Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Coverstar Quality Control


Coverstar has worked tirelessly to offer not only the highest quality automatic pool cover system available, but also to make sure each order ships accurately.  To ensure that the correct parts are shipped with each order that is placed, Coverstar has implemented a robust quality control program. 

When an order for a cover system is submitted online, it is reviewed by two separate account managers before it is moved to production.  As the account managers review the order, they make sure that the system options selected are compatible with each other and will work properly.  After the order has been reviewed, it is moved to production.

As the order is being produced, there are a number of different hardware kits that are needed, depending on the type of system ordered.  To help ensure that these hardware kits are correct, each of the parts is individually bar coded and weighed.  Each kit must pass this weight check and have all bar codes scanned in order to pass the quality control check. 

 As the order is completed on the production floor, it is again checked twice for accuracy.    During this process, 30-40 digital pictures are taken of each order.  The pictures from the assembly department show all of the components of the mechanism box including showing what motor side the mechanism is.

The pictures from the extrusion department show the roll up tube and leading edge tube being measured, so the exact measurement that each tube is cut to is shown.  The pictures also show the type of lid and track, along with the quantities of each included in the order. 

The pictures from the cover department show the cover being measured, so the exact cover width and length is shown.  The pictures also show the fabric color, webbing type and rope. 

Once the pictures are taken, they are uploaded and attached to each order.  This allows the company that placed the order to access the pictures through their online ordering page.  They can scroll through the pictures and see exactly what shipped with each order, and which box each part was packaged in. 

Coverstar is committed to producing and shipping the highest quality automatic cover systems available.  This commitment is evident in the quality control program as it is followed for all full system orders, all replacement cover orders, and all parts orders. 
 

 

 

 

Friday, November 16, 2012

MESH & SOLID SAFETY COVERS - FAQ

Q:Where should the water level be for closing a pool with a winter safety cover?
A: The water level should be kept with in 12"of the top of the pool wall.

Q: What is the proper spring tension?
A: Initially, adjust the straps so that they are set to at least half compression. This will keep the cover tight and aid in draining. The springs should be checked periodically and the straps adjusted to maintain this tension.

Q: Should I treat the pool with chemicals before closing?
A:Be sure your pool has the proper level of sanitizer and algaecide before closing it for the winter. This will insure that the water is clear upon opening in the spring. If the cover is left on when the temperature has gone beyond 60 degrees F., it may be necessary to add algaecide to maintain clarity.


Q: Should I remove snow and water from the cover over winter?
A: Large accumulations of snow should be carefully removed, taking precautions not to damage the cover. Likewise if a large puddle of water accumulates it should be removed immediately by draining it to the drain or by using a weighted cover pump. The straps should be adjusted to prevent a re occurrence. Failure to perform this maintenance could result in stretching or damage to the cover components. Drainage can be facilitated by slightly loosening the strap that runs through the drain areas while tightening the straps away from the drain. A small amount of puddling is normal and will evaporate in dry weather. If you have questions about these or any procedures, please contact your cover installer.

Q: How does debris (leaves, pine needles, etc..) affect my cover?
A: Covered pools in heavily wooded areas are susceptible to accumulation of leaves, needles and other debris that will inhibit water flow to and through the "Invis-a-drain". It is very important to keep the drain clear of debris at all times.

Q: How can I protect my cover from abrasive coping?
A: For cover not ordered with sewn on padding, it is required that our loose 2' x 20' padding be placed as a barrier between rough or sharp coping and the cover itself. Periodic inspection of the cover is necessary for detection of early signs of wear.

 Q: Are there any special instructions for removal and storage of the safety cover?
A: The cover should be hosed off removing any debris that accumulated over the winter. If you have a cover with the invis-a-drain you should clear the drain also. Before folding the cover make sure it is completely dry. Cover cleaner and treatments, available at most pool supply stores, are also recommended.

Q: Do the anchors require any special care?
A: After removing or prior to installing the cover, clean out all the anchor sockets with a stream of compressed air or water. This biannual cleaning will assure proper anchor function. Applying spray silicone to these components will also be beneficial to their proper operation. When the cover is not in use, screw anchors down completely to keep out debris and to prevent tripping, foot injuries, and cover damage.

Q. I don't have any kids in my house. Why do I need a safety cover?
A. It's been well documented that any swimming pool is a magnet for children and pets in the neighborhood. A properly installed and maintained safety cover is the best way to ensure wandering kids or pets will not gain access to your pool when you can't be there to supervise.
Coverstar solid and mesh covers also come in different material weights. Your authorized Coverstar dealer can help you determine the cover type and weight best suited to your needs.

Q. I have a custom-shaped pool. Can I get a Coverstar safety cover to fit it?
A. Absolutely! Your dealer will measure your pool carefully, taking into account its shape, size and any and all features, such as stairs, rails, diving boards and raised walls. Based on these measurements, Coverstar will design a custom mesh or solid safety cover that will fit your pool perfectly!

Q. Can I walk on my cover?
A. Coverstar safety covers are built strong enough to support the weight of several adults, in the event they need to retrieve a child who has wandered onto the cover. However, it is not recommended that anyone walk on any type of safety cover.

Q. What kind of warranty does a Coverstar have?
A. Coverstar builds our covers better – so we back them better! We provide an exclusive 20-YEAR Warranty on all of our mesh and solid safety covers.

Friday, November 9, 2012

Coverstar Participates in International Pool and Spa Expo

Nov. 6-8th the International Pool, Spa and Patio Expo was held in New Orleans LA.  Pool Builders from around the world came to see the new products and innovations that were exhibited by hundreds of vendors.   Coverstar, a division of Latham Pool Products, was proud to have participated in this event. 

During these three days, Coverstar highlighted many features that set their automatic cover system apart from their competitors.   Some of the features highlighted include:

  • Heat Sealed Webbing – This webbing is much stronger and longer lasting then standard sewn on webbing,
  • Eclipse Stainless Steel and CS3000 Aluminum Mechanisms – These mechanisms were engineered to provide strength in the harsh pool environment, as well as easy and reliable operation for years to come. 
  • Touch Pad Control Switch – The new touch pad can have 4 unique user pass codes programmed in to it.  It will also learn the amount of torque that is required to operate each cover.  The amp current limits can then be adjusted to allow the cover motor to automatically turn off if a problem is detected during the operating of the cover. 
  • New Lid Forming Kit – This reusable lid forming system will allow builders to quickly and easily form and pour beautiful concrete lid sections that can be installed over the cover housing.

For those that may not have been able to attend, please come and visit us at any of the following shows:

Canadian Pool & Spa Show - Nov. 26-29, 2012 - Niagara Falls Ontario Canada
Mid-America Pool & Spa Show - Jan 21-24, 2013 - Chicago IL
Atlantic City Pool & Spa Show - Jan 28-31, 2013 - Atlantic City NJ
SouthEast Pool & Spa Show - Feb. 4-7, 2013 - Atlanta GA
Southwest Pool & Spa Show - Feb. 28 - Mar 2, 2013 - San Antonio TX.