Keeping your above-ground pool warm and clean doesn’t have to be a challenge! Solar covers are an excellent solution to maintain the temperature, reduce evaporation, and protect your pool from debris. But which one should you choose: bubble or solid solar covers? Both have unique advantages depending on your needs. In this guide, we’ll dive into the key differences between bubble and solid solar covers, so you can make the best choice for your pool. Ready to save money on heating and reduce water waste? Let’s dive right in!
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What Are Bubble Solar Covers?
Contents
Bubble solar covers look like bubble wrap and rest on the surface of your pool. The bubbles in the cover trap heat from the sun, which warms the water. At night, they help prevent heat from escaping, keeping your pool warmer for longer.
These covers are lightweight, making them easy to use. If you have a reel system, putting them on and taking them off becomes even more convenient.
What Are Solid Solar Covers?
Solid solar covers are made from thick, durable material that forms a protective barrier over your pool. They are excellent at keeping debris like leaves, dirt, and bugs out of the water, offering more protection than bubble covers.
These covers also provide better insulation, which helps retain heat, especially during cooler nights. This makes solid solar covers a great choice for maintaining a warm pool over longer periods.
| Solar Cover Name | Customer Rating | Top Features | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doheny’s Standard Blue 1600 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover, 24 ft Round | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1) | – 3-year warranty – Reduces water evaporation by 30%-50% – Cuts chemical usage by up to 60% – Increases solar energy absorption by 25% – Micro-bubble tech for better heat retention | Doheny’s |
| Doheny’s Supreme Blue 2400 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover, 24 ft Round | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1) | – 7-year warranty – Reduces water evaporation by 30%-50% – Cuts chemical usage by up to 60% – Increases solar energy absorption by 25% – Twice the bubbles for double heat transfer | Doheny’s |
| Doheny’s Ultimate Clear 3200 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover, 24 ft Round | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1) | – 8-year warranty – Reduces water evaporation by 30%-50% – Cuts chemical usage by up to 60% – Increases solar energy absorption by 25% – Clear cover for maximum solar absorption | Doheny’s |
| Robelle Heavy-Duty 24 ft. Round Blue Solar Pool Cover | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1) | – 3-year warranty – Increases temperature by up to 10°F – Cuts evaporation by up to 90% – Ultraviolet ray-resistant material | Home Depot |
| Robelle Heavy-Duty Space Age 15 ft. x 30 ft. Oval Blue/Silver Solar Pool Cover | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1) | – 5-year warranty – Increases temperature by up to 12°F – Cuts evaporation by up to 90% – Dual-layer blue/silver material | Home Depot |
| VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 36 x 18 ft Rectangle, 16 mil | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.9) | – Made of durable 16mil PE material – Reduces evaporation by 95% – Increases temperature by 8-15°C – Customizable fit for any pool shape | VEVOR |
| Intex 18 Foot Round Easy Set Blue Solar Cover for Swimming Pools | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.9) | – 30-day warranty – Reduces evaporation by 95% – Retains heat and reduces chemical usage – Vinyl material, floats on water surface | Walmart |
Heat Retention: Bubble vs. Solid Solar Covers
Bubble solar covers can raise your pool’s water temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit by trapping the sun’s heat during the day. They are effective at preventing heat loss overnight, making them great for quick temperature boosts.
On the other hand, solid solar covers are better at retaining heat over extended periods. This makes them ideal for colder climates, where maintaining warmth consistently is more important than rapid heating.
Durability and Lifespan of Bubble and Solid Solar Covers
Bubble covers are less durable because they are more prone to damage from UV rays and pool chemicals. As a result, they typically need to be replaced every few years.
In contrast, solid solar covers are made from thicker, sturdier material. This makes them more resistant to wear and tear, allowing them to last longer and provide better long-term value.
Durability and Lifespan of Bubble and Solid Solar Covers
Bubble covers tend to wear out faster because they are more vulnerable to UV rays and pool chemicals. This means you may need to replace them every few years.
Solid solar covers, on the other hand, are made from thicker materials, making them more durable. They can withstand harsh conditions better, allowing them to last longer and require less frequent replacement.
Debris Protection and Pool Maintenance
Solid solar covers provide strong protection against debris, such as leaves, dirt, and bugs, keeping your pool cleaner and reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
Bubble covers, while effective at trapping heat and reducing evaporation, offer limited debris protection. Their primary function is to retain heat rather than block debris from entering the pool.
Installation and Handling: Bubble vs. Solid Solar Covers
Bubble covers are lightweight and easy to manage, making them simple to install and remove, even without a reel system.
In contrast, solid covers are heavier and can be more difficult to handle. For easier use, especially with larger pools, a reel system is often recommended to move the cover on and off efficiently.
Cost Considerations: Bubble vs. Solid Solar Covers
Bubble solar covers are usually the more affordable option upfront, but they may need to be replaced more often due to wear and tear.
Solid solar covers, while more expensive initially, tend to last longer because of their durability. This makes them a better long-term investment, especially if you’re looking for a cover that will hold up over time.
Conclusion:
When it comes to choosing between bubble and solid solar covers, it all boils down to your pool’s specific needs. If you’re looking for a cover that maximizes heat retention, reduces evaporation, and is easy to handle, a bubble solar cover might be your best bet. On the other hand, if durability and debris protection are your top priorities, investing in a solid solar cover could be the smarter option. Whichever you choose, both cover types will help maintain your pool’s temperature, reduce water loss, and make pool maintenance easier. Ready to enhance your pool experience? It’s time to pick the perfect solar cover for your needs!
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