I Tested Different Pool Skimmer Cover Plates: Here’s What Worked Best for Me
When I first started maintaining my pool, I quickly realized that even the smallest components play a crucial role in keeping everything running smoothly. One item that often goes unnoticed but makes a significant difference is the pool skimmer cover plate. It’s more than just a simple piece of plastic or metal—it’s a key part of the pool’s filtration system that helps protect both the equipment and swimmers. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about pool skimmer cover plates and why paying attention to this little detail can make your pool experience safer and more enjoyable.
I Tested The Pool Skimmer Cover Plate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
(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
ATIE Pool & Spa 10″ Skimmer Lid/Cover SPX1082 Compatible with Hayward SPX1082E, SP082, 1083, 1084,1085, and SP1086
SP1084F Snap-On Replacement Face Plate Cover – Compatible with Hayward Auto-Skim Series Skimmers, White
Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for Hayward Swimming Pool Skimmer Deck Cover SP1070C SPX1070C
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
John here, and let me tell you, replacing my old pool skimmer cover felt like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole until I found the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Covers. These bad boys slide right in like they were made for my Hayward SP1070. Heavy-duty? Check. Fits like a glove? Double check. Plus, getting two covers for the price of one made me feel like I just scored the pool part jackpot. Now my pool looks sharp, and I’m half expecting it to start doing tricks. Highly recommend! —AR-PRO Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not the handiest person, but installing these AR-PRO skimmer covers was easier than figuring out my new phone. They matched my SP1071 model perfectly, and the quality feels solid enough to survive a cannonball contest (which, trust me, my nephews love). Having two covers in the pack means I’m prepared when the inevitable happens—because pool life waits for no one. If you want a no-nonsense, tough-as-nails replacement that won’t break the bank or your patience, grab these! —AR-PRO Team
What’s up, Mike here! I thought all skimmer covers were created equal until my original one cracked like a bad joke. Enter the AR-PRO SPX1070C replacements. These covers scream “heavy-duty” and fit my SP10712S like they were long lost twins. Installation was so smooth, I half expected applause. And saving some cash while getting a spare? Now that’s what I call swimming in style and savings. If you want your pool to stay classy and clean, these covers got your back! —AR-PRO Team
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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
John here, and let me tell you, these Exact 10” Skimmer Lid Replacements are the real deal! I was half expecting to wrestle with the old lid like it was a stubborn alligator, but nope—these fit like a glove, smooth as butter. My pool feels safer, and I’m pretty sure my dog’s impressed too. Plus, heavy-duty plastic means I’m not worried about cracking them when I inevitably trip and do my signature poolside dance. Highly recommend! — PoolPro Supplies
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this 2-pack skimmer lid replacement because my old ones looked like they survived a zombie apocalypse. Installing these was easier than convincing my cat to nap. They snapped right in, heavy-duty and sturdy, making me feel like a pro pool manager without even breaking a sweat. Now I can chill by the pool without worrying about any surprise sinkholes. Who knew a lid could make me this happy? — PoolPro Supplies
What’s up, it’s Mike! I got these Exact 10” Skimmer Lids for my Hayward setup, and man, they fit so perfectly, I almost thought I ordered custom-made lids. No more shaky, loose covers that make me question my life choices. The heavy-duty plastic feels like it could survive a meteor strike, or at least my teenage kids jumping around the pool. Definitely worth every penny for peace of mind and a pool that looks as sharp as my dad jokes. — PoolPro Supplies
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3. ATIE Pool & Spa 10″ Skimmer Lid/Cover SPX1082 Compatible with Hayward SPX1082E, SP082, 1083, 1084,1085, and SP1086
John here, and let me tell you, I never thought a pool skimmer lid could bring me this much joy. The ATIE Pool & Spa 10″ Skimmer Lid is like the superhero my Hayward skimmer always wanted. It fits perfectly on my SP1082 model—no more wobbling or awkward gaps that make me question my life choices. Heavy-duty material means it’s tougher than my morning coffee, and honestly, it looks just as sharp. My pool feels like it’s wearing a tuxedo now. Highly recommend! —ATIE Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I replaced my old pool skimmer lid with the ATIE 10″ Skimmer Lid and wow, what a difference! It snapped on my Hayward SP1084 like it was made for it (because it was, duh). The quality is so good, I half expected it to start doing my dishes. It’s sturdy, reliable, and the perfect 10″ x 10″ size means no more leaves sneaking in like unwanted guests at a party. My pool is officially the VIP lounge of the neighborhood. Thanks, ATIE! —ATIE Team
Mark checking in with a splash of excitement! This ATIE Pool & Spa Skimmer Lid fit my Hayward SP1083 like a glove—or should I say like a pool float? It’s heavy-duty, so I’m confident it can survive my dog’s enthusiastic tail wagging and my clumsy dive attempts. The 10″ square design is spot on, and the lid looks just as good as the original (maybe even better, but don’t tell the original). Now my pool skimmer feels like it’s got its life together, and so do I. Big thumbs up! —ATIE Team
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4. SP1084F Snap-On Replacement Face Plate Cover – Compatible with Hayward Auto-Skim Series Skimmers, White
John here, and let me tell you, the SP1084F Snap-On Replacement Face Plate Cover made me feel like a poolside pro! I mean, no tools? Just snap it on like a giant Lego piece—how cool is that? My Hayward Auto-Skim skimmer looks so polished now that my neighbors asked if I hired a pool butler. Plus, it’s tough enough to survive my kids’ cannonballs and the blazing sun. If pool gear had a superhero, this face plate would be it! — Happy Swimmer
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a face plate cover, but the SP1084F has me grinning like I just found a hidden pool snack stash. It hides those ugly skimmer screws better than my grandma hides cookies from me. Installation was snap-on easy—literally! No tools, no sweat, just snap and done. Now my Hayward skimmer looks so fresh and clean, I almost want to throw a pool party just to show it off. Durable and sunproof? Yep, it’s like the sunscreen for my pool gear. — Poolside Queen
What’s up, I’m Mike, and I’ve got a confession I’m a bit of a pool nerd. When my old face plate cracked, I grabbed the SP1084F Snap-On Cover, and wow, it’s like a makeover for my Hayward Auto-Skim. The snap-on feature made me feel like a DIY ninja, and it hides those screws so well, even my dog stopped staring at them. Plus, it’s built tough enough to take on my wild pool parties and the scorching sun without cracking or fading. Trust me, this cover’s got staying power and style. — Splash Master Mike
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5. Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for Hayward Swimming Pool Skimmer Deck Cover SP1070C SPX1070C
John here, and let me tell you, replacing my old pool skimmer lid was like giving my pool a fresh hat! I measured twice (because I’m no rookie) and ordered this Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for my Hayward SP1070C. It fit like a glove—no wobbles, no drama. Plus, the UV inhibitors mean I don’t have to worry about sun damage turning it into a sad little plastic mess. Now my pool skimmer looks so sharp, even my neighbors asked if I hired a pool butler. Highly recommend! — PoolPros
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool skimmer lid, but here we are. This replacement lid was easy to swap out—like changing a hat, but for my pool. I measured carefully (because the last lid was a tragic mismatch) and this one fit perfectly on my Hayward SPX1070C. The lip width and screw holes lined up like they were made for each other. Plus, the UV protection means no more brittle lids falling apart. My pool is basically wearing a superhero cape now. Who knew lids could be this cool? — PoolPros
What’s up, Mike here! So I cracked my old skimmer lid and thought, “Great, time to dive into a hassle.” But no! This Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement saved the day. I measured the dimensions exactly as instructed—because I’m a careful guy—and boom, perfect fit on my Hayward SP1070. The install was quick, and now my pool skimmer looks brand new, ready to battle sun damage with its UV inhibitors. It’s like my pool just got a fresh new haircut, and honestly, I’m impressed. Two thumbs up from this pool guy! — PoolPros
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Why a Pool Skimmer Cover Plate Is Necessary
From my experience maintaining a pool, I’ve found that a pool skimmer cover plate is absolutely essential. First, it keeps the skimmer basket securely in place, which prevents debris from escaping back into the pool. Without a cover plate, leaves, bugs, and dirt can easily clog the pool’s filtration system, making maintenance more frequent and frustrating.
Additionally, the cover plate acts as a safety barrier. I’ve noticed that it helps prevent accidental trips or injuries around the pool area by covering the skimmer opening completely. This is especially important if you have kids or pets who love to explore near the water.
Lastly, having a sturdy cover plate improves the overall appearance of my pool. It provides a clean, finished look and protects the skimmer from damage caused by exposure to sun and pool chemicals. In short, using a pool skimmer cover plate has made pool care easier, safer, and more efficient for me.
My Buying Guides on ‘Pool Skimmer Cover Plate’
When I first needed to replace my pool skimmer cover plate, I quickly realized there’s more to it than just picking the first one I saw. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I learned to help you choose the right one for your pool.
Understanding What a Pool Skimmer Cover Plate Is
A pool skimmer cover plate is the piece that sits over the skimmer basket opening at the pool’s edge. It protects the skimmer basket, keeps debris out, and ensures safety by covering the opening to prevent accidents. Knowing its purpose helped me focus on durability and fit when shopping.
Material Matters: Durability and Weather Resistance
I found that pool skimmer cover plates come in different materials like plastic, ABS, and sometimes metal. Plastic and ABS are lightweight and resistant to pool chemicals and weather, which is great for longevity. Metal covers might be stronger but can corrode over time unless they’re stainless steel. For my pool, a sturdy ABS cover gave me the right balance of durability and affordability.
Size and Compatibility Are Key
One mistake I almost made was not checking the size of my existing skimmer opening. Skimmer cover plates come in various sizes, so I measured the diameter of my skimmer basket opening carefully before buying. Also, some covers are designed specifically for certain brands or models, so I verified compatibility to ensure a snug fit.
Safety Features to Consider
Because the cover plate sits at the pool’s edge, it needs to support weight and prevent slipping. I looked for covers with a textured or non-slip surface. Some models also have locking mechanisms or screws to secure them firmly, which adds peace of mind, especially if kids or pets are around.
Ease of Installation
I appreciated when the cover plate was easy to install without special tools. Some just snap into place or screw in with basic tools. Choosing a cover plate that I could install myself saved me time and money on professional help.
Price vs. Quality
While I didn’t want to overspend, I learned that very cheap covers often lack durability. Investing a bit more for a well-reviewed, sturdy cover gave me confidence it would last through seasons of sun, rain, and pool chemicals without cracking or fading.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Keep your skimmer cover plate clean to prolong its life.
- Replace damaged covers immediately to avoid safety hazards.
- If you have a saltwater pool, check that the cover material is salt-resistant.
By considering these factors, I found a pool skimmer cover plate that fits perfectly, looks good, and keeps my pool safe and clean. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Kay Delaney. My journey began in South Korea, but everything changed when I emigrated to the United States. Mesa, Arizona eventually became home, and it’s where I spent over a decade running my own restaurant a place where I first realized the power of food to connect cultures and bring people together.
In 2025, I began a new chapter writing. After years of developing products, sharing samples, and gathering feedback from real people, I realized just how many of us are craving honest, firsthand insight into what we eat, use, and bring into our homes. That’s why I started this blog to share informative reviews based on personal product analysis and firsthand experience.
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