5
WATERSC APES SKIMMER INSTALLATION
EXC AVATING AND SETTING THE PS4000/PS4500
Prior to setting the skimmer you must first determine the surface level of the water in the
pond. Once you have this number you can excavate for the Skimmer. The excavation should
be a few inches wider and longer than the Skimmer body. The depth of excavation for the
PS4000/PS4500 should be 17” below water level. Do not dig too deep. The skimmer should
be set on stable, compacted soil. In the case that you over-dig, be sure to compact the soil
thoroughly to prevent settling. The bottom of the hole should be level side-to-side and
front-to-back (Figure 5).
Place the skimmer enclosure into the excavated hole. Check the top of the enclosure to
make sure that it is level front-to-back and side-to-side. Check where your pre-determined
water level falls on the face of the skimmer enclosure. Water level should be 1¼” below the
top of the weir door opening.
Make sure that any unexcavated soil that is left in front of the Skimmer is at least 10” below
water level. This will ensure that there is enough room for the weir door to be installed and
function properly.
Before you go any further into the Skimmer installation, place a few stones inside the
Skimmer enclosure to weigh it down and keep it from moving.
Prior to backfilling the enclosure, make sure the support bar is installed inside the skimmer.
The support bar must be in place for the enclosure to retain its shape during the backfilling
process. Loosely backfill the enclosure on all sides, lightly compacting as you go. Do not
over-compact the soil! Aggressive compaction may deform the enclosure and cause
components to fit improperly.
ATTACHING THE LINER
Hold the liner up against the face of the Skimmer, allowing a minimum of 2” to extend
above the top of the enclosure. Leave some excess slack in the liner below the weir opening.
This will help alleviate any future strain on the liner connection.
Make sure that the front surface of the Skimmer, and the back side of the liner, are clean
and free of debris. When you are satisfied with the position of the liner, clip it in place with
the provided spring clips. With a sharp razor knife, cut a hole in the liner for the weir door
using the hole in the face of the skimmer as a guide (Figure 6).
Figure 5.
WATER LEVEL
1
1
/
4
” - 1
1
/
2
”
10” MIN
