Installing a pool cover is an excellent way to protect your pool, save money on chemicals, prevent algae growth, and conserve water. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that pool covers have become an essential accessory for pool owners everywhere.
If you are a pool owner, you must be aware of the fact that installing a pool cover is one of the best investments you can make. Apart from providing safety, there are numerous other benefits of using a pool cover. For instance, a pool cover can help you save money on pool chemicals, as it reduces the amount of chemicals needed to keep your pool clean and clear. This is because a pool cover helps to reduce the amount of debris, dirt, and other contaminants that enter the pool, which in turn reduces the amount of chemicals needed to clean the water.
Let’s dive deep into the existence and benefits of having a swimming pool cover:
Algae prevention: Certain pool covers play a crucial role in preventing UV light from entering the pool. These covers are dark-colored and opaque, effectively blocking all UV light from penetrating the water. Algae requires sunlight for photosynthesis, but these covers prevent sunlight from passing through, inhibiting algae growth. Additionally, the reduced sunlight can lead to a decrease in the usage of chemical treatments.
Pets: Pool covers are an excellent option to ensure the safety of your pets. While they are primarily used for child safety, pool covers can also prevent pets, especially dogs, from falling into the water when left unsupervised. Dogs tend to roam around the pool area and are at risk of falling in, which can be harmful to their health. By using a pool cover, you can significantly reduce the chances of such accidents from happening and keep your pets safe.
Fewer supplement heating systems: Living in a colder climate can reduce the need for additional heating systems when you have a pool cover. By keeping the pool covered, you won’t need an extra heating supplement to maintain its temperature. Pool covers are known to help save water from evaporating, but this additional benefit of reducing the need for heating supplements will be particularly appreciated by those who live in colder climates. This hack not only helps in energy conservation but also saves money.
Wildlife: Preventing wildlife from entering the pool can be a daunting task. However, pool covers can be a great solution to keep your pool free from frogs or tadpoles, ensuring that the pool and pool area remain safe and clean. This is particularly useful in areas where wildlife such as cats, frogs, and ducks are common.
Now, let’s discuss the various types of pool covers available.
Mesh pool cover: Mesh covers are an excellent option for those who have a pool with an irregular shape. They are perfect for natural shape pools as they easily take the shape of the pool. Apart from being an impeccable shapeshifter, mesh covers also help in conserving water. These covers prevent water evaporation and also allow rainwater to seep into the pool.
Mesh covers ensure that algae does not thrive in the pool water. They provide breathability, allowing water to circulate and cutting the algae cords. The best part about these covers is that they require low maintenance and don’t need much attention from the owners.
Solid pool covers: These pool covers are referred to as solid covers because of their solid nature and are suitable for rectangular or circular pools. However, if your pool is not a regular shape, it may not fit properly. The rigidity of the pool cover is a plus if your pool has a regular shape.
Unlike other pool covers that let some debris in, this pool cover provides supreme barrier protection against different types of debris. Solid pool covers do not let any speck of debris in. Additionally, unlike mesh covers, solid pool covers prevent water from evaporating which makes your pool swimmable every time you open it.
Automatic Pool Covers: Automatic pool covers” are named so because they open and retract with just a press of a button, making it easier for you to cover your pool. These covers provide comfort while keeping your pool clean. They are customized to fit the exact shape and size of your pool. The only downside of these covers is their high cost. However, they are worth the investment as they are durable and can withstand outdoor conditions, lasting longer than traditional pool covers.
Solar Pool Covers: Who fears sunlight when you have a solar pool cover? The former arch-nemesis of your pool will now be your best friend, as you will want the sun to shine over your pool every day. These pool covers efficiently heat the pool without the need for any supplementary heating system.
Water Bag Pool Covers: Water bag pool covers are an excellent option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly pool cover. Compared to other pool covers, these covers come at a fraction of the cost. They are also easy to install and can be used by anyone. Simply lay the cover over the pool, fill the perimeter bags, and you’re good to go.
These covers are portable and easy to use. When not in use, you can deflate the perimeter bags, fold the rest of the cover and store it somewhere. However, it’s important to note that these covers do not provide a high level of protection for children. They are not sturdy enough to bear the weight of any children, so additional safety measures are necessary to ensure the safety of children.
Apart from above mentioned things a pool cover can also help prevent the growth of algae in your pool. This is because some pool covers are designed to block UV light from entering the pool, which is the primary source of energy that algae need to grow. By preventing the growth of algae, you can keep your pool looking clean and clear, and avoid the need for costly algae treatments.
A pool cover can also help you conserve water by reducing evaporation. When you leave your pool uncovered, water can evaporate at a rate of up to 1 inch per day, which can result in significant water loss over time. By covering your pool, you can reduce evaporation by up to 95%, which not only helps to conserve water but also reduces the amount of time and money you spend on pool maintenance.
Installing a pool cover is an excellent way to protect your pool, save money on chemicals, prevent algae growth, and conserve water. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that pool covers have become an essential accessory for pool owners everywhere.
