3 Things to Know About Using a Pool Cover Pump

Use a pump designed for dirty water Most submersible utility pumps handle leaves and debris fine, making them safe for pool covers.

Keep the pump off the cover fabric The pump can suck the cover into its intake and tear it. Set the pump on a flat piece of plastic, plywood, or a paver to prevent this.

Use a pump with an automatic shutoff A built-in float switch turns the pump off when the water is gone. Without one, unplug the pump as soon as the water drops below the intake to avoid burning it out.