Automatic covers have become popular for gunite swimming pools
In the state of Connecticut, a safety barrier is required for your in-ground swimming pool. On October 1, 2022, Connecticut adopted new regulations from the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (Section 305), which allows an automatic pool cover to meet the barrier code standards. With these new regulations, a fence is not required around a swimming pool if the pool has a powered automatic cover that complies with ASTM F1346 standards.
A pool without an automatic cover is required to have a fence per code. For more information on fencing regulations, read Pool Fencing: CT Rules and Requirements.
When planning your in-ground swimming pool, it is important to integrate the safety barrier option into your design. An automatic pool cover is built-in to the pool beam, thus it must be added to the pool at the time of construction. The cover is controlled by an open/close switch that is located near the pool. The switch must be in full view of the pool, per code.
In addition to satisfying the safety barrier criteria, an automatic cover has several other benefits. The cover is highly effective at maintaining water temperature, which greatly reduces the need to heat the pool. Given the heat savings, the pool season is extended well into September and October. The cover also protects the pool from debris, as when the cover is closed, no objects can enter the pool. Lastly, the automatic cover prevents evaporation and water loss, thus decreasing the amount of water needed to keep your pool filtering properly. For more information on automatic covers, read Pros & Cons of Automatic Pool Covers.
Litchfield County Pools is highly experienced with automatic pool cover installation. To further discuss how an automatic cover can be integrated into your pool project, please contact us.
Thank you for reading and as always, swim safely.
