Signs You Need a New Skimmer
Skimmer replacement is one of the most common pool repairs we handle in Orange County — here's what we're actually looking for, not the small stuff a pool cleaner would normally handle.
- A leak detection report named your skimmer: if a leak company already traced water loss to the skimmer, that's the clearest sign we'll see.
- A visible crack in the skimmer body or throat: not the plastic lid — an actual crack through the unit itself.
- The skimmer is separating or pulling away from the pool wall: a gap opening up around the unit is a structural problem, not a cosmetic one.
- Ongoing water loss you can't otherwise explain: especially if it lines up with the skimmer area of the pool.
- We can often diagnose this from a few clear photos, a description of what you're seeing, or a leak detection report you already have — not always an in-person visit first.
What a Skimmer Replacement Involves
The real fix when a skimmer has failed — not a temporary patch.
- Pool drained to skimmer level — required in most cases since the work happens below the waterline
- Old skimmer box cut out and a new one set into the shell
- New suction lines are commonly included — skimmer replacements often need them anyway
- Surrounding tile, coping, or decking matched back to how it looked before
- Typically done in a single day — up to 3 days if access or matching the surrounding area is more involved
When a Patch Won't Hold, We Replace It Right
If a leak detection company already pointed to your skimmer, or you can see the crack or separation yourself, a quick patch is just going to buy you a few months before you're back where you started. We focus on the actual fix — a full replacement, done once.
Not local, or can't get away for a visit right now? Send a few clear photos, describe what you're seeing, or share a leak detection report if you have one — we can often get you a real answer before ever stepping foot in your yard.
Every estimate is written and itemized, so the number you're given is the number you actually pay.
Get Your Free Estimate
Tell us about your pool — we'll follow up to schedule a free on-site visit.
Get a Free QuoteWhy Orange County Homeowners Call ACE for Skimmer Replacement
A skimmer replacement is below-the-waterline work — it deserves the same care as a full remodel.
4.9★ Rating
249+ verified reviews on Yelp from Orange County homeowners.
Licensed, Bonded & Insured
Full California pool contractor license, verified before every job starts.
Remote Diagnosis Available
Photos, a description, or a leak detection report are often enough to confirm what's needed before we visit.
Locally Owned & Operated
Based right here in Fullerton since 2014 — not a franchise or referral service.
Pool Skimmer Replacement Costs
One real fix, priced honestly — plus what a temporary patch actually costs you long-term.
| Scope | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Crack patch (temporary only) | $250–$500 |
| Full skimmer replacement | $3,000+ |
The $250–$500 crack patch is a band-aid, not a fix — it covers the symptom while the underlying crack or separation is still there, and will need to be addressed with a full replacement eventually. We'll always tell you that upfront rather than let a patch pass as a real solution.
The $3,000+ replacement includes cutting into the shell, setting the new skimmer box, new suction lines (commonly needed anyway), and matching the surrounding tile, coping, or decking back to how it looked before.
Already planning a resurfacing or remodel? Bundling skimmer replacement into that project usually costs less than doing it separately. Call (909) 577-5274 for a free estimate specific to your pool.
See Your Monthly Payment
For a full skimmer replacement, Lyon Financial's pool loan calculator can show you a real monthly payment before you commit.
How a Skimmer Replacement Works
Typically done in a single day — up to 3 if access or matching the surrounding area is more involved.
Diagnosis
In person, or often from photos, a description, or a leak detection report you already have.
Written, itemized estimate
One clear price for the actual scope — not a guess, and not upsold.
Drain to skimmer level
Required in most cases, since the work happens below the waterline.
Cut in the new skimmer
Old box removed, new one set into the shell, suction lines replaced where needed.
Match surrounding tile & decking
Tile, coping, or decking around the new skimmer restored to match.
Refill & walkthrough
We refill, test it, and walk you through the fix before we leave.
Skimmer Repair & Replacement Across Orange County
We handle skimmer work throughout Orange County and parts of Los Angeles County — including Irvine, Costa Mesa, Santa Ana, Tustin, Lake Forest, Huntington Beach, and other nearby areas without a dedicated page yet.
Don't see your city listed? We often work outside this list too — give us a call and we'll let you know.
Call or Text Us Today: (909) 577-5274Pools We've Recently Worked On Around Orange County
Skimmer work is often just one piece of a larger project — here's a sample of finished pools we've touched.
Want to see full before-and-after project details?
View Full GalleryWhat Our Repair Clients Say
“Cheapest quote by $3,000 for a skimmer replacement with matching brick and concrete repair.”
“New variable-speed pump plus re-piping fixed an overheating unit for just under $3,000.”
“Resurfacing and repainting pool surfaces, plus installing a new variable speed pump — all handled well.”
Pool Skimmer Replacement FAQ
How do I know if I need a new skimmer?
What does a skimmer replacement cost in Orange County?
Does the pool need to be drained for a skimmer replacement?
Can you diagnose my skimmer without an in-person visit?
Does a new skimmer come with new suction lines?
How long does a skimmer replacement take?
Ready to Replace Your Skimmer?
Get your free, no-obligation estimate today.