Pool cover pumps that are submersible are a very important part of winter maintenance. this piece of equipment is used on automatic covers and solid winter pool covers. Automatic cover pumps have three main purposes: to keep water pumped off of the cover to prevent it from getting too heavy and weakening the cover; to maintain the highest level of safety and to prevent large volumes of water from pooling on cover and potentially pulling in a non-anchored cover and water tubes.

Here are some maintenance tips for cover pumps:

Keep cover clean around the pump to prevent debris from getting caught in the impeller.

Clean the impeller (strainer guard) as needed to keep clear of the dirt and debris for proper pump function.

Do not ever pull, carry or swing pump by electrical cord to remove from cover. Pull from attached garden hose.

If the cover pump stops properly functioning here are some things to check and troubleshoot:

Check that pump does not have leaves, dirt or debris clogging the actual pump or the attached garden hose. (you can attach hose to spigot to ensure it is cleared out)

Ensure electrical outlet and extension cord (if applicable) are properly functioning.

Make sure ice is not frozen in either the pump or attached hose.

After checking all of the above you can then turn the pump upside down to reset and try pump again.

After your pool has been closed and winterized for the winter the pump is the only maintenance you need to think about. Keep up with it so that the pool will be in the same condition as when you closed it and upon opening you can start to enjoy summer, swimming and backyard fun your pool is there to provide.