What is the best pool solar cover?
The 13 Best Solar Pool Covers Reviews
- Blue Wave NS520 14 Mil Pool Solar Blanket Cover. This product is a decent solar pool cover from Blue Wave. ...
- In The Swim 16 Mil Pool Solar Blanket Cover. The “In The Swim” brand has got several series of solar pool covers among which there is this 16-mil thick ...
- Blue Wave NS110 8 Mil Pool Solar Blanket Cover. ...
- Sun2Solar 1600 Series Solar Pool Cover. ...
What is the best solar blanket for a pool?
Best solar pool cover brands of 2021, according to experts
- Sun2Solar 1600 Series Blue Solar Pool Cover. Both Dobrica and Collins recommended the Sun2Solar line of products. ...
- MidWest Canvas 12 mil Solar Cover. Dobrica recommended this cover for its easy maneuverability, UV protection and high-quality insulation.
- Blue Wave 12 mil Solar Blanket. ...
- Intex Blue Solar Cover. ...
How to choose a solar pool cover?
How to Choose a Solar Pool Cover
- Measure the size of the pool to get the properly sized cover. If a cover is too small, it will not be as effective in warming the pool.
- Select a light color for the pool cover. Darker colors and blues may look nicer over the water, but a clear cover is the most effective because it allows ...
- Choose a solar cover with air bubbles in it. ...
What are the best swimming pool covers?
Types of Swimming Pool Covers
- Thermal Pool Blankets. Thermal pool blankets are primarily designed to retain water heat. ...
- Solar Swimming Pool Covers. These covers are designed to warm the pool water during the day but they are also useful to keep leaves and debris out of your pool.
- Slat Swimming Pool Covers. ...
- Leaf and Debris Pool Covers. ...
Are pool solar covers worth it?
The short answer is yes. It has been scientifically proven by at least 3 studies that solar blankets help to warm swimming pools. They also help to retain pool heat at night, help to reduce humidity and help to save on energy costs.
How much do solar covers heat a pool?
Depending on the weather, a solar blanket can heat up a pool even up to 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit in a single day. However, on cool, cloudy days, a solar cover will not be as effective at warming up the pool. On average, expect about a 5-degree increase within the first day.
How long does a pool solar cover last?
Most solar covers last for up to three years, though many people replace them more frequently. Utilizing a solar cover and taking advantage of the return lines in your pool is another way of prevent evaporation as well as distributing the warm water throughout all your pool and quick more efficiently.
Is solar pool heating worth it?
You can significantly reduce swimming pool heating costs by installing a solar pool heater. They're cost competitive with both gas and heat pump pool heaters, and they have very low annual operating costs. Actually, solar pool heating is one of the most cost-effective use of solar energy in some climates.
What's the cheapest way to heat a pool?
Here are the seven cheapest ways to heat your pool this off-season.Use a Solar Cover. ... Invest in Solar Sun Rings. ... Try Out a Liquid Solar Pool Cover. ... Build a Windproof Pool Enclosure. ... Use the Black Hose Trick. ... Snag a Pool Heat Pump. ... Combine a Solar Cover and Pool Heat Pump.
Should you leave solar blanket pool during day?
A solar cover won't instantly or magically warm your swimming pool water, but can provide an incredible difference in temperature if you use it consistently. When your pool is not in use during the daylight, a solar cover will help to retain heat, and will use the warmth of your pool to continue to heat up the water.
Does leaving a pool cover on cause algae?
Covering the pool is a good way to prevent algae growth. The right cover keeps algae from entering the pool, but it also keeps leaves, bugs, bacteria, and dirt from decomposing in the pool, providing algae with food.
Can I leave my solar cover on all winter?
Clean it, Dry it, Fold it and Store it for the winter. You can leave it on the reel, if you cover it. Keep your water chemistry balanced and remember to remove the solar cover when shocking the pool, and always store your solar cover in the shade or covered on the reel.
Can I shock pool with solar cover on?
There are times when you should not use a solar cover. Remove the cover during heavy storms and wind events, to prevent damage from flying debris. Remove the cover before shocking a pool, and leave it off until chlorine levels drop below 2.5 ppm.
Are solar heated pools warm in winter?
On average your solar pool heating will increase your pool temperature by 5 – 15 degrees than it's current temperature. Therefore, it should not be relied on to create a warm pool 365 days in the year.
How much do solar panels cost?
Solar panels cost, on average, about $16,000, or between $3,500 to $35,000 depending on the type and model. While solar panels can help save you money on energy costs, it's important to know the overall startup solar panel costs so you can plan a budget.
How hot can solar pool heating get?
between 78 degrees to 85 degrees FahrenheitThe amount of energy generated depends on cloud cover, sun intensity, shade, and heat buildup. In Southern California, solar pool heating systems can typically raise the temperature of your pool to between 78 degrees to 85 degrees Fahrenheit in a few days.
Does a pool solar cover heat the water?
First things first, you have to bear in mind that only solar pool covers heat water. Other pool covers such as rigid and thermal covers will only retain the heat in your pool water but won't actually warm the water.
Does a pool heat up faster with the solar cover on?
Solar covers will help a pool warm up faster in the spring and help maintain warmth in a pool a little longer in the fall but one misconception about them is that they will warm up a pool in the dead of winter, which simply is not the case.
How do I calculate solar pool heating?
This is done by measuring the length and width of your pool and then multiplying that by the average depth and then multiplying that figure by 4.78 (the number of gallons in a cubic foot of pool water). Example: A 16' x 32' swimming pool has 512 square feet of surface area.
Will pool cover heat pool?
When pool water evaporates, it carries with it heat and therefore cools the pool water down. So if evaporation is prevented, then there will be much least heat loss. So simply put, covering your pool you will help warm the water up.
What is an Automatic Pool Cover?
An Automatic Pool Cover is an automatic pool cover system that covers and uncovers a pool automatically. The Auto Pool Reel is similar to manual po...
Will the Auto Pool Reel or an Automatic Pool Roller save me money?
Yes, by using the Auto Pool Reel or an Automatic Pool Roller with a pool blanket at night when it is typically cooler or when not in use will elimi...
Can I use the Automatic Pool Covers for indoors or outdoors?
The Auto Pool Reel or an Automatic Pool Roller can be used indoors or outdoors as required.
Does the Auto Pool Reel come with a remote?
No, the Auto Pool Reel (APR) is fully automatic and requires no assistance so safety must be considered at all times. A key is inserted into the un...
What pool shape can the Auto Pool Reel Cover or an Automatic Pool Roller be used on?
The Auto Pool Reel or an Automatic Pool Roller can be used on most pools including rectangular and L-shape. As well it can also be used on straight...
Do I need tracks or pull a string or rope with the Auto Pool Reel?
No. The Auto Pool Reel is the only automatic pool cover in the world that requires no ropes or tracks or any assistance. Just push the button to co...
Are solar pool covers worth it?
Solar pool covers can be a bit expensive. Oftentimes though, proper use can yield enough money savings to offset the cost of the cover. The benefit...
Should I leave my solar pool cover on during the day?
The free solar heating properties only work when the sun is shining. That said, the sun is more effective at heating water to a greater depth witho...
Should I cover my pool every night?
For the insulating properties of solar pool covers to be effective, and to keep debris from getting into the pool when not in use, there is no reas...
Do solar pool covers warm the water?
Solar pool covers are designed to heat and insulate the water. Some covers are better at one than the other. Clear or translucent solar pool covers...
How do you clean a solar pool cover?
An effective method of cleaning your solar pool cover starts by removing loose debris with a garden hose and sprayer. Then, mix gentle soap (liquid...
How fast does a solar cover heat a pool?
On average, a solar colar can help heat a pool an additional 5-degrees for every 12 hours of coverage.
Should I cover my pool during the day or night?
Since solar pool covers heat up the water with the help of the sun, they can also help reduce heat loss when covered at night.
The 5 Best Solar Pool Covers
Our ratings take into consideration factors like pricing, customer rating, shapes and sizes available, UV resistance and warranty. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
How to Determine Which Solar Pool Cover Is Best for You
Solar pool covers perform several functions. However, different designs are best for different functions. None of them is the best at fulfilling every need. Consider the following factors to help decide what qualities to look for.
Reasons to Buy a Solar Pool Cover
Solar pool covers save energy costs. The climate you live in determines how much. In some areas, it can be as much as 70% savings over not using a cover. Most savings are the result of not having to run the pool heater as often by way of using the sun’s energy as free heat, and then insulating against losing that heat to the atmosphere.
Durability
There is much debate about how long a pool cover should last. Lack of durability is the number one complaint when it comes to pool covers. Although some people report continuous use of a solar cover for several years, some only get one season out of them.
Methodology
To determine the best solar pool cover ranking, the Forbes Home Improvement editorial team analyzed third-party data on eight major companies, with each product’s star rating determined by evaluating a variety of metrics, including:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Solar pool covers can be a bit expensive. Oftentimes though, proper use can yield enough money savings to offset the cost of the cover. The benefits are greatest for those who live in areas that are relatively cool where free solar heating and insulation will be most valuable.
What is solar pool cover?
Solar pool covers otherwise known as solar blankets are swimming pool covers that use the sun’s energy to keep swimming pools warm. But how effective are solar pool covers?
How many degrees does a pool get on a sunny day?
On average, a fully covered pool can gain between 10-15 degrees on a sunny day within about 6 hours. Does a solar cover have to cover the whole pool? For optimum results it is best to get a blanket that covers your whole pool.
How much does a solar blanket reduce heat loss?
A 2016 study by Cal Poly found that solar blankets can reduce heat loss and evaporation of pool water by as much as 95%. Solar Pool Covers can also heat water to an average of at least 10 degrees. A 2014 research by collage found that pool covers can cut energy costs by as much as 30%.
Can a blanket cover a pool?
A blanket that partially covers the pool will still help to heat the pool, especially when there is direct sunlight. But solar blankets that cover the whole pool are much more effective.
Can you take solar covers off a pool?
Solar pool covers can be extremely cumbersome. Spreading them over your swimming pool as well as taking them off the pool is time-consuming and awkward exercises that often needs an extra pair of hands. Additionally, you must clean the solar cover often as part of your pool cleaning routine. This can be an annoying task.
Do solar pool covers really work?
So, do solar pool covers actually work? The short answer is yes. It has been scientifically proven by at least 3 studies that solar blankets help to warm swimming pools. They also help to retain pool heat at night, help to reduce humidity and help to save on energy costs.
How big is a solar cover for above ground pools?
The Summer Waves Adjustable Round Pool Cover is sized for above-ground pools with a diameter of 10 to 15 feet.
How effective are solar pool covers?
Solar pool covers are effective as long as you use them consistently. They can heat your pool up to 12 degrees warmer than it was previously. Using a solar pool cover overnight will also reduce heat loss and make the water warm enough to swim in the next day.
What is the difference between a round and rectangular solar pool cover?
Round pool covers may leave the end of an oval pool exposed, while rectangular solar pool covers may have too much overhang. The Supreme Solar Cover from Midwest Canvas is made to match the shape of oval pools and comes in 7 different sizes. Like many other top solar pool covers, this one is also 12 mil thick.
What is the best cover for an inground pool?
This silver solar cover is a great pick for inground pools. The UV-resistant silver-colored material allows the sun’s energy to pass through to the water below but also protects against some of the effects of UV exposure on pool chemicals.
How thick is a solar cover?
The solar cover is 12 mil thick and features an aluminized bottom to boost heat transfer from the sun’s rays to the pool water. It can raise water temperatures up to 15 degrees, while at the same time reducing the amount of debris that lands in your pool. The 8 Best Pool Cleaners of 2021.
Why do you need a pool cover?
A pool cover is a smart way to save both time and money since it can protect your pool from debris, heat loss, and minimize the effect of UV rays on your chlorine levels. If you’re also looking to minimize your spending on the pool cover itself, then this option from Sun2Solar is an affordable solution.
How does a solar pool cover work?
Solar pool covers work to retain heat and minimize evaporation. They contain small air pockets that capture heat from the sun that is then transferred to the water in the pool. Solar covers also act as an insulator so that heat can't escape the water in the pool.
What is solar pool cover?
A solar pool cover is basically a large solar blanket. It is similar to very strong bubble wrap that floats on the surface of the pool. It doesn’t need to be attached to the pool as the surface tension, and its weight, holds it onto the pool surface.
Why do you need a solar cover for a pool?
Generally having a solar pool cover will save money in the long run, particularly if you heat your pool using electricity or gas. They will also extend your swimming season and reduce the amount of money you spend on chemicals.
What is solar sun ring?
These are rings of solar blanket, normally with a floatation ring around the outside, which are thrown onto the surface of the pool and act in the same way as a full solar pool cover. It can take quite a few to cover a large pool.
Why do bubbles in a pool cover?
The bubbles help to act as an insulator to stop heat transfer out of the pool. A solar pool cover is different from a “pool cover”. A pool cover is intended to cover the entire pool to protect it during the winter and/or to prevent children or pets from falling in.
How long does a solar pool cover last?
If you store the solar cover under cover or away from UV rays over winter and take care with it during the summer you may get 5 years out of it but it could be as little as 3 years. A rotting solar pool cover.
What is solar blanket?
These are rings of solar blanket, normally with a floatation ring around the outside, which are thrown onto the surface of the pool and act in the same way as a full solar pool cover. It can take quite a few to cover a large pool.
How thick is a solar cover?
The normal range of solar cover thicknesses runs from 8 mil to 16 mil. In case you are not aware a mil is one-thousandth of an inch (0.001 inch). 12 mil solar covers are the most popular thickness as they do a good all round job, are easy to handle and last quite a few years.
