5 Best Pool Covers to Prevent Evaporation and Save Water This Summer

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To prevent evaporation and save water this summer, consider these top five pool covers: the Evoio Solar Pool Cover, which reduces water loss by up to 95%, and the Sunheater Liquid Solar Blanket that creates an invisible barrier. You might also like the VEVOR Inground Pool Safety Cover for durability, the AB009-12 Aqua Blanket for biodegradable options, or the Abimars Winter Water Tube to secure covers. Each comes with its own advantages, so think about your specific needs. Keep exploring to find the best fit for your pool and maximize your water conservation efforts this summer!

Evoio Solar Pool Covers (6 x 12 Feet)

evoio solar pool covers

If you're looking for a reliable way to keep your pool warm and reduce evaporation, the Evoio Solar Pool Cover (6 x 12 Feet) is an excellent choice for both inground and above ground rectangular swimming pools. This heavy-duty cover features a floating bubble design that captures sunlight, effectively heating your pool water. I've noticed it allows for earlier swims and keeps the water warm longer. It also reduces water evaporation by 95%, so I hardly ever need to refill my pool. With its 15 MIL thickness, this cover is tougher than most on the market. Just remember to rinse it off and store it properly when not in use. Overall, it's been a fantastic investment for my pool!

Best For: Those seeking an effective solution to warm their pool water and minimize evaporation while enjoying a durable and user-friendly solar cover.

Pros:

  • Heavy-duty construction: The 15 MIL thickness provides superior durability compared to standard solar covers.
  • Effective heating: Utilizes sunlight to warm pool water, allowing for earlier swims and prolonged warmth.
  • Significant evaporation reduction: Minimizes water loss by 95%, reducing the frequency of refills.

Cons:

  • Size accuracy concerns: Some users have reported issues with the cover not fitting their pools as expected.
  • Mixed durability reviews: There are varying opinions about the longevity of the product under regular use.
  • Maintenance required: The cover needs to be rinsed and stored properly to maintain its quality.

Abimars Winter Water Tube for Swimming Pool Covers (6 Pack)

abimars winter water tubes

When it comes to securing your pool for the winter, the Abimars Winter Water Tube is an excellent choice for those seeking durability and ease of use. This 6-pack features 8-foot tubes made from a robust 0.7mm thick composite material, ensuring superior shape retention compared to thinner alternatives. I appreciate the single-chamber design that maximizes water capacity, enhancing the sealing around my pool cover. With a screw-on cap and rubber seal, I find it easy to fill and maintain without worrying about leaks. These tubes withstand harsh temperatures and bend effortlessly around curves, making them perfect for my rounded pool. While some users reported minor durability issues, customer service promptly addressed concerns, proving their commitment to quality.

Best For: Those looking for reliable and durable water weights to secure pool covers during winter.

Pros:

  • Durable construction with 0.7mm thick composite material for superior shape retention.
  • User-friendly design featuring screw-on caps and rubber seals for easy filling and leak prevention.
  • Flexible design allows for easy bending around curves, ideal for rounded pools.

Cons:

  • Some users reported minor durability issues, including leaks in a few tubes.
  • Weight may be cumbersome for some users when filling and moving.
  • Limited effectiveness in extremely low temperatures if not filled properly.

Sunheater Liquid Solar Blanket for Pools

liquid solar pool blanket

The Sunheater Liquid Solar Blanket for Pools is an ideal choice for pool owners who want to reduce evaporation without the hassle of traditional covers. This innovative liquid heat shield creates an ultra-thin, invisible barrier on the water's surface, effectively minimizing heat loss. With a non-toxic, odor-free formula, it's safe for swimmers and all pool equipment. I appreciate how easy it is to use—just 4 oz per 20,000 gallons of water. While some users report impressive temperature retention, experiences vary. I've heard of a drop in temperature of just 0.5°F overnight for some, which is promising. Overall, it's worth considering if you're looking for a convenient alternative to bulky solar blankets, but results can depend on your specific pool conditions.

Best For: Pool owners looking for a convenient and non-intrusive solution to reduce heat loss and evaporation without using traditional solar covers.

Pros:

  • Easy to use with a simple application of 4 oz per 20,000 gallons of water.
  • Non-toxic and odor-free formula, safe for both swimmers and pool equipment.
  • Extends the swimming season by helping to maintain warmer water temperatures.

Cons:

  • Mixed effectiveness reported; some users experience minimal temperature retention.
  • Continued evaporation reported by some users despite using the product.
  • Perceived value for money varies, with some considering it expensive relative to its effectiveness.

VEVOR Inground Pool Safety Cover 16 x 32 Rectangle

vevor rectangle safety pool cover

For homeowners looking to enhance safety around their pools, the VEVOR Inground Pool Safety Cover 16 x 32 Rectangle stands out with its robust design and top-grade materials. Made from high-quality polypropylene and stainless steel, this cover features a tight mesh construction that effectively keeps debris out while allowing water drainage. Weighing only 42 pounds, it's user-friendly to install with the included hardware kit and adjustable rope for a secure fit. With a 15-year warranty certified to ASTM standards, I appreciate its child and pet safety features that help prevent unintended access. Plus, the cover minimizes water evaporation, keeping my pool cleaner and reducing maintenance. Overall, it's a practical choice for pool safety and efficiency.

Best For: Homeowners seeking a durable and effective safety solution for their inground pools.

Pros:

  • Robust construction with top-grade materials ensures longevity and protection.
  • User-friendly installation with included hardware kit and adjustable rope for a secure fit.
  • Child and pet safety features help prevent unintended access to the pool area.

Cons:

  • Some users reported alignment issues with existing anchors that may complicate installation.
  • Weight of 42 pounds may be cumbersome for some individuals during setup.
  • Requires a 2 ft overlap, necessitating accurate pool measurements which can be challenging.

AB009-12 Aqua Blanket Water Conserving Pool Barrier Cover

aqua blanket pool cover

Looking to conserve water while keeping your pool warm? The Lo-Chlor AB009-12 Aqua Blanket is a game-changer. This biodegradable liquid barrier creates an invisible shield that reduces sunlight exposure and evaporation, ultimately saving you money on pool chemicals and water. It's compatible with all sanitizer types and safe for any pool surface, making it incredibly versatile. I've found that applying it regularly, especially after rain or cold weather, maximizes its effectiveness. While some users report mixed results, I've experienced noticeable heat retention and less frequent need for water addition. Just keep in mind it's less effective in colder temperatures. Overall, it's a practical and eco-friendly choice for pool owners looking to conserve water this summer.

Best For: Pool owners looking to conserve water and maintain temperature while minimizing chemical use.

Pros:

  • Biodegradable and eco-friendly, making it safe for the environment.
  • Compatible with all sanitizer types and safe for any pool surface, offering versatility.
  • Easy to apply compared to traditional pool covers, enhancing user convenience.

Cons:

  • Mixed effectiveness reported by users, with some seeing minimal differences.
  • Less effective in colder temperatures, limiting utility during certain seasons.
  • Initial heating needs may increase as it reduces natural sun heating.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Pool Covers to Prevent Evaporation

When you're choosing a pool cover to prevent evaporation, there are several key factors to keep in mind. You'll want to weigh the cover type options, material durability, and how easy it is to install. Additionally, make sure the size and fit are right, and check the thermal efficiency ratings to maximize your water conservation.

Cover Type Options

Choosing the right pool cover is essential for minimizing evaporation and maintaining water levels. Solid pool covers, such as safety and thermal blankets, create a physical barrier over your pool, considerably reducing water loss. If you prefer a less visible option, liquid solar blankets offer biodegradable and non-toxic choices. They form an invisible layer on the water that cuts down on evaporation while still allowing sunlight to warm your pool, though effectiveness can vary.

Another excellent choice is the solar pool cover, designed with a bubble pattern that captures and retains heat from the sun. This option not only prevents evaporation but can also extend your swimming season, allowing for earlier swims. If you're considering solid covers, remember to use winter water tubes to weigh them down. This prevents wind from lifting the cover and guarantees effective protection against evaporation during colder months.

Lastly, the thickness of the covers ranges from 8 to 15 MIL. Thicker covers generally offer better durability and evaporation resistance, making them a wise investment in your pool's upkeep. Choose wisely to keep your pool water levels consistent this summer!

Material Durability Considerations

Durability is an essential factor in selecting the right pool cover to prevent evaporation effectively. When you're choosing a cover, pay close attention to the thickness of the material. Thicker options, like 15 MIL, generally offer better resistance to wear and tear compared to thinner materials that range from 8-12 MIL. Multi-layer construction can also enhance durability; covers made from a combination of PVC and fiber materials tend to have reduced risks of leaks and punctures.

It's vital to select materials that are both waterproof and UV-resistant. These features help the cover withstand the harsh effects of sunlight and moisture, which can degrade weaker materials over time. A seamless or virtually seamless design is another key consideration, as it minimizes leak risks and boosts the overall integrity of the cover.

Lastly, make sure you choose covers rated for extreme temperatures, down to at least -10°F. This guarantees that your pool cover can endure harsh weather conditions without compromising its structural integrity. By focusing on these durability factors, you'll protect your pool while saving water effectively.

Ease of Installation

Installing a pool cover shouldn't feel like a challenging task. Many covers come with user-friendly designs and complete hardware kits, making setup straightforward without needing professional help. Look for covers that feature adjustable ropes and clear installation instructions; these can greatly cut down the time and effort required to secure the cover properly.

Innovative designs often include screw-on caps or flexible materials that enhance ease of use, allowing you to fill and position the cover around various pool shapes with minimal hassle. Lightweight options, especially those with a single-chamber design, are easier to handle, maneuver, and store when not in use.

While installation should be simple, effective setup requires accurate measurements and adjustments. As a result, choosing products that allow you to cut the cover to fit your pool's unique shape can provide greater convenience. With the right cover, you'll find that protecting your pool from evaporation is not only beneficial for water conservation but also a breeze to install, ensuring you spend less time setting up and more time enjoying your pool.

Size and Fit

Finding the right size and fit for your pool cover is vital to effectively prevent evaporation. If the cover doesn't match your pool's dimensions, you'll likely face inadequate coverage, which can lead to increased water loss. Start by measuring the length and width of your pool. Don't forget to account for any necessary overlap based on the cover's design and installation requirements.

Many pool covers, like solar covers, can be cut to fit various shapes, giving you flexibility in achieving that perfect fit. However, it's important to choose covers designed specifically for your pool type—whether inground or above-ground—guaranteeing peak performance.

Always verify the manufacturer's size recommendations and check for any variations in dimensions. Discrepancies can greatly affect how well the cover reduces evaporation. A snug fit not only enhances water conservation but also improves the cover's overall effectiveness and longevity. When you put in the effort to ascertain proper sizing, you'll enjoy a more efficient pool cover that keeps your water where it belongs—saving you time, effort, and money this summer.

Thermal Efficiency Ratings

When selecting a pool cover to minimize evaporation and maintain water temperature, thermal efficiency ratings should be at the top of your consideration list. These ratings indicate how well a cover retains heat and mitigates evaporation, with higher ratings reflecting better performance.

Covers featuring bubble designs or liquid barriers can reduce evaporation by up to 95%, allowing you to extend your swimming season while lowering heating costs. Pay attention to the thickness of the cover, measured in mils; thicker covers (15 MIL and above) generally offer superior insulation compared to thinner options (8-12 MIL).

Some innovative covers create an invisible barrier that reduces heat loss without the bulk of traditional covers, providing easier access to your pool while still delivering thermal benefits. Also, consider the material composition; high-quality polymers or composites will enhance durability and insulation properties, making them a more effective choice than standard materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do Solar Pool Covers Work to Reduce Evaporation?

Solar pool covers work by trapping heat and reducing evaporation. When you place one over your pool, it creates a barrier that minimizes water loss due to sunlight and wind. The cover absorbs sunlight, warming the water beneath it, and it helps maintain the pool's temperature. By using a solar cover regularly, you'll notice less evaporation, which means you won't need to refill your pool as often, saving you time and water resources.

Can I Use a Pool Cover During Heavy Rain?

Yes, you can use a pool cover during heavy rain. In fact, it helps keep debris out and prevents your pool from overflowing. Just make sure your cover is designed to handle rainwater. You might need to remove excess water that collects on top, as too much weight could damage the cover. After the rain, check your pool's chemical balance, since rain can dilute the chemicals and affect water quality.

What Is the Average Lifespan of a Pool Cover?

The average lifespan of a pool cover usually ranges from 5 to 10 years, depending on the material and how well you maintain it. If you take care of your cover, cleaning it regularly and storing it properly during off-seasons, you can extend its life. However, factors like weather conditions and usage frequency can impact its durability. Always check for any signs of wear and tear to guarantee it continues to protect your pool effectively.

Are There Eco-Friendly Options for Pool Covers?

Yes, there are eco-friendly options for pool covers. You can find covers made from recycled materials, which help reduce waste and promote sustainability. These covers often use UV-resistant fabrics to guarantee durability while being gentle on the environment. Additionally, some options are designed to minimize evaporation, conserving water and energy. By choosing an eco-friendly pool cover, you're not only protecting your pool but also making a positive impact on the planet.

How Should I Clean and Maintain My Pool Cover?

To clean and maintain your pool cover, start by removing debris with a leaf blower or broom. Rinse it with a hose to wash off dirt and grime. Inspect for tears or damage, and repair any issues promptly to prolong its life. Store your cover properly when not in use; keep it dry and folded to prevent mold. Regularly check for wear to guarantee it continues to protect your pool effectively.

Wrapping Up

As you gaze at your sparkling pool under the summer sun, imagine the water staying just as vibrant, thanks to the right cover. Choosing one of these top five options not only conserves water but also enhances your pool experience. Picture enjoying a carefree day by the water, knowing you're doing your part for the environment. With the perfect pool cover in place, you'll effortlessly combine fun and sustainability, making your summer both enjoyable and responsible.

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Written By Scott Keller

Scott Keller is an experienced pool industry professional with over 20 years of expertise in gunite pool design, construction, and maintenance.

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