Do You Have to Cover a Salt Water Pool? Requirements Guide

Tools & Supplies Needed

Find on Amazon: Taylor K-2006 Pool Test Kit , Pool Winter Cover , Submersible Pool Pump

Quick Answer

You are not legally required to cover a salt water pool, but it's strongly recommended for equipment protection, chemical conservation, and easier maintenance. Salt water pools benefit even more from covers than traditional chlorine pools due to their specialized equipment and higher stabilizer requirements.

Step-by-Step Pool Covering Process

1. Pre-Covering Water Chemistry Balance

1. Test your water chemistry using a Taylor K-2006 test kit or equivalent
2. Adjust pH to 7.2-7.4 (slightly lower than normal operating range)
3. Maintain free chlorine at 1-3 ppm before covering
4. Set total alkalinity to 80-120 ppm for stability during cover period
5. Ensure calcium hardness is between 200-300 ppm to prevent equipment corrosion
6. Test cyanuric acid (CYA) levels - should be 70-80 ppm for salt water generators

2. Salt Cell and Equipment Preparation

1. Turn off your salt water generator at least 24 hours before covering
2. Remove the salt cell from the plumbing system following manufacturer instructions
3. Inspect the salt cell plates for calcium buildup or damage
4. Clean the cell with a 10:1 water-to-muriatic acid solution if scaling is present
5. Store the cleaned cell in a dry, protected location
6. Drain water from the cell housing to prevent freeze damage

3. Water Level and Circulation Adjustments

1. Lower water level to 18-24 inches below the coping (below skimmer mouth)
2. Use a submersible pump or siphon method for water removal
3. Add winterizing chemicals: 1 gallon of liquid chlorine per 10,000 gallons
4. Add algaecide at manufacturer's recommended dosage (typically 16-32 oz per 20,000 gallons)
5. Run circulation system for 2-4 hours to distribute chemicals evenly
6. Shut down filtration system and drain equipment as needed for your climate

4. Cover Installation Process

1. Clean pool surface of all debris using a leaf net and vacuum
2. Install air pillows (for above-ground pools) or water bags (for in-ground pools)
3. Position the cover evenly across the pool surface
4. Secure cover with appropriate fastening system (springs, straps, or water bags)
5. Ensure cover has proper drainage to prevent standing water accumulation
6. Install safety equipment if using a safety cover

Why Salt Water Pools Benefit More From Covers

Equipment Protection

Salt water generators are expensive investments, typically costing $1,200-$2,500 to replace. The salt cell, which converts salt to chlorine, contains delicate titanium plates that can be damaged by freezing temperatures. Failure to protect this equipment can result in costly repairs that far exceed the price of a quality pool cover.

Chemical Conservation

Salt water pools require higher cyanuric acid levels (70-80 ppm) compared to traditional pools (30-50 ppm) to protect the generated chlorine from UV degradation. Without a cover, you'll lose stabilizer through splash-out and dilution, requiring frequent additions of cyanuric acid at approximately $15-20 per pound.

Reduced Maintenance Workload

Covered salt water pools require 60-80% less chemical adjustments during the off-season. The cover prevents debris accumulation, reduces evaporation, and maintains more stable water chemistry, making spring startup significantly easier.

Cover Type Recommendations for Salt Water Pools

Winter/Safety Covers

Solid safety covers work best for salt water pools because they completely block sunlight (preventing algae growth) and provide maximum protection for expensive equipment. Loop-loc and other mesh covers allow some debris penetration but offer excellent safety features.

Solar Covers

During swimming season, solar covers help maintain temperature and reduce chemical loss. For salt water pools, choose a cover rated for chlorine resistance to prevent premature degradation.

Regional Considerations

Cold Climate Requirements

In regions with freezing temperatures, covering becomes essential rather than optional. Failure to winterize and cover salt water equipment can result in:

• Cracked salt cell housings ($300-500 replacement cost)
• Damaged titanium plates ($800-1,200 replacement cost)
• Frozen plumbing lines ($500-2,000 repair cost)
• Controller damage ($400-800 replacement cost)

Warm Climate Benefits

Even in non-freezing climates, covers provide year-round benefits including reduced water evaporation (saving 30-50% annually), decreased chemical usage, and protection from debris accumulation.

Common Covering Mistakes to Avoid

• Covering without proper chemical balance - can lead to spring algae blooms
• Leaving salt cell installed during freeze periods - guaranteed equipment damage
• Insufficient water level reduction - can cause cover damage from ice expansion
• Skipping pre-cover cleaning - debris decomposes and creates water quality issues
• Using inadequate cover fastening - allows debris entry and reduces effectiveness

Safety Warning: Always follow proper procedures when handling muriatic acid for cell cleaning. Use protective equipment including gloves, eye protection, and ensure adequate ventilation.