Automatic Pool Cover Service Schedule: Keeping Your Cover Working for 15 Years
Automatic pool covers are like cars: the difference between a 6-year lifespan and a 15-year lifespan is service. Skip the annual service and you're heading for premature motor failure, track wear, and an unhappy conversation with your warranty provider.
Willem de Wet · Managing Director
NSPI Accredited Member · SABS SANS 10134:2016 Certified
Your Cover Can Last 15 Years If…
Three things must happen for an automatic cover to deliver its full design life:
- Monthly DIY maintenance by you — primarily debris and track cleaning.
- Annual professional service by an NSPI-accredited technician.
- Prompt response to any operational issues — don't keep using a cover that's making strange noises.
Get all three right and a PoolLock or PoolDeck system will run for 12–15 years before any major rebuild.
Monthly DIY Checklist
Clear debris from cover surface (leaves, twigs, insects).
Inspect tracks for accumulated debris — especially at the corners where slats turn.
Test full open and full close — listen for unusual sounds.
Check the seal/edge integrity — fabric should sit flush against tracks.
Visual inspection of slats or fabric for tears, UV damage, or staining.
Check key switch or remote operation — battery life, contact integrity.
Annual Professional Service Inclusions
A standard annual service from Designer Pool Covers includes:
- Mechanical: roller bearings cleaned and lubricated; track integrity check; slat or fabric inspection.
- Hydraulic (PoolLock systems): hydraulic fluid level check; line inspection for wear; pressure test of cylinder.
- Electrical: motor amperage test; control board inspection; key switch / remote function test.
- Fabric/Slat: deep clean; UV stabiliser inspection; edge seal check.
- Anchor points: torque check on all anchor and ratchet points (where applicable).
- Documentation: service certificate issued for warranty and insurance purposes.
Hydraulic vs Electric — Service Differences
Hydraulic (PoolLock)
- Hydraulic fluid checked annually, replaced every 5–7 years.
- Hydraulic lines inspected for wear at junctions.
- Cylinder seals replaced preventively at 7-year mark.
- Contact us for service pricing.
Electric (PoolDeck)
- Motor amperage tested annually.
- Drive belts inspected and replaced as needed.
- Roller bearings re-lubricated annually.
- Contact us for service pricing.
Signs You Need a Service Sooner
Take action immediately if any of these occur:
Unusual noises (grinding, clicking, screeching) during operation.
Cover taking longer than usual to deploy or retract (>20% slower).
Mid-cycle stops or hesitations.
Visible fabric tears or slat damage.
Hydraulic fluid leaks visible near the power pack.
Tripping the RCD when operating (electrical fault).
Remote or key switch unresponsive.
Continuing to operate a cover with these symptoms typically converts a minor service into a full motor replacement — costing many times more.
Warranty Preservation Requirements
- Annual professional service from year 1.
- Service performed by an NSPI-accredited technician.
- Service certificate retained as warranty proof.
- Original installation certificate retained.
- Failure to service voids motor and hydraulic warranties — but typically NOT fabric/slat warranties (UV-related).
Common Issues Caught Early by Service
- Track misalignment: caught at year 2 — easy adjustment. Caught at year 5 — full track replacement.
- Hydraulic seal weep: caught early — affordable seal kit replacement. Caught late — full cylinder replacement at many times the cost.
- Motor bearing wear: caught early — simple bearing replacement. Caught late — full motor replacement at significantly higher cost.
- UV-degraded slats: caught early — selective replacement. Caught late — full slat reset.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do the annual service myself?
Not recommended. Hydraulic and electrical work requires NSPI-accredited technicians, and DIY service typically voids warranty.
What does an annual service cost?
Costs vary depending on system type, location, and any consumables required. Contact us for a service quote.
When should I schedule the first service?
12 months after installation. Most installers send a reminder — set your own calendar reminder regardless.
What if I miss a service year?
Schedule it immediately. The warranty status depends on documented service history.
Do you offer service contracts?
Yes — 3-year and 5-year prepaid maintenance contracts at 10–15% discount.
Book Your Annual Service
Designer Pool Covers offers nationwide annual service for all automatic cover types. Book before peak demand season for best availability and discounted rates.