How many Auto-Skimmers Should I Install?

[CJDahl]

I am building a 22x45 in-ground pool with vinyl liner. My contractor has specified installation of two (2) Hayward Autoskimmers 1 1/2 - SP108410M. Is that adequate or should I push for more ? Are there advantages with additional Autoskimmers? Thanks- Curt

[duraleigh]

Hi, Curt,

Two skimmers is probably just about right for that pool. Another one would be nice but probably just a little overkill.

The first numbers imply that they may be for 1.5 inch pipe. If so, I really believe you would be better served to go with 2" plumbing....all around.

[CJDahl]

Thanks for expiditious response! I'm new to this and really appreciate your feedback . Are there major advantages of 2" vs 1 1/2" ? thanks again!

[CJDahl]

Actually I notice my contractor is putting in a 2" Jandy mulitport valve/elbow. So the 1 1/2 " seems to be just for the auto-skimmers? is that ok?

[waste]

CJ, welcome to the forum, you've made a good choice by taking your pool into your own hands! As long as the pool doesn't have a dog leg or 90 deg turn, 2 skimmers should be sufficient.
A larger pipe can pass more water, we run the plumbing to and from the pool w/ 1 1/2" and the filter system @ 2" to aleviate the loss from the water having to pass through the elbows, valves, filter and heater, I'm not sure how much it helps but in theory we should be passing more water through the system by stepping it up to 2". Sounds like your contracter knows what he's doing.

[CJDahl]

This is quite helpful. Thanks Waste!

[duraleigh]

CJ,

The extra expense to install 2" pvc throughout the system (or at least the suction side) would probably be less than $50.00 and it will only help...never hurt.

While the extra flow may not be much, when you add it up over the next 15 years, I think it's money well spent.