Skimmer or overflow pool?
This is one of the first decisions when planning a swimming pool and also the one that most affects both price and appearance: how the water surface will be cleaned. The two options, skimmer and overflow, differ more than they appear at first glance.
How It Works
Skimmer It is a square opening in the pool wall just below the upper edge. Filtration draws water from the surface along with impurities through it, filters it and returns it via jets. The water level is approximately 10-15 cm below the surrounding ground.
Overflow pool The water level is flush with the surrounding paving. Water continuously overflows the edge into a perimeter trough, from where it flows to an accumulation tank, through filtration, and back. The water surface aligns with the terrace: an effect familiar from hotel wellness centres.
Comparison in figures
| Criterion | Skimmer | Overflow |
|---|---|---|
| Price (7×3 m, turnkey) | from approx. 550 000 Kč | from approx. 1 400 000 Kč |
| Surface cleaning | good | excellent, the surface is skimmed along the whole edge |
| Additional technology | - | accumulation tank, more powerful pump, gutter |
| Water and energy consumption | lower | higher (evaporation from a larger surface area, constant circulation) |
| Maintenance complexity | low | medium, the balance tank and gutter need care |
| Appearance | classic swimming pool | water level flush with the terrace, "wellness" effect |
Who is a skimmer for?
Suitable for most gardens of detached houses. Cheaper to purchase and operate, the technology fits into a smaller shaft, and any pool company can handle the servicing. Modern skimmer pools with quality liners and lighting certainly do not look like a compromise.
Who is an overflow pool for?
For those who want an architectural feature, not just a swimming pool. A spillway makes sense for representative gardens, on slopes with a view (the "infinity" variant with overflow over one edge), and wherever the pool needs to sit flush with a terrace without a visible edge. However, expect a significantly higher price, greater earthworks due to the retention tank, and simply more maintenance.
Most common mistake: deciding based on a photo alone
A catalog overflow pool looks irresistible. However, the price difference (easily 800 000 Kč or more) often means a choice: an overflow system, or a skimmer plus a cover, heat pump and counter-current jet combined. The second option extends the swimming season by months, which offers better value for money for most families. A good company will calculate this for you; if they push only the more expensive variant without explanation, be alert.
Unsure what makes sense for your garden? Describe your project, verified companies will calculate both options in their quotes so you can compare the figures, not catalogue photos. Free and without obligation.
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