A pool cover only works as intended when dimensions, fixings, and movement paths are correct. This guide shows the installation workflow and which safety requirements you should check in the product instructions.
Why install a pool cover?
Installing a pool cover brings a range of benefits, among which the following are particularly notable:
- Energy savings, which over time generate significant financial benefits.
- Water savings by reducing the need for top-up water by an impressive 30–50 %.
- A noticeable reduction in chemical consumption in the pool by 35 %–60 %.
- Considerably shorter cleaning time, as the pool cover effectively prevents dirt and other debris from getting into the pool.
In summary, installing a pool cover contributes to substantial long-term financial savings. You can choose to do the installation yourself or hire a specialised pool company for both purchase and professional, efficient installation. With clear instructions on how to measure a pool for a safety cover, the installation can often be completed in less than a day (2-3 hours for a professional). Installing a safety cover is actually one of the easier pool projects compared with installing a new liner, pumps, filters or heaters, locating leaks, repairing tiles, etc., and can significantly reduce the total cost of a new safety cover.
Installation guide for pool covers
Below are the crucial steps to consider if you intend to install a pool cover yourself.
1. Prepare the pool area for installation of the pool cover
Before covering the pool begins, it is important to ensure that the area is thoroughly cleaned and free of obstacles, especially around the pool edges, to facilitate a smooth installation.
Although this step is not absolutely necessary, it helps determine how much material needs to be trimmed so that the pool cover fits optimally around the pool steps. This makes it easier to determine the ideal size of the pool cover with regard to the pool steps and their rails.
2. Unroll the pool cover
Once the pool area is completely free of obstacles, begin unrolling the pool cover from one end, with the bubble side facing down.
Make sure the sides are positioned correctly. If air collects between the pool surface and the cover, use a pool brush to gently remove it without disturbing the already covered area. It is not strictly necessary to remove all air, but make sure no large air pockets remain.
3. Mark the edges of the pool cover for cutting
After all air has been removed, mark the lines with chalk or a marker so you can carefully cut the pool cover to fit exactly. For a snug fit, the cover should be cut a few millimetres above the water line.
Marking is crucial for cutting the pool cover so that it fits perfectly against the pool sides, while also adjusting the size to prevent it from coming into contact with the pool edge.
4. Cut the pool cover to size
To adjust the size of the pool cover, it must be trimmed from the sides. Use sharp scissors to ensure an exact cut along the marked area.
Follow the marked areas while trimming and make sure to tuck the pool cover back into the pool every few feet. The pool cover can also be folded around the skimmer area. A pool cover that is notched at the skimmer makes it easier to remove accumulated water and debris in the skimmers. This helps rainwater flow directly through the skimmers, preventing it from collecting on top of the pool cover.
5. Installing a cover reel
Although pool cover reels are optional, they can be used to keep the pool cover in place. With the pool cover still laid out on the pool, place the reel at one end of the pool. Attach the loop and cord to the cover and the reel. Once the middle loop is attached, manually pull the cover off the pool so it rests at the base of the reel. It is important that the cords are the same length so that the force is distributed evenly when rolling up the pool cover.
6. Storage and care of the pool cover
Once the pool cover has been rolled up, make sure it is stored in a safe place where it is not exposed to the elements. Make sure there are no leaves or debris on the surface of the pool cover, as this can cause stains.
Getting a UV-resistant tarpaulin to cover the pool reel is an excellent measure. Pool covers are designed to withstand the elements. When the pool cover is used to cover the pool, the water underneath helps cool it down. When the cover is rolled up, the sun's heat has nowhere to go, which can cause the dry cover to overheat.
Final words
A pool cover is a strategic investment that over time significantly reduces expenses for both water and pool chemicals. Use the guide provided to learn step by step how to install a pool cover. If you are considering buying a pool cover, Pooltime.se is a reliable resource. We offer affordable pool covers that help maintain a clean pool environment, minimise unnecessary maintenance work, and effectively extend the pool season.
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