First time using solid pool cover

[EdKuhn]

Good morning, I've never used a solid cover for our pool. I've searched the forums about using a cover when closing the pool for the winter, and I think I've got a good idea of what to do, but thought I'd just get some confirmation since my situation is a little different.
In NC we really don't have to "close" the pool, since it doesn't get too cold. I don't drain anything or lower the water, and the pool pump has a thermostat to turn on when temp gets below freezing. Like the previous owners we used to put out a pool net to catch leaves during leaf season. Ran pump about four hours a day to keep things filtered (might not be needed?)
This year the pool net became deteriorated and I got rid of it. I'm thinking of putting on a solid cover with water bags and tie downs. Reason for not getting another pool net is that I think the falling leaves from a maple tree next to the pool contribute to an iron staining problem I have every spring.
So, I am thinking of putting down a solid cover from around mid-September to mid-December. Will the pool cover cause any problems with running the pool pump for a few hours, or if temps drop and the pool pump turns on? I will bring up the water to SLAM level before putting the cover on. I'm also wondering if running the pool pump is even necessary when the pool is covered? Thanks!

 

[ajw22]

The solid cover will not be a problem

You need to run your pump enough to generate the chlorine from your IC40.

You need to open the cover every other day or so to let the Sun UV burn off the CCs and the water outgas carbon dioxide. You will have a problem with your water chemistry if you keep the cover on for a few months straight.

 

[EdKuhn]

The solid cover will not be a problem

You need to run your pump enough to generate the chlorine from your IC40.

You need to open the cover every other day or so to let the Sun UV burn off the CCs and the water outgas carbon dioxide. You will have a problem with your water chemistry if you keep the cover on for a few months straight.

OK thanks. Although I take out the IC40 in the winter (water gets too cold for it to generate chlorine). Other than that is running the pump necesssary?

 

[ajw22]

If you don’t run your pump you are effectively closing your pool and the water will stratify.

How long do you not want to run your pump for?

Why do you not want to run your pump?

 

[EdKuhn]

If you don’t run your pump you are effectively closing your pool and the water will stratify.

How long do you not want to run your pump for?

Why do you not want to run your pump?

Gotcha, not sure what my train of thought was there. Thanks again for the help.