(1) Skimmers may be used in place of overflow gutters as a means of skimming and recirculating the water. Skimmers are permitted on swimming pools if at least one skimming device is provided for each 500 square feet of water surface area or fraction thereof, with a minimum of two skimmers required. The skimmers shall be located at least 30 feet apart. Skimming devices shall be built into the pool wall, shall develop sufficient velocity on the pool water surface to induce floating oils and wastes into the skimmer from the water surface of the entire pool area, and shall meet the following general specifications:

(a) The piping and other pertinent components of the skimmers shall be designed for a total capacity of at least 80% of the required filter flow of the recirculation system and no skimmer shall be designed for a flow-through rate of less than 30 gallons per minute.

(b) The skimmer weir shall be automatically adjustable and shall operate freely with continuous action to variations in water level over a range of at least 4 inches. The weir shall be of such buoyancy and design so as to develop an effective velocity.

(c) An easily removable and cleanable basket or screen through which all overflow water must pass shall be provided to trap large solids. The skimmer shall be constructed of sturdy corrosion-resistant materials.

(2) All swimming pools shall be equipped for adding make-up water to the swimming pool as necessary for proper operation of skimmers and gutters.

(3) Spa pools require a minimum of one skimmer per unit.

(4) Each skimmer shall be equipped with an equalizer line or other device to prevent airlock in the suction line should the water of the pool drop below the weir level.