Solar Pool Cover Buying Guide: How To Choose the Best One

When the weather starts to cool down, and you start to think of those long summer days by the pool, you'll know that a solar pool cover is a must-have accessory. Not only will it keep your pool water warm all day long, but it can also prevent evaporation, conserve energy, and minimize water usage.

What are Solar Pool Covers?

A solar pool cover is a great way to enjoy the pool in the summer without dealing with the heat and humidity. It uses solar energy to heat the water, preventing leaves, debris, and bugs from floating in and clogging the filter system.

Pool owners can either install a standard solar pool cover or an automatic solar pool cover system.

How does solar pool cover work?

Solar pool covers are like blankets for your pool, only they float on the water's surface. Because of their material, you can leave them floating on the water's surface without attaching them to anything.

In addition, the sun can heat the water in the inground pool thanks to the solar pool cover.

Pros and Cons of Solar Pool Covers

Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of solar pool cover buying season. Not only will they protect your pool from UV rays, sun, and dirt, but they can also keep it warmer in the winter.

And if you're on a budget, don't worry - there are various options to choose from, with varying costs and requirements for maintenance.

Is solar pool covers worth it?

A solar reel cover's worth depends on individual circumstances and goals. For example, they're not worthwhile if you seek a fast, straightforward pool heating method.

Tossing and turning an inground solar pool cover can be a tedious chore. However, if saving money on energy bills and helping the environment are priorities for you, they are worth it.

Types of Solar Pool Covers

Bubble solar coverings, or solar blankets, are created with tiny thermal bubbles that trap heat and keep the water in a pool warmer for longer.

A custom DIY, solar pool cover is an expensive but worthwhile upgrade for homeowners with unusually shaped pools.

Pool Size

The cover you choose will depend on the pool size, sun exposure, and your needs. The coverage area is the most important thing to consider since this will determine how much sunlight your pool gets.

Shape

When it comes to solar pool covers, there are three main shapes - Flat, Round, and Oval. Therefore, choosing the right cover for your swimming pool is essential based on its shape and size.

Thickness

The thicker the cover, the more protection it offers from rain or sun exposure. A wider body with a higher mil rating will better retain the heat in the pool. Moreover, a solar pool between 12- 16 mil is best for heat retention.

How Much Does a Pool Solar Cover Cost?

The price range for a pool cover reel is between $500 and $5,000, depending on the cover's size and features.

Most solar pool covers come with a heating element that will keep your pool warm during cold weather months, and some have built-in filters to remove debris and parasites from the chlorine water.

Price

Regarding an inground pool solar reel, heating costs are always an essential factor to consider. There are affordable options and more expensive choices that offer better features for reasonable energy costs. Make sure you consult with an expert before making a purchase.

They will help ensure the lowest price with the best quality.

Features

When thinking about purchasing a pool solar cover during pool season, there are a few things you should take into account. First, the cover size is essential - ensure it will fit your pool perfectly.

Another thing to consider is the material from which the cover is completed. Water-resistant covers are often made from fabric or vinyl materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Best Solar Pool Covers

Automatic Solar Blanket Cover Reel/Roller

This cover may be used continuously in a swimming season for three to four days without any additional power source and twice daily.

In addition to the motorized device, gas heater, and waterproof handheld remote controller, you will also receive a battery charger for use during winter to bring the water temperature down.

Robelle Heavy-Duty Solar Cover

The bubbles in the blue solar cover made of polyethylene absorb solar radiation and keep your pool warm. As a result, the pool's temperature rises when the cover is in place, and water loss and chemical use are reduced.

In addition, the material is UV-resistant and comes with a warranty.

BigXWell Solar Pool Cover

This pool cover, constructed from thousands of blue bubble membranes, will keep your pool at a comfortable temperature year-round.

It holds 95% of the water from evaporating and keeps the collection clean and clear from dust and debris for simple upkeep.

Intex Solar Cover

The Intex sun cover is constructed from a durable, lightweight, and UV-resistant 160-micron material designed to keep the pool water warm, clean, and debris-free.

In addition, the 18x9-foot cover can insulate pool water and reduce water loss due to evaporation by 95 percent.

Labworkauto Solar Pool Cover

The blue round or oval solar blanket is made of high-quality PE and is made to retain heat for insulation and to reduce water evaporation by 95%. In addition to keeping the water warm, it protects against dust, debris, and tiny bubbles.

Should you buy a Solar Pool Cover?

At least three studies have established scientifically that solar cover reel contributes to the warming of swimming pools. Additionally, they aid in lowering humidity, preserving pool heat loss at night, and saving money on energy.

Bottom Line

If you find it challenging to keep an in-ground pool clean and warm, as is required for swimming, solar pool covers can be a great help.

The best pool cover won't get wet over time and won't stop water from evaporating. Ensure you select the proper one by considering your pool's dimensions and layout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some factors to consider when choosing a solar pool cover?

Size is one of the most important factors when choosing a solar cover reel. Pool covers come in different sizes to fit any pool size. Additionally, the type of cover should also be considered.

Furthermore, the material should be made from a durable waterproof fabric that is UV resistant and heat sealed for water repellency.

Can the solar cover be left on the pool?

Generally, it's OK to leave the solar cover on the pool during hot weather. However, it's important to note that heatstroke or overheating in the collection can occur if this cover is left on for an extended time.

So, it's best to consult your pool owner or pool service company to ensure safety.

How much does it cost to run a Swimming Pool?

An in-ground pool's annual pool maintenance cost can be anywhere from $500 to $4,000. Therefore, the average yearly cost of maintaining a pool is about 10% of the initial investment cost, or more, if you hire a pool service.

Is there any difference between a solar pool cover and a heat pump pool cover?

Solar pool heaters generate electricity to run the unit, while heat pump pool covers use energy from your pool's coolant to run the unit.

Both solar pool cover and heat pump pool cover are best used in sunny climates as they need direct sunlight to work correctly.