How to Remove Water from Pool Cover & Keep Pool Safe This Winter

A swimming pool with a partially closed white slatted safety cover. The pool water is clear and the edge has a wooden deck.

You know the struggle of dealing with water piling up on your pool cover.

If you don’t remove it, you could end up with a stretched-out cover, a messy pool, and maybe even some nasty algae.

It’s not fun, right?

But don’t worry! In this blog, we will walk you through:

  • The easiest ways to remove water from your pool cover.
  • How to keep your pool safe all winter.
  • How to make sure your cover lasts for years.

Why Pool Owners Should Remove Water from  Pool Covers

Ignoring the water on top of your cover is a bad idea.

Too much water can stretch or even tear the cover. Then, when spring comes, you’re stuck with a dirty pool and possibly a ruined cover.

Standing water also attracts mosquitoes and algae.

So, if you see water gathering on your pool cover, remove it.

How Much Water Is Too Much?

A little bit of water is fine.

But if you see big puddles on top of the cover or feel the cover sagging, it’s time to remove it.

Even just a gallon or two sitting on top can cause problems.

Also, check your pool cover regularly, especially after rain or snow.

The Best Tools to Remove Water from Your Pool Cover

Here are some tools that make the job easier:

  • Cover Pump – The easiest and most effective way. Just place it on the cover and let it do the work.
  • Shop Vac – Works for small amounts of water, but it is not ideal for bigger jobs.
  • Garden Hose Siphon – If you don’t have a pump, this trick lets gravity drain the water for you.

How to Use a Pool Cover Pump

Just set it in the middle of your pool cover, plug it in, and let it run.

An automatic cover pump will even turn on and off by itself when needed. Pretty cool, right?

This method is much more effective than manually trying to remove the water.

How to Siphon Water with a Garden Hose

  1. Take your hose.
  2. Put one end into the water and another end below the water.
  3. Suck it until you see water coming in.
  4. Then you get out of the way; this will run as long as you need it.

This method works well, and it doesn’t need any electricity, but it’s slower than using a pump.

How to Prevent Water Buildup Using Air Pillows

Place air pillows under the cover to create slopes that direct water toward the pump or drain area.

It’s a simple trick, but it makes a big difference.

How To Stop Algae Before It Starts

Here’s how to keep it away:

  • Remove standing water from the cover.
  • Keep an eye on your pool water level.
  • Winterize your pool properly before covering it. 

By the way, we have a full guide on how you can winterize your pool like a professional. Check out our blog here!

Close-up of a blue protective cover stretched over an outdoor pool, with a portion of the pool deck visible on the side.

 

Final Tip: Check Your Cover Regularly

Don’t wait until there’s a lake on top of your pool cover.

Check the cover periodically to prevent too much water from building up.

If your pump is not working, check the cord, clear out any debris, and make sure it’s plugged in.

A little maintenance goes a long way.

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Quick Recap: Keep Your Pool Cover in Great Shape

  • Use a pump to quickly remove water from pooling on top.
  • Check the cover periodically so problems don’t sneak up on you.
  • Use air pillows to keep the cover from sagging.
  • Beware the wind—secure your cover properly.
  • Remove rainwater to avoid algae growth.

Taking care of your pool cover now means an easier pool opening when the warm weather returns.

And trust me, you’ll be relieved to know your pool is clean and ready to go when that time comes!

So, get out there and take care of your pool cover today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How to keep water off above-ground pool cover?

A. The best way is to use a cover pump. Place it in the center of the cover and let it do the work. You can also use air pillows to create slopes that guide water toward the pump.

Q. How to keep an above-ground pool cover from blowing off?

A. Make sure your cover is tightly secured with a cable and winch system. Using water bags or cover clips can also help. Placing air pillows under the cover reduces flapping caused by the wind.

Q. How do I get my pool cover to stay in place?

A. A properly sized cover, tightly secured edges, and added weight like water bags or cover clips will keep your cover from shifting or coming loose.

A. Should the above-ground pool cover touch water?

A. Not necessarily. Ideally, it should be tight enough to stay above the water, but if it sags slightly and touches the water, that’s okay as long as it’s secure and debris-free.

Q. How do I stop my above-ground pool from overflowing?

A. Before winter, lower the water level slightly to account for rain and snowmelt. If needed, use a submersible pump or siphon with a garden hose to remove excess water.

Q. Why does my pool cover have water on it?

A. Rain, melting snow, and condensation are common reasons. Using a cover pump or siphoning off excess water will help prevent damage.

Q. How do I stop my above-ground pool from leaking?

A. Check for liner tears, pump leaks, or loose fittings. If you find a small hole in the liner, use a vinyl patch kit to fix it.

Q. What can I use instead of a pool pillow?

A. If you don’t have an air pillow, you can use inflatable exercise balls, empty chemical jugs, or even pool floats as a temporary solution to help prevent ice expansion.

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