Closing IG with Auto Cover

[aswetich]

When the person writes up the procedure for closing a IG vinal liner please try to include recomendations for owners with a Auto Cover. When I close my pool it has a auto cover that the water level must be up to support the cover in the winter.

Thanks

[waste]

When I've closed pools with auto covers, I've always retracted the cover fully and used a winter cover for the pool. Auto covers are not intended to be used as winter covers! (Tempted to go on, but I'll let it this stand for now)
I hope this isn't bad news for you!

[aswetich]

I just had the manufactrer repairman out this week and he indicated that it was perfectly fine to use the cover. He also indicated that with the cover rolled up it may even be harder on it...

[waste]

It's your pool and therefore your choice. The guy you talked to may well know something I don't, but I've seen auto covers wrecked by having been used as winter covers. Is he willing to give you a 100% guarantee that it can be used as a winter cover?

[aswetich]

I know what you are saying but I had no issue for the last two years. The one thing that concerns me is if I get a leak and the water level lowers. This could cause serious problems. With a 20X40 IG liner pool could I lower the water below the skimmer and outlets and there still be enough room for a 20X40 cover ?

[waste]

If you're going to use the auto cover, you may want to consider getting a blow-through gizzmo for the skimmer(s) and leave the water level where it is. The returns can be blown out and plugged with the water up (just be sure to plug them while they're bubbling). It's a 'wetter' (for whoever has to do the plugging) option, but you don't have to drain any water out.