Pool Cover Maintenance

Extending the life of a pool cover requires regular pool cover maintenance. Pool covers protect the pool lining and water from sun and weather damage, dirt and debris. Pool covers are used to winterize the pool during the cold seasons, and solar covers help raise the temperature and protect the pH balance of the water during the swimming seasons. Pool covers can last the full duration of their warranties and beyond, if properly maintained each year.

  1. Remove Standing Water

    • Snow and rain regularly collect on the pool cover's surface. Salts and pollutants in the air and water may break down the fibers of the pool cover over time. Once water puddles on the cover, pump it off using a pool-cover pump. Pool-cover pumps are either electric powered or work through a manual pump to get a steady suction flow. The water is drained through a hose connected to the pump. If you do not have a pump, fill a garden hose with water, with one end in the pool-cover water. Disconnect the hose from the water supply and drop it to the ground to drain. The force of the water will pull the water through the hose.

    Wash Away Debris

    • If the pool cover is dry, yet covered with leaves and other debris, use a blower to blow it off of the cover. Once the pool cover is taken off of the pool, spread it over a clean area. Use a scrubbing mop and a bucket of soap and water to wash away dirt deposits and slime. Hose away the dirt, then turn the pool cover over to clean the other side.

      Allow the pool cover to dry completely in the sun to prevent mold or mildew from forming on it when it is in storage. Sprinkle baby powder on it, then fold it neatly and store in a plastic storage bin until it is time to winterize the pool again.

    Enhance the Pool Cover's Job

    • When it's time to winterize the pool, use a pool-cover pillow or balloon to raise the center of the pool cover. It is inflated then secured to the pool's framing using rope or cord attached to its four corners, so it is balanced at the center of the pool.This will decrease the area where water will collect.

      Make sure the pool cover is stretched evenly across the pool, and that the cord or attachments are firmly fixed. For above-ground pools, pool-cover clips will help to hold the cover taut over the pool's surface. This will extend the life of the pool cover by preventing the water from pooling.