infloor pop-ups are separate from the normal pool returns, and are operated by some sort of rotary valves that actuates popups in sequence, in the attempt to 'sweep' debris toward the main drain.

3. Typically after a few years, the popups began to act like this:
Quote Originally Posted by BuddyF View Post
For what it's worth, before they left, the previous owners told my wife that "some of the popups" don't work. I don't know what "popups" are
Once they fail, the option seems to be expensive repairs, since the female receptacle for the popup wears, along with the popup, and unlike the popup, cannot be replaced. (I've often wondered why they don't make those pop-ups as a 3 piece 'cartridge' with a base, a female part, and a male popup, allowing BOTH moving parts to be replaced. But as far as I know, that's not been done.)

4. Skimmers usually have 2 holes. One returns water to the pump. The other -- often plugged -- can be piped to an 'equalizer line' the penetrates the side wall BELOW the skimmer.