How To Clean Your Automatic Swimming Pool Cover
An automatic swimming pool is fantastic for easy access to your swimming pool, protecting the pool from natural elements, and keeping pets and little ones from falling in the pool. One of the best things about auto covers is the ease of maintenance. On a daily and weekly basis, all you really have to do is monitor that the water level is at the proper height, clear any debris such as leaves and sticks, maintain the chemicals at the correct range (keep chlorine levels to a minimum), and open the pool at least once a week. Not too bad, right?
The other big element of auto cover maintenance is the yearly cleaning. An automatic swimming pool cover should be deep cleaned at least once a year, sometimes every 6 months depending on your location. Fear not, the process of cleaning them is quite simple. At Royal Pools G2 Landscaping, we install and maintain pools with auto-covers all summer, and want you to know that cleaning your auto-cover is very easy, so long as you know what you’re doing. So, let’s get into it!
How to Clean an Automatic Pool Cover: Step-By-Step
1. Remove Debris Regularly
Before cleaning the cover, clear off any loose debris such as leaves, dirt, or twigs using:
- A soft-bristle pool brush
- A leaf blower (on a low setting)
- A skimmer net
⚠️ Avoid using sharp tools that may puncture or damage the cover.
2. Apply a Mild Soap Solution for Deep Cleaning
If the cover has stubborn stains or algae, mix a mild detergent with warm water.
- Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the surface gently.
- Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or abrasive cleaners that could damage the cover material.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove soap residue.
3. Remove Standing Water with a Pump
Standing water can lead to mold growth and excess weight on the cover, potentially damaging the mechanism. Pro Tip: utilize a cover pump while cleaning the cover to avoid having to drain water after the whole thing has been scrubbed.
4. Inspect the Cover and Tracks
While cleaning, check for signs of wear, such as:
- Small tears or holes
- Loose or misaligned tracks
- Rust or corrosion on metal parts
Early detection of issues can prevent costly repairs down the line.
5. Allow the Cover to Dry Before Closing
Once cleaned and rinsed, let the cover air dry to prevent mold or mildew formation. If necessary, use a soft towel to remove excess moisture.
6. Apply A Pool Cover Protectant
Once the cover is cleaned and dried, it is recommended to apply a cover protectant liquid evenly using a brush or a hose that will combat UVA and UVB light rays from the sun damaging the pool. Give the protectant enough time to dry completely before operating the cover.
Conclusion
Regularly cleaning your automatic swimming pool cover helps maintain its efficiency and keep it looking brand new all year round. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a clean and hassle-free swimming pool cover that will be more than worth the investment. For more educational articles and videos on all things pools and landscaping, check out our learning hub above. We listed a few articles to get started on below – Happy pool hunting!
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