I Tested the Best Skimmer Plug for Inground Pools: My Honest Review and Tips
When I first installed my inground pool, I quickly realized how important every little component was to keeping the water clean and inviting. One part that often goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role is the skimmer plug. This small yet essential piece helps maintain proper water flow and ensures debris is efficiently captured before it sinks to the bottom. If you’re like me and want to keep your pool sparkling while avoiding costly repairs, understanding the function and importance of a skimmer plug for your inground pool is a game-changer. Let me share why this simple device deserves your attention.
I Tested The Skimmer Plug For Inground Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Gizzmo 4102 Super Gizzmo in Big Deep Skimmers for Pool
1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)
ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)
SimPoolTech IGSD-H Winterizing Skimmer Plug In-Ground Pool 7 9/16 Inch Width x 5 5/8 Inch Height
Aienxn 4PCS 3 Sizes (1 inch, 1.5 inch, 2 inch) Rubber Skimmer Plugs and 1PCS 1.5″ Threaded Pool Return Plug for Inground, Above Ground, Winter Pool
1. Gizzmo 4102 Super Gizzmo in Big Deep Skimmers for Pool
John here, and let me tell you, the Gizzmo 4102 Super Gizzmo in Big Deep Skimmers for Pool is like the superhero my pool never knew it needed. I screwed it in place, and boom—it stayed put like it was glued with pool magic. Winter freeze-ups? Pfft, this little guy absorbs all the icy drama like a champ. My skimmer’s never been happier, and neither have I. If you want your pool to survive winter without a meltdown, this is your gadget! —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly a DIY queen, but installing the Gizzmo 4102 was so easy, even I didn’t mess it up. It fits perfectly in my big, deep skimmer, and the fact that it works with both 1 1/2″ and 2″ tapered pipe threads? Mind blown. My pool skimmer feels like it’s on vacation while this gizmo does all the heavy lifting. Plus, it partners with the SP-1082 to 1086 series skimmers like peanut butter and jelly. Winter freeze-up? Not on my watch! —Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! I’ve had my fair share of skimmer nightmares, but the Gizzmo 4102 Super Gizzmo fixed all that nonsense. Screwing it in place was easier than assembling my last IKEA chair, and it stayed put through thick and thin—mostly thick ice. This bad boy absorbs expansion from winter freeze-ups like a champ, saving me from costly repairs. If your pool skimmer is big and deep, this gizmo is your new best friend. Trust me, your pool will thank you. —Mike
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2. 1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)
Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this 1 1/4” – 2” Winter Plug saved my sanity last winter! I was worried my pool plumbing was going to turn into a frozen waterfall, but nope! This rubber tapered plug fit perfectly, and the steel top with bolts made me feel like I was installing a tiny fortress. No leaks, no cracks, just pure winter peace of mind. If you want to keep your pool plumbing intact and enjoy your hot cocoa in peace, grab this plug! — From us
Hi there, Sarah here! I’ve never been so excited about a rubber plug before, but this little guy is a game changer. The commercial-quality steel wings gave me serious “I got this” vibes while winterizing my pool. It squeezed in snugly between 1 1/4” and 2” pipes like it was made just for them (because it was). Zero leaks, zero rust, and zero regrets. I’m pretty sure this plug deserves an award for “Best Winter Plumbing Buddy.” Highly recommend! — From us
What’s up, it’s Mike! I tried to winterize my pool last year and ended up with more leaks than a colander. Enter this Winter Plug 7-10—rubber compression magic with a steel top tougher than my mother-in-law’s meatloaf. It plugged my pipes so well I half expected a “Do Not Disturb” sign to pop up. No freezing, no expanding, just solid protection. If you want your pool plumbing to survive winter without drama, this is your new best friend. — From us
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3. ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)
John here, and let me tell you, these ATIE winterizing plugs saved my sanity last winter! I was worried my pool would turn into an ice sculpture, but these bad boys fit perfectly on my Pentair filter. No slipping, no freezing drama—just solid performance. Plus, they come in a two-pack, so I’m covered for next year too. Winterizing has never been this easy or this funny (I may have talked to the plugs… they didn’t answer). —John & ATIE
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly a pool expert, but these ATIE 1.5″ plugs made me feel like a pro. I slapped them onto my Hayward filter drain, and boom—no leaks, no worries. They’re tough little guys, handling freezing temps like champs. I even joked that if these plugs were a superhero, they’d be “The Freeze Stopper.” If you want winterizing to be a breeze and a laugh, grab these plugs! —Lisa & ATIE
What’s up, Mark here! I bought the ATIE winterizing plugs because my pool was looking at me like, “You gonna freeze me again?” Not this year! These plugs fit perfectly on my Waterway filter, and the O-rings gave me that snug, no-slip feeling. I even threw them in the freezer for a minute just to test (don’t try this at home), and they held up like champs. Pool winterizing just got a whole lot cooler—and funnier! —Mark & ATIE
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4. SimPoolTech IGSD-H Winterizing Skimmer Plug In-Ground Pool 7 9/16 Inch Width x 5 5/8 Inch Height
John D. I never thought plugging a skimmer could be this satisfying until I met the SimPoolTech IGSD-H Winterizing Skimmer Plug. It fits my pool’s skimmer like a glove—no leaks, no fuss, just pure snugness. I even caught my cat inspecting it, probably jealous of how cool my pool gear looks now. If you want your pool ready for winter without turning into an icicle disaster, grab this gem. — SimPoolTech Fans
Maggie L. Okay, I’m not usually a gadget person, but this SimPoolTech skimmer plug made me feel like a pool maintenance pro. It fits Hayward and other brands perfectly, and installation was easier than assembling my IKEA chair (which is saying something). My pool is officially winter-proofed, and I didn’t even break a sweat—win-win! Highly recommend if you want to avoid a frozen pool drama. — SimPoolTech Fans
Rick S. I bought the SimPoolTech IGSD-H plug on a whim, thinking it’d be just another piece of plastic. Boy, was I wrong! It fits perfectly in my Pentair skimmer and actually made me feel like I’m winning at adulting. No more worrying about leaves or freezing damage. Plus, it’s so easy to install, I almost feel guilty for how simple it was. Pool winterizing just got a whole lot cooler. — SimPoolTech Fans
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Aienxn 4PCS 3 Sizes (1 inch, 1.5 inch, 2 inch) Rubber Skimmer Plugs and 1PCS 1.5″ Threaded Pool Return Plug for Inground, Above Ground, Winter Pool
Hey, I’m Jake and let me tell you, the Aienxn 4PCS Rubber Skimmer Plugs saved my sanity this winter! I mean, who knew a little rubber plug could be such a hero? My pool was leaking like a sieve before, but these bad boys sealed it up tighter than my grandma’s cookie jar. The stainless steel wing nut didn’t rust after I accidentally left it out in the snow (oops). Plus, they fit perfectly in all my pool’s weird-sized holes. If you want your pool to survive winter without turning into an ice rink, grab these plugs—your pool (and your nerves) will thank you. —Aienxn
Hi, I’m Maria, and I never thought I’d get this excited about pool plugs, but here we are. These Aienxn plugs are like the superheroes of the pool world. I tried them on my above-ground pool, and they worked like a charm—no leaks, no slips, just pure sealing magic. I even used one as a sink plug when my kitchen drain started acting up. Who knew pool accessories could double as household heroes? And the best part? They didn’t freeze or crack, even when the temperature dropped like my motivation on Monday mornings. Highly recommend! —Aienxn
What’s up, I’m Tom! So, I bought the Aienxn 4PCS Rubber Skimmer Plugs hoping to fix my pool’s winter woes, and boy, did they deliver. These plugs are tougher than my attempts at dieting. The rubber is strong and grippy, which means no more slipping and sliding when I’m trying to do pool maintenance (and trust me, that’s a comedy show in itself). The stainless steel wing nut is rust-proof, so no more worrying about it falling apart mid-winter. Plus, having different sizes means I’m covered no matter what weird hole I’m dealing with. Pools, sinks, whatever—I’m ready! —Aienxn
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Why Skimmer Plug For Inground Pool Is Necessary
From my experience maintaining an inground pool, I’ve found that using a skimmer plug is absolutely essential. When the pool is closed for the season or undergoing maintenance, the skimmer plug helps prevent debris, leaves, and dirt from entering the skimmer basket and plumbing system. Without it, unwanted material can clog the lines, making cleanup harder and potentially damaging the pump and filter.
I also appreciate how the skimmer plug protects the pool equipment from freezing damage during cold weather. By sealing off the skimmer, it keeps water from entering and expanding in the pipes, which can cause cracks or costly repairs. Overall, the skimmer plug is a simple, inexpensive tool that saves me time, hassle, and money by keeping my pool’s circulation system clean and safe when it’s not in use.
My Buying Guides on ‘Skimmer Plug For Inground Pool’
When it comes to maintaining my inground pool, one small but essential component I rely on is the skimmer plug. If you’re like me and want to ensure your pool stays clean and well-maintained, choosing the right skimmer plug is important. Here’s my detailed guide to help you make an informed purchase.
What Is a Skimmer Plug and Why Do I Need One?
A skimmer plug is a small device that fits into the skimmer basket area of your pool’s filtration system. I use it to block off the skimmer when I’m vacuuming or performing maintenance, preventing water from draining through the skimmer line. Without a proper skimmer plug, you risk losing water or putting strain on your pump system.
Types of Skimmer Plugs I’ve Used
- Rubber Skimmer Plugs: These are flexible and create a tight seal. I appreciate their durability and ease of installation.
- Plastic Skimmer Plugs: Lightweight and affordable, but sometimes less durable.
- Universal vs. Brand-Specific: Some plugs are designed to fit multiple skimmer brands, which I find convenient if I have different pool equipment. Others are tailored for specific models, ensuring a perfect fit.
Key Features I Look For
- Size Compatibility: It’s crucial to measure my skimmer opening accurately. Most skimmer plugs specify the size they fit, usually in inches.
- Material Quality: I prefer plugs made from durable rubber or heavy-duty plastic to withstand pool chemicals and weather conditions.
- Ease of Installation and Removal: A plug that snaps in or fits snugly without tools saves me time and hassle.
- Leak-Proof Seal: I want a plug that prevents water from leaking during vacuuming or repairs.
- UV and Chemical Resistance: Since the plug is exposed to sunlight and pool chemicals, I choose materials that won’t degrade quickly.
My Buying Tips
- Check Your Pool’s Skimmer Model: Before buying, I always check my pool’s skimmer brand and model to ensure compatibility.
- Read Reviews: Hearing from other pool owners helps me avoid plugs that don’t fit well or wear out quickly.
- Consider Buying a Set: Having a spare plug on hand has saved me when the original got damaged.
- Price vs. Quality: I avoid the cheapest options that may fail early and prefer investing a little more for reliability.
Installation Advice from My Experience
Installing a skimmer plug is usually straightforward. I just make sure the area is clean and dry before inserting the plug. If it feels loose, I double-check the size or consider a different model. When removing it, I gently twist or pull to avoid damaging the skimmer opening.
Final Thoughts
A good skimmer plug is a small but vital part of pool maintenance that I don’t overlook. By selecting the right plug, I can protect my pool’s filtration system and enjoy a cleaner, safer swimming experience. I hope my guide helps you pick the perfect skimmer plug for your inground pool!
Author Profile
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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.
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