Exercise Ball Under Pool Cover: Genius Hack for Pool Care

Placing an exercise ball under a pool cover might sound unusual, but it is a clever trick many pool owners use to solve real problems. Most people struggle with keeping pool covers in good condition, especially during rainy or snowy seasons.

Water and debris can collect on the cover, making it heavy and hard to remove. Over time, this can damage both the cover and the pool. Using an exercise ball under the pool cover is a simple solution that helps prevent these issues, but there’s much more to understand if you want to do it right.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know—why people use this method, how it works, how to do it safely, and what mistakes to avoid.

Why Put An Exercise Ball Under A Pool Cover?

Many pool owners want to keep their pool cover from sagging or collecting water. Rain, leaves, or snow can pile up on top, causing stress on the material. If too much weight builds up, the cover can stretch, tear, or even collapse into the pool. When you place an exercise ball (or several) under the cover, they act as supports from below. The cover stays raised up in the middle, so rainwater and debris slide off to the sides instead of gathering in the center.

Besides protecting the cover, this method also helps keep your pool water cleaner. When water sits on the cover, it can sometimes leak through, bringing dirt or algae into your pool. Keeping the cover elevated reduces this risk. Plus, it makes the cover easier to clean and remove, since it won’t be weighed down by heavy puddles or piles of leaves.

How The Exercise Ball Method Works

The key idea is to create a dome shape over your pool. By putting one or more exercise balls under the cover, you raise it in the middle or in several places. Water and debris naturally roll off the highest point to the edges. This is like the way tents are designed to shed rainwater—by giving them a peaked roof.

You don’t need to use only exercise balls. Some people use inner tubes, beach balls, or other inflatable objects. However, exercise balls are especially good because they are sturdy, large, and easy to find. Most are made of thick, durable plastic that can handle the pressure from both the cover and the weight above.

What Size Exercise Ball Should You Use?

Choosing the right size is important for the best results. Exercise balls come in different sizes, usually measured in centimeters (from about 45 cm to 85 cm in diameter). The larger your pool, the bigger the ball you’ll need to create a high enough peak.

For small above-ground pools, a 55 cm or 65 cm ball is usually enough. For larger pools, 75 cm or even 85 cm balls give better support.

If your pool is very big, you might need several balls spaced evenly across the surface. This prevents the cover from sagging in other areas and keeps everything balanced.

How Many Balls Do You Need?

The number of balls depends on the size and shape of your pool. For a small round or oval pool, one large ball in the center can work. For long rectangular pools, you might use three or more, spaced in a line from one end to the other.

The goal is to keep the cover lifted everywhere, not just in the middle.

Here’s a quick guide:

Step-by-step Guide: Placing Exercise Balls Under Your Pool Cover

• Clean the Pool Surface: Remove any debris or leaves from the water before you start. This keeps the balls and cover clean and prevents damage.
• Inflate the Exercise Balls: Use a pump to fill the balls with air. They should be firm but not over-inflated. A slightly softer ball can mold better to the cover but should still hold its shape.
• Position the Balls: Place the ball(s) in the pool, where you want the highest point of the cover to be. For a single ball, put it in the center. For multiple balls, space them evenly.
• Secure the Balls: Push the ball slightly under the surface and hold it in place while you start to spread the cover.
• Pull the Pool Cover Over: With help if possible, pull the cover over the balls, making sure it sits snugly around the edges. The balls should press the cover upwards, creating a dome.
• Check the Fit: Walk around the pool and check that the cover is evenly raised and tight. Adjust the balls if needed.
• Secure the Cover: Use any clips, cords, or weights to hold the cover in place so wind doesn’t blow it off.
• Monitor After Rain: After heavy rain or snow, check the cover for any sagging and remove water as needed.

Benefits Of Using Exercise Balls Under A Pool Cover

People who try this method often find several advantages:

1. Prevents Water Pooling

The main benefit is that it prevents water from pooling in the center. This makes cleaning much easier and keeps the cover light enough to remove.

2. Protects The Pool Cover

By holding the cover up, the balls reduce stress and stretching. This helps your pool cover last longer, saving you money on replacements.

3. Reduces Debris In The Pool

Less water on the cover means fewer chances for leaves, dirt, or pollen to seep through. Your pool stays cleaner, with less time spent fishing out debris.

4. Stops Ice Damage

In cold climates, water on the cover can freeze and crack the material. The raised shape from the balls keeps water from collecting and freezing in large sheets.

5. Easier Cover Removal

A dry, raised cover is much easier to pull off than a heavy, wet one. This can be a big help if you need to clean or open your pool quickly.

Drawbacks And Risks

While this is a simple and affordable trick, there are some downsides and risks you should know:

1. Balls Can Move

If the cover isn’t tight, the balls might roll or shift position, especially in strong wind. This can create low spots where water collects.

2. Not A Replacement For Good Support

Exercise balls help, but they can’t fix an already damaged or sagging cover. If your cover is very old or stretched, you might need a new one.

3. Puncture Risk

Sharp objects or rough pool surfaces can puncture the balls, leaving you with a flat support. Check your pool and cover for anything sharp before using this method.

4. Not For Every Pool

Very large or irregular-shaped pools might need custom supports, not just exercise balls. For commercial or specialty pools, you may need professional solutions.

How To Choose The Right Exercise Ball

Not all exercise balls are the same. Here’s what to look for:

Material Strength

Pick balls made from anti-burst PVC. These are tougher and less likely to pop under pressure. Check the packaging for weight limits and durability claims.

Size

The ball should be big enough to lift the cover at least 1-2 feet above the water. Measure your pool and look for the right diameter.

Surface Texture

Smooth balls are easier to slide under the cover, but textured balls grip better and are less likely to shift.

Cost

Most exercise balls cost between $15 and $40, depending on size and quality. It’s worth buying a reliable brand—cheap balls can deflate or burst easily.

Example Brands

Some popular brands for pool support use are TheraBand, URBNFit, and Trideer. Always check reviews before buying.

Exercise Balls Vs. Other Pool Cover Supports

Exercise balls are not the only way to keep your pool cover raised. Here’s how they compare to other options:

Exercise balls are affordable and simple to use, but may not last as long as pool pillows or custom frames. Pool air bags are made for this purpose and can handle more weight, but they cost more. DIY frames are the most durable but require tools and time.

Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

Many beginners make the same errors when trying this method for the first time. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Under-inflated Or Over-inflated Balls

If the ball is too soft, it won’t lift the cover enough. If it’s too hard, it can pop or stress the seams. Inflate to the recommended size, and check for firmness with your hands.

2. Poor Ball Placement

Putting the ball too close to one side leaves the other side sagging. Always aim for the center or evenly spaced supports.

3. Loose Pool Cover

A loose cover lets balls move around or roll out of place. Make sure the cover is tight and secure on all edges.

4. Ignoring The Weather

Strong winds or heavy snow can shift the balls or press the cover down. After storms, check that everything is still in place.

5. Not Checking For Leaks

If you notice the ball going flat, check for punctures before reusing it. Water inside the ball can cause mold or damage over time.

Practical Tips For Best Results

You can get better results with a few simple tricks:

• Use a small piece of pool noodle under the ball to prevent rolling.
• Mark the ball with waterproof tape to make placement easier each time.
• If your pool is in a windy area, use sandbags or water weights to keep the cover from lifting.
• Store balls indoors when not in use to avoid UV damage from the sun.

Real-world Examples And User Experiences

Thousands of pool owners have shared their experiences using exercise balls under their covers. Here are some real-life examples:

• Sarah from Illinois uses two 75 cm exercise balls for her 18-foot above-ground pool. “The balls keep the cover nice and tight, and I no longer have to worry about rainwater building up. My cover lasted two extra years since I started.”
• Carlos in Texas tried both pool pillows and exercise balls. “The exercise balls are cheaper, and I can use them for workouts in the off-season. They do move sometimes, so I added a pool noodle under each one.”
• Julia in Canada uses three balls for her rectangular pool. “Winters here are tough, but the balls stop ice from forming in the middle. It’s a simple fix for a big problem.”

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Environmental Impact

Using exercise balls can have both positive and negative effects on the environment:

Positive

• Extends the life of your pool cover, reducing waste.
• Keeps pool water cleaner, so you use fewer chemicals.
• Balls are reusable for other purposes, like exercise.

Negative

• Most balls are made from plastic, which is not biodegradable.
• If punctured and thrown away, they add to landfill waste.

To reduce negative effects, choose durable balls and recycle them if possible. Some companies offer recycling programs for old exercise balls.

Maintenance And Storage

Taking care of your exercise balls will help them last longer:

• Rinse after Use: If the balls touch pool chemicals or debris, rinse them with clean water and dry them before storing.
• Store Indoors: Sunlight can weaken the plastic over time. Keep them in a cool, dry place.
• Check for Damage: Before each season, inspect for cracks or leaks.
• Inflate Properly: Store partially deflated to save space, but always check firmness before using again.

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Alternatives To Exercise Balls

If you find exercise balls are not ideal for your pool, here are some alternatives:

• Pool pillows: Specially made for supporting pool covers. They are tougher but cost more.
• DIY air bags: Some people use large, sealed trash bags filled with air.
• PVC frames: Build a frame from PVC pipes for a custom fit.
• Inflatable rafts: For large pools, inflatable rafts or floats can also work, but they are harder to position.

Each alternative has its pros and cons, but exercise balls remain a favorite for their mix of price, ease, and availability.

Safety Precautions

Don’t forget safety, especially if you have children or pets:

• Never walk on the pool cover, even with balls underneath—it’s not strong enough to hold weight.
• Check that balls are secure and can’t roll out, especially if kids play near the pool.
• Remove balls if you plan to swim, and keep them out of reach of pets who might chew them.

Cost Breakdown

Here’s a rough estimate of costs for using exercise balls versus other support methods:

Exercise balls are affordable and easy to replace, making them a good first choice for many pool owners.

Expert Recommendations

Pool professionals often recommend exercise balls for above-ground and small to medium in-ground pools, especially as a quick fix or budget solution. For large or commercial pools, more robust supports are better. If you’re not sure, ask your local pool supplier for advice based on your specific pool type.

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Non-obvious Insights

• Exercise balls can help with snow load: Many people only think about rain, but snow is even heavier. Balls under the cover can support snow for short periods, but always remove heavy snow as soon as possible to prevent damage.
• Using multiple smaller balls can be more stable than one large ball: If you notice the cover shifting, try several medium balls instead of one giant one. This spreads out the support and reduces rolling.
• Rotation extends ball life: Swap balls between pool and exercise use in different seasons. This prevents one ball from wearing out quickly.
• Label your pool balls: If you use the balls for exercise too, mark the ones for the pool so you don’t accidentally bring pool chemicals into your workout space.
• Mixing supports: Some pool owners use both a pool pillow and exercise balls for extra support during heavy weather.

Using an exercise ball under your pool cover is a smart, affordable way to protect both your cover and your pool. With the right size and placement, you’ll keep your pool cleaner, extend the life of your cover, and make your pool care routine much easier.

Just remember to check the setup after storms, use quality balls, and follow the safety tips above. With a little effort, you’ll enjoy a safer, cleaner, and more hassle-free pool season every year.