Collection: Above-Ground Pool Covers

Winter covers are designed specifically for the off-season, typically fall through early spring. While it’s possible to keep them on year-round, it’s not ideal for regular use during swimming season. These covers are made to block sunlight and withstand harsh conditions, but they can make your pool less accessible and trap unwanted heat in the summer. If you’re not using the pool for an extended period, it’s fine to leave it covered. Just make sure you’re still checking the water level, preventing standing water, and maintaining basic water chemistry underneath.

Sagging happens when water or debris accumulates in the center of the cover, especially after rain or snow. To prevent this, most pool owners use an air pillow or cover support system. An air pillow floats under the center of the cover, pushing it upward so water flows toward the edges. Some also use cover domes or center poles to achieve the same effect. Keeping the center elevated not only extends the life of your cover but also helps prevent stress on the pool walls and reduces the risk of tearing.

Wind can be a serious threat to pool covers, especially above ground ones, which don’t always have built-in anchors like inground pool setups. To keep your cover secure, make sure it’s tightly stretched across the pool with minimal slack. Use a cable and winch system if provided, and reinforce the edges with cover clips or winter cover seals for added security. In extreme wind areas, many pool owners also place heavy-duty water bags or sandbags along the edges to keep everything in place. The key is to prevent flapping, which can quickly damage even a durable cover.

Yes, solar covers (or solar blankets) can be very effective for above ground pools. They use small air bubbles to capture heat from the sun and transfer it to the water. While they won’t raise temperatures as much as a heater, they can increase water temp by several degrees over time and reduce heat loss overnight. In addition to keeping your pool warmer, solar covers also reduce evaporation, which helps conserve water and chemicals. They’re lightweight, easy to use, and a smart way to stretch your swimming season.

Cleaning and storing your cover properly can add years to its life. At the end of the season or before storage, remove it carefully and rinse off any leaves, dirt, or algae with a garden hose. If there’s stubborn buildup, use a soft pool brush and mild soap. Never harsh cleaners. Let the cover dry completely in the sun to avoid mildew before folding it up. Store it in a cool, dry place like a shed or storage bin, away from rodents and moisture. Avoid dragging it on rough surfaces or folding it while wet.

Absolutely! And it’s a smart move if you have trees nearby. A leaf net is a lightweight mesh layer that goes on top of your winter cover. It catches leaves and other large debris so you can easily remove them without disturbing the heavier cover beneath. Once most of the leaves have fallen for the season, you can remove the leaf net and store it, leaving the winter cover in place. This two-layer setup helps prevent organic material from rotting on your cover and saves you a big cleanup job in the spring.

Yes. Above ground pool covers are not one-size-fits-all. Round covers are designed specifically for round pools, while oval covers are shaped to fit elongated pool frames. Using the wrong shape can lead to loose edges, sagging, and uneven coverage, which reduces effectiveness and shortens the life of your cover. Always measure your pool’s dimensions and choose a cover that’s made for that shape, even if the gallon size or area seems similar.

Standing water can cause major problems. Not only does it weigh down your cover, risking tears or collapse, but it also becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes and algae. The best way to deal with it is by using a manual or automatic cover pump. These sit on top of your cover and remove excess water as it collects. For winter covers especially, keeping the surface clear of water helps preserve the structural integrity of your cover and prevents water from being forced into the pool if the cover gives way.

Yes, pool covers and cleaners do different jobs. A pool cleaner helps pick up debris that’s already in the water. A pool cover, on the other hand, keeps leaves, insects, and sunlight out in the first place. This reduces the overall need for cleaning and keeps your water chemistry more stable, meaning less time spent adjusting chemicals or scrubbing your pool. In the long run, using a cover can actually help your cleaner last longer and your water stay clearer.