Pool covers are an essential part of maintaining your swimming pool, protecting it from debris and the elements during the off-season. However, as the weather warms up, it's time to remove your pool cover and prepare your pool for the summer months. In this article, we'll explore the different types of pool covers and provide tips and tricks for removing them efficiently and effectively.
Types of Pool Covers
1. Solid/Tarp Pool Covers
Solid pool covers are made of heavy-duty material and are designed to completely cover your pool, keeping out debris and preventing water evaporation. They're typically held in place by water bags and or bricks around the perimeter of the pool.
2. Spring & Anchor Solid/Mesh Pool Covers
Mesh pool covers are made of porous material that allows water to pass through but keeps out debris. The solid version of this prevent much more debris from getting into the pool. Most solid covers do have at least one area that water can filter into the pool off the cover to prevent weight breaking the anchors. They're typically held in place by tension springs and anchors around the perimeter of the pool. These anchors are typically attached using a leverage bar. This same bar is used to release the tension on the spring.
3. Automatic Pool Covers
Automatic pool covers are motorized and roll on and off of your pool with the push of a button. They're typically made of either solid or mesh material and are held in place by tracks on either side of the pool.
Now that we've covered the different types of pool covers, let's dive into the steps for removing them properly.
Removing Solid Pool Covers
Step 1: Remove Debris and Water
Before removing your solid pool cover, use a pool cover pump to remove any standing water on the cover. Once the water is removed, use a leaf blower or broom to remove any debris on the surface of the cover.
Step 2: Remove Water Bags and any other weights
remove all weight around the perimeter of the pool. It's best to have a partner help you with this step to ensure that the cover doesn't fall into the pool.
Step 3: Fold and Store the Cover (or drag cover onto your lawn allow to dry then fold)
Carefully fold the pool cover and store it in a dry, cool place. Place it into the cover bag if you have one.
Removing Mesh Pool Covers
Step 1: Remove Debris
Similar to removing a solid pool cover, start by using a leaf blower or broom to remove any debris on the surface of the mesh cover.
Step 2: Release Tension Springs
Next, release the tension springs that are holding the cover in place. Ensure you use the proper tool for your specific cover. These springs can be under enormous tension and can cause injury if precautions are not taken. It's best to have a partner help you with this step to ensure that the cover doesn't fall into the pool and that everything is removed with safety in mind.
Step 3: Adjusting Your Anchors
Once the tension springs are released, most anchors around the perimeter of the pool can be screwed down flush with the deck, or bricks using a Allen Key.
Step 4: Fold and Store the Cover in Cover Bag
Carefully fold the pool cover and store it in a dry, cool place.
Removing Automatic Pool Covers (most people never remove this from its track)
Step 1: Unroll the Cover
To remove an automatic pool cover, use the motorized system to unroll the cover.
Step 2: Remove the Cover
With the cover fully unrolled, carefully remove it from the tracks on either side of the pool. It's best to have a partner help you with this step to ensure that the cover doesn't fall into the pool.
Step 3: Clean and Store the Cover
With the cover removed, use a pool cover cleaner and a soft brush to remove any debris or stains. Once the cover is clean, carefully fold it and store it in a dry, cool place.
Tips and Tricks for Removing Pool Covers
- Always use caution when removing a pool cover, as it can be heavy and difficult to maneuver.
- Before removing the cover, use a pool cover pump to remove any standing water.
- Use a leaf blower or broom to remove any debris on the surface of the cover before removing it.
- Have a partner help you remove the cover to ensure that it doesn't fall into the pool.
- Store your cover and any additional parts in a cover bag. Ensure its as dry as possible and stored in a cool moisture free environment.