Pros and Cons of Automatic Pool Covers in Hillsborough

Every product available on the market has its pros and cons, and automatic pool covers in Hillsborough are no exception.

Evaluating an automatic pool cover’s advantages and disadvantages is essential for making an informed decision. Doing so lets you determine whether that pool cover meets your needs, preferences, and budget, helping you ensure it serves its intended purpose.

What is an automatic pool cover?

An automatic pool cover is a motorized cover that can be extended or retracted over a swimming pool with the push of a button or turn of a key switch.

The pros

Automatic pool covers come with a wide range of benefits, including:

1. Enhanced safety – One of the main reasons people opt for automatic pool covers is safety. They are a strong barrier that prevents accidental falls, especially for children and pets. Most automatic covers are durable enough to support weight, offering peace of mind when the pool is unused.
2. Convenience – With a simple push of a button or turn of a key switch, the cover opens or closes automatically, making it easier to operate than manual covers. It encourages frequent use, ensuring the pool stays clean and safe when not in use.
3. Energy efficiency – Automatic pool covers help retain heat, reducing evaporation and energy loss. This can lower heating costs, especially for pools in colder climates or pools heated year-round. They can also reduce water and chemical evaporation, further cutting water and chemical use costs.
4. Water and chemical savings – Automatic covers help conserve water and prevent the loss of pool chemicals by limiting evaporation. This means less frequent water refills and chemical balancing, which can lead to significant savings over time.
5. Cleaner pool – Automatic pool covers keep out debris such as leaves, dirt, and insects. This reduces the need for frequent cleaning, saving you time and reducing wear and tear on pool filtration systems.
6. Extended pool season – In regions with fluctuating weather, an automatic pool cover can help maintain warmer water temperatures, extending your swimming season by keeping the pool usable for longer.
7. Aesthetics and discretion – Automatic pool covers are often designed to be sleek and inconspicuous, blending into the pool environment without bulky mechanics visible.

The cons

Automatic pool covers come with cons, as with most things:

1. High initial cost – Automatic pool covers are significantly more expensive than manual or standard tarps. Depending on the size of the pool and the system you choose, the upfront investment can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, including installation.
2. Maintenance costs – While the cover itself reduces some pool maintenance, the mechanical components of the system require upkeep. Regular servicing may be necessary to keep the motor and tracks working smoothly. Repairing or replacing parts like the motor can be costly.
3. Complex installation – Installation can be complicated and might require specific design elements, especially for irregularly shaped pools. If your pool has the correct design to accommodate an automatic cover, retrofitting it can add extra expenses.
4. Mechanical failures – Since automatic covers rely on motors and mechanical components, they are prone to malfunctions. While these are generally reliable, any mechanical failure can lead to inconvenience and additional repair costs.
5. Limited lifespan – Automatic covers are subject to wear and tear, especially if used frequently. The lifespan of the cover material can range from 5 to 10 years, after which the fabric will likely need replacement, incurring additional costs.
6. Restricted usage – While pool covers are convenient for safety and energy savings, they can make quick, spontaneous pool use more cumbersome if they are left in the pool and unused for long periods. The need to open and close the cover every time could be a slight inconvenience for some users.
7. Design limitations for custom pools – Not all pool shapes and designs can accommodate an automatic cover. Freeform or irregularly shaped pools may require custom solutions, which further increase the cost and complexity of installation.

So, is an automatic pool cover worth the price?

The answer depends on your needs. If safety, energy savings, and convenience are high priorities for you and the cost fits within your budget, an automatic pool cover can be a valuable long-term investment. Over time, the savings in energy, water, and chemical usage may help offset the initial high cost.

But if budget is a major concern, or if your pool shape makes installation complex, you may want to consider other options, like manual covers or solar covers, which can offer some of the same benefits at a lower price.

The good news is that Pool Covers, Inc. offers a wide range of pool covers, from our simple and economical snap-down and track manual covers to our Infinity 4000 electric and hydraulic automatic pool covers that employ state-of-the-art technology. No matter what type you choose, both our manual and automatic pool covers exceed the ASTM safety standards!

Parting words

Automatic pool covers offer significant benefits in terms of safety, energy efficiency, and convenience. However, the high cost and maintenance requirements should be carefully weighed before deciding. 

For professional advice and assistance, call Pool Covers, Inc.’s customer service at 707-864-6674 or email us at customerservice@poolcoversinc.com. We will help you decide wisely in choosing your new automatic pool covers in Hillsborough.