Have you ever wanted to protect your pool pump while keeping your outdoor space beautiful? These DIY pool pump cover ideas got you covered—literally!
I do not know about you, but I really like to keep my outdoor space tidy. That means hiding my pool equipment if possible, because let’s be honest, it can ruin the perfect backdrop. That way, I can lean back into a lounge chair and enjoy the relaxing view.
Fortunately, there are several ways to hide a pool pump or purifier. As an added benefit, they can help protect these important pieces of pool equipment against harsh outdoor elements and even potentially extend their lifespan.
Below, I will share some DIY pool pump cover ideas that can fit your taste and budget. I will also answer some of your questions about pool pump maintenance below.
7 DIY Pool Pump Cover Ideas That Are Easy to Do
There are creative ways to keep your pool equipment safe and your pool area pretty. Read on for the seven above-ground pool equipment cover ideas you can build on your own.
1. Simple Pool Pump Cover
If you like to keep things simple or have a limited budget, you do not have to build something fancy to hide your pool pump, pool heater, or pool filter. You can go with a simple storage box or wall.
Feel free to use any material that you can buy at your hardware store. However, the most popular ones are wood and metal.
A simple boxed wall can keep your pool pump hidden. This DIY pool pump cover idea can withstand outdoor elements, including seasonal weather. It can also dampen the sound of your equipment to ensure a tranquil stay in your backyard.
Pool owners who want to install something even simpler can buy a vinyl screen. It is easy to assemble and place around your above-ground pool pump. However, it does not cover the top of your equipment, leaving it vulnerable to harsh external elements.
2. Wood Pool Pump Cover
There is no need to construct a box enclosure to cover your filter pump. If it is located near your exterior wall or a fence, you can simply build a wooden wall enclosure. You can expect this cover idea to hide the unsightly view of your pool equipment. You can also rely on this weather-resistant material to dampen sound and protect your pump against outdoor elements.
Start by installing wooden posts where you want the wall enclosure to start and end. Then, attach wood slats. Begin at the ground and proceed your way up.
Make sure to leave a gap between each wooden slat to promote airflow. Continue stacking the slats until the wall is tall enough to hide the pool pump or any pool equipment you want to cover.
3. Metal Pool Pump Cover
Swimming pool owners with a more modern home can consider building a metal pool equipment enclosure.
Metal boxes are usually available in neutral colors. They also have a sleek design, making them ideal for contemporary homes. Furthermore, depending on the exact material, they are often a low-maintenance option. For instance, aluminum pool pump covers can effectively resist corrosion and rust to last you for several years.
When shopping for a metal box, choose one with slotted sides. These can ensure proper air circulation through the box to prevent your pool equipment from overheating. If you build an enclosure with solid sides, you can expect excellent sound dampening. However, you risk having increased temperatures, which can damage your pool filter pump.
If you want to hide other pieces of pool equipment, you can invest in larger metal shed kits. You will find these pool equipment covers easy to install due to their ready-made design. You can either choose from a freestanding model or those that lean against the side of a building.
4. Stone Pool Pump Cover
If you want to add a natural-looking twist to an otherwise modern pump cover, you can consider incorporating stone.
This material offers incredible variety. Feel free to choose from small and round pebbles to long and flat blocks similar to flagstone. You can also come across different colors, shapes, and even textures. It is up to you to decide on which design matches your backyard’s aesthetic.
Swimming pool owners who want easy access to their pool filter pump can build a hinged lid into the top of the enclosure, similar to the image above. Make sure this lid stays open by installing a support bar or piston arms.
However, this DIY above-ground pool pump cover idea only works if the wall is not too tall. Otherwise, you will need to bend over the side of the enclosure to reach the water pump. If such is the case, consider setting up hinged doors on the enclosure. Doing so gives you convenient access to all your pool equipment.
5. Vinyl Pool Pump Cover
Are you looking for an inexpensive option to enhance the look of your poolscape? Then, consider installing vinyl panels.
You can find these materials at home improvement stores. You can choose from either board-like planks or boards made from recycled materials. The former is ready to assemble, making it a popular choice for new swimming pool owners. Meanwhile, the latter has a color and texture similar to natural wood grain. However, it requires little to no maintenance to last you for years to come.
6. Glass Pool Pump Cover
If budget is not an issue, you can go ahead and install glass panels in your backyard.
These are among the most stylish above-ground pool pump cover ideas. They offer a sleek and elegant aesthetic that is perfect for ultra-modern homes.
Just make sure to use privacy glass to hide the unsightly pool pump. You can choose either opaque or frosted glass. You can enjoy improved privacy and an appealing design when using them.
The only downside is that glass panels are relatively difficult to install on your own. You might want to consider employing professional help.
7. Concrete Pool Pump Cover
This last DIY pump cover idea requires talent, skills, and special tools to build. But if you know how to create one, it is a worthy project.
Concrete walls are very durable pool pump enclosures. They can withstand harsh weather and other outdoor elements. At the same time, they can completely hide your pool equipment from view. They can last you for years to come with little to no maintenance required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use a pool pump cover?
Pool owners often overlook the importance of using a pool pump cover. However, this equipment can keep small animals from damaging your equipment. If you are not aware, animals are accountable for a significant amount of pool pump repair costs every year. Fortunately, these are easily avoidable when you use a dedicated cover.
A simple cover or shed can also protect your pump from harsh temperatures and outdoor conditions. It can ultimately extend the lifespan of your pool equipment.
Furthermore, a pool pump enclosure can keep dirt and debris out of your equipment. Hence, it reduces the number of times you need to clean and wipe your swimming pool pump.
Can I cover my pool pump with a tarp?
If you will not use your pool pump for a long time, you can cover it with a tarp or a simple canvas cloth. However, it is not the most attractive solution to protect your pump from outdoor elements. Just imagine lying on the lounge chair and seeing a lump of dull clothing across your pool. You might be better off exposing your water pump if you care more about aesthetics—it looks natural, at least.
You also have to tie the tarp down with a string or rope to avoid it from flying away.
Finally, do not forget to remove the tarp every time you will use the pump to prevent any motor interruption.
With all that said, a tarp is a relatively good option if you do not care about aesthetics and simply want an inexpensive yet effective pool pump cover.
Does a pool pump need ventilation?
Yes, proper air circulation around the pump motor is vital to ensure optimal operation. Hence, it is best to invest in a cover that promotes free airflow around the pump to cool the motor. Look for pool boxes with slotted sides. You can also go with enclosures that back up against the wall without a top cover. Just remember that these do not protect your water pump from rain, snow, and other outdoor elements.
Conclusion
I hope this article about above-ground pool pump cover ideas inspired you to undertake your next backyard project! Each one can keep your pump, heater, and other necessary equipment from plain sight. It allows you to enjoy a relaxing day by your poolside. At the same time, it protects them from harsh weather and other outdoor elements. It can ultimately extend their lifespan.
