8 Essential Accessories for Draining Excess Water From a Pool Cover

Watching rainwater collect on top of your pool cover is a recipe for structural failure and a massive headache come spring opening. When hundreds of gallons of water accumulate, they create immense tension that can drag your expensive cover straight into the pool, bringing dirt and debris with it. Equipping your winter maintenance toolkit with the right drainage accessories is the easiest way to protect your investment and keep your pool secure all off-season.

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Why Excess Water on Your Pool Cover Is a Hazard

Accumulated water on a winter pool cover is far heavier than most pool owners realize, with a single inch of rain across a standard 16×32 pool weighing over 2,500 pounds. This massive weight puts extreme stress on the cover material, anchors, and pool walls themselves. For above-ground pools, this downward pull can actually collapse the top rails and bow the metal walls inward, leading to catastrophic structural failure.

Beyond structural damage, stagnant water turns your pool cover into a hazardous, swampy mess as the weather warms. It becomes a prime breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, creating an unsanitary environment right in your backyard. If the cover develops a small tear, this contaminated water will seep into your clean pool water, forcing you to spend extra money on shock chemicals and algae treatments in the spring.

Most importantly, a water-logged pool cover is a serious safety hazard for children, pets, and local wildlife. Even a few inches of water creates a slick, heavy basin that can trap anyone who accidentally steps onto the cover. Regularly draining this surface water ensures your backyard remains safe and your pool equipment survives the harsh winter months intact.

Cover Pump – Wayne WAPC250 Automatic Pump

A dedicated cover pump is the heart of your off-season maintenance routine, acting as the primary defense against water accumulation. While manual pumps require constant monitoring to prevent motor burnout, an automatic pump handles the heavy lifting without needing daily supervision. It detects when water rises and shuts off when the job is done, saving both electricity and wear on the motor.

The Wayne WAPC250 Automatic Pump is a premier choice for this task because of its i-Switch technology, which senses water at a depth of 2.1 inches and turns off when the water drops below 0.75 inches. It moves up to 3,000 gallons per hour, meaning even heavy downpours are cleared away in a fraction of the time compared to cheap, submersible alternatives. The rugged thermoplastic construction resists impact and harsh winter weather, while the base is designed to filter debris and prevent tipping.

• Flow Rate: Up to 3,000 GPH at 0 feet of head
• Activation Depth: Turns on at 2.1 inches, off at 0.75 inches
• Power Cord Length: 25 feet
• Discharge Connection: Standard 3/4-inch garden hose thread

Before setting it up, remember that while this pump is highly automated, it should not be left on the cover during hard freeze conditions. If the surrounding water freezes solid, the ice can crack the plastic housing or damage the internal impeller. This pump is ideal for homeowners who want a hands-off, set-and-forget solution during rainy autumns, but it is not meant to be left plugged in during sub-zero cold snaps.

Siphon Pump – Little Giant PCP550 Cover Pump

For pool owners who prefer a simpler, lighter tool or live in regions with milder winters, a manual siphon pump is an excellent alternative to heavy automatic models. These pumps are highly dependable because they have fewer electronic components that can fail over time. They are ideal for quick, targeted water removal when you can actively monitor the process.

The Little Giant PCP550 Cover Pump is a lightweight, low-maintenance workhorse that excels at clearing shallow puddles. It features a removable intake screen that protects the pump from leaves, twigs, and pool debris. Capable of moving up to 550 gallons per hour, it easily draws water down to a depth of 1/8 inch, leaving your cover remarkably dry.

• Flow Rate: 550 GPH
• Manual Control: Requires manual plug-in and monitoring
• Power Cord: 25 feet
• Intake Design: Bottom-suction with a removable, easy-to-clean screen

This pump is best suited for pool owners who do not mind stepping outside to start and stop the draining process manually. Because it lacks automatic shut-off sensors, running it dry for extended periods will overheat and damage the motor. Choose this model if you have a smaller pool cover or live in an area where heavy, continuous winter rain is rare.

Discharge Hose – Apache 98138045 Lay-Flat Hose

Removing water from your pool cover is only half the battle; you also need to direct that water safely away from your pool’s foundation and landscaping. A standard garden hose is often too stiff, prone to kinking, and slow at discharging high volumes of water. A dedicated lay-flat discharge hose allows for maximum water flow and rolls up compactly when not in use.

The Apache 98138045 Lay-Flat Hose is built from heavy-duty, polyester-reinforced PVC, making it incredibly puncture-resistant and durable. With a 2-inch diameter and a 50-foot length, it allows your pump to discharge water at its maximum rated speed without bottlenecking the flow. When empty, it lies completely flat, allowing you to roll it up tightly for easy storage in a garage or shed.

• Diameter: 2 inches
• Length: 50 feet
• Material: Polyester-reinforced PVC
• Working Pressure: 80 PSI

Keep in mind that you will need a matching adapter to connect this 2-inch hose to the 3/4-inch outlet found on most standard pool cover pumps. It is crucial to lay this hose in a straight line without sharp bends, as kinks can block the flow and cause the pump to overheat. This hose is perfect for pool owners who need to route large volumes of water over long distances, but it is unnecessary for those draining water just a few feet away.

Pump Shield – Swimline Cover Pump Clog Saver

Windblown leaves, pine needles, and organic debris always settle in the low points of a wet pool cover, right where your pump needs to sit. Without protection, this debris is quickly sucked into the pump’s intake vents, clogging the impeller and causing the motor to burn out. A pump shield acts as a physical barrier, ensuring water can flow freely while keeping harmful debris out.

The Swimline Cover Pump Clog Saver is a simple but brilliant accessory that wraps your pump in a protective mesh cage. This cage suspends the pump slightly above the cover’s surface, preventing it from sucking in flat leaves that block the intake. The heavy-duty mesh is fine enough to block small pine needles but porous enough to prevent any restriction of water flow.

• Material: Heavy-duty, chemical-resistant mesh
• Design: Domed cage structure
• Compatibility: Fits most standard submersible pool cover pumps

While this shield drastically reduces maintenance, you still need to clean it occasionally, especially after heavy autumn leaf drops. Leaves can pack tightly against the outside of the mesh, requiring a quick brush off to restore full water flow. This accessory is a must-have for pool owners with overhanging trees, but it is less critical if your backyard is entirely clear of deciduous foliage.

Cover Weight – Robelle 10-Foot Double Water Bag

A flat pool cover allows water to pool in random, shallow pockets that are difficult for a pump to reach. By strategically placing cover weights, you can create a low point or “sump” where water naturally gathers, making your drainage efforts much more efficient. Additionally, these weights keep the cover secure during winter storms, preventing wind from lifting the edges and blowing debris underneath.

The Robelle 10-Foot Double Water Bag is the premier choice for anchoring tarp-style covers on in-ground pools. Constructed from heavy-duty 15-gauge vinyl, these bags feature a double-chamber design that prevents them from rolling off the pool deck. The leak-proof valves are easy to fill with a standard garden hose, and the durable seams are designed to withstand freezing temperatures.

• Length: 10 feet
• Material: Heavy-duty 15-gauge vinyl
• Design: Double-chamber, non-roll configuration
• Valve Type: Secure, leak-resistant freeze valves

When using these bags, never fill them more than half to three-quarters full with water. Leaving air space inside the chambers allows the water to expand when it freezes into ice without splitting the vinyl seams. These bags are essential for owners of standard winter tarp covers, but they are unnecessary if you use a spring-tensioned safety cover.

Extension Cord – Iron Forge Cable Outdoor Cord

Standard indoor extension cords are thin, prone to cracking in cold weather, and highly dangerous when used near water. Because pool pumps must run outdoors for hours at a time, you need a heavy-duty, weather-resistant cord that can deliver consistent power without overheating. A high-quality cord protects your pump’s motor from voltage drops while keeping your backyard safe from electrical hazards.

The Iron Forge Cable Outdoor Cord is specifically engineered to handle harsh, wet outdoor environments. It features a flexible vinyl jacket that remains pliable in temperatures down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit, preventing the insulation from cracking in deep winter. The bright yellow color provides high visibility in snow or tall grass, reducing the risk of accidental trips or damage from lawn equipment.

• Wire Gauge: 12 AWG (American Wire Gauge)
• Length: 50 feet (also available in 100 feet)
• Safety Rating: SJTW rated, UL listed
• Features: Reinforced blades and lighted plug end to show when power is active

Even with a heavy-duty cord, you must keep the connection point between the pump plug and the extension cord completely dry. Use a water-resistant cord safety seal or wrap the connection in silicone tape to prevent moisture intrusion. This cord is an absolute necessity for anyone running an electric cover pump more than 25 feet from a GFCI-protected outdoor outlet.

Telescopic Pole – Jed Pool Tools 50-560-16 Pole

Stepping onto a winter pool cover is incredibly dangerous and can easily damage the cover material or anchor straps. To position, adjust, or retrieve your pump from the middle of the pool, you need a reliable extension tool that lets you work safely from the pool deck. A sturdy telescopic pole turns a risky, wet chore into a simple, dry task.

The Jed Pool Tools 50-560-16 Pole is a professional-grade, two-piece anodized aluminum pole that extends from 8 to 16 feet. It features a heavy-duty external cam lock that secures the pole at any length, preventing it from slipping or collapsing under the weight of a wet pump. The commercial-grade aluminum is lightweight enough for easy maneuvering but stiff enough to resist bending.

• Length Range: 8 feet to 16 feet
• Material: Anodized 0.040-inch thick aluminum
• Locking Mechanism: External cam lock with a comfortable grip
• End Connection: Standard 1-1/4 inch inner diameter, fits all standard pool accessories

While aluminum is strong, you should avoid using the pole to lift a fully water-logged pump straight up out of the deep end, as this leverage can bend the metal. Instead, use the pole to hook the pump’s handle and gently drag it toward the side of the pool before lifting. This pole is ideal for mid-to-large in-ground pool owners who need to reach the dead center of their covers without risking a fall.

Hose Connector – Camco 90-Degree Brass Elbow

When a discharge hose connects directly to the top of a cover pump, it often bends at a sharp angle to lay flat on the cover. This constant bending puts immense strain on both the pump’s plastic threads and the hose itself, leading to restricted water flow or leaks. A 90-degree elbow connector redirects the hose horizontally, eliminating strain and extending the life of your equipment.

The Camco 90-Degree Brass Elbow is a rugged, solid brass fitting that solves this plumbing bottleneck. By angling the connection, it prevents the discharge hose from kinking right at the pump outlet, ensuring maximum flow rate. The solid brass construction is highly resistant to corrosion and easily survives freezing winter conditions that would shatter cheap plastic fittings.

• Material: Solid lead-free brass
• Thread Size: Standard 3/4-inch garden hose threads (GHT)
• Connection Style: Swivel female-to-male connection for easy installation
• Gasket: Includes a high-quality rubber washer to prevent leaks

Before tightening the connector, ensure the rubber washer is seated flat inside the female end to guarantee a drip-free seal. While brass is incredibly durable, avoid over-tightening it onto plastic pump threads, as the metal can strip the softer plastic if misaligned. This inexpensive accessory is essential for anyone using a standard garden hose for cover drainage, as it prevents frustrating flow blockages.

How to Properly Position Your Pump on the Cover

Positioning your cover pump correctly is the difference between a dry pool cover and a burned-out motor. You should always aim to place the pump in the natural low point of the cover, where water naturally flows and collects. Placing it on a high spot will cause the pump to run dry while water continues to accumulate in other areas, risking damage to the pump.

Never throw or toss the pump onto the cover, as this can crack the housing, damage the internal float switch, or tear the cover material. Instead, tie a high-strength utility rope to the pump’s handle and use your telescopic pole to guide it gently into position from the pool deck. Once it reaches the low spot, slowly lower it until it sits flat and upright on its base.

Ensure the discharge hose is laid out in a straight line with no loops or kinks before plugging the pump in. If the pump is tilted or lying on its side, the internal float switch may not register the water level correctly, preventing it from turning on or off. Check on the pump’s position after heavy winds, as shifting covers can move the pump out of the designated drainage basin.

Preventing Ice Damage to Your Cover and Pump

Freezing temperatures present the greatest threat to your pool cover drainage system. When water turns to ice, it expands by roughly nine percent, exerting immense pressure that can easily shatter plastic pump casings and rip cover seams. Leaving a pump submerged in a frozen pool cover is a guaranteed way to ruin the motor and crack the internal impeller.

As a rule of thumb, you must remove your pump from the cover whenever the weather forecast calls for sustained temperatures below freezing. Bring the pump indoors to a garage or basement where it can dry out safely without the risk of residual water freezing inside. Do not attempt to chip ice away from a frozen pump, as this will tear your pool cover and destroy the pump’s plastic housing.

Once the ice on your cover melts back into liquid water, you can safely reposition the pump to drain the pool. For above-ground pools, using air pillows under the cover helps push water toward the outer edges, preventing a massive ice sheet from forming in the very center. Patience is key; always wait for a complete thaw before resuming your pumping operations.

How to Store Your Draining Equipment for Winter

Proper post-season storage ensures your draining equipment is ready to perform when the pool opening season arrives in the spring. Leaving pumps, hoses, and cords tangled and wet in a cold shed leads to dry rot, mold, and pest damage. Taking an extra twenty minutes to clean and prep your gear in the spring will save you hundreds of dollars in replacement costs.

Start by thoroughly flushing your pump and hoses with clean, fresh tap water to remove any chlorine residue, dirt, or algae. Stand the pump upright in a warm place to allow all internal water to drain completely out of the impeller housing. For lay-flat hoses and garden hoses, stretch them out on a slight slope to drain internal moisture, then roll them loosely to prevent permanent creases.

• Step 1: Flush all equipment with fresh water to remove pool chemicals and debris.
• Step 2: Dry the pump housing and run it briefly to clear internal moisture.
• Step 3: Coil hoses loosely and store them flat to avoid kinks.
• Step 4: Store all electrical cords in a dry, pest-free container off the floor.

Store your cords, connectors, and pumps in a climate-controlled space or a sealed plastic bin to protect them from chewing rodents. Mice and squirrels love nesting in coiled hoses and chewing on heavy-duty rubber cords during the cold months. Keeping everything organized, clean, and dry ensures a seamless, headache-free pool opening when warm weather returns.

Managing pool cover water doesn’t have to be a grueling winter battle. With the right mix of automatic pumps, heavy-duty hoses, and protective accessories, you can easily keep your cover light and secure. Invest in quality drainage gear now, and you will enjoy a cleaner, safer pool that is ready to open the moment spring arrives.