Dr. Duncan also mentions that winter covers are another type of pool cover, which are usually less expensive. They’re useful for keeping debris out of the pool but will not keep out children or pets, so don’t rely on them as safety covers. Many kinds of pool covers exist, including safety covers designed to keep people and pets from falling into the water, winter covers to protect your pool from the elements, solar covers to raise and contain the water’s temperature, and mesh covers primarily meant to keep the pool a bit cleaner. These large, tarp-like accessories keep dirt and debris out of the water and filter, both aiding functionality and making the pool easier to clean. Pool covers can also help your water retain its heat and even minimize evaporation, saving energy because you won't have to heat or refill your pool as frequently.

If unsure about chemistry balancing, seek out pool experts who can professionally provide guidance in keeping your pool sanitary and safe for swimming. When Preparing for Winter Storage Dean adds that mesh covers are popular; they’re more durable than tarp-style covers, and they protect from debris. He says they can be a decent option for pools indoors. However, he adds that they don’t offer much protection from the sun, and they let water through, “which can mess with your pool chemistry pretty badly.”When it comes to the size of your pool cover, Michael Dean, founder of Pool Research, says it’s “pretty straightforward.” Choose a pool cover that fits both the size and the shape of your pool. Those with freeform-shaped pools “may need multiple covers, a custom cover, or just one big enough to cover all the freeform edges.” Furthermore, the Summer Waves pool's frame is designed with a solid steel wall that is reinforced with under layers to create a strong structure. The Intex pool's frame is made with PVC and polyester that rely on the tension of the liner to keep its shape. Your pool water will get dirty over time from debris, dead algae cells, and swimmers bringing in unwanted substances like oils and dirt. Pool chemicals also have a finite lifespan and effectiveness. You’ll want to pay attention to whether a cover is meant for above-ground or in-ground pools, Dean says. “There are companies that design covers specifically for one or the other, so read the details carefully to make sure it lines up with the pool you have.” Made out of laminated polyethylene sheeting with high-density polyethylene stitches, it will keep out falling leaves in the autumn, snow in the winter, and rain in the spring and summer months. It’s lightweight and treated to resist UV rays. However, since the material is lightweight, it may not be as durable for pools in climates that receive tons of snow.

If you have an outdoor pool but don’t have it heated, try going solar for one of the best pool covers to use. Solar covers, or solar blankets, use light from the sun to heat the pool water. Some things to keep in mind while disposing of water:• Avoid releasing chlorinated water into natural watersheds

You should plan to remove the water between September and October when outdoor temperatures are still warm and conducive to cleaning equipment and supplies. However, be sure first to take note of any local ordinances or restrictions regarding draining into public sewer systems. Before Freezing Temperatures Several materials exist for pool covers. Dean tells us the least expensive option will be a “thin, tarp-like material, and it’s cheap for a reason.” It’s not very durable, so he advises against it if you’re looking for a safety cover or pools located in “extreme climates.” The end of summer is an excellent time to start preparing for pool maintenance before the cold weather sets in. Remember that the longer water sits in your pool, the greater the probability of algae buildup or other organic growth. Sometimes, you just want a no-fuss pool cover that won’t blow the budget. In that case, this round pool cover is a good go-to. The cover is meant for an above-ground pool and is sold in nine different sizes, including this 18-foot option. The cover size itself is 21 feet, allowing it to fit neatly over an 18-foot pool.

It’s important to keep inflatable pools covered, too, and fortunately there are some excellent options available. This cover from Intex is generously sized and can fit inflatable pools of up to 120 x 72 inches. If you have an above-ground pool, you can simply unplug the cord from the electrical outlet. For in-ground pools, locate the circuit breaker for the pool and switch it off. It’s important to follow manufacturer instructions when turning off power sources to avoid any damage to your pool. Disconnect Filter and Pump Once these parts are removed, keep them in a safe spot for future retrieval when operating your pool during high season. Proper care and maintenance of Summer Waves pool will increase its lifespan and ensure active swimming seasons all year round. Tips for Draining Your Summer Waves Pool Remove Debris Before Draining Summer Waves Pools provide a higher quality build, but they can be more expensive than Intex pools. They come with stronger frames, more sturdy walls, and superior construction that promises a long-lasting pool. However, Intex pools have their advantages, such as being much easier to install and easier to maintain. They also tend to be less expensive, making them a great option for those on a budget. Additionally, ensure that the hose material is durable enough to withstand chlorine exposure, sunlight, and weather changes. Investing in a high-quality hose guarantees longevity and efficiently transfers water out of the pool faster.It’s easy to remove the cover when you want to take a dip or relax on a floatie—you can cover or uncover your pool in just five minutes or so. The pool cover comes with a 12-year warranty as a bonus. These are the best pool covers for outdoor above-ground pools that are round in shape. The polyethylene material is durable and stands up to harsh weather. The pool cover itself is solid rather than mesh or another porous material. It will keep out snow during the winter and rain in the springtime, so you won’t need to worry about your pool’s chemistry altering because of precipitation. It’s made up of thousands of bubbles in a resin material and promises to absorb and hold onto heat from the sun’s UV rays. This means you can cover up the pool after a day of fun in the sun, and the water will stay warm for your next dive (or belly flop). However, it’s not a safety cover, so you may want to skip it if you have little ones around the pool regularly. The first step to drain your Summer Waves pool is to ensure that all of the power sources are turned off. This includes the pump, filter, and any other electrical equipment that may be connected to the pool. Turning off the power will help prevent any accidents or injuries while draining the pool. When shopping for the best pool cover, you’ll spot a few different types, including safety, mesh, solar, winter, and automatic covers.