Above and Inground Swimming Pools and Supplies: Pool Covers

In my last post about Above and Inground Swimming Pools and Supplies I discussed the various types of swimming pools. For all pool types, when you are not using the pool or when swimming is not in season you will want to have a cover on the pool. Swimming pool covers keep debris and the elements out of the pool and can provide additional benefits including safety and heating. There are various kinds of swimming pool covers from solid winter covers, to safety pass-through covers, to automated covers, to solar heating covers.

Winter Swimming Pool Covers
These types of covers can be purchased for Above and Inground Swimming Pools. They are made of solid opaque material that does not let dirt, leaves and debris enter the pool. Generally they are weighted down with sand or water bags. They are not anchored in the decking surrounding the swimming pool as rainwater can collect on the surface that may need pumping to remove. For these reasons, they are generally not considered safe when small children or pets are in the houshold

Safety Pass-Through Covers
These types of covers are normally purchased for Inground Swimming Pools. They are made of a fine but sturdy mesh that allows rain water and fine dirt and debris to pass through and enter into the pool. They are normally anchored into the decking that surrounds the pool and are very strong and durable. For these reasons, they are generally considered safe when small children or pets are in the house hold

Solar Heating Covers
These types of covers are normally purchased for Above and Inground Swimming Pools. They are made of a solid, but transparent material that traps heat inside the swimming pool while allowing the penetrating sun's rays to heat the water. Solar heating covers are normally controlled by an automated mechanism to facilitate daily use. These types of covers are generally not considered safety covers as they are not anchored into the decking.

Spa Covers
These types of covers are generally thick insulated hard covers that completely cover the spa. The insulation helps keep the heat inside the spa and the hard top keeps dirt, debris and weather elements out of the spa. Generally, the spa cover is equipped with a locking mechanism to keep small children from accessing the spa when not in use.

I have personally used all these types of covers. If you do not have small children and pets, I would highly recommend against the safety pass-through covers for Above and Inground Swimming Pools. The reason for this is that the dirt and debris that pass through the cover greatly increase the amount of time it takes to open the pool at the beginning of the swimming season. I currently have the safety cover and when I take the cover off, the water is black from algae blooms which takes consider chemical supplies to bring under control. My neighbor has a solid winter cover. He pumps off the rainwater, removes the sand or water bags, regulates the chemicals and he can swim the same day. It takes me 7 to 10 days just to get clear water.

Now I've discussed various types of pool covers for Above and Inground Swimming Pools.