It’s not rare to see a pool or other aquatic equipment getting damaged during the cold weather. This can cause various issues such as cracks on the surface, pipe bursting, and the like.
One of the most important things that you need to do is make sure that your automatic pool cover is working properly.
Putting on the cover for the winter is not an easy task. You have to make sure that it's well-equipped with the necessary equipment to keep it working properly.
This article will teach you how to prepare for winter, how to maintain your automatic pool cover, and what to do before a storm hits.
Can I Use Automatic Pool Cover as a Winter Cover?
Although it can be used throughout the winter, an automatic pool cover is not designed to be used as a winter cover. It should be kept regularly maintained and used with care.
If you're worried about your automatic pool cover's warranty, there are a few things to consider before buying one.
- The warranty will likely not cover weather-related damage unless there is evidence that some part of the cover system is faulty.
- The cover system is used to protect the pool and its occupants from the elements. It should be used in the manner indicated by the manufacturer's manual.
- Neglecting the cover and allowing too much water, snow, or ice to accumulate on top of it can void the warranty.
Maintenance
Aside from keeping the pool cover in good shape, it also helps to remove the snow and ice from the surface to prevent it from getting damaged. It is especially important to do this towards the end of winter when snow and ice start to melt all at once.
Not to leave your pump on the cover all winter will increase its risk of breaking down and burning itself out. Also, allowing it to operate on its own will make it harder to control.
Remove Water From Your Automatic Pool Cover
The buildup of snow and ice can create a pool of water that can reach dangerous levels. This can cause major damage to your track and cover.
As often as you can, you should 1) pump the water off the pool cover and 2) check the skimmer to assess the water level in the pool. If it’s running low, put your hose into the skimmer to add water as needed.
Weight Hold
Automatic pool covers are big enough to hold up to 2,000 pounds of weight. However, they can get very heavy if they get wet due to snow, ice, or water.
Snow and ice can weigh up to 80 pounds per cubic foot, and water can weigh up to 60 pounds per cubic foot.
If you're thinking about buying a safety cover for your pool, then you might want to consider investing in a spring-loaded one.
If you operate your vehicle's automatic cover during the winter, do not remove it. It could damage the system and cause injuries.
When Winter is Over
When the snow has melted and the ice has gone, it’s a good time to call in a professional to check on your pool cover system. Having a trained professional help keep it running smoothly will help prevent issues down the road.
Automatic Pool Cover Maintenance Overview
As a recap, here are the steps that you’ll need to take:
- Winterize your swimming pool
- Make sure the water is about halfway up the skimmer before covering it
- Regularly remove the water from the pool cover using the cover pump
- Don't remove your cover during the winter, especially if it's freezing
- Maintain the water level throughout the winter by putting your water hose into the skimmer
- Call in a professional to restart your pool cover in the spring
Important Dos And Don’ts To Keep In Mind
Do
- Winterize your pool before covering it for the season
- Maintain the pool water level at halfway up the skimmer throughout the winter
- Regularly remove the water from your cover using the cover pump
- Call a professional to service your automatic cover system in the spring
Don’t
- Leave your cover pump on the entire time
- Drain your pool or allow your water level to fall below halfway up the skimmer
- Overfill your pool either (this can flood parts of your pool cover system and cause significant damage)
This post was originally published on River Pools
If you have any other questions about pool and spa products please do let us know - we are here to help!