Best Pool Covers for Above Ground Pools: Keeping Your Pool Clean and Safe
Owning an above ground pool is a fantastic way to enjoy the summer months, but maintaining it can be a chore. One of the most important aspects of pool maintenance is using a pool cover. A good cover not only helps to keep your pool clean and free of debris, but it also helps to conserve water and energy, and it can even improve your pool's safety.
Here's a rundown of the best pool covers for above ground pools:
1. Solid Pool Covers:
Pros:
- Excellent for keeping out debris: Solid pool covers are made of heavy-duty materials like vinyl or PVC, and they completely seal off the pool surface. This makes them ideal for keeping out leaves, dirt, and other debris.
- Great for safety: They can prevent children and pets from accidentally falling into the pool.
- Conserve water: They help to prevent evaporation, reducing the need to add water to the pool.
Cons:
- Can be difficult to remove and install: Solid covers are typically heavier and bulkier than other types of covers.
- Less aesthetically pleasing: They are not as visually appealing as other cover types.
- Not as energy efficient: They can prevent heat from escaping the pool, which can make it more expensive to heat in the cooler months.
2. Safety Solar Pool Covers:
Pros:
- Great for safety: These covers are designed with safety features to prevent accidental falls into the pool. They are typically made with heavy-duty materials and have a strong, secure latching system.
- Increase water temperature: They trap solar heat, making your pool warmer and allowing you to extend your swimming season.
- Reduce chemical use: They cut down on evaporation, which reduces the need to add chemicals to the pool.
- Reduce debris: They keep out large debris like leaves and twigs.
Cons:
- More expensive than solid covers: They are generally more expensive than solid covers.
- Not as effective at blocking small debris: They are not as effective at keeping out small debris like pollen or dust.
- Can be difficult to clean: They can collect dirt and algae underneath, and they need to be cleaned regularly.
3. Mesh Pool Covers:
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to use: Mesh covers are lightweight and easy to handle, making them a good option for smaller pools.
- Allow for some light penetration: They allow some sunlight to penetrate, which can help to keep your pool warm.
- Can be used as a safety cover: Some mesh covers are designed with safety features to prevent accidental falls.
Cons:
- Not as effective at blocking debris: They allow small debris to pass through, so you may need to skim your pool more often.
- Not as effective at preventing evaporation: They don't provide the same level of evaporation control as solid covers.
- May not be as durable as other covers: They can be prone to tears and rips.
4. Automatic Pool Covers:
Pros:
- Easy to use: They can be controlled with a remote or a smartphone app.
- Provide excellent protection: They can seal off the pool completely, keeping out debris and preventing evaporation.
- Increase safety: They can be designed to automatically close when the pool is not in use.
Cons:
- Expensive: They are significantly more expensive than manual covers.
- Require regular maintenance: They need to be serviced and cleaned regularly.
- May not be suitable for all pools: They may not be compatible with all above ground pool models.
Choosing the right pool cover for your needs:
When choosing a pool cover, it's important to consider your budget, your pool's size and shape, and your personal needs. Solid covers are the most affordable and effective for keeping out debris, but they can be difficult to handle. Safety solar covers offer a good balance of safety and functionality, while mesh covers are a lightweight and affordable option for smaller pools. Automatic covers offer the ultimate convenience, but they come with a significant price tag.
No matter what type of pool cover you choose, make sure to invest in a high-quality cover that will last for years to come. A good pool cover can help you to keep your pool clean, safe, and energy-efficient for many years to come.
