I will be away for a week in mid-Sept. Not sure whether to shut off pump or not.

>If I SHUT DOWN for the week, how will my water be upon return? What can I do to preserve water quality?

>If I LEAVE ON, small (1-inch long) leaves are starting to fall and skimmer may fill up and restrict water flow thru skimmer which could endanger the pump. Will water filter through a basket filled with such leaves?

Vital relavant info... Live in Southern NJ; Temps will be mid 50's to upper 70's, mostly sunny all week; Trees starting to lose small leaves; I run pump 12 hrs/day. (covering / closing for season NOT an option.)

Thanks!