Is it time to replace parts of your automatic pool cover?
To fix it, or to replace your automatic pool cover? That is the question.
As you walk around your pool, you should visually inspect your automatic pool cover from time to time, because you may not know it but it may have some potential service issues. An automatic pool cover contains parts that can be repaired. However, depending on the age of the cover and how well it has been maintained, it might be time to replace it.
Let’s take a look at components of an automatic pool cover system,and how you might be able to determine if they can be repaired, or if it’s time to call a pool cover professional to replace these automatic pool cover parts.
1.The vinyl. It is important to take a close look at the entire cover. You’re looking for faded worn areas, small holes or tears. If you find a hole that’s less than two inches in diameter, or a tear that’s less than three inches long, that may be able to be fixed with a patch kit. However, if you find larger holes or tears, or if the vinyl is worn, it might be time to think about a new cover. Remember that a persistent puddle of water in the same spot is a dead giveaway that there’s a hole or tear allowing pool water to seep through.
Fix or replace? What starts as wear or a tiny hole can quickly turn into a bigger problem. Continuing to patch holes in the cover instead of replacing it can compromise the integrity of the cover and the safety of your family. Holes more than 6 inches definitely need to have an expert technician take a look at it.
2. The webbing. The webbing is the 2” material on the side of every automatic pool cover. It slides back and forth inside the track and holds the cover above the pool water. As you inspect the webbing, look for worn, frayed webbing or webbing that has separated from the vinyl. Depending on how bad the wear and tear is, webbing may be repairable.
Fix or replace? The webbing is a key component of the overall safety of an automatic pool cover. If it’s tearing or catching as it enters the track, the webbing and/or pool cover will likely need replaced.
3. The ropes. The ropes attach to the webbing and pull the automatic cover closed. Check the ropes to make sure they’re not worn or frayed. If they are, you’ll need to give a local pool cover specialist a call. Ropes typically can not be repaired, but need replaced when they are worn or frayed.
Fix or replace? The ropes should last the lifetime of an automatic pool cover depending on use and maintenance of the system. They can be replaced as long as the vinyl and webbing are still in good shape.
4. The track and gliders. Aluminum tracks are found on both sides of the pool and need to be clear of debris. The gliders need to be in good shape to keep the automatic pool cover opening and closing smoothly. If the track has debris built up, it must be sprayed out with a low-pressure hose nozzle.
Fix or replace? Tracks rarely need replaced. However, gliders are a wear item and if the gliders are worn, but the rest of the cover is in good shape, they can most likely be replaced to extend the functionality of the pool cover system. .
5. The motor and controller. If the cover is failing to open or close properly, you’ll need to have an automatic pool cover specialist take a look at the system to diagnose the problem. There are a variety of potential causes for the motor or controller of an automatic pool cover to not open and close as it should.
Fix or replace? Your local automatic pool cover service company can most likely fix or replace the motor or controller.
Knowing the basics about your automatic pool cover is key to a happy, stress-free swim season. The best thing you can do is stay on top of regular maintenance of your automatic pool cover by having an annual maintenance performed during the year. Calling in the pros once a year to get an honest, expert opinion is good advice.
About Cover Care
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At Cover Care, for more than 40 years, our mission has been to help pool owners better enjoy their pools and protect their investment in their pool by installing and maintaining the best automatic pool covers in the industry.
Cover Care has automatic pool cover repair specialists across the country and near you.
We work on every brand of pool cover – including yours.
Cover Care has locations across the United States and continues to grow.
We’re committed to giving you the information you need to keep your pool and your family safe. Get more tips about your automatic pool cover.
To get more information or to schedule a service call for your automatic pool cover, visit www.covercare.com/contact/.