For solid covers: is it accumulating water?
Solid pool covers are designed to keep stuff out of the pool—and this includes rainwater and snow melt. Consequently, covers are notorious for accumulating water on top. Water remaining on the cover for an extended period adds extra weight and can cause ripping or tearing, resulting in costly repairs or a replacement. The water can also mix with other organic debris, creating a slurry of wet leaves and dirt which is unsightly, smelly, and unsafe. In fact, water on a pool cover can even pose a drowning risk. Upon noticing any of these water accumulation issues, clear the area of the water, then recommend the client install a pool cover pump.
Automatic pool cover pumps first hit the market in the mid-90s in response to a new California law. Covers were becoming increasingly popular at the time, especially automatic covers which could quickly open and close at the touch of a button. Previously, manual pumps were used to clear water; however, the new law required these pumps to work automatically, whereby operating whenever an unsafe level of water accumulated on the surface.
Automatic pool cover pumps are designed to be lightweight and placed on the closed cover. The pumps, which can remove about 7728 L (1700 gal) per hour, turn on when a sensor is triggered when the water reaches a certain level. Placement is easy: they hook up to a standard garden hose for water out-take, and no special plumbing or equipment is required. This means they are easy to install, maintain, and remove when it is time to take off the cover. Specially designed pool cover pumps can also feature removable intake screens to prevent dirt or debris from clogging their operation. When cleaning pool covers each season, it is also a good idea to clean the pump as well.
Is too much water making its way into the pool?
Mesh covers are designed to eliminate water pooling on the surface, but they can have their own water accumulation issues. Since rain and snow melt automatically go through the mesh and into the pool, the pool itself can overfill. Automatic pool cover pumps can be set to turn on when this happens, removing excess water only when needed to keep the water at an ideal height. It is important when using these to make sure the pump is placed in an area which does not drain the pool too much.
Is the cover properly secured?
One final check to consider is overall pool cover operation. For automatic pool covers, lubricating mechanisms is a task best left to a professional. Check equipment once or twice per season for clients to make sure the auto cover closes and opens as it should, as well as ensuring there are no gaps. Check the integrity of the cover as well—again looking for rips or tears, brittle fabric, or other signs indicating it is time to replace the cover.
For winter-only covers, check if the material is so tight that even a fist cannot fit under the openings. This helps with safety and assures the wind will not blow leaves or debris underneath.
A pool cover is an important investment for pool service clients and, just like all components of their pool or spa, it requires regular inspection and maintenance to keep it durable and reliable. Safety is paramount around pools and so is regular maintenance and repairs. The items mentioned above are great guideposts for keeping people and their investment safe. Always be vigilant when it comes to inspecting customers’ pool covers, as it can and will help save lives.
Author
With 17 years of industry experience, Mark Smith is the auto cover expert and product manager for automatic safety covers at Latham, The Pool Company.
