Need to plug return and skimmer for repairs

[NWMNMom]

While you are working on it is a VERY good time to put some valves in right there at the skimmer and at the return. That way, you can shut the hoses off with a twist of the wrist to work on whatever you need. We did that and it was the BEST decision to make like a whole lot easier during maintenance.

[b2001]

A pool supply store should sell very cheap plugs for both the inlet and skimmer - seems like less than $5 each.

The inlet piece is just a screw type cap.

The skimmer plug is just a rubber plug with metal washers at both ends and a screw with wingnut through it. You push it into the skimmer outlet and tighten the wingnut, which compresses the ends and expands the sides to where the skimmer is blocked.