Automatic pool cover systems are mechanical devices, with components that have a finite expected life. Service calls are normal about every 5 years, on average. There is a wide range of experience so far as service requirements go. Some customers have gone 18+ years since installation without needing attention! Some larger, custom, or unusual applications benefit greatly from a regular service interval.
Our service crews carry hundreds (probably thousands) of industry specific parts in the trucks. In turn, our trucks carry competent and some of the most experienced (20+ years) service people. Most service calls are completed in one trip.
We service what we sell, as well as most other brands of automatic pool cover. We also sell and install replacement fabrics for all systems.
Service can be performed best when the temperature is above 45 degrees or so, and the pool water level is at the correct summer operating level.
If possible, have the cover surface pumped off and reasonably clean.
To effectively communicate the exact situation you have, I welcome you to send me pictures of the problem. Lots of pictures. Doing so will raise the odds of a one trip service solution. Email - Mitch@ellispoolcovers.com
There are a few aspects of service/ repair that can be handled by a resourceful home owner.
The common sense stuff - clean off the cover surface, remove obstructions and debris, etc. Flushing out the tracks with fresh water. With the pool cover all the way open, start at the
pool cover mechanism and use a garden hose to rinse out the tracks the cover travels in. This is especially true for topguide systems. Most likely a visible amount of dirt will wash
out. Adjusting the torque limiter. If the cover moves sluggish, or just seems to be out of gas,
the torque limiter may need to be adjusted. Modern Coverstar systems adjust easily by tightening (in half turn, balanced increments) the two 9/16" head hex bolts protruding form the
torque limiter assembly (on the motor shaft). Older Coverstar systems are similar: two 1/2" wrenches are needed to tighten the two thru bolts of the torque limiter assembly (also on the
motor shaft). Your system may be different. See your owners manual for specific details. Replacing track sliders. The track sliders travel back and forth in the tracks each time the
cover is used and are expected to wear out over time. The track sliders support the leading edge tube, so they must be replaced when they wear out. Often, a screw driver, one
wrench, and your wits are the only tools needed to replace the sliders. Always leave the leading edge tube insert bolt tight but just loose enough to allow pivoting. If this seems
feasible to you, call and we will sell you the parts. Replacing pulleys. The pulleys at the end of the track (away from the pool cover mechanism)
need to be replaced from time to time. Often the pulleys will produce a telltale "clickety clack" when the cover opens. Some track application allow for a fairly easy replacement of
the track pulleys. Some track applications do not. You're on your own, so if you wish, we will sell you the parts. Patching the cover material. Small patches are easy! Follow the directions on the
glue, use a good piece of clean fabric, and your work will be presentable. Your cover system came with a small patch kit. Call us for additional, or larger patch kits.