A solar skimmer has a battery, motors and a solar panel that all need care in the off season. Here is how to take it out, clean it, set the battery and store it so it starts strong in spring.
Last updated: November 2026
Take a solar pool skimmer out when you close the pool or when water gets cold, and before the first freeze. Empty and rinse the basket, rinse the body in fresh water, dry it completely, and charge the battery to the level the maker recommends for storage rather than leaving it empty. Store it indoors, above freezing, out of direct sun, with the solar panel protected. Check and top up the charge during the off season if the manual says to.
"How to store Betta skimmer for winter" is a question pool owners search every fall. The steps below apply to most solar skimmers. Always check your model's manual.
When should you take the skimmer out?
When you close the pool for the season.
Before the first freeze, even if the pool stays open with a cover.
When water drops below the maker's range, since batteries and motors work less well in cold water.
Before shocking or heavy chemical treatment if the chemistry will be outside the maker's range.
How do you clean it?
Empty the basket and rinse it.
Rinse the whole body with fresh water to remove chlorine or salt.
Clear the impellers or propellers of hair, string and leaves.
Wipe the solar panel with a soft damp cloth; no abrasives.
Check seals and the charging port for dirt or wear.
How do you dry it?
Let it drain, then dry it in the shade for a day or more with any covers open. Trapped water can freeze, cause corrosion or grow mold. Do not use a heater or hair dryer on the solar panel or seals.
What charge level should the battery be at?
Most makers advise against storing a lithium battery fully empty, because it can drop too low over months and stop accepting a charge. Many recommend a partial charge for storage. Follow your skimmer's manual for the exact level, and check it every couple of months.
Models with a charger give you an easy way to top up: per Betta, the Betta SE Plus charges by solar and by AC adapter.
Beatbot iSkim: 24 W panel, 10,000 mAh battery, 9 L basket.
What about pool closing generally?
Storing robots is one part of closing a pool. Others include balancing the water, lowering the level, blowing out lines, and winterizing the pump and filter as your system requires. Trends show "how to winterize pool pump" rising this month; your pool equipment maker or a pool professional gives the right steps for your system.
How do you start it again in spring?
Charge fully before the first run.
Check seals, panel and basket.
Clean the pool first after opening; a skimmer is for daily debris, not opening day sludge.
Put it in once the water is balanced.
Does winter storage affect the warranty?
Freeze damage from leaving a robot outside is a common exclusion. Storing it properly protects both the skimmer and your warranty. Betta gives a 1-year manufacturer warranty with extended cover through Betta Care; WYBOT covers the F1 for 1 year; Aiper covers the EcoSurfer M2 for 2 years. See pool robot warranty compared.
What is a quick end-of-season checklist?
Note any problems from the season, like a weak motor or a crack, so you can claim under warranty in time.
Empty, rinse and dry the basket.
Rinse the body and clear the impellers.
Wipe the solar panel.
Set the battery to its storage level.
Store indoors with the manual and charger in the same box.
Put a reminder in your calendar to check the charge in two months.
Should you replace anything before storage?
Autumn is a good time to order worn parts, such as a torn basket mesh, brushes or a damaged float, so the skimmer is ready on opening day. Stock is often easier to find out of season than in spring.
What if your pool stays open all winter?
In warm regions where pools stay open, a skimmer can keep working through mild winters. Short days mean less solar charging, so watch the battery and top up from the charger if your model has one. Remove it before any freeze warning.
Still not sure which fits your property?
Tell us about your pool and where you store equipment and a Yard Automation Pro will reply by email with a recommendation, or tell you honestly if none of our machines fits. Book a free consultation, or call +1 423-927-3776, 9am to 5pm EST. You can also try the Find Your Robot quiz and cost calculator.
Frequently asked questions
When should I take my solar skimmer out of the pool?
When you close the pool, before the first freeze, or when water drops below the maker's range.
How do I clean a solar skimmer before storage?
Empty and rinse the basket, rinse the body in fresh water, clear the impellers and wipe the panel with a soft damp cloth.
Should I store my skimmer with a full battery?
Store it at the charge level the manual recommends. Most makers advise against storing a lithium battery empty.
Where should I store a pool skimmer in winter?
Indoors, above freezing, dry and out of direct sun, on a shelf with the panel protected.
Can I leave a solar skimmer in the pool over winter?
It is best not to. Cold, ice and chemicals can damage it, and freeze damage is often excluded from warranties.
Does the Betta SE Plus charge without sun?
Yes. Betta lists solar and AC adapter charging for the SE Plus.
How do I start my skimmer in spring?
Charge it fully, check seals and the panel, clean and balance the pool first, then put it in.
Do I store the floor robot the same way?
Yes. Clean, dry, charge it as the manual says and store it indoors.
What if my pool stays open in winter?
In warm regions a skimmer can keep working. Short days mean less solar charging, so top up from the charger if your model has one, and take it out before any freeze.
Should I replace worn parts before storing the skimmer?
Fall is a good time to order a new basket mesh, brushes or floats, so the skimmer is ready on opening day.
Can I store the skimmer in an unheated garage?
In cold regions it is better indoors above freezing. Batteries and seals can be damaged by deep cold.
