As you prepare your pool for the changing seasons, you’re likely wondering which pool cover is right for you. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. But what if you could find a cover that not only protects your pool from debris and harsh weather conditions but also helps you save money on energy bills? You’re about to discover the top 5 pool covers of 2024, each carefully selected for their durability, safety features, and ability to reduce maintenance costs. But first, let’s explore what makes these covers stand out from the rest.
Contents
- Sun2Solar Rectangle Solar Cover
- Blue Wave Above Ground Pool Winter Cover
- Happybuy Inground Pool Safety Cover
- Pool Boy 1 Powered Pool Solar Blanket Reel
- Robelle 352040R Pool Cover for Winter, Super, 20 x 40 ft Inground Pools
- Factors to Consider When Choosing Pool Covers
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Sun2Solar Rectangle Solar Cover
The Sun2Solar Rectangle Solar Cover is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an eco-friendly and energy-efficient pool cover that can extend your swimming season.
This rectangular cover measures 16×32 feet, but you can customize it to fit your unique pool shape with scissors.
Made from durable resin material, it weighs 26 pounds and is built to withstand UV rays and pool chemicals.
The cover’s thousands of tiny bubbles collect and retain heat from the sun, retaining heat during the day and night, reducing the need for pool heaters and saving you energy costs.
It also helps keep your pool water consistent, minimizing the need for frequent refills.
Best For: Pool owners who want to reduce their energy costs, extend their swimming season, and keep their pool clean and warm.
Pros:
- Retains heat from the sun during the day and at night, reducing the need for pool heaters and saving energy costs
- Prevents up to 95% of pool water evaporation, minimizing debris and leaves from entering the pool, and reducing the amount of water lost into the environment
- Customizable to fit unique pool shapes with scissors, making it a versatile option for pool owners
Cons:
- Some customers reported issues with the product deteriorating quickly or leaving plastic residue in the pool
- May not last as long as expected, with some customers reporting a lifespan of only 1-2 years
- May not be as durable as expected, with some customers experiencing issues with the product disintegrating over time
Blue Wave Above Ground Pool Winter Cover
With its 8-year pro-rated warranty and durable polyethylene construction, the Blue Wave Above Ground Pool Winter Cover is an excellent choice for pool owners who want a reliable and long-lasting solution to protect their above-ground pool from harsh winter weather.
You’ll appreciate the cover’s woven, laminated design, which resists sunlight degradation and features a black underside to prevent algae growth.
The cover’s metal grommets, spaced every 2 feet, and vinyl-coated cable secure a tight fit, while the 4-foot overlap guarantees a proper fit.
Backed by an 8-year warranty, you can trust this cover to protect your pool from winter’s wrath.
With over 24,000 customer reviews and a 3.9-star rating, you can trust the Blue Wave Above Ground Pool Winter Cover to get the job done.
Best For: Pool owners who want a reliable and long-lasting solution to protect their above-ground pool from harsh winter weather.
Pros:
- Durable polyethylene construction with an 8-year pro-rated warranty
- Woven, laminated design resists sunlight degradation and prevents algae growth
- Secure fit with metal grommets and vinyl-coated cable, and a 4-foot overlap for a proper fit
Cons:
- May require additional equipment, such as a submersible pump, to extract water from the cover after heavy rains
- Requires adequate water level to support the weight of the cover and prevent structural damage
- May not be suitable for pools with unusual shapes or sizes
Happybuy Inground Pool Safety Cover
For pool owners seeking premium protection and durability, the Happybuy Inground Pool Safety Cover stands out as a top choice, boasting a 15-year warranty and UL certification to ASTM Standard F1346.
You’ll appreciate the robust performance of this cover, made from premium high-strength polypropylene material that resists aging, high temperatures, and abrasion.
The complete hardware kit facilitates hassle-free installation, and the powerful tight mesh design allows water to pass through for efficient drainage while blocking leaves, snow, or debris.
With this cover, you’ll prioritize child and pet safety, preventing accidental pool access and enhancing security.
Plus, you’ll reduce water evaporation and maintain cleaner winter water, making pool maintenance a breeze.
Best For: Pool owners seeking premium protection and durability for their inground pools.
Pros:
- Sturdy and durable with a 15-year warranty and UL certification to ASTM Standard F1346
- Easy to install with a complete hardware kit and adjustable rope length
- Reduces water evaporation and maintains cleaner winter water, making pool maintenance easier
Cons:
- Some customers have reported issues with the clamps that hold the cover in place
- Not sturdy enough to prevent pets from falling through, according to some reviewers
- Some customers have experienced difficulties with installation and quality issues
Pool Boy 1 Powered Pool Solar Blanket Reel
You’ll appreciate the Pool Boy 1 Powered Pool Solar Blanket Reel’s convenient automated operation, which extends and retracts with the click of a button, making it an ideal choice for pool owners seeking hassle-free solar blanket management.
This reel is designed for inground pools up to 20 feet wide and 40 feet long, and it comes with a 3-year prorated warranty. Made in the USA, the Pool Boy 1 is a reliable option, but be aware that some customers have reported quality control issues and assembly difficulties.
You’ll also want to carefully consider the product’s limitations, such as the potential for lost connections with the remote control and gaps in the device.
Despite these drawbacks, the Pool Boy 1’s ease of use and good customer service make it a solid choice for pool owners.
Best For: Pool owners seeking hassle-free solar blanket management for their inground pools up to 20 feet wide and 40 feet long.
Pros:
- Convenient automated operation that extends and retracts with the click of a button
- Good customer service
- Made in the USA with a 3-year prorated warranty
Cons:
- Quality control issues with cheap materials and poor design
- Assembly difficulties
- Remote control issues with lost connections and slow motor
Robelle 352040R Pool Cover for Winter, Super, 20 x 40 ft Inground Pools
Protect your 20 x 40 ft inground pool from harsh winter elements with the Robelle 352040R Pool Cover, a heavy-duty, solid winter pool cover designed to keep your pool safe and secure until the next swimming season.
This cover is made of heavy-duty 8 x 8 scrim and 2.36 oz/yd2 polyethylene material, ensuring that water won’t pass through. The imperial blue topside and black underside will protect your pool from harsh winter conditions.
You’ll appreciate the 5-foot overlap for easy installation.
With an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars from 2,844 ratings, many users have praised the cover’s ease of setup, good quality, and durable material.
However, some users have reported issues with durability and defective products.
Best For: Pool owners who want a heavy-duty, solid winter pool cover to protect their 20 x 40 ft inground pool from harsh winter elements.
Pros:
- Easy setup and installation
- Good quality and durable material
- Protects pool from harsh winter conditions with its solid, waterproof design
Cons:
- Some users reported small tears and inferior fabric
- Defective products were reported by some users
- Durability issues were experienced by some users
Factors to Consider When Choosing Pool Covers
When selecting the perfect pool cover for your pool, you’ll want to deliberate several key factors that’ll guarantee you make an informed decision.
You’ll need to ponder your pool’s unique size and shape, as well as the durability of the material and the safety features that matter most to you.
Pool Size and Shape
Your pool’s unique size and shape are essential factors to think about when selecting a cover that provides a snug, effective fit.
A cover that’s too small or too large can be ineffective and even damage your pool.
To get it right, you’ll need to measure your pool accurately, considering any obstructions like steps, ledges, or other features that may affect the fit of the cover.
For rectangular pools, a custom-fit cover is the way to go.
Round pools, on the other hand, can use a standard-sized cover with a 4-foot overlap to guarantee a proper fit.
Don’t assume a standard size will work – take the time to measure carefully, as a small mistake can result in a cover that doesn’t fit properly.
Fortunately, customizable covers can be tailored to fit unique pool shapes and sizes, providing a secure and effective fit.
Material Durability Matters
After ensuring a snug fit, you’ll want to focus on the material durability of your pool cover, as it’s what stands between your pool’s surfaces and the harsh outdoor environment. The durability of your pool cover’s material is vital, as it can withstand harsh weather conditions, pool chemicals, and UV rays.
You’ll want to opt for materials like polyethylene and polypropylene, which are more resistant to degradation than others.
The density of the material, measured in oz/yd2, affects its durability. Look for higher densities, such as 2.36 oz/yd2 polyethylene, which indicate a more durable material.
The scrim count, measured in threads per inch, also impacts durability. A higher scrim count, like 8×8 scrim, indicates a stronger material.
When choosing a pool cover, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period, such as 8 years or 15 years, indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in the material’s durability.
Safety Features Priority
To guarantee maximum safety and protection, you should prioritize pool covers that integrate essential safety features into their design.
When choosing a pool cover, consider one that prevents accidental pool access, enhancing security and reducing water evaporation. A good example is the Happybuy Inground Pool Safety Cover, which boasts a powerful tight mesh that allows water to pass through for efficient drainage while blocking leaves, snow, or debris.
Look for a cover made from a sturdy and robust performance material that resists aging, high temperatures, and abrasion. The Happybuy Inground Pool Safety Cover’s premium high-strength PP material is a great example.
Additionally, verify that the cover comes with a complete hardware kit for hassle-free installation, including brass anchors, stainless-steel springs, and installation tools.
Lastly, opt for a pool cover with a UL certification to ASTM standard F1346, like the Happybuy Inground Pool Safety Cover, to confirm the product meets rigorous safety standards.
Ease of Installation
When shopping for a pool cover, set yourself up for success by selecting a model that simplifies the installation process, saving you time and frustration.
You’ll want a cover that’s easy to put on and take off, with minimal tools required. Look for covers with a simple attachment system, such as straps or clips, that secure the cover to the pool deck or surrounding area.
Some covers even come with a reel system, making it easy to roll the cover on and off the pool.
Additionally, consider the weight and size of the cover. Lighter covers are generally easier to handle, while smaller covers may be more manageable for smaller pools.
If you have a larger pool, look for covers with a center walkway or other features that make it easier to install and remove. By choosing a cover with an easy installation process, you’ll be more likely to use it regularly, keeping your pool clean and safe.
Maintenance and Storage
You’ll also want to think about what happens when your pool cover isn’t in use, as proper storage and maintenance can greatly extend its lifespan.
When choosing a pool cover, ponder the storage space and accessibility of the cover when not in use. Some covers may require a dedicated storage area or container, so make sure you have enough space.
A lightweight and compact design can make it easier to handle and store when not in use.
Opt for pool covers with a simpler design and fewer parts, as they’re easier to maintain and store, reducing the risk of damage or loss.
Don’t forget to reflect on the weight and material of the pool cover, as heavier covers may require additional storage support or specialized storage solutions.
Look for pool covers with a durable and weather-resistant design to minimize the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance when in storage.
Warranty and Support
Your pool cover’s warranty and support can be just as important as its material and design, as an extensive warranty and reliable customer support can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
When evaluating pool covers, look for warranties that range from 1-15 years, with some manufacturers offering pro-rated warranties that decrease in coverage over time. Verify that the warranty covers defects, material degradation, and labor costs for repairs or replacements.
Be aware that some warranties may have specific requirements or maintenance schedules that must be followed to remain valid, so carefully review the warranty terms.
It’s also vital to check if the manufacturer offers dedicated customer support, including phone, email, or online chat support, to assist with any warranty claims or product issues.
Be aware that some warranties may have restocking fees or other charges associated with returns or exchanges, so carefully review the warranty terms before making a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Pool Cover in Windy or Stormy Weather?
You’re wondering if you can use a pool cover in windy or stormy weather. Yes, you can, but make certain it’s securely fastened and designed for harsh conditions to prevent damage or loss.
How Often Should I Clean My Pool Cover to Maintain Its Effectiveness?
As the stormy weather subsides, your pool cover’s cleanliness becomes a beacon of importance. You should clean your pool cover every 1-2 months, or whenever debris accumulates, to maintain its effectiveness and prolong its lifespan.
Are Pool Covers Safe for Pets and Children to Be Around?
You’re right to wonder if pool covers are safe for pets and kids to be around. Fortunately, most modern covers are designed with safety in mind, featuring soft, rounded edges and secure anchoring systems to minimize risks.
Can I Customize a Pool Cover to Fit My Irregularly Shaped Pool?
“Let’s face it, your pool’s unique shape is a one-of-a-kind gem! You can customize a pool cover to fit your irregularly shaped pool by working with a manufacturer or supplier that offers bespoke designs and measurements.”
Do Pool Covers Come With a Warranty or Guarantee?
You’re wondering if pool covers come with a warranty or guarantee. Typically, yes, they do! Most reputable manufacturers offer a warranty that covers defects and repairs for a certain period, usually ranging from 2 to 10 years.
Conclusion
You’ve made it to the end of our top picks for the best pool covers of 2024.
But before you take the plunge and make a purchase, remember: the right cover can be the difference between a safe, low-maintenance pool experience and a costly, stressful one.
So, which one will you choose?
The clock is ticking, and your pool is waiting.
