Alternatives To Auto Pool Cover Pumps?

[SteveCr]

I am installing an in-ground pool and am very concerned about safety. I have specified an auto cover but now understand that the rain water will pose a serious risk. Are there any auto covers that don't require manual pumping?

[quantumchromodynamics]

An automatic cover is designed to sit on top of the water. Therefore, it really is not possible to include a drain that will allow all of the water to drain. The Aquamatic does have a zippered screen near the leading edge that will allow water to drain as it is opened. However, it still allows water to accumulate on the cover, which is dangerous. In addition, the water on top of the cover will often be dirty, and you don't want the dirty water going into your clean pool.

SHOULD I REMOVE RAINWATER FROM MY POOL COVER? Yes, standing water on pool cover is just as dangerous as no cover at all. Most Hydramatic automatic pool covers are equipped with a built-in rainwater removal feature. A combination zipper and/or screen will act as the bailing device while the cover is being opened. This feature should be adequate for most situations, however for excessive water, an automated cover pump is included with both the Hydramatic automatic and EZ-Cover manual system, and must be used prior to operating the pool cover. http://www.aquamatic.com/faq.html

I recommend the Little Giant 5-APCP automatic cover pump to keep the cover drained.