How Do You Use a Solar Pool Blanket?

A solar pool blanket, also known as a solar cover, is easily used to conserve heat and reduce maintenance. Simply lay it over your pool's surface!

Installation and Placement

Placement: Lay the solar blanket on the pool's surface with the bubble side down (facing the water) and the smooth side up. This maximizes heat absorption and retention. [Challenger Pools, In The Swim]
Fitting: Ensure the blanket fits snugly, covering the entire pool surface to maximize its effectiveness. You may need to trim it to fit perfectly. [Challenger Pools]
Securing (Optional): Use pool cover clips or other appropriate fasteners to secure the blanket, particularly in windy conditions. This prevents the blanket from shifting or blowing away.

Daytime Use: While some sources suggest removing the cover during the day for direct sun exposure and gas exchange, [Trouble Free Pool] many find leaving it on throughout the day is most effective for heating and minimizing evaporation. [Leslie's] The best approach might depend on climate and desired temperature.
Nighttime Use: Cover the pool at night to prevent significant heat loss and evaporation. This is crucial because most heat loss occurs during cooler nighttime hours. [Trouble Free Pool]
Cleaning: Regularly remove debris and leaves from the cover to maintain its efficiency. A simple rinse with a garden hose is typically sufficient.
Frequency of Removal: Remove the cover periodically (every few days) for several hours to allow sunlight to reach the water and facilitate gas exchange, preventing algae build-up. [Trouble Free Pool]

Heat Retention: Significantly reduces heat loss, especially at night, keeping your pool warmer with less energy needed. [Reddit r/pools]
Reduced Evaporation: Minimizes water loss through evaporation, saving you water and reducing the need for frequent refilling. [Leslie's]
Lower Maintenance: Keeps debris like dust and leaves out of your pool, simplifying and speeding up cleaning. [Leslie's]