How to Size a Solar Pool Blanket

Inexpensive solar pool blankets heat pool water and cut your power bill.

Many pool owners use a solar pool blanket to warm their pool water. When you purchase a solar pool blanket, it probably will not be the exact size and shape of your pool. This is normal and should be expected. To cut the blanket to the appropriate size, you will need to follow very specific instructions. Neglecting to follow these instructions can lead to an overly large blanket (which will need to be tied down) or an overly small blanket (which will not cover the entire area of the pool).

Things You'll Need

• Solar pool blanket
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Spread the pool blanket over the pool for several days before sizing. This will remove the creases from the blanket and will allow for any shrinkage or expansion due to sun exposure.

2. Cut the solar blanket with ordinary scissors so that it seems slightly larger than the pool. Do this over the pool for optimal precision. Wait several days before reassessing the cuts. This will ensure that you do not underestimate the necessary coverage and cut the solar blanket too small for the pool.

3. Cut the solar blanket more precisely with the same scissors, making sure that it fits the pool exactly. Leaving too much material overlapping the sides of the pool will cause the solar blanket to blow off the pool. If the blanket is cut correctly, surface tension should keep the blanket secure on the top of the pool.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not cut your blanket on a grassy area. Leaving the solar blanket on a grassy area can burn the grass.

• Do not drag the blanket over rough ground or sharp edges.

• Be careful to avoid damaging the pool lining while cutting the solar blanket.

References

• Cheap Pool Products: Owner's Instructions for Installing a Solar Blanket