How to Put a Solar Cover on a Pool

Solar covers or solar blankets are a good way to extend the pool season, especially if you live in a cold climate. Solar covers are made of polyethylene, which will not rot from the heat of the sun. Keeping a cover on the pool during the day helps absorb heat from the sun. Keeping a cover on the pool at night, helps retain that heat. The solar cover also helps keep debris out of the pool, so cleaning is less of a chore.

Things You'll Need

• Solar cover Solar blanket reel

Instructions

1. Purchase a solar blanket reel. Solar blanket reels are the easiest way to put a solar cover on a pool. They are also the most convenient way to store the blanket during the pool season. Attach the solar blanket to the reel with straps. Make sure the bubbles are facing down. Roll up the blanket when not in use. The solar blanket reel has wheels, so you can move it out of the way when the pool is in use.

2. Roll the blanket onto the pool. Pick up the blanket on the edge. Begin to walk toward the other end of the pool. Keep the cover above the water. When you arrive at the end of the pool, set the cover down onto the water. Again, make sure the bubbles are facing down.

3. Ask for help. If you do not have a solar blanket reel, then you have to put the cover on by hand. The easiest way to put a solar cover on by hand is to use two people. Keep the cover folded lengthwise at the end of the pool. Position each person at each end of the pool and blanket. Pick up the edge of the solar cover and together walk to the other end of the pool. Keep the solar cover above the water. When you reach the end of the pool, set the cover onto the water.

4. Research other choices. Solar blanket reels are also available as automatic reels. All you have to do is push the button, and the cover automatically rolls onto the pool. Semi-automatic reels are similar. You do need to guide them across the pool, but there is no tugging.

Tips & Warnings

• Wait two to thee hours after chlorinating the pool before you put the solar cover back on. Maintain the solar cover by washing it periodically with a solar cover detergent.

• Do not leave the solar cover on the pool during the winter.

Resources

• About Swimming Pool Covers