Is A Pool Cover Worth It?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,

Covering a pool when it is not in use is the single most

effective means of reducing pool heating costs

. Savings of 50%–70% are possible. Pool covers on indoor pools not only can reduce evaporation but also the need to ventilate indoor air and replace it with unconditioned outdoor air.

What is the cheapest pool cover?

One of the most basic types of cheap pool covers are

leaf covers

. These covers are relatively inexpensive and perfect for keeping out leaves and debris. Leaf nets are often used along with pool nets to act as a safety cover system.

How much should a pool cover cost?

Inground Pool Cover Costs. A basic pool cover costs

$15 to $150 for

an above-ground pool and $30 to $350 for an in-ground model. Mesh covers cost $50 to $250 for above-ground and $200 to $500 for inground pools.

How much do Mesh pool covers cost?

A mesh cover costs

between $1,200 and $3,000

, depending on the shape and size of the pool. A solid cover costs between $1,800 and $3,600 for the same shape and size as a mesh cover, about $600 more on average. Initial installation of any cover will cost between $500 and $1,000 depending on the size of the pool.

Should I cover my pool every night?

Covering a heated swimming pool at

night will reduce heat loss

. … For a swimming pool that relies on the sun for heat, covering it at night can still make it warm enough to swim in the next day, instead of losing all the heat overnight when the temperatures drop.

Should a pool cover touch the water?


The cover is designed to touch the surface of the water

. So your pool should always be filled when covered, and the water level should never go below 18 inches from the top of the pool. Check the water level of the pool and fill it up if it goes below 18 inches.

Can I use a tarp as a pool cover?


CCS polypropylene mesh tarps

are the best tarp for pool covers. They do an exceptional job blocking sunlight, which is essential for preventing algae growth when chemicals are not being added regularly. Polypropylene tarps are strong, too, so they can withstand the weight of ice and snow that builds up over the winter.

What kind of pool cover should I buy?

  • A standard (tarp) winter cover costs $75–$225. It needs a pump on top, keeps out sunlight and light debris, and lasts 1–3 seasons.
  • A mesh security cover costs $1,200–$3,000. …
  • A solid (vinyl) security cover costs $1,200–$3,000. …
  • An automatic cover costs $5,000–$15,000.

Can you walk on a mesh pool cover?

Rain drains through without collecting on the surface, while leaves and debris just dry and blow away! No water bags or pumping necessary, wich virtually eliminates off-season maintenance! Choose the fabrics and colors that match your taste and get a perfectly

fitted custom-built

mesh pool cover you can walk on.

How long should a pool cover last?

Most automatic safety pool covers on average last

4 to 6 years

if you maintain them properly. We recommend that you buy a pool cover that comes with a pro-rated warranty. That way, you can always ask for a replacement if you notice issues within a few weeks of purchase.

Does water seep through pool cover?

Water displacement in above ground pools is quite common. Over the winter,

the weight of the snow and ice push down on the cover

, which can cause the cover to displace some of the pool water. The displaced water spills out harmlessly onto the deck, unbeknownst to the pool owners.

Does leaving a pool cover on cause algae?


Algae can become resistant to normal levels of chlorine

and can then breed rapidly if the conditions are right. Simply fitting a solar pool cover will not make the pool go green. However, because solar covers will warm the water, they can accelerate algae growth. … The best solution is to try using algae starver.

When should I take my pool cover off?

The recommended time to open up your pool is when temperatures in your

area consistently hit 70 degrees

. While 70 degrees isn’t exactly swim weather, these temperatures can promote algae growth. This can be especially problematic if you use a mesh pool cover, as the water will get plenty of sunlight.

Should I keep my pool covered in the summer?

When the sun and your pool meet during the summer, this means that your pool water will disappear at a greater rate. … Place a cover over your pool after hours to block excess heat from the surface of the water. The cover will also trap whatever moisture happened to evaporate so this supply can rejoin the original water.

Should I cover my pool while on vacation?

Covering your pool makes it difficult for

algae

to grow. It will be well worth coming back to a clean pool. If you do not own a pool cover yet, this would be a perfect time to buy since you will still need one once the colder months come around.

Do you need a pillow under a pool cover?

We strongly

recommend using an air pillow under your winter cover

. The first reason to install a winter cover air pillow is to protect your pool from expanding ice. When you don’t use an air pillow, the cover sits right on top of the water and the ice will want to expand outwards.

Kim Nguyen
Author
Kim Nguyen
Kim Nguyen is a fitness expert and personal trainer with over 15 years of experience in the industry. She is a certified strength and conditioning specialist and has trained a variety of clients, from professional athletes to everyday fitness enthusiasts. Kim is passionate about helping people achieve their fitness goals and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.