The Pros and Cons of Automatic Pool Covers
- mike
- Mar 20
- 4 min read
The Pros and Cons of Automatic Pool Covers
If you’re planning an inground pool, there’s a good chance this question has come up:
“Should we get an automatic pool cover?” At first, it sounds like an easy yes:
Safety
Convenience
Cleaner water
But here’s the truth most pool companies won’t tell you: An automatic pool cover is one of the most valuable upgrades you can add… but only if it fits your pool design, budget, and expectations.
Otherwise? It can become an expensive feature that doesn’t deliver what you thought it would.
Let’s dive into the pros and cons of automatic pool covers.
What Is an Automatic Pool Cover?
An automatic pool cover is a motorized system that rolls a solid cover over your pool at the push of a button. It typically includes:
A recessed track system along the pool edges
A motor and reel mechanism
A durable vinyl or composite cover
In simple terms:It turns your pool into a covered surface in under a minute.
The Pros of Automatic Pool Covers
1. Safety (This Is the #1 Reason People Buy Them)
This is the biggest benefit—especially for families. A properly installed cover can act as a physical barrier.
Helps protect kids and pets
Reduces accidental access
Provides peace of mind
For many homeowners, this alone justifies the investment.
2. Keeps Your Pool Cleaner
When the cover is closed: Debris stays out.
Leaves
Dirt
Bugs
👉 This means:
Less skimming
Less vacuuming
Less overall maintenance
3. Retains Heat (Big in Wisconsin)
This is huge in your market. Automatic covers trap heat.
Reduce heat loss overnight
Improve heating efficiency
Extend your usable season
Especially valuable when paired with a heater.
4. Reduces Water Evaporation
When covered: You lose less water.
Fewer refills
Less chemical dilution
This also helps stabilize water chemistry.
5. Saves Money Over Time
While expensive upfront: They can reduce ongoing costs:
Heating
Chemicals
Cleaning time
6. Convenience
This is underrated. Push a button → pool is covered.Compared to:
Manual covers
Solar blankets
It’s night and day easier.
The Cons of Automatic Pool Covers
Now let’s talk about the part most people don’t fully understand.
1. High Upfront Cost (This Is the Big One)
Automatic covers are not cheap. Typically:
Several thousand dollars (often $19k–$25k+ depending on setup)
And that’s before:
Maintenance
Repairs over time
It’s one of the biggest add-ons in a pool project.
2. Works Best with Rectangular Pools
This is critical. Automatic covers are designed for straight lines.
If you have:
Freeform pool
Roman shape
Complex curves
👉 Options become:
Limited
More expensive
Sometimes not possible
3. Requires Maintenance and Upkeep
Like anything mechanical: It needs attention.
Track cleaning
Cover cleaning
Occasional repairs
Over time: Covers will need replacement which can cost up to $6 to $7,000.00 depending on the size of your pool.
4. Not “Set It and Forget It”
Even though it’s automatic: You still need to:
Keep water balanced
Remove standing water
Clear debris from the cover
It’s not maintenance-free.
5. Can Impact Pool Design
To install properly: The pool must be designed around the cover.
Track placement
Vault space for the cover
Deck integration
This can limit design flexibility.
6. Snow Load Considerations (Midwest Reality)
In Wisconsin: Snow matters.
Covers are not designed to hold unlimited snow weight
Must be managed in winter
Not a replacement for a proper winter cover
7. Potential for Repairs Over Time
Motors, tracks, and fabric: Will wear out eventually.
Mechanical systems need servicing
Covers have a lifespan
Automatic Cover vs No Cover (Simple Breakdown)
Automatic Cover
👉 Best for:
Safety
Convenience
Cleaner water
Heat retention
No Automatic Cover
Best for:
Lower upfront cost
More flexible design
Less mechanical maintenance
So… Is an Automatic Pool Cover Worth It?
✅ It’s a Great Fit If You:
Have young kids or pets
Want maximum safety
Prefer low daily maintenance
Plan to use a heater
Are building a rectangular pool
Value convenience
❌ It Might Not Be Right If You:
Are on a tight budget
Want a freeform or complex pool design
Don’t want mechanical upkeep
Don’t plan to use your pool frequently
Expect it to be completely maintenance-free
Automatic Covers in Wisconsin (Real Talk)
Let’s be direct. In the Midwest: Automatic covers are one of the most valuable upgrades you can make.
Why?
Shorter season
More debris (leaves, etc.)
Greater need for heat retention
👉 But only if:
The pool design supports it
You understand the maintenance
THE MORAL OF THE STORY
An automatic pool cover isn’t just a convenience feature. It’s a functional upgrade that changes how you use your pool.
Cleaner
Warmer
Safer
Easier
But it comes with: Cost, limitations, and responsibility. The biggest mistake homeowners make?
Assuming an automatic cover solves everything. It doesn’t. But if it fits your pool, your budget, and your lifestyle: It can be one of the best decisions you make.
SHAMELESS CALL TO ACTION
If you are ready to dive in and explore the possibilities of fiberglass pool ownership don't hesitate to call Pool Pros today @ 920-771-0107. Our in house pool designers are waiting to help create the outdoor living area of your dreams. When Quality Counts, Count on Pool Pros.
AUTHOR BIO
Mike Bowers is the founder and owner of Pool Pros Inc. in Green Bay, Wisconsin. He has spent 29 years installing and servicing swimming pools throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Is an Advanced Certified Building Professional, Certified Service Professional, Licensed General Contractor, Father to 4 beautiful children and Husband to the one and only "PoolWife" Lysti.
HELPFUL LINKS
