THE GUIDE TO PLUNGE POOL COVERS: SAFETY, EFFICIENCY, AND TYPES
Imagine a pool that's always sparkling clean, perfectly warm, and free from worries about safety hazards. That's the dream of every pool owner, and the secret to achieving it lies in one simple accessory: a pool cover. In this article, we'll explore why a pool cover is an essential investment for your pool's safety, efficiency, and longevity. We'll break down the benefits of different types of covers and introduce you to the industry’s gold standard in safety certification. Dive in to discover how a pool cover can transform your swimming experience and protect your investment.
Why do you need a pool cover?
Safety First
One of the primary reasons to invest in a pool cover is safety. Locking covers are particularly beneficial as they help keep children and animals out of the pool, preventing accidents. The ASTM F-1346 certification is the gold standard that code officers look for, ensuring that the cover meets stringent safety requirements. Notably, all Soake pool covers are ASTM certified. In many towns, a locking cover can eliminate the need for a fence around your plunge pool, subject to the code officer's approval.
Keeping The Unwanted Out
A quality pool cover helps keep environmental pollutants like pollen, bugs, and debris out of your pool resulting in cleaner water while protecting your pool tiles. Sunlight and other particles in the air can lead to algae growth and chemical imbalances, requiring you to adjust the pool’s chemicals more frequently. Since a pool cover minimizes the exposure to sunlight, chemical fluctuations are limited which ultimately means less chemical consumption, a healthier swimming environment and overall more cost-effective.
Keeping The Heat In & Operations Efficient
A pool cover is an excellent tool for maintaining energy efficiency. It helps retain heat, minimizing evaporation and reducing heating costs as well as cleaning time. According to experts at the Department of Energy, “covering a pool when it is not in use is the single most effective means of reducing pool heating costs” and can even “reduce the pool's chemical consumption by 35%–60%.”
While safety is paramount, the benefits of using a pool cover extend far beyond. By keeping unwanted elements out and retaining heat, you can use fewer chemicals and filtration, save on energy bills, and enjoy a more environmentally friendly and healthier swimming environment. A pool cover protects your plunge pool investment for the long haul.
Types of Plunge Pool Covers
Automatic Cover
An automatic cover is the easiest to operate, disappearing fully when retracted. Though it is the most expensive option, it may be ideal for those who struggle with mobility challenges, making the process of covering and uncovering as easy as the flick of a switch.
Aluminum Rolling Cover
The aluminum rolling cover is easy to open and close, with a sleek modern design. It nests neatly at the end of the pool when open and is priced in the mid-range, offering a durable and stylish option.
Textured Folding Spa Cover
A spa cover folds and lifts off, allowing you to remove it from the pool completely when not in use. Available in five colors, this is the least expensive option, providing a balance of functionality and affordability.
Wooden Roll Cover
A wooden roll cover is relatively easy to open and close, nesting at the end of the pool when open. Made of cedar, this moderately priced cover ages to a beautiful and natural patina, offering a timeless and natural aesthetic.
Conclusion
Pool covers are an indispensable accessory for any pool owner. They enhance safety, improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance, and extend the life of your pool. To learn more about our plunge pools and the covers we offer, visit our plunge pool page. For any questions about selections or safety requirements, reach out to our team.