When Should You Take Off a Winter Pool Cover?

On this page (7 sections)

1. When should you remove a pool cover in spring?
2. What should you check before lifting the cover?
3. How do you lift a winter pool cover without dumping debris?
4. What should you do with the cover after removal?
5. Which winter cover should you use next season?
6. How do you keep a pool cover manageable through winter?
7. What’s the best time to take off a winter pool cover?

Remove a winter pool cover when freezing weather has passed and you’re ready to reopen the pool. Check the forecast, clear water and debris, then lift, clean, and dry the cover before storing it.

There isn’t one spring date that works for every pool. Your local weather, pool setup, and opening schedule matter more than the calendar.

When should you remove a pool cover in spring?

Take off the cover after the risk of freezing weather has passed and you’re ready to open the pool. Check the forecast for your area and follow any seasonal guidance for your pool and cover.

Leaving the cover in place until opening helps keep leaves and other debris out while you prepare. If your pool uses special winterizing equipment or has specific opening steps, follow those instructions before uncovering it.

The cover type matters, too. A floating winter cover, a mesh safety cover, and a solar cover have different purposes; see types of pool covers if you’re unsure which one you have.

What should you check before lifting the cover?

Clear standing water and loose debris before you move the cover. This reduces the chance of spilling dirty water into the pool or dragging leaves across the surface.

Check that the cover is still supported and attached as intended. If it is torn, sagging, or difficult to handle, pause and follow the cover maker’s instructions rather than pulling hard.

How do you remove water from a pool cover?

A cover pump can remove standing water before you lift the cover. The Little Giant APCP-1700 is designed for automatic removal of water from pool covers and activates in 2 in of water, then shuts off when the level drops to 1 in.

Set up the pump according to its instructions, route its hose to a suitable drain area, and keep electrical connections dry. The pump has a 25 ft cord and includes an adapter for a standard 3/4 in garden hose.

If the pump won’t start or move water, check the setup before removing the cover. Our guide to what to check when a pool cover pump is not working covers common first steps.

How do you lift a winter pool cover without dumping debris?

Lift the cover slowly and keep loose debris from sliding into the pool. If possible, have someone help guide a large cover as you fold or roll it toward a clear area.

For a solid cover, remove as much water and loose debris as practical first. Keep the cover’s edges from scraping against sharp coping or hardware, and don’t stand on a cover unless its maker specifically says it is designed for that use.

An inground winter cover may use a cable and winch to hold it in place. Release the fastening as directed, then lift the cover without yanking against the anchors.

What should you do with the cover after removal?

Clean and dry the cover before storing it. Dirt and moisture left folded inside can make it harder to handle when you need it next season.

Use the care instructions for your cover material, and avoid harsh tools that could tear or scratch it. Our guide to cleaning a pool cover before storage explains the basic steps.

Fold or roll the cover only after it is dry. See how to fold a pool cover for storage for a method that keeps the cover manageable and ready for next season.

Which winter cover should you use next season?

A replacement should match your pool’s shape, size, and cover style. Measure the pool and check the cover’s fit requirements before buying.

For an 18 ft round above ground pool, the 550D 18 ft Round Winter Pool Cover is designed for many 18 ft frame pools, including Bestway, Intex, and Coleman models. Check its style and fit guidance against your pool before choosing it.

For a rectangular inground pool, the In The Swim 20 x 40 ft Inground Winter Cover has 5 ft of overlap and comes with a cable and winch for fastening.

These options suit different pool shapes and setups. Compare your measurements and cover requirements before selecting one.

How do you keep a pool cover manageable through winter?

Remove standing water and debris during winter checks, following the cover and pump instructions. Regular attention can help prevent a heavy accumulation from complicating spring removal.

A pump can help with water that collects on a cover, but it doesn’t replace checking the cover’s condition or securing system. For ongoing water control, read how to keep water off a pool cover.

What’s the best time to take off a winter pool cover?

Choose a time after freezing weather has passed, when you can prepare to open the pool and handle the cover safely. Clear water and debris first, then clean and dry the cover before storing it.

Keep the winter cover on if you aren’t ready to manage the exposed pool. When spring opening is near, follow your pool’s instructions and check the cover’s condition before putting it away.

Frequently asked questions

When should I remove a pool cover in spring?

Remove it when freezing weather has passed and you’re ready to clean and reopen the pool. Check the local forecast and your pool’s opening steps first, since the right timing varies by climate and pool setup.

Clear standing water and loose debris before lifting the cover.

Can I take off a pool cover before the weather warms up?

You can, but leave the winter cover on if freezing conditions remain or you aren’t ready to manage the exposed pool. Check your cover and pool maker’s instructions, and avoid leaving the pool open through a forecast freeze unless your setup is prepared for it.

Should I drain water off a pool cover before removing it?

Yes. Remove standing water with a cover pump or another method suited to your cover, and clear leaves and other debris before lifting.

Water and debris can spill into the pool or strain the cover as you move it.

Keep pump power connections dry and follow the pump instructions.

How should I store a winter pool cover?

Clean and dry the cover before folding it, then store it in a dry place away from sharp objects and pests. Follow the cover maker’s care instructions, since materials and storage needs vary.

Our guide to folding a pool cover for storage walks through the process.