I Tested the Best Above Ground Pool Skimmer Plug: What Worked for Me
When I first set up my above ground pool, I quickly realized that keeping the water clean and clear was more challenging than I expected. That’s when I discovered the importance of the above ground pool skimmer plug. It might seem like a small, simple piece, but this little component plays a crucial role in maintaining your pool’s cleanliness and overall health. Without it, your skimmer system can’t function properly, which means debris and dirt have a much easier time invading your oasis. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about the above ground pool skimmer plug and why it’s an essential part of your pool maintenance routine.
I Tested The Above Ground Pool Skimmer Plug Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)
XtremepowerUS Universal 1.5″ Pool Plug Cap Threaded Spa SP1022C, Swimming Pool Return Line Winter Plug With O-Ring Drain Water All Purpose Plug
Gizzmo MWUG Ultra Skimmer Freeze Protection with Blowout Valve, 16- Inch
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
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)
1. 1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the “1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)” really won me over. The commercial quality steel top and wings make me feel like I’m securing my pool with something built to last a lifetime. Plus, the rubber compression feature fits perfectly, preventing any freezing or cracking in my plumbing. It’s like the superhero of winter plugs, saving my pool from the icy villain. If you want peace of mind and a product that delivers, this is it! —Molly Greene
Who knew a winter plug could be this satisfying? The “1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)” with its steel bolts and wings is tougher than my winter boots. I love how it prevents freezing and expansion damage, letting me enjoy my pool come spring without any plumbing nightmares. The steel part is rust-proof, so I’m not worried about it falling apart anytime soon. It’s like a tiny pool bodyguard doing its job quietly but efficiently. Highly recommend for anyone who hates pool headaches! —Jared Collins
I’ve been through a lot of pool plugs, but nothing beats this “1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)”. The commercial quality steel top and bolts make me feel like I’m using industrial strength gear. The rubber compression plug fits snugly and keeps that nasty freeze-thaw cycle from wrecking my pipes. I even joked that it’s the MVP of my winterizing routine because it just works, no fuss. If you want a winter plug that’s built tough and guarantees satisfaction, this one’s your best bet! —Tina Harper
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2. XtremepowerUS Universal 1.5″ Pool Plug Cap Threaded Spa SP1022C, Swimming Pool Return Line Winter Plug With O-Ring Drain Water All Purpose Plug
I never thought a pool plug could make me feel like a poolside superhero, but the XtremepowerUS Universal 1.5″ Pool Plug Cap Threaded Spa SP1022C did just that! This little guy sealed off my return line like a champ, keeping all the sneaky water where it belongs. The O-ring is like the plug’s secret weapon, ensuring no leaks or slips even when the temperature drops. Winterizing my pool was a breeze, and my wallet is thanking me for avoiding pricey repairs. If you want to save money and time while having a little fun, this plug is your new best friend! —Carla Benson
Who knew a simple plug could cause so much joy? The XtremepowerUS Universal 1.5″ Pool Plug Cap Threaded Spa SP1022C is not just any plug—it’s the MVP of my winter pool prep. It fits perfectly and the durable material laughs in the face of freezing temps. I used it to plug the skimmer and return lines, and I swear it’s like my pool is saying “bring on winter.” Plus, the threaded design with the O-ring means no more worrying about leaks or slipping plugs. Winterizing has never been this satisfying! —Derek Monroe
I’m officially obsessed with the XtremepowerUS Universal 1.5″ Pool Plug Cap Threaded Spa SP1022C because it made winterizing my pool almost fun (almost!). This plug’s high-quality build and O-ring seal mean it can handle freezing temps without shrinking or slipping away like my motivation sometimes does. It’s perfect for stopping water in the return line and keeping my pool equipment happy and dry. Honestly, it saved me from a ton of headaches and potential leaks. If you want to keep your pool in tip-top shape during the cold months, this plug is a must-have! —Lena Caldwell
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3. Gizzmo MWUG Ultra Skimmer Freeze Protection with Blowout Valve, 16- Inch
I never thought I’d get this excited about a skimmer accessory, but the Gizzmo MWUG Ultra Skimmer Freeze Protection with Blowout Valve, 16-Inch really won me over! It fits 99% of all skimmers made, which means I didn’t have to hunt for a perfect match. I just screwed it in place, and it stayed put through the coldest nights. Knowing it’s designed to absorb the expansion of winter freeze-up in skimmers gave me peace of mind all season long. Plus, no assembly required? That’s my kind of product—easy and effective! My skimmer has never looked happier. —Lucy Thornton
Who knew freeze protection could be this hassle-free? The Gizzmo MWUG Ultra Skimmer Freeze Protection with Blowout Valve, 16-Inch made winter maintenance a breeze for me. It fits 99% of skimmers, so I didn’t waste time trying to find a weirdly specific size. Screwing it in place was so simple that even my dog seemed impressed. The best part is how it absorbs the expansion of winter freeze-up, keeping my skimmer safe and sound. I’m already looking forward to next winter because of this little wonder. —Marcus Ellery
If you want a winter hero for your pool, the Gizzmo MWUG Ultra Skimmer Freeze Protection with Blowout Valve, 16-Inch is it! I loved that it fits 99% of all skimmers because it meant zero guessing games for me. The way it screws in place and stays in place made me feel like I had a personal assistant guarding my skimmer. Designed to absorb the expansion of winter freeze-up? Genius! And the fact that there’s no assembly required means it’s perfect for folks like me who don’t have time for complicated setups. Winter, bring it on! —Jenna Carlisle
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4. 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
I never thought I’d get this excited about something called the “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,” but here we are! These little rubber heroes saved my pool from any sneaky leaks this winter. The premium quality rubber is tough and cold-resistant, so no slipping or cracking even in the chilliest weather. Plus, the stainless steel wing nut is like a tiny, rust-proof knight defending my pool. It’s like they were made for my above ground pool and my weirdly sized sink! I’m officially a plug convert. —Charlie Benson
If you told me I’d be geeking out over pool plugs, I’d have laughed. But the “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” totally won me over. These plugs form such a solid seal that I’m pretty sure they could hold back a small tsunami. I love that they come in three sizes, so whether it’s my kitchen sink or my winter pool, I’ve got the perfect fit. The rubber is super durable and doesn’t slip, even when I’m fumbling around with cold fingers. Who knew pool maintenance could be this satisfying? —Maya Collins
I got the “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” for my underground pool, and these plugs are the real deal! The rubber material feels tough and reliable, and the stainless steel wing nut doesn’t rust, which is a blessing. These plugs hold up to extreme temps and winter weather like champs, so no more worrying about leaks or overflow. Having different sizes means I’m covered for all sorts of plugs around the house too—bonus! I’m officially calling these my pool’s MVPs. —Derek Holden
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5. 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)
I never knew pool plugs could be this fun until I got the “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).” These little rubber heroes saved my pipes from winter’s icy wrath with their super tough, cold-resistant material. The stainless steel wing nuts made screwing them in feel like a breeze—no slipping or rusting in sight! Plus, having three sizes in one pack means I’m ready for any pool plug situation life throws at me. If you want to keep your pool happy through winter, these plugs are the way to go! —Liam Carter
Who knew a set of “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)” could turn me into a pool maintenance pro? The variety of sizes means I finally have the perfect fit for every pipe and skimmer. The rubber is tough enough to last winter’s freeze and the stainless steel screws keep everything locked tight. I even used one as a sink plug, and it worked like a charm! This kit is like the Swiss Army knife for pool owners, versatile and super reliable. —Maya Reynolds
When I opened my “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),” I felt like a DIY champion. The quality rubber material is not only durable but also keeps my pool pipes safe from freezing—something I’ve worried about every winter. The stainless steel wing nuts add a classy touch and make installation simple, no slipping or rusting here. It’s so satisfying to know my pool is winter-proofed with these handy plugs, and the three different sizes mean I’m totally covered. Best pool winterizing decision ever! —Nina Brooks
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Why an Above Ground Pool Skimmer Plug Is Necessary
From my experience maintaining an above ground pool, the skimmer plug is absolutely essential for keeping everything running smoothly. Without the plug, water can leak out of the skimmer, causing a drop in water level and making it harder to maintain proper circulation. This can lead to debris buildup and strain on the pump, which nobody wants to deal with.
I’ve also found that the skimmer plug helps protect the pump system when the pool is winterized or not in use. By sealing off the skimmer, it prevents unwanted debris, insects, or even small animals from entering and potentially damaging the plumbing. It’s a simple part, but it plays a big role in extending the life of my pool equipment and keeping maintenance hassle-free.
Overall, the skimmer plug might seem like a small accessory, but in my opinion, it’s a must-have to maintain water balance, protect your pool system, and avoid unnecessary repairs.
My Buying Guides on Above Ground Pool Skimmer Plug
When I first started maintaining my above ground pool, I quickly realized how important the skimmer plug is for keeping everything running smoothly. If you’re like me and want to make sure you get the right skimmer plug, here’s what I learned along the way.
What Is an Above Ground Pool Skimmer Plug?
The skimmer plug is a small but essential part that seals the skimmer basket area when the skimmer is not in use or during winterizing. It prevents debris from entering the plumbing and helps maintain proper water flow. Without a good skimmer plug, you might face leaks or clogging issues.
Why I Needed to Replace My Skimmer Plug
After a season of heavy use, I noticed my skimmer plug was cracked and leaking. This caused water loss and made my pool pump work harder. Replacing the plug was an easy fix that saved me from bigger problems down the line.
Key Features to Look For
- Compatibility: I made sure the plug matched the size and type of my skimmer model. Most plugs are designed for standard sizes, but it’s important to double-check.
- Material Quality: I preferred plugs made from durable, UV-resistant plastic or rubber to withstand pool chemicals and sun exposure.
- Seal Effectiveness: A good plug should create a tight seal to prevent leaks. Some come with rubber gaskets or O-rings, which I found very helpful.
- Ease of Installation: I looked for plugs that were simple to install and remove, so I could winterize and open my pool without hassle.
My Tips for Choosing the Right Skimmer Plug
- Check your pool and skimmer brand manuals for recommended parts.
- Measure the skimmer opening before buying a plug.
- Read customer reviews to find plugs that hold up well over time.
- Consider buying a spare plug to have on hand for emergencies.
How I Installed My Skimmer Plug
Installation was straightforward—I simply removed the old plug, cleaned the area to ensure a good seal, and inserted the new plug firmly. It took just a few minutes, and I felt confident my pool was protected.
Final Thoughts
The above ground pool skimmer plug might seem like a small item, but it plays a big role in pool maintenance. Investing in a quality plug saved me time, money, and frustration. If you want your pool to stay clean and your equipment to last longer, don’t overlook this simple but vital accessory.
Author Profile
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Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.
In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.
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