Do Above Ground Solar Pool Covers Do the Trick?

Above ground solar pool covers protect your pool investment when the seasons change and the leaves begin to fall. Solar covers keep leaves and debris from falling into the pool and promoting algae growth. In addition, above ground solar pool covers keep the pool water heated, to a certain extent, with the solar energy produced through the cover. Above ground solar pool covers, also known as solar pool blankets, will extend the swim season by keeping the water at a tolerable temperature for a few additional weeks in the fall if the pool has no heater. If the pool is heated, the above ground solar pool cover will reduce the energy costs to heat the pool.

Solar pool covers are available in blanket form, or as rings or sections. Blanket covers are more effective at trapping the heat and keeping the water warmer. Rings and section covers are less expensive, but not quite as effective for keeping the heat in the water. Most solar pool covers are made from heavy-duty polyethylene materials that are resistant to ultraviolet rays. However, liquid solar covers are also available that work by creating an invisible layer of film on the pool water surface. Though rings and liquid covers provide some additional heat and energy, blanket pool covers also reduce water evaporation, which also reduces heating loss.

Generally, solar blankets are the most inexpensive, yet effective, way to protect your pool during the cooler months. Solar blankets are available for most above ground pool sizes, and the covers do not need to be customized for your pool, as with other pool covers. If a solar blanket’s size needs to be reduced, the pool owner is able to cut the excess material with heavy duty scissors.

Possibly the best benefit of above ground solar pool covers is that the pool does not need to be drained and taken down for the winter. Cover the pool and make sure debris and rain water do not collect on the top of the cover enough to collapse the cover into the water, and the pool is ready to go when next summer rolls around. Just remove the cover, top off the pool with water, and add the necessary chemicals. No need to tear down the pool for the winter, and then reassemble and fill the pool when the next swim season arrives. The pool is quickly prepared and ready for summertime fun.