I have already patched the liner many times throughout the last few years to extend the life. I think my last and final leak was at the bottom of the steps. This liner does not appear to be installed totally correct anyway (we bought the house w/ the pool and current liner).

The thought of not covering at all is interesting....is the general reason to cover in winter to protect the liner and keep all the leaves and crap out? I already bought the cover and will just use water bags or bricks to keep it in place...using 2x4's to keep the air pillows propped so snow/water does not weigh down the cover since the water level is so low.