Using a pool cover is often recommended as a practical way to maintain a swimming pool. It can reduce evaporation, prevent debris from falling into the water, and improve energy efficiency. However, despite these benefits, there are several potential downsides to consider. This article delves into the common drawbacks of pool covers, offering an in-depth look at how they might affect pool maintenance, water chemistry, safety, cost, and overall usability. Whether you’re a new pool owner or a seasoned swimmer, understanding the negatives can help you make a more informed decision when managing your backyard oasis.
1. Increased Manual Labor and Maintenance Challenges
One of the most significant drawbacks of using a pool cover is that it can increase the amount of time and effort required for maintenance. While pool covers reduce debris in the water, they also make it harder to perform routine tasks quickly and efficiently.
Making Daily Maintenance Cumbersome
When a cover is on the pool, any basic maintenance—like brushing the walls, vacuuming, or checking the water level—requires lifting or completely removing the cover. If the cover is large or heavy, this can be physically taxing, especially for individuals with limited strength or mobility. Some homeowners find themselves avoiding maintenance altogether, which can lead to more serious issues over time.
Difficulty with Automated Pool Cleaners
If you use an automated pool cleaner, a solid cover prevents the system from functioning. In-ground pool owners with solar or robotic cleaners may need to remove the cover every time they want the pool to be cleaned. This can reduce the convenience that automated systems are designed to provide and lead to inconsistent cleaning schedules.
Time Consumed for Cover Removal and Installation
The time required to put on or take off a pool cover varies depending on its type and the size of the pool. Roll-out covers may save time compared to manually placing covers, but they still require effort. In some climates, pool owners may need to remove the cover multiple times a day, particularly during swim season. This repetitive task can cause frustration and ultimately discourage pool use.
2. Adverse Effects on Water Chemistry
Pool covers can interfere with the delicate balance of water chemistry, which is critical for both swimmer comfort and the longevity of your pool components.
Reduced Circulation and Stagnation Risks
Pool covers—especially solid or solar blankets—can significantly reduce water circulation. Without proper flow, water in the pool may become stagnant in certain areas, especially under the cover itself. This can promote algae growth and uneven chemical distribution, forcing pool owners to perform more aggressive chemical treatments or manual stirring to restore balance.
Temperature Variations and Chemical Reactions
While solar covers are designed to retain and increase water temperature, this can also be a drawback. Elevated temperatures can affect how chlorine and other sanitizers function. Higher temperatures can accelerate chlorine evaporation or degradation when exposed to sunlight, potentially leading to unstable chlorine levels and the need for more frequent chemical adjustments.
Stratification of Water Layers
Thermal pool covers can create different temperature layers within the pool—warmer on top and colder beneath. This stratification can create an environment where chemical concentrations become uneven. For example, acid treatments may collect in the lower layers, potentially damaging pool surfaces over time unless the water is regularly mixed.
3. Potential Health and Safety Concerns
Despite being designed to improve safety in some cases—particularly for childproof pool covers—standard pool covers can pose health and safety risks if not used or maintained properly.
Slip Hazards on Wet Covers
A pool cover, especially a solid solar blanket, can retain water on top of it. If someone steps on a saturated cover, there is a significant risk of slipping, which could result in falls or injuries. Young children or pets may be especially vulnerable, particularly if the cover is placed over an uncovered pool area without safety fencing.
Water Accumulation and Mosquito Breeding Sites
Standing water on the surface of a pool cover can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, especially in warmer, humid regions. These pests are not only annoying but can also carry diseases. Additionally, accumulated rainwater can strain the material of the cover and cause sagging, especially if it’s not properly drained.
Difficult to Remove Water from Covers
Many pool owners aren’t aware that covering a pool doesn’t remove the need for maintenance on the cover itself. Water that collects on a standard solar blanket or safety cover must be manually removed using a siphon or water pump. Neglecting this task can lead to premature wear and tear or even make the cover inoperable after heavy rains.
4. Long-Term Cost and Durability Considerations
While some pool covers can save money in the long term by reducing evaporation and heat loss, others can be quite costly, especially when factoring in replacement and repair.
High Initial Investment for Safety Covers
Safety pool covers—those designed to bear weight and prevent accidental drownings—are typically the most expensive. Depending on the size, quality, and installation method, a high-quality mesh or solid safety cover can cost anywhere from $1,000 to over $3,000 when including installation costs. For many homeowners, this is a substantial investment that needs to be weighed against its actual usage.
Wear and Tear from Sun Exposure and Chemicals
Not all pool covers are created equal when it comes to durability. Cheaper vinyl or plastic covers may degrade quickly due to UV exposure, chlorine vapors, or poor water drainage. In contrast, covers designed for longevity often come with a steep price. Over time, even robust covers will need replacement, adding to the long-term financial burden.
Cost Comparison of Different Cover Types
To better understand the cost implications, here’s a breakdown of common pool cover types and their average price ranges:
| Pool Cover Type | Average Cost (for a standard 16’x32’ pool) | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Solar Blanket | $100–$300 | 1–3 years |
| Winter Cover | $200–$500 | 4–6 years |
| Automatic Pool Cover | $5,000–$15,000 | 10+ years |
| Safety Cover | $800–$1,500 (installed) | 5–8 years |
As the table shows, while certain covers are affordable upfront, they require frequent replacements and may not deliver the best value over time.
5. Impact on Pool Aesthetics and Accessibility
For many pool owners, a swimming pool is a focal point of their backyard and a source of aesthetic pleasure and relaxation. Pool covers, especially bulky or unattractive ones, can interfere with this perception and usability.
Unattractive Appearance and Reduced Enjoyment
Standard pool covers—particularly darker-colored solar blankets or blue winter covers—can make a pool appear messy or unused. This can detract from the visual appeal of an outdoor space, especially when guests are visiting. Some homeowners opt not to use covers for this very reason, prioritizing appearance over energy savings.
Slower Pool Access for Frequent Use
If your family or guests like to use the pool often, removing a cover each time can become a hassle. The time needed to remove, store, and re-apply the cover might discourage spontaneous swimming or reduce how often the pool is used. This is particularly frustrating for households with young children who may want to go from one swim session to another within a short window.
Cover Storage and Clutter
Storing a pool cover is not always simple. Solar blankets need to be rolled properly and stored away from direct sunlight and chemicals to prolong their lifespan. Safety covers often need professional installation and anchoring systems that remain visible around the pool deck. This can take away from the overall design and limit furniture arrangements or landscaping near the pool.
6. Risk of Cover Damage and Safety Compromises
Depending on the type and condition of your pool cover, there may be an increased risk of physical damage to both the cover and the pool itself.
Accidental Damage from Weather Conditions
Wind and storm activity can cause covers to tear, flap, or become fully dislodged from the pool. High winds can pull straps loose, and improperly installed covers may become projectiles themselves, posing a risk to nearby property or bystanders.
Pooling Accessories or Debris Trapped Under the Cover
If any pool equipment—like noodles, toys, or floats—is left in the pool, placing a solid cover on top can trap these items underwater. This can cause algae growth spots underneath the cover and also damage pool surfaces due to pressure or friction. Frequent checks are needed to prevent such issues.
Potential Damage from UV Radiation and Chemicals
Many standard pool covers are susceptible to UV degradation and chlorine exposure. Prolonged exposure can cause brittleness, cracking, or fading. Some pool covers also react with strong chemical odors from chlorine or bromine, breaking down more quickly than expected.
7. Misconceptions and Unnecessary Coverage
Many pool owners believe that consistently covering the pool is always beneficial, but this is not always the case and can sometimes do more harm than good.
Overheating and Chlorine Depletion
If your pool is in a hot climate and uses a solar blanket frequently, the water can become uncomfortably warm. This can also cause rapid chlorine degradation, which may necessitate more frequent use of chemical stabilizers, adding to maintenance complexity and costs.
Unnecessarily Restricting Natural Sunlight
Sunlight plays a key role in the natural breakdown of some organic contaminants in the water. Regular use of opaque covers can inhibit this process, making chemical disinfection more critical and possibly introducing additional costs and effort over time.
Neglecting to Use Covers at Appropriate Times
There are definitely times when covering the pool is necessary: such as during extended absences, at night to conserve heat, or to keep out debris. However, constant covering can create chemical imbalance or poor circulation. Homeowners need to evaluate when a cover is truly needed versus when it may just be an added inconvenience.
8. Environmental and Disposal Concerns
In an era marked by increased environmental awareness, the sustainability and disposal impact of pool covers are worth considering.
Non-Biodegradable Nature of Most Covers
Many pool covers are made from synthetic materials like polyethylene or vinyl, which do not decompose easily and can remain in landfills for decades. Unless they’re part of a recycling program, most pool covers will ultimately contribute to plastic waste.
Short Lifespan of Affordable Covers
Cheaper pool covers, while cost-effective in the short term, may need to be replaced every one to three swimming seasons. This frequent replacement increases resource use and the amount of waste generated annually across the pool owner community. Eco-conscious pool owners may want to invest in high-quality, long-lasting alternatives, though they come with a higher cost.
Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Pool covers can offer impressive benefits ranging from heat retention to safety, but they are not without their drawbacks. Potential downsides include increased manual labor, maintenance complexities, chemical imbalances, initial and long-term costs, aesthetic compromise, safety risks, and environmental concerns. Each type of pool cover comes with unique advantages and disadvantages, making it essential for pool owners to evaluate their specific needs, climate, and usage patterns before investing.
Ultimately, informed decision-making is key. Select the kind of pool cover that aligns with your long-term goals and usage habits, and ensure you practice proper installation and maintenance to maximize the benefits while minimizing the drawbacks.
Do pool covers cause damage to the pool itself?
Some types of pool covers, especially those that are improperly fitted or made from low-quality materials, can potentially damage the pool structure. For example, solid winter covers that are too tight or improperly secured can exert pressure on the pool walls, especially during heavy rain or snowfall, leading to warping or cracking. Similarly, if a cover allows water to pool on its surface, the added weight may strain the cover system or the pool coping.
In addition, the continuous use of tightly secured covers without proper water chemistry maintenance can create stagnant water conditions beneath the cover, fostering algae growth and potentially corroding metal components of the pool. This is especially common when pool covers are left on for long periods without circulation or chemical treatment. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that covers are correctly installed and that the water underneath is properly treated and maintained before covering.
Are pool covers difficult to install and remove?
Yes, installing and removing some types of pool covers can be labor-intensive and time-consuming, particularly for large pools or covers that are not equipped with automatic systems. Manual covers require users to physically place the cover over the pool, secure the edges, and often use pumps to remove standing water from the surface of the cover. Depending on the size and material, this process may require multiple people and can be physically demanding.
Automatic pool covers are easier to operate but come with their own challenges, including installation complexity and the need for periodic maintenance. The track system and motor must be properly installed, and parts like rollers and springs can wear out over time. In addition, both manual and automatic covers need to be stored properly when not in use to avoid damage from UV rays, pests, or moisture. For some pool owners, these factors can make the process of using a pool cover inconvenient.
Do pool covers lead to increased algae growth?
When used improperly, pool covers can contribute to increased algae growth by limiting sunlight and reducing the circulation of pool water. While blocking sunlight can help reduce the growth of some types of algae, it can also inhibit the natural sanitizing effect of UV light on other microorganisms. If the pool water is not properly balanced and sanitized before the cover is applied, the dark and warm environment created under the cover can actually encourage certain types of algae to thrive.
Moreover, covers that do not permit adequate water circulation or are left on for extended periods without proper care can trap debris, warm water, and moisture, all of which contribute to algae formation. It’s important to regularly check the water chemistry, ensure proper filtration, and clean the pool before applying a cover. Some pool owners may need to introduce liquid chlorine or algaecides to prevent algae buildup while the pool is covered.
Can pool covers attract pests or create pest problems?
Yes, pool covers—especially those that are left in place for extended periods or allow standing water to accumulate—can attract pests such as mosquitoes, rodents, and insects. Mosquitoes, in particular, are drawn to stagnant water, which serves as a breeding ground for their larvae. If water collects on top of the pool cover and isn’t removed promptly, it may become a mosquito hotspot, posing a health risk and increasing the likelihood of infestation around the home.
Additionally, debris caught on or under the cover may attract small animals or insects seeking shelter. Squirrels or birds may nest in the material if it’s loosely placed, and insects may infest the area beneath the cover. To prevent these issues, it’s essential to use a cover pump or manually remove standing water regularly, ensure the cover is tightly secured, and clean debris from the surface to reduce the attraction of unwanted pests.
Are pool covers expensive to purchase and maintain?
Depending on the type and quality, pool covers can be a significant investment. Safety covers, for example, are often the most expensive due to their durability and the need for professional installation. Solar covers are less expensive but still represent an ongoing cost, especially if they need to be replaced annually. Automatic pool covers, which include a motorized system, are the most costly and may also require professional installation and occasional repair services.
Maintenance costs can also add up over time. Covers may need cleaning, repairs, or replacement due to wear and tear from weather, UV exposure, or improper use. Automatic cover systems may require periodic servicing or new parts, such as tracks, rollers, or seals. To extend the life of the cover and avoid unnecessary costs, regular cleaning and proper storage are essential, particularly when the cover is not in use.
Can using a pool cover affect the safety of swimmers?
Although some pool covers are designed with safety in mind, others can unintentionally contribute to a false sense of security or even create hazards. For example, mesh safety covers are designed to bear weight and prevent children or pets from falling into the pool, but a standard solar or winter cover might not provide this protection. In fact, walking or stepping on these types of covers can be dangerous because they are not designed to support significant weight and may tear or collapse, leading to accidents or falls.
In addition, improperly secured covers—especially mesh or solid covers—can create tripping hazards around the pool deck due to loose edges or hardware. There is also a risk of entanglement, particularly with mesh safety covers, as fingers or toes might get caught in the openings. Parents and pool owners should clearly understand the type of cover they are using and ensure it meets safety standards if used as part of a childproofing strategy for the pool area.
Do pool covers interfere with pool maintenance routines?
Yes, using a pool cover can complicate pool maintenance by limiting access to the water and equipment. For example, while covers reduce debris accumulation, they also make it more difficult to perform regular skimming, brushing, and inspection tasks. Owners may need to remove the cover frequently to do maintenance, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient, especially during periods when the pool is not in frequent use.
Furthermore, covers can make it harder to monitor chemical levels and assess water clarity. Without regular visual assessment, imbalances in pH, chlorine, or alkalinity may go unnoticed for extended periods, leading to potential water quality issues. Some systems may also prevent automatic pool cleaners from operating effectively, or cover tracks and rails can collect dust and dirt that requires extra cleaning. Therefore, while pool covers offer benefits, they also necessitate adjustments to standard maintenance practices for consistent and effective pool care.