Overflow drain for pool – choose the right skimmer
An overflow, often called a skimmer, draws water from the pool's surface and directs it to the filtration system. The right model makes it easier to keep the water surface clean, but the choice depends on the pool's wall construction, the desired water line, and how the pipes are to be connected. This guide helps you choose the component itself – not to compare different pool shells.
How the overflow works
When the circulation pump is operating, surface water is drawn through the overflow opening. Larger debris collects in a skimmer basket, and the water then passes through the rest of the filtration equipment. For proper operation, the overflow, inlets, pump, and filter must all be correctly sized together. A wider opening alone does not automatically provide better filtration.
Choose according to the pool wall
An overflow for a Thermopool may have different flanges, gaskets, and mounting details than one for a liner pool or a prefabricated PP pool. Always check the manufacturer's intended wall type, cutout, seal, and connection dimensions. For Thermopool, for example, there are skimmers with double gaskets (/products/skimmer-for-thermopool-15l-wide-dubbla-packningar-abs). The range also includes the Hayward X-Pro 600 (/products/hayward-x-pro-600-skimmer); check which construction and model each is intended for.
Normal or higher water line?
The height and placement of the skimmer opening affect where the water level normally sits. A solution with a high water line can create a different visual impression, but places demands on the pool shell, sealing, and coping planning. Compare dimensioned product sheets and speak with an expert before cutting a hole in the pool wall.
Check this before purchasing
Pool type and wall material: PP, Thermopool, liner, or other construction.
Opening, mounting depth, flange, and included gaskets.
Pipe connection and suitable flow for the circulation system.
Access to the lid and skimmer basket after the pool coping is completed.
Compatibility with the planned water level and any automatic level control.
Frequently asked questions
Are overflow and skimmer the same thing?
In private pools, the terms are often used for the same type of surface water intake. Still, compare the product's technical specifications, not just the name.
Can I replace the skimmer in an existing pool?
It may be possible, but the cutout, seal, pipe connection, and construction method need to be assessed. A replacement is not always a simple spare parts operation.
Should I choose the overflow at the same time as the pool?
Yes. The placement and water line should be determined before the pool wall and its connections are completed.
Find the right overflow at Pooltime
See skimmers and inlets (/collections/skimmer-och-inlopp) for available components. If you are planning a completely new pool, you can also read pool with skimmer (/pages/pool-med-skimmer) and contact Pooltime with the pool type, dimensions, and pictures of existing connections.
