Above Ground Pool Covers

Every Pool Needs One

Above ground pool covers are a must for every above ground pool owner.  If you get them on before the big storms, clean up after will be much quicker.  Pool covers are also the best way to winterize your pool.

Winter pool covers are made for just about any size above ground pool.  If you cannot find an exact match just go one size larger.  A little extra cover will not hurt nearly as bad as not enough.

Above ground pool covers protect the pools from the environment and they also protect little kids from the pools.  A good quality pool cover is one that you can actually walk on without damaging it.  It should easily support a child and allow them to get off the pool safely.  Most covers have a wench and cable system that get cranked up tight around the outside of the pool.  Many cranks have a padlock included for added safety.

above ground pool cover
Pool Cover
In The Swim carries a full line of above ground pool covers and accessories.  You will find covers of different thicknesses and quality.  A cheap cover is better than no pool cover at all but you will, however, get what you pay for.  A more expensive quality cover will last many more seasons than it's cheaper counterpart.

Winter pool covers are the best way to winterize a pool and they are the best protection from the summer storms.  It is also nice to have a solar blanket on hand to put on in the early spring to get the water warmed up and ready for swimming weeks ahead of pools without one.  In colder climates solar pool covers are used all summer long just to keep the pool warm enough for regular use.

Make sure also that you have all the necessary pool cover accessories.  You will probably want things like the pillows for under the cover, the pump for draining the water off the top and guards and plugs for the skimmer.  Another useful item is the Winter Pill (#ad) to be used before covering the pool for the winter season.

One of the reviews I read for a less expensive cover really made a good point, one worth your consideration.

"Over the years we had more expensive covers (double or more in price) they only lasted 2 years, then started failing. I put one of these on every year, new. It works great, for one season. When we're ready to open, we pull this thing off, fold it up, and throw it in the dumpster. I could pay 3 or 4 times the price and get a cover that will last 3 or 4 years, but it's not worth the bit of plastic I'm saving and the time I'm wasting.

For about 50 bucks a year, which is about 66 cents a day if you look at the pool season, it's just not worth wrestling with old covers only to have them look like crud and fail prematurely.

For 1 season, this is a 4 star based on performance and value.

For 8 seasons, I'd be shocked if it was recognizable as a pool cover at the end."

With that said you do want to make sure the thickness of your cover can withstand your local climate conditions, whether it's heavy rainfall, snow loads, or intense sun. The stated warranty might be a suggestion as to how long you can expect the cover to last. If you plan on paying a little more check for a good warranty policy to ensure protection against defects and wear over time.

Check also how you want to secure the cover. I prefer the outside cable and winch but there are many ways to hold a cover in place. If you are just going to use the grommets why pay for the wench?

A few tips for installing your new pool cover might be helpful. Before installing the cover, ensure the pool water is clean and the surrounding area is free of debris. Take out any ladders, floats, and other accessories from the pool to ensure a flat surface for the cover. Unfold the cover and lay it out in the sun for a while to make it more pliable, which will make installation easier. Then secure it tight and inspect it often during the off season.

In colder climates an inflatable pillow under the cover can be useful. During winter, the water in your pool can freeze and expand. A cover pillow helps offset this expansion by providing a buffer, preventing pressure on the pool walls that could cause damage. By creating a peak in the center of the pool, water and debris are encouraged to slide off towards the edges, making it easier to remove and reducing the potential for debris build-up. Having a cover pump or siphon on hand is helpful also.

 

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