Maintaining Your Pool Cover
The kids are back in school and the leaves are just starting to fall which means it’s time for most of us to close our pools for another season. Once you’ve taken the necessary steps to winterize your pool you’ll want to cover it with either a manual safety cover or automatic safety pool cover.
Make sure whatever pool cover you’re using, it meets ASTM safety standards. You can do this by reading the cover’s labels or checking the manufacturer’s website. Some of these standards include:
- Your cover should be able to hold at least 485lbs (the estimated average weight of 2 adults and one child).
- Make sure any openings between the cover and the side of the pool are small enough to prevent a child or pet from passing through
- Be sure the surface of the cover drains appropriately and water does not collect on the surface
Clean It
Once your cover is installed make sure it stays clean. Use a leafblower, skimmer or hose to keep the surface clear of leaves or other debris. Be sure to remove standing water by using an automatic pump. The pump should be placed in the area where water tends to pool. Remember to remove the pump from the cover when temperatures are below freezing or severe snowfall is expected. Make sure the pump’s hose drains away from the pool.
Maintain It
Pool covers can be a significant investment. A solid (vinyl) security cover costs $1,200-$3,000 but an automatic cover can cost $5,000-15,000. But with proper care, a solid cover can last 6-10 years and an automatic cover can last 3 years before it’s parts will need maintenance. To maximize the life of your pool cover take the following precautions:
- Check the waterline, water, snow or debris will place a strain on the cover, and too much water can flood automatic systems.
- Clean your cover every 3-6 months using a garden hose, pool brush, and mild detergent. Remove excess water with the cover’s pump. If you have mold developing used diluted bleach. To avoid mold after cover removal, make sure the cover is completely dry before storing
- For automatic systems; spray reel components with a teflon based lubricant every season, clean the motor housing and inspect the track once a year. Tighten any loose areas.
- Check for rips or tears in your cover, and patch any holes immediately using a patch kit.
- Prevent premature aging of your cover by leaving your cover open for two hours after adding chemicals to your pool.
So bundle up your pool this fall and remember to keep your pool cover clear of debris or standing water! Need a professional? American Pool can handle all your service needs! Whether you are a residential property or a substantial commercial property we are here to help! Take a moment to fill out a service request form, and we’ll give you a call!
