Installing an inground pool is a significant investment for any Australian homeowner. However, keeping it clean, safe, and energy-efficient requires the right equipment. A high-quality cover protects your water supply, reduces heating costs, and keeps unwanted debris out. To ensure you get the best product and installation service, partner with an experienced inground pool cover company.
Asking the right questions upfront helps you make an informed decision that suits your budget, lifestyle, and local climate. Here are the top questions to ask before hiring a professional.
Do Your Pool Covers Comply with Australian Standards?
Safety and compliance should always be your top priority. Australia has strict regulations regarding pool safety to prevent accidental drownings, especially for young children and pets.
When speaking with a potential provider, ask whether their products meet relevant Australian Standards (such as AS 1926.3 for pool safety covers). A reputable inground pool cover company will readily supply compliance certificates and explain how their designs integrate seamlessly with your existing pool fencing and safety barriers.
Which Type of Cover Best Suits My Climate & Needs?
Not all pool covers serve the same purpose. The ideal choice depends on your primary goal, whether that is heat retention, evaporation control, or leaf protection.
Common options include:
- Solar Thermal Blankets: Designed to absorb sunlight and increase water temperature while drastically reducing evaporation.
- Mesh Leaf Covers: Excellent for shade and keeping out leaves, twigs, and insects while allowing rainwater to pass through.
- Rigid or Automated Safety Covers: Heavy-duty options that provide maximum security and heat retention at the press of a button.
Ask the company to evaluate your local weather conditions – such as high summer evaporation in Western Australia or cooler winter nights in Victoria – to recommend the most suitable material.
How Much Water & Energy Will This Cover Save?
Australia’s hot summers lead to rapid water loss through evaporation. A quality pool cover can eliminate up to 97% of evaporation, reduce heating costs by up to 50%, and cut chemical consumption by up to 50%.
Ask the supplier for specific performance figures on their materials. A transparent company will explain how much money you can expect to save on water bills, pool chemicals, and heating energy over time.
Are Your Covers Custom-Fitted to Curved or Unique Pool Shapes?
If your inground pool features a custom shape, integrated spa, or stepped entry, a standard off-the-shelf cover will not fit correctly. Poorly fitted covers leave gaps that allow leaves to enter and lower thermal efficiency.
Inquire about their measuring and custom-cutting process. Reliable installers take precise, on-site measurements or use digital templates to guarantee a snug, tailormade fit around edges, coping, and handrails.
What Reel or Roller Systems Do You Offer?
A pool cover is only useful if it is easy to put on and take off. If operating the cover feels like a chore, it will likely be left off when you need it most.
Ask about their range of roller and reel systems:
- Stationary Manual Rollers: Cost-effective and mounted at one end of the pool deck.
- Mobile Rollers: Equipped with lockable wheels so you can roll the covered unit out of sight when entertaining.
- Concealed or Underground Rollers: Built directly into the deck pit for a sleek, invisible aesthetic.
- Automatic Systems: Motorised setups operated via remote control or smartphone app.
What Warranties Cover Material Degradation & Workmanship?
Australia’s harsh UV rays can degrade lower-quality plastics and materials rapidly. You need assurance that your investment will withstand intense summer sun without cracking or disintegrating.
Ask the team to clarify:
- Pro-rata vs. Full Replacement Warranty: Does the warranty cover full replacement for the entire period, or does the value decrease each year?
- UV Stabilisation: Are the materials treated with specialised UV inhibitors designed for Australian conditions?
- Installation Guarantee: Are the roller mechanics, fittings, and anchor points covered under a separate workmanship warranty?
What Maintenance Is Required to Maximise Lifespan?
Even the most durable materials require proper care to reach their expected lifespan (typically five to 10 years depending on material quality).
Ask the installer for explicit maintenance guidelines. Crucial factors include:
- How to store the blanket under a protective tarp when off the pool.
- How high chlorine levels affect the material during shock treatments.
- Recommended cleaning products to remove salt, chlorine, and organic buildup.
Choosing the Right Partner
Investing in the right protection saves time, money, and water while extending your swimming season. By asking these detailed questions, you can confidently select a trustworthy inground pool cover company that delivers quality craftsmanship, local expertise, and long-lasting performance tailored to your home.
