Learn How to Repair Your Automatic Pool Covers

Help!

Here is a list of suggestions for common issues. This is not meant to be a complete technical repair manual. The focus is on solutions that an average homeowner can likely do.

My Cover Does Not Work. Now What?

  • Take the time to look for obvious signs of trouble. Often, problems are simple to fix.
  • Listen for motor sounds when the switch is tried. No noise at all from the motor is likely an electrical problem. A qualified electrician might be of help here.
  • Is the pool water up to the correct summer operating level? Automatic pool covers are designed to glide on the water. If the pool water is too low (a leak, maybe), the cover will get stuck. Fill the pool.
  • Water can get trapped on top of the fabric in the area between the fabric roll and the inside of the mechanism enclosure. Get the water out, and wind the cover on the roll as much as you can by hand. Try closing the cover normally.
  • On topguide applications, the tracks may need to be cleaned. 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. You may have to do this several times. Try closing the cover normally. Note there are times when dirt clogs the track badly (although it may be impossible to see), and flushing will not fix the problem.
  • Adjust the torque limiter. If the cover moves sluggishly, 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 from the torque limiter assembly (on the motor shaft). Older Coverstar systems are similar: two 1/2" wrenches are needed to tighten the two through bolts of the torque limiter assembly (also on the motor shaft). Your system may be different. See your owner’s manual for specific details.
  • If all else fails, and the cover is stuck closed over the pool, it may be possible to wrench the cover off of the pool by hand. In the opposite end from the motor, there may be a 3/4" square receive for a 3/4" ratchet. Use this to wind the cover open. If there is no such receive, or you do not have a 3/4" ratchet, a large pipe wrench may be used on the roll tube shaft to manually crank open. Eat a good breakfast before you try this; covers can be opened by hand, but it may take some physical exertion.