About this episode
Leaves don’t just clutter the surface; they choke flow, stall cleaners, and push water chemistry off a cliff. We tackle the leaf problem at the source, sharing the exact tools and tweaks that keep debris moving into capture zones before it ever sinks. From a return-mounted secondary skimmer that threads into a 1.5-inch return to modern solar-powered surface bots that roam all day, we break down what actually works, how to install it, and the small details that make the big difference. We start with the PoolSkim approach: how to bias flow with restrictor eyeballs or a plugged return, set the weir height at the waterline, and turn a leaf magnet into a quiet surface vacuum that protects circulation. Then we go hands-on with solar skimmers—what’s changed since the early Solar-Breeze units, why durability and motor design matter, and simple setup hacks like foam bumpers in the skimmer throat and hose weights on suction lines so the bots don’t get trapped. We even cover cord protection on robot cleaners and how to keep intakes clear. Finally, we dial in the “free” gains: aim return jets to build a steady surface current into the skimmer, confirm the weir gate moves freely and seals when the pump shuts off, and explore aftermarket skimmer accelerators that sharpen intake velocity. Stack these steps and you’ll cut vac time, prevent clogged baskets, stabilize chlorine demand, and deliver the crisp, glassy surface clients notice first. If you’re ready to turn a leaf-heavy headache into a low-maintenance system, hit play, take notes, and put these upgrades to work on your toughest pools. Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, share it with a fellow pool pro, and leave a quick review so more techs can find it. Send us Fan MailSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6ySupport the showThanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you:Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.comWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPLPodcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching GroupJoin an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs)$59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoachingLimits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ]$50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-roadAcid Wash Coverage - Full Limits