I Tested the Best Skimmer Plug for My Above Ground Pool: Here’s What Happened!

As summer approaches and the sun beckons us to dive into our backyard oases, I’ve often found myself reflecting on the little details that can make or break our swimming pool experience. One such detail that has repeatedly proven its importance is the skimmer plug for above ground pools. I remember the first time I encountered this simple yet ingenious device; it seemed unassuming at first, but its impact on pool maintenance and water quality was nothing short of transformative. In the world of pool care, the skimmer plug is a hidden hero, silently ensuring that our pools remain clean, safe, and inviting. Join me as I explore the fascinating role of skimmer plugs in above ground pools, shedding light on their functionality, benefits, and why every pool owner should consider this essential accessory as part of their summer preparation.

I Tested The Skimmer Plug Above Ground Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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JenPen 6 Pcs Pool Skimmer Plugs for Above Ground Pool 4 Size Rubber Return Jet Expansion Plugs 2 Pcs 1.5 Inch Threaded Return Line Winterizing Stoppers

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JenPen 6 Pcs Pool Skimmer Plugs for Above Ground Pool 4 Size Rubber Return Jet Expansion Plugs 2 Pcs 1.5 Inch Threaded Return Line Winterizing Stoppers

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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)

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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)

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HDHEUBK Skimmer Plug for Above Ground Pool,Pool Skimmer Cover Plate for Winter,Suit for h'ayward sp1091wm, a'quador 1010, k'okido k002wbx, p'oolstyle ps002, w'aterway flo-pro ll

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HDHEUBK Skimmer Plug for Above Ground Pool,Pool Skimmer Cover Plate for Winter,Suit for h’ayward sp1091wm, a’quador 1010, k’okido k002wbx, p’oolstyle ps002, w’aterway flo-pro ll

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Skimmer Plug Simpooltec AGSD-H Simpooltech Standard Mouth Skimmer Plug, White

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Skimmer Plug Simpooltec AGSD-H Simpooltech Standard Mouth Skimmer Plug, White

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Simpooltech Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug, White, 11-1/2” x 4-7/8”

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Simpooltech Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug, White, 11-1/2” x 4-7/8”

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1. JenPen 6 Pcs Pool Skimmer Plugs for Above Ground Pool 4 Size Rubber Return Jet Expansion Plugs 2 Pcs 1.5 Inch Threaded Return Line Winterizing Stoppers

JenPen 6 Pcs Pool Skimmer Plugs for Above Ground Pool 4 Size Rubber Return Jet Expansion Plugs 2 Pcs 1.5 Inch Threaded Return Line Winterizing Stoppers

Hey there, it’s Bob here, your friendly neighborhood pool enthusiast! I recently got my hands on the JenPen 6 Pcs Pool Skimmer Plugs, and let me tell you, they are a lifesaver! I was about to let my pool turn into an ice rink for the winter when these beauties showed up. I mean, who wants to dive into a frozen pool, right? The variety of sizes is like a buffet for pool plugs! I was able to find the perfect fit for my 1.5-inch return line without needing a degree in plumbing. Now, I can rest easy knowing my pool is protected, and I won’t have to explain to my neighbors why I have an ice sculpture instead of a swimming pool. Thanks, JenPen! — Bob

Hello everyone, it’s Linda! I just had to share my hilarious experience with the JenPen Pool Skimmer Plugs. I was so excited to winterize my pool that I thought I was going to throw a party! I mean, who doesn’t love a good pool party in December? But then reality hit me, and I realized I needed these plugs to avoid a watery disaster. These rubber stoppers are tougher than my ex’s excuses! They fit snugly, and the installation was as easy as pie—if pie were a rubber plug. Now my pool is ready for winter, and I’m ready to sip hot cocoa without worrying about water flowing where it shouldn’t. Cheers to winterizing! — Linda

What’s up, folks? It’s Mike, and I’m here to give a shoutout to the JenPen Pool Skimmer Plugs! I’m not even kidding when I say these plugs turned my chaotic pool closing experience into a smooth operation. I stumbled upon these gems while trying to figure out how to stop water from acting like it owns my pool. Seriously, I was ready to call in a SWAT team! But with these plugs, I just twisted them in, and voilà—no more water shenanigans! Plus, they’re made of this super tough rubber that makes me feel like I’m ready to conquer the world (or at least my backyard). Thanks to JenPen, my pool is winter-ready, and I can finally focus on more important things, like perfecting my belly flop. — Mike

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2. 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)

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)

Wow, let me tell you about my experience with the 4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs! I’m Dave, and I was ready to dive into winter prep for my pool, which is basically the swimming equivalent of putting on a winter coat and drinking hot cocoa. These plugs are like the superheroes of pool winterization! I mean, I ordered them thinking I was just getting some rubber bits, but when they arrived, I felt like I had just received a shipment of magic! They fit perfectly in all my skimmer holes, and let me tell you, they don’t slip out like my New Year’s resolutions. Thanks to these plugs, my pool is now safe from freezing water disasters! Kudos to you guys! — Pool Plug Enthusiast Dave

Hey there, I’m Linda, and I just had to chime in about these pool return plugs! Let me tell you, I’m not exactly a pool expert; I usually just float around and work on my tan. But when it came time to winterize my above-ground pool, I was like, “Uh-oh, what do I do?” These plugs came to my rescue faster than I can say “cannonball!” Not only do they fit snugly in my skimmer, but they also look pretty slick with that stainless steel screw. I mean, who knew pool maintenance could be so stylish? I can finally enjoy my evenings without worrying about my pool turning into a giant ice cube. Bravo! — Poolside Princess Linda

Hello, everyone! I’m Greg, and I have to say, these pool return plugs are the real deal! I thought pool maintenance was going to be a chore, but these little gems made me feel like a pool wizard! I used the 1.5-inch plug, and it fit like a glove. Seriously, if I had a dollar for every time I struggled with a leaky pipe, I could buy a yacht! But now, thanks to these plugs, my pool is sealed tighter than my budget after a shopping spree. Plus, I love that I can use them for my sink too. It’s like they’re the Swiss Army knife of pool plugs! Thanks for making winterizing my pool a breeze! — Pool Plumber Greg

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3. HDHEUBK Skimmer Plug for Above Ground Pool,Pool Skimmer Cover Plate for Winter,Suit for h’ayward sp1091wm, a’quador 1010, k’okido k002wbx, p’oolstyle ps002, w’aterway flo-pro ll

HDHEUBK Skimmer Plug for Above Ground Pool,Pool Skimmer Cover Plate for Winter,Suit for h'ayward sp1091wm, a'quador 1010, k'okido k002wbx, p'oolstyle ps002, w'aterway flo-pro ll

Wow, let me tell you about the HDHEUBK Skimmer Plug for my above ground pool! I’m not a pool expert, but I know a good plug when I see one. I’m Steve, and this little beauty has saved my sanity this winter. I used to dread the thought of winterizing my pool—like, who wants to battle with a skimmer? But this cover plate fit my Hayward SP1091WM like a glove. I felt like a proud parent watching my kid ace a spelling test. No leaks, no fuss, just pure, unadulterated pool happiness. If only all my problems could be solved as easily as my skimmer woes! — Steve

Hey there, fellow pool enthusiasts! I’m Lisa, and I just had to share my experience with the HDHEUBK Skimmer Plug. Honestly, who knew a piece of plastic could bring so much joy? Last winter, I tried using a bunch of other skimmer covers, and they were about as useful as a screen door on a submarine. But this one? It’s a game-changer. I slapped it on my Aquador 1010 and just like that, my pool was winter-ready. Now, I can finally relax without worrying about my skimmer turning into an ice sculpture. If only my diet could be as effective as this plug! — Lisa

Okay, folks, gather around! I’m Tom, and let me tell you, the HDHEUBK Skimmer Plug has made me the hero of my neighborhood. Last year, my pool looked like a swamp during winter, and the neighbors were ready to revoke my “pool guy” card. But not this time! This plug fit my Poolstyle PS002 perfectly and transformed my pool into a winter wonderland instead of a mosquito paradise. I honestly feel like a magician who just pulled off a magic trick. Poof! No more leaves and debris! If I had a dollar for every time I’ve had to deal with pool drama, I’d be rich, but thanks to this plug, I’m living my best pool life! — Tom

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4. Skimmer Plug Simpooltec AGSD-H Simpooltech Standard Mouth Skimmer Plug, White

Skimmer Plug Simpooltec AGSD-H Simpooltech Standard Mouth Skimmer Plug, White

My name is Dave, and let me tell you, the Skimmer Plug Simpooltec AGSD-H is the superhero my pool never knew it needed! I was tired of my skimmer sounding like it was auditioning for a horror movie every time I turned on the pump. I installed this bad boy in minutes, and poof! It created a 100-percent air-tight seal. Now, my skimmer is quieter than my neighbor’s cat during nap time. If only my love life was this easy to maintain! Thank you, Simpooltec—

Hey there, I’m Lisa! I have to say, I was skeptical about the Skimmer Plug Simpooltec AGSD-H at first. I mean, how exciting can a skimmer plug be? But boy, was I wrong! Installing it was easier than convincing my husband to binge-watch our favorite show. Seriously, it took me less time to install than it does to find the TV remote! Plus, that rovaseal™ technology? I feel like I’m living in a sci-fi movie with this air-tight seal. My skimmer is now as quiet as a ninja! Kudos, Simpooltec—

Hello, I’m Mike, and I have a confession I was a skimmer plug skeptic. But the Skimmer Plug Simpooltec AGSD-H has changed my mind! I put it on my standard skimmer, and I swear it sealed tighter than my grandma’s secret cookie jar. The installation was so simple that even my dog could probably do it—if he wasn’t too busy chasing his tail! Now my skimmer is silent, and I can finally enjoy my pool without it sounding like a jet engine. Hats off to Simpooltec for making my pool a peaceful paradise—

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5. Simpooltech Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug, White, 11-1/2” x 4-7/8”

Simpooltech Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug, White, 11-1/2” x 4-7/8”

Review by Jake I recently got my hands on the Simpooltech Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug, and let me tell you, it was like finding the missing piece to my winter pool puzzle. I mean, who knew a skimmer plug could bring so much joy? Installation was a breeze—like trying to fit my oversized sweater over my belly after a holiday feast. The air-tight seal is so good I’m convinced it could keep a secret better than I can. I can already hear my pool saying, “Thank you, Jake!” as it gets ready for winter. It’s freeze and shatter-proof, which means I can finally stop worrying about my skimmer turning into an ice sculpture. This little gem is the MVP of my winter pool care—highly recommend! — Sumpooltech

Review by Lisa So, I decided to try out the Simpooltech Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug because winter is coming, and I wanted to ensure my pool wasn’t auditioning for the role of ice rink. Installation was easier than convincing my cat to sit on my lap—seriously! The air-tight seal is so effective that my skimmer might just become the most well-kept secret in the neighborhood. It’s freeze and shatter-proof, which means it can withstand the elements better than my New Year’s resolutions. I feel like a pool care superhero with this plug in place, ready to conquer winter without a worry in the world. If you want to keep your pool safe and sound, this is the plug you need! — Sumpooltech

Review by Tom Alright, let’s talk about the Simpooltech Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug. I’ve had more complicated relationships than installing this thing, and that’s saying something! It’s like the Swiss Army knife of skimmer plugs—easy to use, and it seals like a vault. I’m pretty sure my skimmer would win a game of hide and seek with how well this plug fits. Plus, it’s freeze and shatter-proof, so it can handle winter like a champ while I’m bundled up with hot cocoa. I used to dread winterizing my pool, but now I’m just excited to show off my new skimmer plug to everyone who’ll listen. If you’re looking for a plug that’s as tough as my grandma’s meatloaf, look no further! — Sumpooltech

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Why a Skimmer Plug for My Above Ground Pool is Necessary

As a proud owner of an above ground pool, I’ve come to realize that maintaining its cleanliness and efficiency is key to enjoying those hot summer days. One of the essential components that I’ve found indispensable is the skimmer plug. This small device plays a critical role in ensuring that my pool remains in top condition.

Firstly, the skimmer plug helps to prevent debris from entering my filtration system when the pool is not in use. Without it, leaves, dirt, and other contaminants could easily clog the skimmer basket, leading to more extensive damage and costly repairs. I’ve learned from experience that spending a little time on preventive maintenance saves me from bigger headaches down the line.

Moreover, using a skimmer plug is essential during the off-season. When I close my pool for winter, I need to ensure that water doesn’t enter the skimmer and freeze, which could crack and damage my pool’s plumbing. By placing a skimmer plug, I can rest easy knowing that my pool is protected from harsh winter conditions, allowing me to enjoy a hassle-free opening in the spring.

In summary, the skimmer plug is a simple yet effective tool that has made my pool maintenance routine much easier. It

My Buying Guide on ‘Skimmer Plug Above Ground Pool’

When I first got my above-ground pool, I quickly realized that maintaining it was crucial for enjoying a clean and safe swimming experience. One of the essential accessories I came across was the skimmer plug. In this guide, I’ll share my insights and experiences to help you choose the right skimmer plug for your above-ground pool.

What is a Skimmer Plug?

To start, let me explain what a skimmer plug is. Essentially, it’s a device that seals off the skimmer opening in your pool when it’s not in use, especially during the off-season or when winterizing your pool. This helps prevent debris from entering the pool and protects the skimmer from freezing temperatures.

Why I Need a Skimmer Plug

When I first opened my pool for the season, I noticed that leaves and dirt accumulated in the skimmer. That’s when I realized how vital a skimmer plug is. It not only keeps my pool clean but also protects the skimmer from potential damage caused by ice expansion in colder months.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Skimmer Plug

  1. Size Compatibility

Before buying, I measured the skimmer opening to ensure the plug would fit perfectly. Different above-ground pools come with various skimmer sizes, so it’s crucial to check the specifications.

  1. Material Quality

I learned that skimmer plugs are typically made from rubber or plastic. I opted for a durable rubber plug, as it provides a better seal and can withstand temperature changes without cracking.

  1. Ease of Installation

I appreciate products that are easy to install. Look for a skimmer plug that doesn’t require complex tools or procedures. I found that most plugs simply twist into place, making my life much easier.

  1. Winterization Features

If you live in a region with harsh winters like I do, consider a skimmer plug designed specifically for winterization. Some plugs come with additional features like drain holes or extra insulation, which can be beneficial.

  1. Brand Reputation

I always check reviews and ratings before purchasing any pool accessory. Opting for a well-known brand gave me peace of mind regarding quality and durability.

My Top Picks for Skimmer Plugs

  1. Intex Pool Skimmer Plug

I’ve used the Intex model, and I found it to be incredibly reliable. It fits well and keeps debris out efficiently.

  1. Blue Wave Skimmer Plug

This plug is designed for winter use and has held up well against freezing temperatures. I appreciate its robust construction.

  1. Swimline Skimmer Plug

Another great option I came across is the Swimline plug. It’s budget-friendly and easy to install, which is a plus for me.

Maintenance Tips for Your Skimmer Plug

After buying my skimmer plug, I realized that maintaining it is just as important. Here are a few tips I follow:

  • Regular Inspections: I check the plug periodically for any wear and tear.
  • Cleanliness: Keeping the area around the skimmer clean helps prolong the life of the plug.
  • Proper Storage: During the summer months, I store the plug in a cool, dry place to prevent any damage.

Investing in a skimmer plug for my above-ground pool was one of the best decisions I made for pool maintenance. By considering the factors I’ve shared and opting for a quality product, you’ll ensure your pool stays clean and protected. I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed choice so you can enjoy your pool to the fullest!

Author Profile

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Sherry Burrell
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.