Should You Use a Pool Cover?

In cold climates, it’s often necessary to cover pools during the winter to keep them from freezing. There are also covers that are designed for year-round use. These can minimize debris in the pool and some are designed to prevent unauthorized access for safety purposes.

There are multiple benefits to using a pool cover, but there are some downsides. Since they are not always necessary for climate purposes in Arizona, whether or not you should use one will depend on your specific circumstances and preferences.

Pros Of Using A Pool Cover

Conserves Heat

A cover conserves heat in the pool. This may not seem relevant in sunny Arizona, but it can help to extend your swimming season and also keeps the pool’s temperature more consistent during the winter. Although freezing is not typically a concern, this can still be beneficial.

Helps Keep Pool Chemicals Balanced

Chlorine, the most common sanitizer for swimming pools, degrades under ultraviolet (UV) light. When your pool is regularly exposed to sunlight, it will require more chemicals to keep it swim-ready and prevent growth of algae. A cover that blocks direct UV exposure can help with this and reduce the amount of chlorine you need. However, you’ll need to be sure to account for extra moisture and heat under the pool cover, which can sometimes encourage algae growth.

Improves Safety (Some Covers)

If you have young kids at home, you need a plan to prevent them from getting access to your pool when they are not supervised. Safety covers are one way to do this, as they block the water. However, it’s essential to know what type of cover you are getting. A pool cover that is not designed for safety purposes can actually be a hazard and in this case, you’ll need another security measure such as a fence around the pool area.

Cons Of Using A Pool Cover

Reduces Aesthetic Appeal

The most prominent downside of adding a pool cover for many people is that they don’t like the way it looks. While you can still take the cover off for occasions when you want to show off your pool, you won’t be able to look outside and see the pool without the cover in the way whenever you’d like.

May Be Difficult for Custom Shapes

Most modern pools aren’t just simple rectangles. Pools come in a variety of custom shapes and getting a pool cover to match can be difficult. You’ll likely need a custom cover, which can add to the expense of the pool.

Can Be A Hassle To Remove

If you use your pool cover year-round for safety reasons, you’ll need to remove it every time you want to swim. Most covers are designed to be relatively easy to remove and put back in place, but this can still be a bit of a hassle.

Build A Pool In Tucson

If you’re interested in a new pool or would like to remodel your existing pool, Pools by Design can help. We’re the only member of the Master Pools Guild in Tucson. We design elegant custom pools and consider your unique needs and desires throughout the process.