Frequently asked questions.

General

How long does an automatic pool cover last?

Well-maintained automatic pool covers typically last 7–10 years on the fabric and 15+ years on the mechanical system. Annual Gold or Silver service extends both. Most failure modes we see are fabric wear or motor/pulley issues — neither usually requires a full system replacement.

How do I schedule a repair visit?

Call us at (860) 827-8504 during business hours (Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm). For preventive maintenance, the $75 deposit holds your spot on the seasonal list. For emergency repairs during swim season, we prioritize same-week visits based on urgency and routing.

Maintenance

How often should I service my automatic pool cover?

At minimum once a year, ideally within two weeks of your pool opening. Seasonal cover-box debris, track misalignment, and motor wear all compound over time. Our Gold, Silver, and Bronze preventive maintenance packages handle annual service at three different depths.

What's included in Gold vs Silver vs Bronze maintenance?

Gold is our full spring refresh — inspect + adjust, grease and lubricate, check/replace pulleys + gliders, flush tracks + check alignment, clean cover box, tighten hardware, and wash + dry cover fabric. Silver is Gold without the fabric wash. Bronze is fabric wash only. All parts used are billed separately.

When should I schedule preventive maintenance?

Within two weeks of your pool opening — typically late April through mid-May in Connecticut. Scheduling then catches any winter damage before it becomes a season-ruining problem, and ensures cover reliability through the swim season.

Repair

My pool cover won't close — what do I check first?

Usual signs of trouble include hearing a motor but the cover won't move, the cover won't open or close completely, or the cover is out of alignment. Check the keypad is powered and the cover rope is visually intact. If it still won't move, call us at (860) 827-8504 — most motor and alignment issues are one-visit fixes.

Do you install Cover-Pools, Aquamatic, CoverStar, and Pool Cover Specialists?

We service all major automatic pool cover brands including but not limited to Cover-Pools, Aquamatic, CoverStar, and Pool Cover Specialists — regardless of who originally installed them. Most pool-cover installers only service the brand they sell; we don't.

Installation

What's the difference between recessed, deck mount, and under track systems?

Recessed systems hide the track in the coping and the motor in a recessed vault — cleanest aesthetic, requires coping prep. Deck-mount systems sit the track on the pool deck — fastest install, most visible hardware, best for retrofits. Under-track systems run the track below coping level — a compromise that retrofits well on existing pools while staying visually clean.

Can you retrofit an automatic cover onto my existing pool?

Yes — deck-mount and under-track systems are designed specifically for retrofits. We assess the coping, decking, and existing electrical before writing a scope. Recessed systems are usually reserved for new construction since they require coping rework.

Do I need an electrician to install my automatic pool cover?

Yes — automatic pool covers are 120V motorized systems that require proper NEC 680 bonding, GFCI protection, and a CT electrical permit. Priority Pool Covers is a division of Priority Electric Inc (CT license #125699), so we handle the full install including the electrical portion. Many pool-cover-only companies have to subcontract the electrical work.

Pricing

How much does an automatic pool cover cost to install?

Residential automatic pool cover installations typically range from $12,000 to $20,000 depending on pool size, system type (recessed / deck-mount / under-track), and whether it's new construction or a retrofit. Call (860) 827-8504 for a specific quote based on your pool.

How much does pool cover repair cost?

Most single-visit repairs run $200–$800 depending on parts needed. Motor replacements are higher; pulley, rope, and glider swaps are lower. We quote parts + labor separately so you see exactly what the repair covers.

Why is there a $75 deposit to schedule preventive maintenance?

The $75 deposit holds your spot on our seasonal service list. It's credited against the visit cost, so the net price is unchanged — the deposit just confirms commitment to a specific week, which helps us route the truck efficiently across the state.

Coverage area

Do you service pools in my town?

We serve all of Connecticut from our New Britain shop — Hartford, Fairfield, Litchfield, New Haven, Middlesex, and Tolland counties. Call (860) 827-8504 and we'll let you know how soon we can be there.