The system consists of a hydraulic motor, a hydraulic pump, and a hydraulic cylinder. There are several types of automatic pool covers, including electric, hydraulic or solar (based on the energy source that powers their operation), on-deck, recessed, and under-coping (based on how the track systems are mounted to the edge of the pool) Hydraulic Automatic Pool CoverĪ hydraulic automatic pool cover system is a type of automatic pool cover that uses hydraulic (liquid fluid) power to open and close the cover. Types of Automatic Retractable Pool Covers This automatic pulley mechanism allows you to open and close the pool cover with a button rather than manually. When closing the cover, the motor winds the cables to pull the cover back across the pool onto the large reel. When opening the cover, the motor unwinds the cables from the small reel, pulling the cover off the large reel to retract it. One large reel on one side stores the actual cover material the other smaller reel holds the cables. A motor turns the reels to extend or retract the vinyl cover fabric. Parts: IMG: APC Inc How an Automatic Pool Cover WorksĪn automatic pool cover uses a pulley system with two reels connected by cables or ropes running through tracks along the pool edges. This removes any standing water on top and is critical for safety.Ĭables – Steel cable, nylon, or poly ropes that attach to the lead edge and spool up on reels in the housing to retract the cover when opening. They roll in the tracks for smooth movement.Ĭover Pump – This safety pump is usually placed on the closed cover and hooked to a GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlet.

Gliders/Wheels – Wheels or low-friction gliders mounted under the lead edge bar. The lead edge rolls along these tracks, keeping the cover aligned perfectly as it opens and closes. Tracks – Guide rails mounted into the pool coping or deck along the sides. It pulls the cover out of the housing when opening and rolls the fabric onto itself when closing the cover. Lead Edge – This front metal or plastic bar attaches to the pool cover fabric. The cover fabric neatly rolls up into the housing when opening the pool. Housing – This deck or recessed box stores the electric motor and mechanical drive components. Pressing buttons for Open or Close initiates the cover retraction or extension. It is usually a keypad, touchpad, or switch mounted on a nearby wall or post. Here are the main components of an automatic pool cover system:Ĭontroller – This control panel or switch activates the opening and closing of the cover. It sits on the pool’s surface and completely seals off the water when closed. It is a powered cover that you can extend or retract at the push of a button or flick of a switch. Should I Leave the Cover Pump on the Cover at All Times? Automatic Pool Covers: Basics What is an Automatic Pool Cover?

Pool with automatic cover