Skimmer (in-ground, built-in)
Equipment-only cost; full replacement $1500-3000 due to concrete work; removes floating surface debris; typically one per 400 sq ft of pool surface
Installed price$300–$800LA-area, parts and labor
Typical lifespan~12 yrswith regular care
Cost per year of life$25–$67price ÷ lifespan
Who usually installs it5% DIY · 95% pro
Most installs involve plumbing or electrical work. When wiring or gas lines are involved, call a licensed pro.
Common brandsPentair QuickSkimHayward SPX1091Zodiac Viper
Repair or replace?
A common rule: if a repair costs more than half the price of new, or the unit is in its last year or two of a ~12-year life, replacing is often the better value. Try the repair-or-replace calculator with your own quote. Ranges are LA-area estimates; see How We Estimate.
Related repairs
- Pump Motor Failure / Not Priming$200–$300 pro
- Pump Motor Wear / Bearings Failure$250–$500 pro
- Pump Shaft Seal Leakage$100–$250 pro
- Main Drain Blockage$150–$400 pro
- Skimmer Basket Damage / Missing$50–$100 pro
- Skimmer Leak / Cracked Housing$100–$300 pro
- Return Line / Plumbing Blockage$150–$400 pro
- Pump Running But No Suction / Air in System$50–$200 pro