Installing and using a solar cover for an above-ground pool is a relatively straightforward task that can greatly benefit your swimming pool. Solar covers help to heat the pool water by harnessing and retaining the sun's energy. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to install and use a solar cover:
- Clean the Pool: Before installing the solar cover, make sure the pool is clean of any debris or leaves. Skim the water's surface and vacuum the pool, if needed.
- Choose the Right Type of Solar Cover: Solar covers come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and thicknesses. Measure your above-ground pool's dimensions to ensure you purchase the correct cover size. Aim for a cover that can fully cover your pool's surface.
- Unroll the Cover: Find an area near the pool where you can unroll the solar cover. Lay it out flat, making sure there are no wrinkles or folds.
- Position the Cover: With the cover completely unrolled, position it over the pool's surface. Make sure the cover is centered and aligned evenly with the pool walls.
- Trim the Cover (Optional): If your solar cover doesn't fit your pool perfectly, you can trim it using scissors or a utility knife to match the pool's shape. This step is optional but can provide a neater appearance.
- Attach the Cover: Most solar covers come with a plastic or metal harness that allows them to be attached to the pool's edges. Attach the harness to the cover's reinforced grommets along the edges.
- Secure the Cover: Once the harness is attached, you can secure the solar cover in place. Use the provided clips, bungee cords, or other securing methods to ensure the cover stays in position, especially during windy conditions.
- Remove Air Bubbles: After securing the cover, there may be air trapped underneath. Gently walk across the cover, starting from one side and working your way to the other. This will help push out any air bubbles trapped between the cover and the water.
- Use the Solar Cover: With the solar cover properly installed, it will begin to absorb and retain heat from the sun. During the day, keep the cover on the pool to maximize heat retention. Remove the cover when you want to use the pool and reapply it afterward to continue heating the water.
- Regular Maintenance: Clean the solar cover regularly to prevent the accumulation of debris or dirt. Use a soft brush or hose to remove any dirt or leaves that may have settled on the cover's surface.
By following these steps, you can easily install and use a solar cover for your above-ground pool. Not only will it help to heat the water, but it will also reduce evaporation and chemical usage, saving you money and extending your swimming season.
Best Above-Ground Pools of 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
Bestway: Steel Pro MAX 15' X 48" Above Ground Pool Set - 4231 Gallon, Outdoor Family Pool, Corrosion & Puncture Resistant, Includes Filter, Pump, Ladder & Cover
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All ages will enjoy swimming and splashing all summer long in this 15-foot by 48-inch round above-ground pool; Includes a model 58388E 1,000-gallon filter pump, a ladder, and a pool cover
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Built with a steel frame that is held together with FrameLink System to provide remarkable strength and connection
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DuraPlus enhance 3-play PVC liner with an elegant design that provides a support band for additional stability to the pool wall for ultimate durability
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Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage; No tools are required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
INTEX 26355EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 18ft x 9ft x 52in – Includes 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture & Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble
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EXPERIENCE THE ULTRA DIFFERENCE – Uniquely designed frame combines high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the pools; 2 year warranty included for peace of mind.Age grade: 6+.Age Grading: 6+
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EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Ready for water in just 60 minutes; Ultra XTR pools are designed with an Easy Lock System, making it easy to assemble; frame components simply snap together with no locking pins or additional tools needed
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RUST RESISTANT – Encapsulated with inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust; the T-Joints are engineered for high strength and infused with UV inhibitor to ensure weather resistance and long service life
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SUPER-TOUGH – Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
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KRYSTAL CLEAR SAND FILTRATION – The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump (#26643EG) provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system
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REMOVABLE LADDER – The Ultra XTR pool includes a removable ladder that has a coated steel frame to prevent rust; Hi-impact steps for ease of getting in and out of the pool; included pool cover to keep debris out and ground cloth for added protection
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Bestway Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52" Rectangular Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover
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All ages will enjoy swimming in the 24-foot by 12-foot by 52-inch above-ground pool set, including a model 58498E 1,500 GPH sand filter pump, a ChemConnect dispenser, a ladder, and a pool cover
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Steel frame construction increases durability and is held together with Seal and Lock System to provide remarkable strength and connection
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TriTech enhanced 3-ply PVC liner provides a reliable support band for additional stability to the pool wall for all summer fun
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Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage with no tools required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
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Disclaimer: Please review your HOA rules and restrictions before purchasing the product; Not all housing agencies permit private above-ground pools
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
Bestway Power Steel 18' x 9' x 48" Oval Metal Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover
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All ages will enjoy swimming all summer long in the 18-foot by 9-foot by 48-inch above-ground pool; Includes a model 58390E 1,500 GPH filter pump, a ladder, and a convenient secure pool cover
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Built with a steel frame that is held together with Seal and Lock System to provide remarkable strength and connection
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TriTech enhanced 3-ply PVC liner provides a support band for additional stability to the pool wall for ultimate durability
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Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage; No tools are required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Funsicle 16ft x 48in Round Oasis Above Ground Pool, with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder
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LUXURY POOL EXPERIENCE: Ideal for up to 8 people – Perfect for families, socializing & swimming
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SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
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MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
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2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1500 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
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CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Funsicle 14ft x 48in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder
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STYLISH LUXURY POOL: Perfect for families, socializing & swimming, with space for 6 to 7 people
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SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
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MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
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2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1000 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
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CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Bestway Hydrium 15 Feet by 48 Inches Steel Wall Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Accessories, Sand Filter Pump & Chemical Dispenser, Gray
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Family-sized 15-foot by 48-inch round pool provides a place for kids and adults to enjoy summer fun
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Ultra-durable galvanized steel wall, top platform, and supports provide superior rust and corrosion resistance
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Embossed, textured woodgrain pattern on outer wall with realistic Prismatic Stone printing on the inner liner; Ultra-Violet coating protects liner from discoloration and cracking
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Can stay assembled all year long without damage for seasonal convenience; Easy, 3-tool DIY setup; Screwdriver, wrench, and knife needed for assembly
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Includes pool, sand filter, skimmer, ladder, ground cloth, pool cover, ChemConnect chemical dispenser
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Funsicle 22ft x 52in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder
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STYLISH LUXURY POOL: Perfect for families, socializing & swimming, with space for up to 11 people
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SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
-
MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
-
2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1500 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
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CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 52in – Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble
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EXPERIENCE THE ULTRA DIFFERENCE – Uniquely designed frame combines high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the pools; 2 year warranty included for peace of mind
-
EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Ready for water in just 60 minutes; Ultra XTR pools are designed with an Easy Lock System, making it easy to assemble; frame components simply snap together with no locking pins or additional tools needed
-
RUST RESISTANT – Encapsulated with inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust; the T-Joints are engineered for high strength and infused with UV inhibitor to ensure weather resistance and long service life
-
SUPER-TOUGH – Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
-
KRYSTAL CLEAR SAND FILTRATION – The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump (#26647EG) provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system
-
REMOVABLE LADDER – The Ultra XTR pool includes a removable ladder that has a coated steel frame to prevent rust; Hi-impact steps for ease of getting in and out of the pool; included pool cover to keep debris out and ground cloth for added protection
How to avoid air bubbles forming under the solar cover for an above-ground pool?
To avoid air bubbles forming under the solar cover for an above-ground pool, you can follow these steps:
- Clean the pool: Make sure the pool is clean and free from debris before putting on the solar cover. Any dirt or debris can create air pockets under the cover.
- Stretch the cover properly: Start by placing one side of the solar cover on the water's surface. Then, gradually unroll the rest of the cover across the pool, making sure it is evenly spread and taut.
- Use a roller: A roller specifically designed for solar covers can help eliminate air bubbles. Roll the cover from one end to the other, starting from the edge closest to you. This will push out any air trapped beneath the cover.
- Adjust water levels: Ensure that the water level is high enough to cover all the pool's skimmers. If the water level is too low, it can cause the cover to droop and allow air to become trapped underneath.
- Trim excess cover: If your solar cover is larger than your pool size, consider trimming the excess material. Extra material can easily create air pockets. Carefully measure and cut the cover to fit your pool dimensions accurately.
- Regular maintenance: Regularly inspect your solar cover for any signs of air pockets or wrinkles. Smooth out any areas with air bubbles and adjust as needed.
By following these steps, you should be able to effectively prevent air bubbles from forming under your solar cover, ensuring optimal heating and energy efficiency for your above-ground pool.
What are the benefits of using a solar cover for an above-ground pool?
There are several benefits of using a solar cover for an above-ground pool, including:
- Heat retention: A solar cover helps to trap the sun's heat and prevent it from escaping, resulting in increased water temperature. This can extend the swimming season by several weeks or even months, especially in colder climates.
- Energy efficiency: By raising the water temperature, a solar cover reduces the need to use additional energy to heat the pool. This can lead to significant savings on heating costs, especially for pools that are regularly heated.
- Reduced water evaporation: Solar covers are designed to float on the surface of the water and create a barrier that minimizes water evaporation. This helps to conserve water, reduce the need for frequent refilling, and save on water bills.
- Chemical savings: Solar covers minimize the exposure of pool water to sunlight, which helps to reduce the rate of chlorine degradation. This means that less chlorine or other pool chemicals are needed to maintain proper water balance, resulting in cost savings.
- Debris and dirt prevention: Solar covers act as a shield against debris such as leaves, bugs, and other unwanted materials that can accumulate in the pool. This reduces the time and effort required for pool cleaning and maintenance.
- Safety: Some solar covers provide an added layer of safety by acting as a barrier on the pool's surface, preventing accidental access by children or pets.
- Extended lifespan: By protecting the pool water from harsh UV rays, solar covers can help to prevent premature fading, deterioration, and aging of pool liners, ultimately extending their lifespan.
Overall, using a solar cover for an above-ground pool can provide numerous benefits, including increased water temperature, energy and water savings, reduced chemical use, cleanliness, safety, and extended pool equipment lifespan.
What is the recommended material for a solar cover for an above-ground pool?
The recommended material for a solar cover for an above-ground pool is usually made of a lightweight, durable, and UV-resistant material such as polyethylene or polypropylene. These materials are designed to trap heat from the sun and transfer it to the water, thus helping to maintain the pool's temperature. Additionally, the cover should have a high level of insulation and a thickness of around 12-16 mil for optimal performance.
