A winter pool cover does more than just protect your pool from falling leaves. It helps guard against snow, ice, algae growth, and UV damage. But if you already have an automatic pool cover, you might be wondering if it can also serve as your pool cover for winter. The answer is yes, but with a few important conditions.

What Makes a Good Winter Pool Cover?

A proper winter pool cover is designed to handle harsh conditions. It’s typically thicker than a standard cover, often opaque to block sunlight, and strong enough to hold snow or ice. Whether you need a winter pool cover for an inground pool or the best above ground pool winter cover, the goal is the same: protect your pool and equipment until spring.

Automatic covers are incredibly convenient during swim season. They keep out debris, help retain heat, and improve safety. But when it comes to winterizing, they may fall short if not handled properly.

Using an Automatic Cover as a Winter Cover

In areas with mild winters, like parts of Northern Virginia and the DC area, your automatic cover can be used during winter if you take the right steps. Here’s how to make it work:

• Balance your pool water. Test and adjust chemical levels before closing, and consider using a winter algaecide if your cover isn’t fully opaque.
• Lower the water just enough. Drop the level below the skimmer, but not too low. Water helps support the cover when snow piles up.
• Clean the cover and mechanism. Remove all debris and lubricate moving parts so they don’t freeze up or get damaged.
• Use a winter pool cover pump. This helps keep water from pooling on top of the cover, which could weigh it down or damage the fabric.

You can also learn more about high-quality options like Coverstar, Latham, and Aquamatic for durable pool covers built to withstand winter.

Pros and Cons of Relying on Your Automatic Cover

While an automatic cover can double as a winter cover for pool use in some climates, it’s not a perfect solution. Snow and ice can stress the fabric and track system. The materials may not handle extreme cold well, especially if UV damage has weakened them over time.

On the plus side, automatic covers are excellent at keeping out dirt and debris. They also reduce evaporation and help maintain chemical balance. Some are strong enough to act as a safety cover too, making them versatile if used correctly.

But if you live in a snowy area or have an older automatic system, switching to a dedicated winter cover may be the better choice. This applies whether you’re looking for an inground pool winter cover or the best above ground winter pool cover.

What About Algae?

Winter covers help prevent algae by blocking sunlight. Many automatic pool covers let in some light, which can promote algae growth. A solid swimming pool winter cover, paired with balanced water and algaecide, is your best bet for a clean opening in spring.

Need Help with Winter Pool Covers in Northern VA, DC, or MD?

At Great Falls Pools, we offer expert advice and professional installation for every type of winter swimming pool cover. Whether you need an above ground winter pool cover or a durable winter inground pool cover, we’ve got you covered.

We proudly serve homeowners throughout Northern Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland, including McLean, Great Falls, Falls Church, Vienna, Burke, Oakton, Tysons Corner, Fairfax, Arlington, Herndon, Sterling, Fairfax County, Loudoun County, Northwest DC, and Potomac MD.

Need a hand choosing the best winter cover for your pool or want us to inspect your automatic system before cold weather hits? Contact us today to schedule your service.

Want to explore more about our cover options? Check out our pool covers page for more info.