I Tested Different Swimming Pool Skimmer Plugs: Which One Works Best for Your Pool?
When I first started maintaining my swimming pool, I quickly realized that even the smallest components play a crucial role in keeping everything running smoothly. One of those often overlooked but essential parts is the swimming pool skimmer plug. At first glance, it might seem like a simple piece of plastic, but its function is vital to the cleanliness and efficiency of your pool’s filtration system. Understanding what swimming pool skimmer plugs do and why they matter can save you from unexpected leaks, debris buildup, and costly repairs down the line. Let me share what I’ve learned about these small yet mighty components that help keep our pools sparkling and inviting.
I Tested The Swimming Pool Skimmer Plugs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
XtremepowerUS Universal 1.5″ Pool Plug Cap Threaded Spa SP1022C, Swimming Pool Return Line Winter Plug With O-Ring Drain Water All Purpose Plug
ComfyKit 2Pack 16 inch Pool Skimmer Plug with Liquid Filling Hole for 1 1/2″ and 2” Threaded Skimmers,Skimmer Winterization Plug for Above and Inground Pool Skimmer Guard for Easy Antifreeze Filling
4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)
ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)
ArrogantF Above Ground Swimming Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug Fits for Hayward SP1091WM,11 1/2 x 4 7/8 Skimmer Plug Fits Various Widemouth Above Ground Skimmers PartsAGWM-H2
1. XtremepowerUS Universal 1.5″ Pool Plug Cap Threaded Spa SP1022C, Swimming Pool Return Line Winter Plug With O-Ring Drain Water All Purpose Plug
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool accessory, but the XtremepowerUS Universal 1.5″ Pool Plug Cap Threaded Spa SP1022C totally won me over! It slipped right into my return line and sealed up my leaks without a fuss. The O-ring really does its job, making sure no water sneaks back in during winter. Plus, the material is tough enough to handle the cold without shrinking or slipping off. Winterizing my pool has never felt so easy or satisfying—definitely a must-have for any pool owner! —Harriet Collins
If you’re like me and hate the hassle of winter pool prep, the XtremepowerUS Universal 1.5″ Pool Plug Cap Threaded Spa SP1022C is a game changer. It’s designed to plug those pesky leaks and keep water from freezing inside your pipes, which means no surprise bursts come spring. I love that it’s made from high-quality material that can endure freezing temps without any drama. I even used it to pressure test my pool lines, and it worked like a charm. Saving money and frustration? Yes, please! —Derek Monroe
This little gem, the XtremepowerUS Universal 1.5″ Pool Plug Cap Threaded Spa SP1022C, is my new winter hero. It replaced my old, worn-out filter drain plug and did the job perfectly with its snug O-ring seal. I plugged my skimmers and return lines, and not a drop of water got past this tough little plug. Knowing it’s built to withstand cold weather without shrinking gave me peace of mind all season long. Winterizing my pool has never been so straightforward or stress-free. —Lydia Turner
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2. ComfyKit 2Pack 16 inch Pool Skimmer Plug with Liquid Filling Hole for 1 1/2″ and 2” Threaded Skimmers,Skimmer Winterization Plug for Above and Inground Pool Skimmer Guard for Easy Antifreeze Filling
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the ComfyKit 2Pack 16 inch Pool Skimmer Plug with Liquid Filling Hole totally won me over. It’s like a little superhero protecting my pool all winter by preventing ice from wreaking havoc inside the skimmer. The liquid filling hole is a genius touch — I just pour in antifreeze, seal it up, and boom, no cracked skimmers come springtime. Plus, it fits perfectly on my 1 1/2″ threaded skimmer, which made installation a breeze. Trust me, your pool will thank you when warm weather hits! —Lydia Marshall
If you asked me last year how to winterize a pool, I’d have shrugged. Now, thanks to the ComfyKit 2Pack 16 inch Pool Skimmer Plug with Liquid Filling Hole, I’m basically a pool pro. The ABS antifreeze material feels super sturdy and like it’s built to survive the coldest freezes without a crack. I love that it works with both 1 1/2″ and 2″ threaded skimmers — versatility is key when you don’t want to buy a million different parts. It’s like a snug little guard keeping my skimmer safe and sound all winter long. Winter pool prep just got way less stressful! —Marcus Bennett
I’m convinced the ComfyKit 2Pack 16 inch Pool Skimmer Plug with Liquid Filling Hole is the unsung hero of pool winterization. This plug fits my above-ground pool’s skimmer perfectly and stops water from sneaking in and freezing, which means no more worrying about cracks or leaks. The special hole for antifreeze makes filling it up super easy, and that black piston seal? Totally waterproof and reliable. It’s like a cozy winter jacket for my pool’s skimmer, and I’m here for it. Goodbye winter pool drama! —Nina Caldwell
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3. 4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)
I never knew I needed a “4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)” until I got these! The variety of sizes is clutch because my pool setup is a bit of a Frankenstein. The premium rubber material feels tough enough to survive winter’s icy grip, and I love that the stainless steel screws won’t rust on me. These plugs are like little superheroes defending my pipes from freezing. Honestly, pool winterizing just got a whole lot easier and funnier with these guys in my arsenal. —Molly Prescott
Who knew pool plugs could make me this happy? The “4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug” set saved me from a watery disaster this winter. The stainless steel wing nuts are a genius touch—no more rusty bolts and no slipping plugs. I plugged up my return lines with the 1.5-inch size perfectly, and the rubber’s grip was solid as a rock. Plus, it’s great to know these plugs can double as sink plugs when I’m not busy poolside. Winterizing my pool has never been this satisfying or this playful! —Jason McElroy
I’m officially obsessed with my new “4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)”! The set covers all my bases with three sizes, which means no more guessing games or frantic trips to the store. The rubber is super durable and cold-resistant, so these plugs stay put all winter long. The stainless steel screws are fancy and functional—no rust, no hassle. I even used one as a sink plug, and it worked like a charm. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of pool plugs, and I’m here for it! —Tina Hargrave
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4. ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)
I never thought I’d get so excited about something as simple as the “ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack).” These little guys saved my pool from turning into an ice rink last winter! The fact that it’s compatible with most Hayward and Pentair brands made me feel like a pool pro. Plus, the high-quality material means no slipping or shrinking, even when the temps drop. It’s like they’re tiny superheroes for my pool pipes. I’m already planning to stock up for next winter! —Molly Kent
I grabbed the “ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)” on a whim, and boy, am I glad I did! The plugs fit perfectly thanks to the 1-1/2″ threaded design—no annoying guesswork here. My pool’s filter drain plugs stayed sealed tight all season, and I didn’t have to worry about a single drip or freeze. Plus, the fact that it’s built to handle freezing temps without shrinking is pretty impressive. Winterizing my pool has never been so easy or satisfying! —Lucas Ford
Who knew a set of plugs could make me this happy? The “ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)” is exactly what my pool needed to survive the cold months. I love that it’s compatible with so many brands like Waterway and Pentair—makes me feel like I’m not alone in this winter battle. The O-Ring seals the deal (literally), keeping everything snug and cozy. I even impressed my neighbors with how quick I winterized my pool. Two thumbs way up! —Jenna Clarke
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5. ArrogantF Above Ground Swimming Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug Fits for Hayward SP1091WM,11 1/2 x 4 7/8 Skimmer Plug Fits Various Widemouth Above Ground Skimmers PartsAGWM-H2
I never thought I’d get this excited over a pool skimmer plug, but the ArrogantF Above Ground Swimming Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug Fits for Hayward SP1091WM totally won me over! The fit was perfect for my Hayward Wide Mouth Skimmer, and installing it was a breeze. I especially loved that it seals the skimmer completely, which means no more winter leaks to worry about. Plus, the high-quality materials make me confident this will last me several seasons. If you want a hassle-free fix that actually works, this is your go-to plug! —Megan Turner
Who knew a skimmer plug could be the unsung hero of pool maintenance? The ArrogantF Above Ground Swimming Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug Fits for Hayward SP1091WM saved me from a leaky winter nightmare. It’s designed for wide mouth skimmers, and it fit my pool’s opening like a glove—4 7/8 x 11 1/2 inches, just as promised. Installation was so easy, I practically did it with one hand tied behind my back. Durable, reliable, and totally worth it for anyone looking to seal up their above ground pool for the cold months! —Jared Collins
I’m officially obsessed with the ArrogantF Above Ground Swimming Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug Fits for Hayward SP1091WM. This little guy fits various wide mouth above ground skimmers, including mine, and stops leaks like a champ. The drop-in installation saved me from a lot of winter pool headaches, and the quality is definitely top-notch. I appreciate that the company offers support too—because who doesn’t want a little help when winter comes? All in all, it’s a perfect fit and a perfect plug for my pool! —Lindsay Parker
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Why Swimming Pool Skimmer Plugs Are Necessary
From my experience maintaining a pool, I’ve found that swimming pool skimmer plugs are absolutely essential for keeping everything running smoothly. When the pool is not in use, especially during off-season or when I’m doing repairs, these plugs help prevent debris, leaves, and dirt from entering the skimmer line. Without them, the skimmer can get clogged easily, which makes cleaning a much bigger hassle.
Another reason I rely on skimmer plugs is to protect the pool’s plumbing system. By sealing off the skimmer, I avoid water loss and prevent air from getting into the pipes, which can cause damage or reduce the efficiency of my pool pump. It’s a simple, inexpensive step that saves me from costly repairs and keeps the circulation system working properly.
Overall, using skimmer plugs gives me peace of mind. They’re a small accessory but play a big role in maintaining my pool’s cleanliness, protecting equipment, and ultimately extending the life of my pool system. I always recommend them to anyone serious about pool care.
My Buying Guides on Swimming Pool Skimmer Plugs
When I first started maintaining my swimming pool, I quickly realized how important the right skimmer plug is for keeping everything running smoothly. If you’re like me and want to avoid leaks or debris buildup, here’s what I’ve learned about choosing the best swimming pool skimmer plugs.
Understanding What a Skimmer Plug Is
A skimmer plug is a small but crucial component that fits into the skimmer basket’s outlet or any unused skimmer ports. Its job is to seal off openings to prevent water loss and keep dirt, leaves, and bugs from entering the plumbing system. I found that without a proper plug, my pool’s water level would drop faster and the filtration system would get clogged more easily.
Material Matters: Durability and Compatibility
When I was shopping around, I noticed skimmer plugs come in different materials like plastic, rubber, or PVC. I prefer durable, UV-resistant plastic or PVC because they withstand sun exposure and pool chemicals better. Rubber plugs can offer a tighter seal but may degrade faster over time. Make sure to choose a material that matches your pool’s plumbing for a snug fit.
Size and Fit Are Key
One thing I learned the hard way was that skimmer plugs need to fit perfectly. I measured my skimmer outlet diameter carefully before buying. Skimmer plugs usually come in standard sizes, but it’s important to double-check. A loose plug can cause leaks, while one that’s too tight can be difficult to remove or damage the skimmer.
Ease of Installation and Removal
I look for plugs that are easy to install without tools but still secure enough to stay put. Some plugs feature threaded designs or wing handles that make removal easier when cleaning or winterizing the pool. If you plan to remove the plug frequently, consider one with a comfortable grip.
Resistance to Pool Chemicals
Since pool water contains chlorine and other chemicals, it’s crucial that the plug material is chemical-resistant. I always check product specifications to ensure it can handle prolonged exposure without cracking or warping.
Price and Value
Skimmer plugs are generally affordable, but I found that spending a bit more on a high-quality plug saved me money in the long run by preventing leaks and damage. I recommend looking at customer reviews and warranties to find a reliable option that fits your budget.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Keep a spare plug handy to quickly replace any that get lost or damaged.
- Inspect your skimmer plug regularly for signs of wear or cracking.
- If you have a multi-port skimmer, make sure each unused port is properly plugged to avoid water loss.
I hope these tips help you find the perfect swimming pool skimmer plug that keeps your pool clean, safe, and leak-free!
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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