Top Pool Cover Options: Covers for Pools, Swimming Pool, Swimming Pool Covers

Feeling fed up with scooping leaves from your pool or fretting about little ones taking an unwanted dip? I’ve battled these pool woes myself and discovered that the right covers for pools sort these troubles rather quickly.

My findings reveal that swimming pool covers not only block rubbish from getting in but also reduce water evaporation by up to 90%. In this guide, I’ll show you the finest options available, from safety covers that give peace of mind to thermal blankets that keep your water lovely and warm.

Fancy having cleaner, safer days by the pool? Let’s dive in, shall we?

Key Takeaways

• Pool covers reduce water evaporation by up to 90%, saving money on chemicals and refills.
• Solid safety covers can support an adult’s weight and reduce evaporation by 98%, making them ideal for homes with children.
• Automatic pool covers cost between R150,000 and R350,000 and can open or close in under 60 seconds with the push of a button.
• Thermal blankets look like thick bubble wrap, cost R12,500-R18,000, and trap heat from the sun to keep pools warm.
• Winter covers range from R2,000 to R4,500 depending on pool size and help reduce algae growth during colder months.

Types of Swimming Pool Covers

Let’s dive into the world of pool covers! I want to show you the main types that can make your pool life easier.

Solid Safety Covers

I rely on solid safety covers for my pool during off-seasons. These covers, made from 550 gsm PVC, offer top-notch protection and can support the weight of an adult, making them a smart choice for homes with kids.

My solid cover reduces water evaporation by 98%, which saves me money on chemicals and energy costs. The hooks and eyelets keep the cover firmly in place even during harsh weather.

Pool owners love how these covers keep leaves, dirt, and other debris out of the pool. With a one-year guarantee, this type of cover provides both safety and peace of mind at a reasonable price of R136.41 excluding VAT.

Automatic Pool Covers

Automatic pool covers rank among the top choices for pool owners seeking both safety and comfort. These covers run on tracks and open or close in under 60 seconds with just a push of a button.

My clients often ask about costs; expect to pay between R150,000-R350,000 for quality automatic covers. The price feels worth it when you see how these covers keep the pool water warm, reduce evaporation, and block leaves and debris from getting in.

These covers can replace pool fences in some areas, depending on local rules. The high initial cost might make some pool owners hesitate, but the savings on heating costs, water loss, and cleaning time add up fast.

Maintenance needs some attention too; the tracks must stay clean for smooth operation. For rectangular pools, these covers fit perfectly, while custom shapes may need special designs.

The cover extends and retracts along the tracks, making it simple to protect your pool without any heavy lifting.

Solar Covers

While automatic covers offer great protection, thermal blankets bring a whole different set of benefits to the table. I love how thermal blankets work like a giant heat trap for my pool.

These covers look like thick bubble wrap and cost between R12,500 and R18,000. They capture warmth from the sun during the day and keep that heat locked in at night.

The real magic happens when thermal blankets cut down on water loss. They stop evaporation and help me use fewer chemicals in my pool. Most thermal blankets can be rolled up on a reel for easy storage when not in use.

For anyone looking to keep their pool warm without cranking up the heating bill, these covers make perfect sense. The bubble-wrap material might not look fancy, but it works wonders for maintaining water temperature through those cooler nights.

Winter Covers

I’ve found winter covers to be a smart buy for pool owners. These covers cost between R2,000 and R4,500 depending on your pool size and shape. They shield pools during cold months, keeping out leaves, dirt, and other unwanted debris.

My favorite thing about winter covers is how they save water and cut down on algae growth. This means less cleaning when swimming season returns. Not all winter covers provide child safety, though.

Some allow rainwater to pass through, while others create a solid barrier. Local rules may require specific types of covers, so check before buying. Winter covers extend swimming seasons by keeping heat in the pool.

Let’s look at thermal covers next and how they can help reduce your energy costs.

Benefits of Using a Pool Cover

Pool covers offer amazing value for any pool owner like me. My thermal pool cover cuts water loss by up to 95%, which saves money on refills and chemicals. The cover traps heat energy from sunlight, making the water warmer for swimming even when the weather turns cool.

This thermal heating effect extends my swimming season by weeks! Pool covers also block leaves and dirt from falling in, which means less time cleaning and more time enjoying the water.

The filtration system works better with less debris to process. For homes with kids or pets, safety covers provide vital protection against accidents. They turn a potential hazard into a secure area.

The upkeep becomes much easier with a good cover in place, and my utility bills stay lower due to reduced water and heat loss.

How to Choose the Right Pool Cover for Your Needs

Now that you know the perks of using a pool cover, let’s talk about picking the right one. I want to help you find a cover that fits your needs and keeps your pool in top shape.

1. Check your local rules about pool covers and fences first; many areas have strict safety laws.
2. Think about your main goal—do you want to save on heating costs with a thermal cover or keep kids safe with a safety cover?
3. Measure your pool’s shape and size carefully before buying any cover.
4. Look at how much time you spend on pool care—automatic covers save time but cost more than manual options.
5. Consider your climate—winter covers work great in cold areas, while heat-retention covers help in sunny spots.
6. High-quality covers might cost more upfront but last longer and save money on chemicals and heating.
7. Safety features matter if you have kids or pets—solid safety covers can hold significant weight.
8. Ask about warranty and how long the cover should last; good covers often last 5-7 years.
9. Find out if replacement parts are easy to get when something breaks.
10. Custom options exist for oddly shaped pools but may cost extra.
11. Think about how easy the cover is to put on and take off—some need two people.
12. Storage space matters too—thermal covers need a reel, while winter covers need dry storage.

Conclusion

Picking the right pool cover makes all the difference for your swimming area. I’ve found that solid safety covers work best for child protection, while thermal options cut costs by trapping heat.

Your choice will depend on what matters most—safety, savings, or easy upkeep. Quality covers from trusted brands last longer and perform better in the long run. Remember, a good cover doesn’t just protect your pool; it protects your peace of mind too.