When the harsh New England winter is in full force, most of our pools are completely covered in snow. While it’s easy to forget about pool maintenance during the off-season, there are some things that you can do to protect and maintain your pool cover over the winter. No matter what type of swimming pool you have, you will need to protect your pool cover from the winter elements to prevent damage.
Your winter pool cover can be damaged from an accumulation of too much water and ice on the top, from wind, or from falling tree branches and leaves. Here are some simple tips to protect your pool cover and prevent winter pool cover failures, for both inground and above ground pools:
- Remove Excess Water and Ice from Your Pool Cover – the best way to remove excess water and ice from a swimming pool cover is to use a cover pump. Never try to remove ice from the pool cover as dropping just one piece could put a huge gash right through the cover. Prevent ice buildup by keeping the water level on the top of your pool cover to a minimum. You can use a pump near the steps or in the skimmer to prevent the water level from touching the cover which can trap debris and rip the cover.
- Protect Your Cover against Leaves and Branches – scoop or rake away any leaves and debris sitting on the pool cover. Consider hiring a professional tree trimming or removal company for overhanging limbs that could possibly land in your pool, this is a leading cause of damage to swimming pool covers in the off-season. A leaf net made of mesh can be installed right over your pool cover, which allows the water to drain through but collects all of the leaves on top for easy cleanup.
- Inspect Water Bags on Inground Pools – water bags holding an inground pool cover in place should be inspected regularly to make sure they are not leaking or deflated and to make sure the cover is still fitting firmly in place around the perimeter of your pool.
- Tighten Cable and Winch on Above Ground Pools – pull any slack to avoid a sinking cover and make sure it is securely fastened down.
Upgrade to a quality winter pool safety cover to prevent winter pool cover failures. Learn more about how to properly close pools and how to schedule your professional pool closing.
Quality Winter Pool Covers Prevent Winter Cover Failure
Quality winter pool safety covers help to prevent winter pool cover failures when installed properly. The Swimming Pool Store can help you find the best pool cover for your pool and provide professional pool closing services so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Closing your pool properly with a quality winter safety cover will help to ensure a smooth opening in the spring.
The Swimming Pool Store has been providing quality, knowledgeable and friendly pool service for over 50 years. We offer pool closing services along with installation of your winter safety pool cover for a safe, secure pool closing. Schedule your closing online and contact us with any questions about protecting your pool cover over the winter.