swimming pool with an in-ground pool winter cover

Inground Winter Cover Maintenance: Tips To Prevent Algae & Damage

Maintaining your inground winter pool cover helps protect your water, liner, and pool structure during the off-season. Without regular care, your cover can tear, algae may grow, and your spring pool opening will be much harder. These tips will help you keep your cover secure, clean, and working effectively all winter long.

Why Winter Cover Maintenance Matters

Winter pool covers are designed to keep out debris and sunlight. But if they are not properly maintained, problems start to show up:

  • Water can collect and cause sagging

  • Leaves and dirt create staining or rot

  • Algae can grow under covers exposed to light

  • Tears and gaps can allow pests or debris inside

Simple weekly or bi-weekly care helps extend the life of your cover and keeps your pool water cleaner.

What Causes Algae Under Winter Covers?

Even in cold weather, algae can grow if conditions are right. Here are some common causes:

  • Sunlight exposure through clear or thin cover materials

  • Warm temperatures in mild climates

  • Unbalanced pool water at closing

  • Organic debris left on the surface

To avoid algae, choose a dark or opaque cover, balance your pool water before closing, and clean your cover regularly.

How To Prevent Algae Growth

You can reduce the chance of algae forming under your cover with these tips:

  1. Use A Solid Or Dark-Colored Cover: These block sunlight that feeds algae.

  2. Balance Water Chemistry: Keep sanitizer and pH at recommended levels before covering.

  3. Shock The Pool Before Closing: This kills lingering algae spores.

  4. Add Algaecide At Closing: A slow-release algaecide helps fight growth all winter.

  5. Keep The Cover Clean And Dry: Remove leaves, dirt, and water regularly.

How To Maintain A Winter Pool Cover Weekly

A quick check each week makes a big difference. Follow this routine:

  • Remove leaves with a soft broom or leaf rake

  • Drain standing water with a cover pump

  • Check straps, cables, or water bags for tightness

  • Inspect edges for gaps or tears

It takes less than 20 minutes a week but protects your pool all winter.

Best Tools For Winter Cover Maintenance

A few key tools will make your winter care routine easier:

  • Cover Pump: Removes rain or snow melt quickly

  • Soft Broom or Leaf Rake: Gently clears debris without damaging the cover

  • Patch Kit: Fixes small holes or tears early

  • Water Bags or Blocks: Keeps the cover weighted down evenly

  • Cover Seal: Prevents wind from lifting edges

These simple tools are a good investment for winter pool owners.

What To Do After A Snowstorm Or Heavy Rain

After extreme weather, take the time to check your pool cover:

  1. Brush Off Snow: Use a broom to push snow off gently. Do not use sharp tools.

  2. Pump Standing Water: Water from melting snow should be removed promptly.

  3. Check For Damage: Look for sagging, torn fabric, or lifted corners.

  4. Tighten Or Adjust: Reposition straps, anchors, or bags as needed.

This keeps the cover functioning and protects your pool from excess weight or cold exposure.

How To Spot And Repair Cover Damage

Small problems can lead to bigger issues if ignored. Look for:

  • Loose stitching or fabric tears

  • Water leaks under the cover

  • Fraying at the edges

  • Missing grommets or broken fasteners

Use a vinyl patch kit or order replacement parts if needed. If your cover has multiple large tears, it may be time to replace it.

When To Replace Your Inground Winter Cover

Covers do not last forever, even with proper maintenance. You should consider replacing your winter cover if:

  • It has several tears that cannot be patched

  • The cover no longer fits snugly

  • Water or dirt regularly gets into the pool

  • The material is thin or brittle

Replacing a worn-out cover prevents bigger problems like algae infestations or liner damage.

Keep Your Cover In Top Shape All Winter

Regular winter cover care helps protect your investment and makes spring opening much smoother. By staying on top of small tasks, you prevent algae growth, avoid costly repairs, and keep your pool water cleaner through the off-season.

Use the right tools, inspect after every storm, and follow a weekly routine to make your winter pool cover last longer and work better.

Back to blog

Leave a comment