House we bought a year ago had a cover air pump made by Air Lok to
keep the cover inflated to sluff off leaves. Not knowing any better
that same cover was used last Fall and is showing problems not seen
last season. Apparently the material stretches and the pump has
difficulties getting it up for taught contours. Cold nights cause the
cover to sag until the sun warms the air entrapped and if there is any
rain water puddles form and the air pump has no way of getting the
cover up to sluff off the puddles forcing using the shop vac to make
things right.

Is this type of cover necessary in a wooded environment? We have a
sweet gum tree near the pool and the seed balls are a real pest! Other
pools in the area don't have any cover as they lack trees in the area.
Are there other covers that might be more optimum than Air Lock? Is
the life span of the cover material really only one season? Had
considered a sump pump for getting the water out but searching the net
lacks specificity in what the different pumps need and will due. Our
first experience with built in pools. About 16' X 32' if that makes
any difference. Comments welcomed.

Is this type of cover necessary in a wooded environment?
No, but it helps keep out debris



We have a sweet gum tree near the pool and the seed balls are a real pest! Other
pools in the area don't have any cover as they lack trees in the area.
Are there other covers that might be more optimum than Air Lock?
Sure there are but right now you have a decent cover if you are looking
to get rid of it then there are plenty of other covers out there
including Loop-Lop permenant safety covers http://www.loop-loc.com or
you can just use a tarp or standard pool cover and weight it down with
water bags that you can find at any local pool store.

Is the life span of the cover material really only one season?
Well thats one reason, also it is able to hold the weight of large
objects such as adults or children.

If you have more questions you can email me at or
visit
http://www.swimuniversity.com