Just like an in ground pool, there are many advantages to covering your above ground pool when it is not in use. A cover keeps out the large debris like leaves that can clog your filter and cause problems with your equipment. The right cover helps the sun heat up your pool water so your heater doesn't have to work as hard. A cover is also important to protect your pool in the winter and prevent evaporation of your pool water. Most important, a pool cover adds an element of safety to your above ground pool by keeping small children and animals out of the water. This article will provide you with information about the different types of above ground pool covers available so you can choose the best one for your needs.

Keeping the Pool Clean

One of the most important reasons for covering your above ground pool is to keep the water clean and free of debris. You can protect your pool from dirt throughout the off season by installing any type of mesh or winter covers over your pool. Mesh covers allow rain water to get into your pool during the winter months, but keeps dirt and debris out. This makes for a much easier cleanup in the spring, when you are ready to open your pool up once again.

You can also go with a more heavy duty winter cover that is constructed of a thicker fabric. These covers will keep your water even cleaner by keeping every bit of dirt, rain and snow out of your pool. It will also keep small critters like birds and squirrels away from your pool water. If you live in an area with a lot of large trees, you might also consider adding a leaf net over the top of your pool cover. This net catches any large debris that might blow onto your cover, making your spring cleanup even easier. Simply remove the leaf net, hose off the winter cover, and your pool is ready to open.

Keeping the Pool Warm

Another popular type of above ground pool cover is a solar cover or blanket. This cover doesn't usually attach to the sides of your pool like a winter cover does. Instead, it simply floats across the top of your water. A solar cover helps trap the sun's rays so they can be used to heat your pool water. If you live in a sunny area and don't want to invest in a heater for your pool, a solar cover can help keep your pool water a comfortable temperature.

Keeping the Pool Safe

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, children will try to find a way into the water unsupervised. This is where a safety cover comes into play. Safety covers are often spread across the surface of the pool and fastened securely to the ground so they cannot come loose. These covers are often topped with a winter or solar cover. When a child or pet tries to step onto the water's surface, the security cover will stop the from actually falling in the pool.

The right above ground pool cover will keep your pool safe, clean and warm. Covers keep the water in your pool where it belongs, and critter, children and dirt safely out.