We have a 27 foot above ground pool. We have tried every method of covering this pool in the winter, but I somehow always end up in a torrential downpour trying to pump the water off the top of the pool no matter what system we use to cover the pool. The last 4 years, we used the Duck Back pool cover that you inflate. That was the absolute best cover we have ever had, but it died a sad death this year. I just can't justify spending another $400 dollars to replace it if isn't going to last but 4 years. My questions are: We are considering not draining the pool below the skimmer this years and trying the Aquador skimmer cover. If we don't drain the pool below the skimmer, can we simply cover the pool making sure the cover rests on the top of the water and not use any balls or pillows? I realize that if we get a lot of rain or snow I'm going to have to pump off some water, but is it ok to leave small amounts? My husband obsesses with standing water on the pool. He is terrified that the walls of the pool are going to cave in. Does leaving the pool full lessen the chances of this happening?