Skimmer Problem -- HELP

[ahmer1781]

My skimmer has been skimming for 4 months now...all of a sudden, the cup stopped filling up...the skimmer is in the same place, hasn't moved an inch...if you look close, the water is still filling up and foaming, but that level inside the skimmer is too low to get skimmed...what should I check?

Thanks.

Ahmer

 

[S Hunter]

what kind is it?

 

[JohnK]

I'd start by taking the pump apart and giving it a good vinegar soak. Also check the air intake/air hose and make sure that's not obstructed.

 

[BOSTONBAKEDBEAN]

i had the same issue cleaning fixed it.. sad though i prob killed all the tube worms and sponge growing in it.

 

[ahmer1781]

and of course if u just unplug it and plug it in again, it just WORKS!!! so ya, i learned a lesson...if it dont work, unplug it and see what happens, thanks guys

 

[JohnK]

If unplugging it and then plugging it back in worked, I would suggest cleaning it anyway. There is probally some gunk inside and the impeller is getting tight.

Cleaning it can't hurt, all pumps need cleaning now and then anyway. Get a gallon of white vinegar at the grocery store and soak the pump in it for a couple of hours then scrub with a toothbrush.

 

[ahmer1781]

ok good idea, will do... do I need to ever clean my return pump or my jets?

 

[JohnK]

All pumps need occasional cleaning. If you don't clean now and then even quality external pumps can freeze up (usually when you don't have the time to spend 2 hours soaking and scrubbing them).