The cover is the most important component for your pool when the first frost hits the ground and wind begins to howl. It keeps your expensive investment safe from the harsh elements. However, it cannot do the job entirely on its own. If you treat your cover like a “set it and forget it” tool, you might be greeted by a torn mess or a swampy pool when the sun finally returns in the spring. To keep this problem from occurring in the first place, there are some maintenance tips that you must put into practice to keep your pool cover in top shape.
Making Sure Winter Precipitation Does Not Add Weight
Snow and rain are the biggest threats to the structural integrity of your pool cover. They add a massive amount of weight in a very short period, especially if a winter storm is under way. If you have a solid tarp cover, water can pool in the center and create a deep basin that puts immense pressure on it. You should use a submersible cover pump to remove standing water before it has a chance to freeze into a giant, heavy block of ice that can cause some serious damage. The ice can actually slice through the material as it shifts. While safety covers made of mesh allow water to drain through, they can still sag under the weight of heavy, wet snow. You should gently brush off the excess with a soft-bristled pool brush.
Clearing Debris Before It Becomes Sludge
Autumn leaves look pretty on the trees. However, they look like an ugly eyesore all piled up on the center of your pool cover. They turn into a soggy, acidic mess when they sit for weeks. These leaves eventually break down into a dark liquid that can seep through mesh covers and stain your pool floor. If you have a solid cover, the rotting leaves create a slippery slime that makes it dangerous to walk near the edge of the pool. Use a leaf blower on a dry day to clear the surface. A long-handled rake is also a great tool for pulling the damp clumps away from the middle of the cover.
Make Sure You Check Your Straps and Anchors Frequently
The hardware that holds your cover in place is under constant tension. The freezing cycle of winter can cause these parts to loosen or break. Walk around the perimeter of your pool once a month to check that all springs are tight and that all anchors are still flush with the deck. If one strap becomes loose, the extra stress gets transferred to all the other straps nearby. This can lead to a chain reaction of failures during a big windstorm. If you find an anchor that has popped up due to the ground shifting, you can usually tap it back into place with a rubber mallet.
It does not hurt to have a professional come and inspect your pool area from time to time to make sure all is well. This gives you an opportunity to find and fix problems that can negatively impact your pool. To make sure your safety cover is adequately protecting your pool, reach out to our friendly team at S&R Pool & Spa in Hillsborough, NJ straight away.