If you want to keep your swimming pool clean and comfortable, then you should get a pool cover. Pool covers are great because they not only keep debris out of the water but also help regulate the temperature and reduce evaporation. Two types of pool cover that people really like are black and blue solar pool covers. In this post, we’re going to compare these two types of covers and talk about their benefits and things to think about when deciding which one is right for you. In the end, we will also be listing some of the best solar pool covers that are currently on the market so you can have an easy selection task.
Why Pool Covers Are Important
First and foremost, a pool cover acts as a barrier, preventing leaves, debris, and other unwanted elements from entering your pool. This saves you from the hassle of constant cleaning and reduces the risk of clogged filters and damaged pool equipment. By keeping the pool water cleaner, you’ll also enjoy improved water quality and reduced chemical usage.
Another crucial function of a pool cover is to minimize evaporation. Pool water naturally loses heat through evaporation, leading to increased energy consumption and the need for more frequent heating. A pool cover acts as a shield, significantly reducing water evaporation and helping to retain heat. This not only saves energy and lowers heating costs but also extends your swimming season by keeping the water comfortably warm.
Black vs Blue Solar Pool Cover – Head to Head
Now that we understand the importance of pool covers, let’s delve into the black solar pool cover versus blue pool cover debate. These two options are commonly available and have their own unique features and benefits.
1. Heat Retention:
As one of the primary purposes of a solar pool cover is to capture and retain the sun’s heat to warm the water, both black and blue covers do this job effectively. However, black covers have a slight advantage in terms of heat retention. Black surfaces absorb more heat compared to blue ones, resulting in a higher water temperature. If you live in a cooler climate or want to extend your swimming season, a black solar pool cover might be the ideal choice.
2. Evaporation Reduction:
Evaporation is a significant contributor to heat loss and water wastage in swimming pools. Both black and blue solar covers act as a barrier, reducing evaporation to some extent. However, black covers usually have a higher evaporation reduction rate due to their ability to trap heat. If you live in an arid region or want to minimize water loss, a black cover can help conserve water more effectively.
3. Aesthetics:
While functionality is key, the visual appeal of a pool cover is also a consideration for many pool owners. Blue solar pool covers have a more pleasing appearance, as they blend in with the pool water and create a natural look. On the other hand, black covers might not provide the same aesthetic appeal, especially if you prefer a more vibrant or transparent appearance for your pool. If aesthetics are an important factor, a blue solar pool cover can complement your pool’s overall look.
4. Sunlight Penetration:
Another factor to consider is the amount of sunlight that penetrates the cover and reaches the water. Blue covers allow more sunlight to pass through, which can be beneficial for maintaining a healthy balance of chlorine and preventing algae growth. Black covers, while better at retaining heat, limit the amount of sunlight that reaches the pool. This characteristic can help reduce algae growth, but it may require additional monitoring and adjustment of chlorine levels.
5. Durability and Lifespan:
When it comes to durability, both black and blue solar pool covers are designed to withstand outdoor conditions. However, black covers are generally more resistant to UV radiation, which can cause premature deterioration. They tend to have a longer lifespan compared to blue covers. If you prioritize longevity and are willing to invest in a cover that will last several seasons, a black solar pool cover might be the better choice.
Which Type of Solar Pool Cover is Right for You?
When it comes to choosing between black and blue solar pool covers, each option has its pros and cons. Black covers are great for keeping heat in, reducing evaporation, and lasting a long time. On the other hand, blue covers look more appealing, let in more sunlight, and make it easier to maintain chlorine levels. Ultimately, the decision between black and blue depends on what you need and prefer. Take into account your climate, desired pool temperature, aesthetic preferences, and maintenance requirements to make the best choice for a clean, warm, and inviting pool all season long.
What Are Some Of The Best Solar Pool Covers?
To help make your decision of choosing a solar cover for your pool, we have compiled some top options available on the market after extensive research.
Our compilation took into account important factors such as thickness, color, storability, and warranty. Thicker covers are recommended for colder climates, while thinner ones are suitable for warmer regions. The color of the cover impacts heat transfer and UV ray blocking, with clear covers ideal for heat gain and dark covers for heat retention as has been discussed in the article. We also considered the convenience of storage, favoring covers that come with their own storage bag. Lastly, a good warranty provides assurance of durability.
With these factors in mind, we aim to guide you in making an informed decision that meets your specific pool requirements.
1. Robelle 1632RS-8 Box Heavy-Duty Swimming Pool Solar Heating Cover, 16 x 32, Blue
The Robelle 1632RS-8 Box Heavy-Duty Swimming Pool Solar Heating Cover in Blue is a great choice for an effective and user-friendly solar pool cover. The light blue color of the cover minimizes the impact on water chemistry while still allowing solar energy to heat your pool water. It can be easily trimmed to fit your pool’s shape and size and is available in various dimensions to accommodate different pool types.
The cover is made of polyethylene and features round air bubbles that allow solar energy to pass through while reducing evaporation. Although it has an 8-mil thickness, which is thinner compared to some other options, it offers the advantage of being lightweight and easy to handle, especially when using a pool reel or folding it for storage. With a warranty period of three years, the Robelle Heavy-Duty Blue Solar Pool Cover provides a convenient solution for harnessing solar energy while protecting and heating your pool water.
2. Steinbach Krystal Clear 10-Foot Solar Cover
The Steinbach Krystal Clear 10-Foot Solar Cover is a super convenient and budget-friendly option for pool owners who need a small solar cover. It’s perfect for those with limited space, and it offers fantastic value for the price. Plus, you can easily roll it up and store it without any hassle.
One of the best things about this cover is its thin air-bubble insulation. Not only does it help keep your pool at a comfortable temperature year-round, but it also reduces the amount of chemicals you need to use. This means you’ll be taking a more eco-friendly approach to keeping your pool clean.
Now, it’s worth mentioning that this cover might not be as thick as some people prefer. Thicker covers typically do a better job of trapping heat and lasting longer. But if you’re looking for an affordable and practical option, the Steinbach Krystal Clear 10-Foot Solar Cover is still a reliable choice that won’t break the bank.
3. QH.HOME 15 Ft Round Pool Cover
Made from 600D strong tear-resistant Oxford fabric, the QH.HOME 15-Ft Round pool cover is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. Its thick material ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to tearing and rotting.
The cover offers excellent UV protection with UPF50+ sun protection fabric, blocking 98% of harmful UV rays. This helps prevent fading and discoloration, extending the cover’s lifespan. It features 15 windproof Velcro straps, 2 locking drawstrings, and 7 windproof pull loops, ensuring a secure fit and protection against strong winds and bad weather.
This pool cover helps maintain water temperature and reduces water evaporation by 90%. It effectively keeps out dust, leaves, debris, and dirt particles, keeping your pool water clean and clear.
The QH.HOME 15-Ft Round Pool Cover is versatile and can be used for various applications, including hot tubs, trampolines, outdoor furniture, and pet pools. It comes with a 3-year warranty, providing peace of mind and assurance of its quality.
4. BigXwell Solar Pool Cover
The BigXwell Solar Pool Cover is a durable and efficient option for pool owners looking for a high-quality solar cover. This heavy-duty blue cover is available in six different sizes and two thickness options, catering to both aboveground and inground pools.
The cover is constructed with thousands of air bubbles that effectively absorb UV rays and help lock in the temperature of the pool water. This contributes to better heat retention and reduced energy consumption. Additionally, the cover boasts a remarkable 95% reduction in water evaporation, which helps conserve water resources and maintain pool chemical composition.
With an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews on Amazon, the BigXwell Solar Pool Cover has received positive feedback from customers.
5. LXKCKJ 24 FT Round Pool Cover
The 24 FT Round Pool Cover is an absolute game-changer for pool owners like me. It’s not always easy to find a cover that fits perfectly, but this one comes in various sizes and is designed to provide excellent protection. The drawstring design adds stability and makes installation and removal a breeze. No more struggling with covers that get damaged by bad weather – this one is made of strong and tear-resistant material that can withstand anything.
The quality of this cover is outstanding. It’s made of 210D painted silver material, which is thicker and more durable than other covers I’ve tried. I can fold it up easily and store it without taking up much space. And the best part? It’s compatible with various round trampolines, swimming pools, fountains, pet pools, and outdoor furniture.
Reading the reviews from other customers, I knew I made the right choice and can confidently say that the 24 FT Round Pool Cover has exceeded my expectations. It offers top-notch protection, durability, and cost-saving benefits. It’s been a game-changer for me, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient pool cover.
6. In The Swim 18 x 36 Foot Rectangle Premium Pool Solar Blanket Cover 12 Mil
The In The Swim 12-Mil Solar Pool Cover is a high-quality choice for those seeking effective heat retention and protection for their pools. This translucent light-blue polyethylene cover is available in rectangular and round shapes, accommodating various pool sizes. After consistent sunlight exposure for five to seven days, the cover can raise the water temperature by 8 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
The light blue color of the cover allows it to absorb and retain heat in the medium range. This helps to maintain a comfortable water temperature while also offering some protection against chemical breakdown. It strikes a balance between heat absorption and retention, making it a good choice for pool owners.
With an average rating of 4.2 stars from over 900 reviews on Amazon, this cover has garnered positive feedback from users. Additionally, it comes with a seven-year manufacturer’s limited warranty, providing peace of mind and assurance of its durability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, investing in a pool cover is essential for maintaining a clean and comfortable swimming pool. Pool covers offer numerous benefits, including debris protection, temperature regulation, and evaporation reduction. When it comes to solar pool covers, the choice between black and blue depends on individual preferences and specific needs.
Black solar pool covers excel in heat retention and are ideal for colder climates or extending the swimming season. They are effective at reducing evaporation and can save on heating costs. However, they may limit sunlight penetration and have a less visually appealing appearance.
On the other hand, blue solar pool covers offer a pleasing aesthetic, allow more sunlight to pass through, and make it easier to maintain chlorine levels. They are suitable for warmer climates and provide some heat retention benefits. However, their heat retention may not be as efficient as black covers.
When selecting a solar pool cover, consider factors such as climate, desired water temperature, aesthetics, and maintenance requirements. Take into account the thickness, color, and warranty offered by different covers to ensure the best fit for your pool.
In this article, we have provided information on some of the best solar pool covers available on the market, including the Robelle 1632RS-8 Box Heavy-Duty Swimming Pool Solar Heating Cover, Steinbach Krystal Clear 10-Foot Solar Cover, QH.HOME 15 Ft Round Pool Cover, BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, LXKCKJ 24 FT Round Pool Cover, and In The Swim 12-Mil Solar Pool Cover. Each cover has its unique features and benefits, catering to various pool sizes and needs.
Ultimately, the goal is to select a solar pool cover that suits your requirements, offers durability, and provides cost-saving benefits. By choosing the right pool cover, you can enjoy a clean, warm, and inviting pool throughout the swimming season.