Installing an above ground pool cover correctly is the single most effective way to extend your swimming season, reduce water evaporation, and keep your pool significantly cleaner. A proper cover acts as a barrier against leaves, insects, and debris, while also retaining heat and minimizing water loss due to evaporation. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process to ensure your cover fits securely and functions efficiently year after year.
Preparing the Pool and Surrounding Area
Before you even unfold the cover, meticulous preparation is essential for a smooth installation. Begin by completely draining the pool to the appropriate level, usually just below the skimmer opening, if your cover system requires it. Next, you must thoroughly clean the pool deck and the waterline tile, removing any algae, dirt, or calcium deposits that could puncture the liner. Inspect the pool walls and coping for any sharp edges or protruding screws, sanding them down to prevent future damage to the cover material.
Gathering Essential Tools and Accessories
Having the right tools on hand transforms a potentially frustrating task into a manageable project. You will need a quality pool cover pump, a telescoping pole with a brush attachment, a sturdy ladder, and a reliable tape measure. Depending on your specific above ground pool structure, you might also require additional anchors, wall brackets, or a submersible pump for areas with heavy rainfall. Ensuring you have all necessary equipment before starting prevents delays and ensures you do not have to interrupt the process halfway through.
Measuring and Selecting the Correct Cover Size
Accuracy in measurement is non-negotiable for a professional-looking result. Measure the diameter of your pool from the outer edge of the top rail across to the opposite edge. Then, measure the distance from the top of the pool wall to the ground. To determine the correct cover diameter, add four feet to your pool's overall diameter; for example, a 15-foot pool requires an 18-foot cover. This overhang creates a sag that allows rainwater to pool in the center, directing it toward the drainage plugs.
Installing the Winch System and Wall Anchors
If your cover utilizes a winch system, the installation focuses on securing the mechanism to the pool wall. Position the winch brackets evenly around the top rail, ensuring they are firmly attached to the structural frame of the pool. Thread the cover strap through the winch drum, pulling it taut across the pool surface. Gradually crank the winch handles, working your way around the pool, to remove all slack and create a tight, drum-tight surface that will not flap in the wind.
Deploying the Cover and Managing Water Accumulation
With the frame secured, carefully lower the cover over the pool, aligning the center patch with the main drain or skimmer area. Smooth the cover outward from the middle to the edges, ensuring there are no wrinkles or folds that could collect debris. For covers without a built-in pump, you must install the external drainage system. Cut slits in the cover at the lowest points to create drainage channels, and secure the cover weight around the perimeter to keep it in place during storms.
Operating the Cover Pump Effectively
Once the cover is installed, the cover pump becomes the primary defense against water accumulation. Submerge the pump in the center of the cover, ensuring the intake is not clogged by debris. Position the discharge hose so that water is directed away from the pool structure and toward a drainage area. During periods of heavy rain or snowfall, you may need to operate the pump multiple times daily to prevent the cover from tearing under the excessive weight of standing water.
