What is the main purpose of a skimmer in a pool?

The main purpose of a skimmer in a pool is to remove debris from the surface. Skimmers are designed to capture leaves, dirt, and other floating materials, preventing them from sinking to the bottom of the pool. This not only helps maintain water clarity but also reduces the workload on the pool's filtration system, allowing for more efficient cleaning and reducing the potential for algae growth and contamination. By actively removing surface debris, skimmers help ensure that the pool remains clean and safe for swimmers.

The other functions listed, such as heating the water, circulating it, and adjusting chemical levels, are carried out by different pool systems and components. For instance, heaters warm the water, pumps circulate the water throughout the pool and filtration systems, and chemical feeders or testing kits are used to maintain balanced chemical levels. Each of these elements is essential for pool maintenance, but the skimmer's primary role specifically focuses on surface cleanliness.