Heat and protect with pool covers
Solar pool covers have been around for some time now and are one of the best ways to not only protect your pool from dirt and leaves, but also heat your swimming with lower energy costs. A warmer pool means that your swimming pool season is extended into the cooler months and you will also be able to reopen your pool earlier in spring.
A clear cover will reduce the evaporation of the water and will retain the sun’s heat during the daytime. Most of the heat loss is because of water evaporation and a solar cover will help to reduce water usage.
When it comes to these types, thicker is definitely better. An extruded cover is known to last twice as long as a laminated cover. Sunlight is retained just like the greenhouse effect. More heat will be retained in the water as it passes through the cover. Clear covers are the best because the sun can easily pass through the cover, similar to a window. It is best if your cover has the diamond pattern on it. The diamond shape helps to minimize the space in between the air pockets and will provide maximum heat retention. A cover with round bubbles has more space in between the cells and will not provide as much insulation.
The advantage of using a vinyl solar cover over a polyethylene cover is that the vinyl cover is made of heavier material and has a longer life expectancy. You can find some vinyl ones that have an insulated layer in the middle of two vinyl sheets, which is very flexible.
They will block only 5 to 15 percent of the sun’s energy as compared to a blue cover which will block 20 to 40 percent. The cover will decrease your heating expense by 70 percent or more and will increase the temperature by 10 to 15 degrees. So, if you’re looking for a way to save money get more use out of your swimming pool, solar covers are a great investment.
Now you can enjoy your pool and keep it clean year round, which of course will keep your cleaning costs down too.