Cover me?

If you have a pool you really do need a pool cover. They provide safety, convenience and energy efficiency. The safety issue is a big one because you don’t want any one or any animal accidentally drowning. As far as maintenance, it cuts down on that immensely by keeping debris out of your pool. But, if you’re looking for the main reason to get one it would be for safety and everything else is just gravy.

It can definitely be overwhelming to decide on the cover and its many options. Here we’ll break down the different types of pool covers and give you the info you need to decide which is the best swimming pool cover for you.

There are three basic types of pool covers: mesh, solid and automatic. Mesh covers allow sunlight and water to filter through, while solid covers completely block sunlight, water, and debris from getting in your pool. And an automatic swimming pool cover can be opened or closed with just the push of a button or a flip of a switch.

Here are some pros and cons of each.

Mesh pool covers are a lighter weight than the other covers which allows them to easily fold up for storage when not in use. They can also be custom fit to the shape of your pool. The holes in the mesh pool allow water to filter through, which eliminates the need to remove standing water from the pool cover. However, it also allows in the light and that keeps the water warm which means algae can grow on the pool walls and that will require more effort into getting your pool ready for the next season.

Solid pool covers also can be custom-fit to the shape of your pool and are secured to the deck with anchors and springs. They are usually made of vinyl, which makes them heavier than mesh, but they still can be folded up and stored when not being used, just not as easily. The solid material prevents any debris, water or sunlight from entering the pool. This means no algae growth or dirty water when you open your pool the next season, which equates to less maintenance. However, the water that accumulates on the cover will need to be pumped off, as well as any leaves or debris. But for a little extra an automatic cover pump can be placed on the cover, which will turn on and off when water is detected.

Automatic pool covers are also sturdy like the solid pool covers. They offer the same benefits as well, while also providing the most safety of the three. Like the solid cover the auto cover also requires a cover pump to remove accumulating water and debris. An auto pool cover is retractable and rolls up into itself which eliminates the need to store it. It opens and closes with either a key, button/switch or touchpad, making it the most convenient selection.

Although this is the most expensive option, for my money, the sheer ease outweighs the monetary difference.