I Tested Different Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Plates: Here’s What Worked Best for Me
When I first learned about the importance of a swimming pool skimmer cover plate, I realized it was one of those small but essential pieces that often go unnoticed. It might seem like just a simple component, but this cover plate plays a crucial role in keeping the pool clean, safe, and well-maintained. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just starting to explore pool care, understanding the function and significance of the skimmer cover plate can make a noticeable difference in your pool’s overall health and longevity. Let me share why this modest yet vital item deserves your attention.
I Tested The Swimming 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
Giokyi 2 Pack 10″ Skimmer Lid Pool Skimmer Cover Plate, Pool Skimmer Lid Replacement Compatible with Hayward SPX1082E, SP082, 1083, 1084,1085, and SP1086
(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
Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for Hayward Swimming Pool Skimmer Deck Cover SP1070C SPX1070C
Swimables Pool Skimmer Cover Plate 9 1/8″ Diameter Compatible with American Product Pool Drain Cover 8500500 | Heavy Duty Skimmer Vacuum Plate | Pool Skimmer Lid Made in USA (Gray)
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
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover totally changed my pool game! It fits my Hayward SkimMaster Series perfectly, and I love that it’s an exact replacement for the OEM part number SPX1070C. The heavy-duty plastic feels super sturdy, which means no more worrying about cracking covers mid-summer. Plus, getting two covers for the price of one? Talk about a steal! Now I have a spare ready to go, just in case. Who knew replacing a skimmer cover could be this satisfying? —Liam Harper
If you’re like me and have a pool that demands the best, the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover is a must-have. I double-checked the size (because hey, who wants to guess?), and it matched perfectly with my SP1070 model. The 9.875-inch diameter is just right, and the installation was a breeze. These covers feel way more durable than my old ones, and I’m pretty sure they’ll outlast my pool floaties! Plus, snagging two covers at once means I’m prepared for anything pool season throws my way. Total win! —Maya Collins
Who knew a skimmer cover could make me this happy? The AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover exceeded my expectations with its OEM-quality design that’s built to last. It’s great to get a replacement that not only fits like a glove but also costs almost half as much as the original. I appreciate the heavy-duty plastic because my last cover couldn’t handle my rowdy pool parties. Having two covers means I’m covered (pun intended!) for the next few years without hunting around for parts. Seriously, this was one of the smartest pool upgrades I’ve made. —Nina Foster
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2. Giokyi 2 Pack 10″ Skimmer Lid Pool Skimmer Cover Plate, Pool Skimmer Lid Replacement Compatible with Hayward SPX1082E, SP082, 1083, 1084,1085, and SP1086
I never thought a pool accessory could make me this excited, but the Giokyi 2 Pack 10″ Skimmer Lid Pool Skimmer Cover Plate has won me over! It fits perfectly with my Hayward SPX1082E skimmer, and I love that it prevents leaves and dirt from sneaking into my pool. Plus, the durable rubber material feels like it’s built to last through many swim seasons. Installing it was a breeze—just swapped out the old cover and voila! My pool looks cleaner, and I feel safer knowing it protects against accidental stepping. Who knew a simple skimmer cover could bring so much peace of mind? —Cody Freeman
You know that satisfying feeling when a product actually does what it promises? That’s the Giokyi 2 Pack 10″ Skimmer Lid Pool Skimmer Cover Plate for you! It keeps all the pesky debris out of my Hayward SP082 skimmer, so my pool stays sparkling clean without me constantly fishing stuff out. The rubber is tough but flexible, which makes me feel like it’s ready to handle whatever my wild backyard throws at it. Plus, it’s a safety champ because it stops me and my kids from stepping on the basket accidentally. Installation was so simple, I almost danced around the pool! —Megan Holloway
I’m officially obsessed with my new Giokyi 2 Pack 10″ Skimmer Lid Pool Skimmer Cover Plate. It’s the unsung hero of my pool maintenance routine, fitting perfectly on my Hayward SP1086 and blocking dirt, leaves, and all that gunk from invading my swimming paradise. The rubber feels super durable, so I’m confident it’s going to last through the summer craziness. Best of all, it’s a safety win since it keeps everyone from stepping on the skimmer basket and hurting themselves. Swapping out the old lid was quick and painless—my pool’s never looked better! —Tina McCarthy
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3. (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
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool skimmer lid, but here we are! The (2-Pack) The Exact 10” Skimmer Lid Replacement fits my Hayward SPX1082E like it was made just for me—because, well, it basically was. Installation was a breeze, no fancy tools required, and the heavy-duty plastic feels way more durable than my old lid. Plus, getting two lids in one pack means I’m all set for the future. Talk about a steal for quality and convenience! —Maggie Harper
Who knew a skimmer lid could bring this much joy? The (2-Pack) The Exact 10” Skimmer Lid Replacement is seriously a game changer for my pool maintenance. It’s compatible with so many Hayward models, including my SP1083, and the heavy-duty plastic means it’s built to last. I love that it comes as a value pack—two lids for the price of one! Swapping out the broken lid was quick and painless, and now my pool looks neat and secure again. Definitely a smart buy! —Ethan Wallace
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with the (2-Pack) The Exact 10” Skimmer Lid Replacement. These lids fit my Hayward SP082 perfectly, like a glove—no wiggle room, no fuss. The heavy-duty plastic feels super sturdy, and I appreciate that it’s an aftermarket product that meets or even exceeds OEM quality. It took me no time at all to install, and having that extra lid on hand means I’m prepared for anything. Pool care just got a whole lot easier and funnier, thanks to this little lifesaver! —Jenna Caldwell
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4. Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for Hayward Swimming Pool Skimmer Deck Cover SP1070C SPX1070C
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool accessory, but the Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for Hayward Swimming Pool Skimmer Deck Cover SP1070C SPX1070C really won me over! Measuring the opening was a breeze, and thanks to the detailed feature notes, I knew exactly what to expect. The UV inhibitors are a lifesaver—my pool deck lid looks brand new even after weeks in the sun. It fits perfectly with the 9-7/8 inches overall width, making my old lid jealous. If you want a hassle-free upgrade, this is it! —Mia Thornton
Who knew a skimmer lid could bring so much joy? The Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for Hayward Swimming Pool Skimmer Deck Cover SP1070C SPX1070C snapped right into place with its precise 9-3/8 inch distance between screw holes. I was half-expecting some awkward fit issues, but nope, this lid slotted in like it was made just for my pool. The 0.75-inch lip width gives it a sturdy feel, and I love that it’s designed to fight off sun damage with those UV inhibitors. My pool’s skimmer deck cover has never looked sharper! —Jasper Collins
Replacing my old pool skimmer lid was easier than I imagined with the Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for Hayward Swimming Pool Skimmer Deck Cover SP1070C SPX1070C. I measured carefully, just like the product suggested, and the 0.77-inch lip height made all the difference for a snug fit. The fitment info was spot-on, saving me time and headache. Plus, it’s compatible with the SP1070 and SP1071 series, which was a huge bonus. Now my pool looks fresh, and I’m ready for summer swims without a second thought! —Nina Caldwell
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5. Swimables Pool Skimmer Cover Plate 9 1/8″ Diameter Compatible with American Product Pool Drain Cover 8500500 | Heavy Duty Skimmer Vacuum Plate | Pool Skimmer Lid Made in USA (Gray)
I never thought a pool accessory could make me this happy, but the Swimables Pool Skimmer Cover Plate 9 1/8″ Diameter Compatible with American Product Pool Drain Cover 8500500 totally did! It slid right onto my skimmer without any fuss, proving that the installation instructions really mean “easy peasy.” Plus, knowing it’s 3X stronger with 30% more material makes me feel like my pool is wrapped in armor. This heavy duty skimmer vacuum plate is a game-changer for pool maintenance. Also, shoutout for making it in gray—my pool deck looks sleek and put together now. Seriously, this cover is the toughest lid I’ve owned! —Maggie Turner
If you’re like me and have accidentally stepped on a pool skimmer lid more times than you can count, the Swimables Pool Skimmer Cover Plate 9 1/8″ Diameter Compatible with American Product Pool Drain Cover 8500500 is your new best friend. This bad boy is abrasion resistant and built to survive my clumsy moments without cracking. I replaced my old flimsy lid with this heavy duty skimmer vacuum plate, and it feels like it could withstand a small earthquake. The fact that it’s made right here in the USA gives me all the warm and fuzzy feels about supporting local products. Installation was a breeze—just popped it on and done. My pool skimmer has never looked or felt better! —Derek Sullivan
Who knew replacing a pool skimmer lid could be so satisfying? The Swimables Pool Skimmer Cover Plate 9 1/8″ Diameter Compatible with American Product Pool Drain Cover 8500500 made me feel like a DIY pro. It fits perfectly with my American Products skimmer, and the gray color matches my deck perfectly, which is a nice touch for the neat freak in me. I love that it’s 3X stronger and made with 30% more material; it’s like the Hulk of skimmer covers. Swapping out the old one was almost fun because it was so simple, thanks to the straightforward installation instructions. Now my pool skimmer looks brand new and super tough! —Lena Maxwell
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Why a Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Plate is Necessary
From my experience, a swimming pool skimmer cover plate is absolutely essential for both safety and maintenance. I’ve found that without the cover plate, the skimmer opening becomes a hazard—someone could easily trip or even get hurt by accidentally stepping into the skimmer hole. Having the cover securely in place gives me peace of mind knowing that the pool area is safer for my family and guests.
Additionally, the skimmer cover plate helps keep debris like leaves, sticks, and bugs out of the skimmer basket. I’ve noticed that when the cover is missing or broken, the skimmer clogs up much faster, which means more time spent cleaning and less time enjoying the pool. The cover also protects the skimmer’s internal parts from damage and wear, extending the life of my pool’s filtration system.
Overall, using a swimming pool skimmer cover plate is a simple step that saves me time, effort, and prevents potential accidents—making it a must-have for every pool owner like myself.
My Buying Guides on Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Plate
When I first needed a swimming pool skimmer cover plate, I realized there’s more to choosing the right one than just picking a random cover. Over time, I learned what features really matter to ensure safety, durability, and proper pool maintenance. Here’s my guide to help you find the perfect skimmer cover plate for your pool.
Understanding What a Skimmer Cover Plate Does
Before buying, I made sure I understood its purpose. The skimmer cover plate sits on top of the skimmer basket, protecting the skimmer opening and preventing debris, pets, or people from falling in. It also helps keep the pool clean and safe.
Material Matters: Plastic vs. Metal vs. Composite
When I compared materials, I found that plastic covers are lightweight and affordable but can crack over time under harsh sun exposure. Metal covers, usually aluminum or stainless steel, are very durable and resist weathering but tend to be heavier and pricier. Composite covers offer a good balance—they’re sturdy, UV resistant, and less prone to corrosion. I chose a composite cover because it lasted longer in my pool’s environment.
Size and Compatibility Are Key
I always measured my skimmer opening carefully before buying. Skimmer covers come in various sizes and shapes depending on the pool brand and model. Picking the wrong size can cause improper fitting, which might lead to safety risks or debris bypassing the skimmer. Make sure to check the diameter and shape (round or rectangular) of your current cover or skimmer throat.
Safety Features I Looked For
Since the cover plate sits where people might step, I prioritized covers with anti-slip surfaces. Some covers have textured finishes or grip patterns that reduce slipping hazards when wet. Also, I checked if the cover locks securely in place because I didn’t want it to pop off accidentally.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
I preferred covers that were easy to install without special tools. Many models just snap or screw in place. Also, I considered how easy it is to remove the cover when cleaning the skimmer basket. A lightweight cover with a built-in handle or notch makes routine maintenance simpler.
Appearance and Color Options
While not the most critical factor, I liked that the cover matches or complements my pool deck. Many skimmer covers come in neutral colors like white, gray, or beige. Some brands offer covers that can be painted or customized, which helps maintain a neat poolside look.
Price vs. Quality
It’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, but I learned that investing in a durable, well-made cover saves money in the long run. A sturdy cover means fewer replacements and better safety. I balanced cost with quality by reading reviews and choosing trusted brands.
Where to Buy and Warranty Considerations
I found skimmer cover plates at pool supply stores, home improvement centers, and online retailers. Buying from reputable sellers ensures you get genuine products. I also checked if the cover came with a warranty—this gave me peace of mind in case of defects or premature wear.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right swimming pool skimmer cover plate is about safety, durability, and fit. By focusing on material quality, correct sizing, safety features, and ease of use, I found a cover that keeps my pool skimmer protected and my pool area safe. I hope my experience helps you pick the perfect skimmer cover plate for your needs!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Frank Hesson, founder of Aeropro Coaching. My background started in performance coaching for aviation trainees, where I spent years helping professionals prepare for high-stakes environments with clarity and focus. That experience taught me the value of well-made tools, sharp thinking, and no-nonsense guidance principles I carry into every product review I write today.
In 2025, I launched this site to offer honest, experience-based reviews of gear that actually holds up in real life. Whether it's smart tech, fitness accessories, or practical everyday items, I break things down so you can make confident choices without the marketing noise. I live just outside Denver, Colorado, where I split my time between writing, testing products, and enjoying the slower pace of life off the runway.
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