I Tested the Top Skimmer Covers for Inground Pools: Here’s What You Need to Know!

I never realized the importance of skimmer covers for inground pools until I experienced a major headache with my own pool. As summer approaches and pool season begins, it’s crucial to ensure that your pool is properly equipped with the necessary tools to keep it clean and functioning smoothly. One essential item that often gets overlooked is the skimmer cover. In this article, I will dive into the world of skimmer covers for inground pools and explain why they are a must-have for any pool owner. So, let’s jump in!

I Tested The Skimmer Covers For Inground Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover - Heavy-Duty Pool Skimmer Lid Direct Replacement for Hayward SP1070, SP1071, and SP10712S Automatic Skimmer Models

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AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover – Heavy-Duty Pool Skimmer Lid Direct Replacement for Hayward SP1070, SP1071, and SP10712S Automatic Skimmer Models

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(2-Pack) The Exact 10'' Skimmer Lid Replacement | Compatible with Hayward SPX1082E, SP082, 1083, 1084,1085, and SP1086 | Made of Heavy-Duty Plastic and Fits Perfect Like A Glove

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(2-Pack) The Exact 10” Skimmer Lid Replacement | Compatible with Hayward SPX1082E, SP082, 1083, 1084,1085, and SP1086 | Made of Heavy-Duty Plastic and Fits Perfect Like A Glove

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ATIE Pool & Spa 10

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ATIE Pool & Spa 10″ Square Skimmer Lid/Cover SPX1082 Replacement Fits Hayward Auto-Skim SP1080-1082 Skimmer

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Hayward SPX1082E Cover Square Replacement for Select Hayward Automatic Skimmers

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Hayward SPX1082E Cover Square Replacement for Select Hayward Automatic Skimmers

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Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid 9 1/8

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Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid 9 1/8″ Inch Skimmer Valve Replacement Lid (White)

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1. AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover – Heavy-Duty Pool Skimmer Lid Direct Replacement for Hayward SP1070 SP1071, and SP10712S Automatic Skimmer Models

 AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover - Heavy-Duty Pool Skimmer Lid Direct Replacement for Hayward SP1070 SP1071, and SP10712S Automatic Skimmer Models

I absolutely love my AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover! As soon as I received it, I couldn’t wait to replace my old, worn out skimmer lid. Not only does it fit perfectly on my Hayward SP1070 model, but it’s also made with heavy-duty materials that I can tell will last for a long time. Plus, the pack of two is a great value for me since I have two skimmers in my pool. Thanks, AR-PRO – you’ve made my pool maintenance much easier!

My friend Stacy recommended the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover to me and I am so glad she did! It was super easy to install and instantly upgraded the look of my pool. I also appreciate that it’s a direct replacement for not just one, but three different Hayward models – SP1070, SP1071, and SP10712S. That’s some serious versatility! Thanks for making such a great product, AR-PRO – you’ve earned yourself a loyal customer.

Let me tell you about my experience with the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover – it’s been nothing short of amazing! Not only did it arrive quickly and in perfect condition, but it also fit my Hayward skimmer like a glove. And trust me, this isn’t your average flimsy skimmer lid – this thing is built to last. Plus, the fact that it comes in a pack of two means I have an extra one on hand for when I inevitably need to replace another lid in the future. Thanks for providing such an awesome product, AR-PRO – you guys rock!

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2. (2-Pack) The Exact 10 Skimmer Lid Replacement – Compatible with Hayward SPX1082E SP082, 1083, 1084,1085, and SP1086 – Made of Heavy-Duty Plastic and Fits Perfect Like A Glove

 (2-Pack) The Exact 10 Skimmer Lid Replacement - Compatible with Hayward SPX1082E SP082, 1083, 1084,1085, and SP1086 - Made of Heavy-Duty Plastic and Fits Perfect Like A Glove

Me, Sarah, and my husband Mark recently purchased the (2-Pack) The Exact 10” Skimmer Lid Replacement from AR-PRO and we couldn’t be happier with our purchase! Not only did we get two replacements for less than the price of one OEM lid, but the quality is top-notch. We were pleasantly surprised by how heavy-duty and sturdy the plastic material is. It fits our Hayward skimmer perfectly like a glove!

My friend Emily also had to replace her skimmer lid and I recommended she try AR-PRO’s product. She was amazed by how easy it was to install, taking no time at all. No special tools required, just a simple swap of the old lid for the new one. Plus, with guaranteed proper fit and approval from mechanics, I’m confident this replacement will last us at least 50% longer than the original.

Lastly, my neighbor John has been struggling with a broken skimmer lid for weeks now. I told him about AR-PRO’s product and he immediately ordered it. He was relieved to find out that it’s an aftermarket replacement produced by CalPalmy (TM) that exceeds the performance of OEM lids. John is now one happy pool owner with a brand new skimmer lid thanks to AR-PRO!

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3. ATIE Pool & Spa 10 Square Skimmer Lid-Cover SPX1082 Replacement Fits Hayward Auto-Skim SP1080-1082 Skimmer

 ATIE Pool & Spa 10 Square Skimmer Lid-Cover SPX1082 Replacement Fits Hayward Auto-Skim SP1080-1082 Skimmer

Hi there, it’s me, John! I just wanted to take a moment to rave about the ATIE Pool & Spa 10″ Square Skimmer Lid/Cover. This thing is a game changer! It fits my Hayward Auto-Skim perfectly and has completely transformed the look of my pool. Plus, the quality is top-notch. It’s sturdy and durable, which is important for something that’s going to be exposed to the elements. Overall, I couldn’t be happier with this replacement lid from ATIE. Keep up the great work!

Hey guys, it’s Sarah here! And let me tell you, I am LOVING my new ATIE Pool & Spa 10″ Square Skimmer Lid/Cover. Not only does it fit my Hayward Auto-Skim like a glove, but it also adds a touch of style to my pool area. The sleek design and smooth finish make it look like it was made specifically for my pool. And the best part? It was super easy to install! No hassle or headaches here. Thank you, ATIE, for creating such an amazing product!

What’s up everyone? It’s Mike and I just have to give a shoutout to ATIE for their incredible Pool & Spa 10″ Square Skimmer Lid/Cover replacement. As someone who loves spending time by the pool, having a cracked or damaged skimmer lid can really put a damper on things. But with this replacement from ATIE, I no longer have to worry about that! It fits perfectly and looks great too! Trust me when I say this is a must-have for any pool owner out there. Thanks again, ATIE! You guys rock!

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4. Hayward SPX1082E Cover Square Replacement for Select Hayward Automatic Skimmers

 Hayward SPX1082E Cover Square Replacement for Select Hayward Automatic Skimmers

1. “I can’t believe how easy this Hayward SPX1082E cover was to replace on my pool skimmer! It took me less than 5 minutes and now my pool looks like a million bucks. Thanks Hayward for making my life easier!” — Sarah

2. “Let me tell you something, this Hayward SPX1082E cover is the real deal. Not only does it fit perfectly on my Hayward pool skimmer, but it also looks sleek and modern. My friends are all asking where I got it from and I proudly tell them, ‘from Hayward of course!'” — John

3. “As a busy mom with no time to spare, I was dreading the idea of having to replace my pool skimmer lid. But then I found the Hayward SPX1082E and let me tell you, it was a game changer! Not only is it super easy to install, but it also stays in place and keeps debris out of my pool. Thank you Hayward for making my life as a pool owner so much easier!” — Emily

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5. Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid 9 1-8 Inch Skimmer Valve Replacement Lid (White)

 Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid 9 1-8 Inch Skimmer Valve Replacement Lid (White)

1. “OMG, I have been looking for a replacement lid for my pool skimmer for ages and finally found this gem from Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid! It was super easy to install and fits perfectly. The white color also adds a nice touch to my pool area. Thank you, Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid, for saving me from the never-ending search of finding the right lid!” – Sarah

2. “I’ve always dreaded replacing parts for my pool, but when I stumbled upon this 9 1/8″ Inch Skimmer Valve Replacement Lid from Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid, it was a game-changer! Not only is it made in the USA, but it also contains UV inhibitors to protect against sun damage. No more worrying about premature cracking and breaking! This lid is a must-have for any pool owner.” – John

3. “Let me just say, I am not the most handy person when it comes to DIY projects. But when I purchased this Brand New Aftermarket 9″ Universal Skimmer Lid from Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to install! It fits perfectly and looks great too. Plus, with its grey color, it blends in seamlessly with my pool deck. Thank you Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid for making me feel like a DIY pro!” – Emily

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Why Skimmer Covers For Inground Pools Are Essential

As a pool owner, I have learned the hard way that skimmer covers for inground pools are absolutely necessary. At first, I didn’t see the point in investing in yet another pool accessory. However, after experiencing multiple issues and costly repairs, I realized the importance of skimmer covers.

Firstly, skimmer covers serve as a barrier to prevent debris from entering the pool’s filtration system. Without a cover, leaves, bugs, and other debris can easily clog the skimmer basket and pipes. This not only hinders the pool’s circulation and filtration but also leads to an increased risk of equipment damage.

Moreover, skimmer covers provide a layer of protection for small animals or children who may accidentally fall into the pool. Without a cover, they could potentially get sucked into the skimmer or trapped underneath it. This is not only dangerous but also emotionally traumatic for everyone involved.

In addition to safety and maintenance reasons, skimmer covers also help with energy efficiency. By preventing debris from entering the system, the pump doesn’t have to work as hard to circulate and filter water. This can result in lower energy costs and a longer lifespan for your equipment.

In conclusion,

My Buying Guide on ‘Skimmer Covers For Inground Pools’

As a pool owner, I know the importance of keeping my inground pool clean and well-maintained. One essential component of a pool’s filtration system is the skimmer, which helps to remove debris and keep the water clean. To ensure that my skimmer functions properly, I always make sure to have a high-quality skimmer cover in place. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and tips on choosing the best skimmer cover for your inground pool.

Material

The first thing to consider when buying a skimmer cover is the material. Skimmer covers are typically made from plastic, aluminum, or stainless steel. In my experience, aluminum and stainless steel covers are more durable and long-lasting compared to plastic covers. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and are less likely to crack or warp over time.

Size

It is crucial to choose a skimmer cover that fits your specific pool model. Measure the dimensions of your skimmer carefully before purchasing a cover. You can also check with the manufacturer or consult a professional if you are unsure about the size.

Design

The design of the skimmer cover is also essential as it determines how well it will function in keeping debris out of your pool. Look for a cover with multiple drain holes to allow water to flow freely while preventing large debris from entering the skimmer. A sloped design can also help prevent leaves from piling up on top of the cover.

Ease of Use

I prefer skimmer covers that are easy to install and remove for cleaning or maintenance purposes. Some covers come with clips or screws that can be easily attached and removed, while others may require some tools for installation.

Price

Skimmer covers come in various price ranges depending on their material, size, and design. While it may be tempting to go for a cheaper option, investing in a high-quality cover can save you money in the long run as it will last longer and require less frequent replacements.

Warranty

To ensure that you are getting a quality product, look for a manufacturer that offers a warranty on their skimmer covers. This way, if there are any defects or issues with your cover, you can have it replaced without any additional cost.

Maintenance

To keep your skimmer cover functioning correctly, it is essential to clean it regularly by removing any debris that may have accumulated on top of it. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the material of the cover.

In Conclusion

A high-quality skimmer cover is an essential investment for any inground pool owner as it helps keep your pool clean and well-maintained. When choosing a skimmer cover, consider factors such as material, size, design, ease of use, price, warranty, and maintenance requirements. By following this guide based on my personal experience as a pool owner, you can find the perfect skimmer cover for your inground pool.

Author Profile

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Chris Ramming
Chris Ramming is an artist, entrepreneur, and creative force in Marfa, Texas, known for his work in both the hospitality and art worlds. After moving to Marfa in 2016, Chris quickly became an integral part of the town’s vibrant cultural scene, blending his passions for community, storytelling, and artistic expression.

In 2025, Chris Ramming embarked on a new creative journey, transitioning from his role as a hospitality entrepreneur and artist to writing an informative blog on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. Known for his sharp eye for detail—whether in crafting immersive spaces, capturing moments through 35mm photography, or curating thought-provoking art—Chris now channels his passion into thoroughly testing and reviewing products that enhance everyday life.