Covers for the backyard swimming pool

Take the heat out of looking after your pool during winter with a swimming pool blanket during the cooler temperatures.

More and more, pool owners are purchasing security covers, typically made of high-grade stabilised mesh, which are pinned down around the pool to protect it from the elements, particularly over winter.

The high-grade covers are promoted as being safe enough to protect children from falling into the pool. Lighter grade mesh varieties are flexible enough to use all year round.

Solar swimming pool blankets

The solar blanket is a slightly different variety of cover and functions as a heating implement for the water. Sitting directly over the water, it traps in heat, saving on the large costs usually incurred with gas or electric heating systems.

These blankets keep the water's chemical make-up at a more even level, so about a third less chemicals need to be added than without the cover.

Saving money with a swimming pool cover

Covers can also considerably reduce the costs of running a cleaning system, as there is less work to be done.

"Pool covers drastically reduce heat loss by up to 75 per cent from gas or electric pool heating systems," says David Wright, director of Tasman Group Australia, which manufactures Elite Pool Covers.

"They also reduce chemical consumption by approximately 33 per cent and, by keeping the pool cleaner, reduce the need for backwashing filters."

Water saving during restrictions

An issue fresh in the minds of most pool owners these days is water sustainability. Evaporation can add up to vast amounts of wasted water, which is both costly and detrimental to limited water supplies.

In some parts of the country a pool can lose its entire volume of water over the course of a year, but with the use of a solar blanket, this problem is significantly reduced.

Do some research for the right pool cover

There are plenty of covers on the market and if you're considering buying one, some research into the quality of the product will go a long way. David advises against cheaper models from overseas that may not stand up to the harsh Australian conditions.

"In the last five years the water-saving benefits of pool covers have meant that a lot of people have jumped onto the retail bandwagon with little or no industry knowledge or experience," David explains. "Consumers should be very wary of cheaper, substandard products purchased over the internet."

Locally made, quality blankets often come with the backup and support pool owners need. And if installation seems a little daunting, look out for manufacturers who offer to do the whole thing for you.

"Reputable suppliers will normally offer an obligation-free, on-site quote and installation service," says David. "In addition, they will supply good-quality Australian designed and made products that will stand the test of time."

Contact a pool equipment expert in your area to find out which pool cover is right for you: