ABCMT33 | Blue Foam Cylinder – 8′ Long

Winter Pool Cover Support Component

As a retailer of hot tub spare parts and pool equipment, I’m offering this 8-foot blue foam cylinder designed for winter pool cover systems. This essential component prevents water accumulation and provides structural support for pool covers during the off-season.

What is a Foam Cylinder?

A foam cylinder, also known as a cover support or air pillow alternative, is a buoyant foam tube placed under winter pool covers. It sits on the water surface, creating a raised peak that allows rain, snow melt, and debris to slide off the cover rather than collecting in the centre. This prevents the dangerous weight buildup that can damage covers or even collapse them into the pool.

Why Cover Support Matters

Winter covers need proper support to function effectively. Without it, covers sag in the middle, creating a basin that collects water, leaves, and snow. This accumulated weight can tear covers, pull fasteners loose, or cause the entire cover to sink into the pool. Foam cylinders prevent these problems by maintaining proper cover geometry throughout winter.

Key Features

8-Foot Length The substantial 8-foot length provides effective support for medium to large pool covers, creating adequate rise to shed water and debris.

Closed-Cell Foam Construction Dense foam material won’t absorb water, maintaining buoyancy and structural integrity throughout the winter season.

Blue Colour The blue colour blends naturally with pool covers and water, maintaining a neat appearance during winter months.

Durable Material Resistant to chlorine, UV exposure, and temperature extremes typical of outdoor winter conditions.

Common Applications

Centre Support Positioned in the pool centre under the cover to create a peaked profile that sheds accumulation.

Multiple Cylinder Systems Larger pools may use multiple cylinders arranged to provide comprehensive support across the entire cover surface.

Diagonal Placement Often installed diagonally across rectangular pools for optimal weight distribution and drainage.

Ice Protection Creates a cushion that absorbs ice expansion pressure, protecting pool walls and equipment from freeze damage.

Installation Guidelines

Timing Install the cylinder after winterizing the pool but before securing the final cover, ensuring proper positioning.

Positioning Place diagonally or centrally depending on pool shape, ensuring the cover drapes over it to create natural drainage slopes.

Securing Some installers loosely tether the cylinder to prevent excessive movement, though it should float freely enough to adjust with water level changes.

Cover Adjustment After placing the cylinder, adjust the cover to eliminate wrinkles and ensure smooth drainage paths to the pool edges.

Pool Size Considerations

Small Pools (up to 18′) One 8-foot cylinder typically provides adequate support for above-ground and small in-ground pools.

Medium Pools (18′-30′) May require one or two cylinders depending on shape and cover type for proper weight distribution.

Large Pools (30’+) Often need multiple cylinders arranged strategically to support the entire cover area effectively.

Irregular Shapes Free-form pools may require creative cylinder placement to ensure all cover sections drain properly.

Seasonal Benefits

Rain Management Elevated cover centre allows rainwater to run off rather than pooling, preventing excessive weight and standing water.

Snow Load Distribution Creates a structure that helps distribute snow weight while allowing melt to drain rather than accumulate.

Debris Shedding Leaves, twigs, and other debris slide off the raised cover rather than collecting on a flat surface.

Spring Opening Reduces cover cleaning time and effort when opening the pool, as less debris and standing water accumulate.

Material Advantages

Closed-Cell Structure Unlike air pillows that can puncture and deflate, foam cylinders maintain support even if the surface is damaged.

Temperature Stable Performs consistently through freeze-thaw cycles without losing buoyancy or structural integrity.

Reusable With proper off-season storage, foam cylinders last multiple years, providing better long-term value than disposable alternatives.

Low Maintenance Requires no inflation, monitoring, or adjustment once installed—simply position and forget until spring.

Storage and Care

Off-Season Storage Clean and dry the cylinder before storing in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.

Inspection Check for compression damage or degradation before each winter season, though quality foam typically lasts many years.

Cleaning Rinse with fresh water to remove pool chemicals and debris before storage to maximize longevity.

Protection Store away from sharp objects or heavy items that could compress or damage the foam structure.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Code	ABCMT33
Length	8 feet (2.44 metres)
Colour	Blue
Material	Closed-cell foam
Quantity	Single unit
Buoyancy	Continuous (non-inflatable)
Application	Winter pool cover support
Compatible With	Most winter pool covers

Comparing to Air Pillows

While air pillows serve a similar purpose, foam cylinders offer distinct advantages. They cannot deflate or puncture, require no inflation maintenance, and provide more consistent support throughout winter. The rigid structure better maintains cover shape under snow load, and the longer profile of an 8-foot cylinder offers superior coverage compared to square air pillows.

Winter Pool Protection System

This foam cylinder is part of a comprehensive winter pool protection strategy. Combined with a quality winter cover, proper water chemistry, and secure fastening system, it helps ensure your pool survives winter in excellent condition. The investment in proper cover support prevents costly damage to covers, pool surfaces, and equipment, making it an essential component of responsible pool ownership.

Professional Pool Winterization

This 8-foot foam cylinder represents a professional approach to winter pool care. The substantial length and durable construction provide reliable season-long performance, while the closed-cell foam ensures consistent buoyancy regardless of weather conditions. Whether you’re a first-time pool owner preparing for winter or an experienced user replacing aging support equipment, this cylinder delivers the protection your pool cover system needs.