Do You Need to Cover Above Ground Pool? Complete Guide

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Quick Answer

Yes, you absolutely need to cover your above ground pool. Pool covers are essential for maintaining water quality, reducing chemical costs by 60-80%, and protecting your equipment during winter months. Even if you keep your pool open year-round in warmer climates, covering when not in use saves money and maintenance time.

Why Above Ground Pools Need Covers

Above ground pools are more vulnerable than in-ground pools because they're fully exposed to the elements. Without proper covering, you'll face several costly problems:

• Chemical loss: UV rays break down chlorine rapidly, requiring constant addition of sanitizer
• Debris accumulation: Leaves and organic matter consume chlorine and create algae breeding grounds
• Water evaporation: You'll lose 1-3 inches weekly in summer, requiring frequent refilling
• Equipment damage: Freeze damage to pumps, filters, and plumbing costs hundreds in repairs

When to Cover Your Above Ground Pool

Winter Closing (Essential)

Cover your pool when nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 65°F. This typically occurs between October and December, depending on your location. Before covering, balance your water chemistry:

• pH: 7.2-7.6
• Total Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
• Calcium Hardness: 150-300 ppm
• Free Chlorine: 1-3 ppm (don't over-chlorinate before closing)

Daily Use Periods

Cover your pool whenever it's not in use for more than 8 hours. This includes overnight covering during swim season and extended periods when you're away.

Types of Above Ground Pool Covers

Winter Covers

Solid vinyl covers are most common for above ground pools. Look for 8-gauge or thicker material with reinforced edges. These covers completely block sunlight, preventing algae growth, and include a cable and winch system for secure attachment.

Mesh safety covers are premium options costing $200-600 but provide superior protection. They support weight loads and allow rain to drain while filtering out debris.

Solar Covers

Solar bubble covers work excellent during swimming season, raising water temperature by 10-15°F while reducing chemical usage. Use 12-mil thickness minimum for durability. Solar covers are not suitable for winter closing as they don't provide freeze protection.

Automatic Covers

While expensive ($3,000-8,000), automatic covers offer ultimate convenience and safety. They're particularly valuable for above ground pools used frequently, paying for themselves through chemical and heating savings.

Proper Installation Process

1. Clean the pool thoroughly - Remove all debris and brush walls before covering
2. Lower water level - Drop water 4-6 inches below skimmer for winter covers
3. Position cover evenly - Ensure equal overhang around entire pool perimeter
4. Secure cable system - Thread cable through grommets and tighten using winch mechanism
5. Add water bags - Place around pool perimeter, filling 2/3 full to allow for ice expansion
6. Install air pillow - Place 4x4 foot air pillow in pool center to break ice formation

Chemical Savings and Maintenance Benefits

Covering your above ground pool reduces chemical usage dramatically. Uncovered pools require 2-4 pounds of chlorine weekly during peak season, while covered pools need only 0.5-1 pound. This translates to $200-400 annual savings on a typical 24-foot round pool.

Pool covers also prevent the nightmare scenario of green pool recovery. Without covering, organic debris can overwhelm your chlorine overnight, requiring a SLAM (Shock Level And Maintain) process using 2-3 gallons of liquid chlorine to clear the water.

Climate Considerations

Northern Climates

In areas with freezing temperatures, winter covering is non-negotiable. Ice formation can destroy above ground pool walls, and freeze damage to equipment creates expensive repairs. Always use solid winter covers with proper air pillow installation.

Southern Climates

Even in warm areas, covering during cooler months (when pool isn't used regularly) reduces maintenance significantly. You can maintain minimal chemical levels and avoid weekly cleaning when covered properly.

Common Covering Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-chlorinating before closing: High chlorine levels can bleach vinyl liners - maintain normal 1-3 ppm FC
• Using inadequate water bags: Under-filled or insufficient bags allow wind to lift covers
• Skipping air pillow installation: Without pillows, ice pressure can damage pool walls
• Covering dirty water: Always clean and balance water before covering to prevent spring cleanup nightmares

Bottom line: Covering your above ground pool isn't optional - it's essential equipment protection that saves money and prevents major headaches. The investment in quality covers pays for itself within one season through reduced chemical costs and equipment protection.