The Best Pool Covers for Inground Gunite Pools

Every pool needs a quality winter cover. Plus, some owners even take advantage of all season covers.  Investing in a high-quality cover can save you time and money when it comes to opening, winterizing, and maintaining your investment.

There are several different types of pool covers to consider:

  1. Solar
    Otherwise known as a bubble cover, solar covers can help your pool retain heat efficiently allowing you to save money on your bills as well as extending the swimming season. Aesthetically, they may not be the most flattering cover, especially with a solar “reel”, but they make a significant difference in regards to evaporation and water loss.
  2. WINTER SAFETY/Security
    These strongly-constructed winter covers come in either mesh or solid covering materials and anchor around the edges of your pool. They are great at supporting weight, particularly that of a heavy snowfall, and keeping debris out of your water. When installed correctly, they meet ASTM Safety Standards which is a huge reason why many spend the extra money for these covers. Custom made to the exact shape of your pool, they also have a great look.
  3. Winter “TARP STYLE”
    Also called standard covers, this category of winter pool covers is made from polyethylene material like a tarp and are good at blocking UV rays and keeping out leaves and other organic matter. This is probably the best winter cover in regards to keeping the pool cool. Though, they are not safety covers. These are held in place with water tubes and do a great job of keeping debris and UV rays out!
  4. Automatic
    While the most expensive, automatic pool covers come with great “set it and forget it” features that make them solid options for protecting your water. Plus, these covers are meant to meet ASTM Safety Standards and are often purchased as a safety cover for in season use. They come with all of the benefits of a solar cover as well as keeping debris out of the pool. In the Northeast, these should never be used as a winter cover (regardless of what you read online), so a winter cover is also required.

If you are unsure of which route to go, give our team a call. We can assist you in selecting the right pool cover for your needs. No matter what you decide, a great pool cover offers you value and can save hours on pool maintenance tasks. Need help with maintenance? Aqua Pool provides maintenance programs to fit your particular needs.