An automatic slatted pool cover keeps leaves out, reduces evaporation and makes the pool safer for children and pets. Its mechanism, however, works in a constantly damp environment next to chlorine or salt, limescale, leaves and insects.
Without cleaning and lubrication, the axle, hinges and bearings clog up, start to squeak and eventually stick. That strains the motor and shortens the life of the whole system. An hour of regular care lets the cover run smoothly all season.
What you will need
Important: Switch off the power to the cover motor before any maintenance. Spray only onto the mechanism parts and cover the water with sheeting or a cloth: no aerosol should reach the pool.
Step 1
Know what needs attention
The mechanism consists of the axle the cover winds onto, the drive, mounting hinges, bearings and rollers. In season it runs every day and is in constant contact with moisture, pool chemicals, limescale and dust. Check these parts first: this is where deposits, squeaks and the first rust appear.
Step 2
Rinse and clean the mechanism
Rinse the fixings and axle with clean water. Use the soft brush to remove leaves, sand and visible deposits. Soften limescale with the sponge rather than an abrasive so the finish is not scratched.
Then apply WD-40 Multi-Use to the hinges, bearings and accessible metal parts of the drive housing. It dissolves leftover dirt and drives moisture out of gaps. WD-40 Smart Straw with its thin straw is handy for tight spots. Wipe off the excess with a cloth.
Step 3
Lubricate the moving parts
Spray a thin layer of WD-40 Specialist Silicone onto the friction points: axles, hinges and rollers. Silicone reduces wear, stops deposits sticking and holds up well in wet conditions.
For bearings and heavily loaded hinges, WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease is the better choice, as the thick grease resists washing out. Open and close the cover several times to spread the product.
Step 4
Protect against corrosion
Finish by treating the metal fixings and screws with WD-40 Multi-Use. It leaves a thin protective film that holds back salt and chlorine, the two main enemies of a pool cover mechanism, and protects the metal from corrosion.
Step 5
Stick to a care routine
Inspect the mechanism every month, especially at the height of the season. With a saltwater pool, rinse the axle with fresh water regularly so salt does not build up. Lubricate two or three times a year depending on exposure and how often the cover is opened.
Before winter, clean and protect the mechanism with extra care: moisture left in the hinges expands in frost and damages parts.
Tip: After heavy rain or wind, sweep leaves off the axle before running the cover: small debris drawn into the roll scratches the slats and overloads the motor.
What next
A mechanism that is cleaned and lubricated on schedule runs quietly and never sticks. The same products work for garden gates and metal furniture around the pool.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».