Do I need to remove the plug from the skimmer?

[rmeden]

front hole in the skimmer? I think I've heard that used for "equalization". Mine is piped open to the pool.

I think the purpose is to prevent the skimmer from sucking air if the water level drops below the skimmer.

I'm sure others will post..

[waterbear]

It can be but it doesn't have to be. From my understanding it is usually capped but it can be plumbed to the drain so the skiimmer doesnt suck air or it can be plumbed to an equalization line going directly into the pool below the skimmer. At least this is what my builder told me and I found the same info on the link I posted previously.