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These Pool Covers are Making Waves!

August 11, 2023

So, you're planning for your new pool....and it's likely you've had thoughts about maintenance, energy costs...the water bill...

Fortunately, here you are, embarking on a VESSEL Pool project!  The compact footprint of a VESSEL plunge pool results in lower water evaporation, chemical consumption, and energy costs than typical swimming pools.

The entire pool industry has a common goal of making pool ownership carefree, and more water and energy efficient than ever before.   Pool operation and maintenance technology has come so far, and a key component of a carefree pool experience is the pool cover.  

It's simple math.  If you invest in a pool cover, you'll use fewer chemicals, run your equipment less, and control your water bill. This translates into extra backyard bucks for all the pool toys and that lovely outdoor area rug you've been eyeballing.

cubes with letters and plastic bottle with spilled water

Did you know that evaporation can cause your pool to lose up to 1/4" of water per day? That's nearly 2" per week!  Not only does this hit the water bill, it also impacts water chemistry and can lead to an increase in chemical consumption.  If you heat your pool, it certainly adds to the energy bill.  And don't even get us started about our dear friend, Mother Earth.  She could use a break.

According to the Department of Energy:

  • Pool covers, when properly used, can reduce the amount of make-up water needed for a pool by 30% – 50%
  • Pool covers can help reduce the pool’s chemical consumption by 35% – 60%

Furthermore, if you plan to heat your pool:

  • A pool cover will reduce heat loss by nearly 50%
  • Pool covers increase water temperature by 8-10 degrees
  • A pool cover can reduce energy costs by up to 70%

VESSEL plunge pools are designed to be compatible with all types of pool covers.  From manual to automated operation, soft pool covers to hard pool covers, this is a beginners guide to the wide world of Swimming Pool Covers:

TOP PICK:  Recessed Automatic Safety Pool Cover  

This type of pool cover is for in-ground or bench-entry VESSEL installations, and should be planned into the project from inception because the pool cover rolls onto a spool that is concealed in a trough located at the end of the pool.

During installation, low-profile metal channels are attached to the top edge of the pool on opposing sides to guide a wheel and rope pully system that controls the pool cover.  Don't worry - these metal channels are artfully concealed beneath coping, and the pool cover is completely hidden when rolled up and not in use.  

When the pool is covered, this type of pool cover also acts as a safety barrier that can be an alternative safety solution to pool fencing. The operation of this cover system is automated, either with a physical switch, or by using an app.  Long term and short, this type of cover is so easy to use - meaning...you are most likely to actually use it.   It will become second nature to your pool experience.  Of course, these pool covers come in an array of designer colors that blend into all types of outdoor environments.  

Retrofit-Ready:  Deck-Mounted Automated Safety Pool Cover.

A deck-mounted automatic safety cover is similar technology to the recessed autocover, but the spool and motor are housed above ground, and the track is attached on top of the coping.  While the functionality is comparable, keep in mind that the cover will be visible, rolled up at the end of the pool.  It's not exactly a resort vibe, so we found plans for building a housing that seconds as a bench/planter box.  Ipe or Teakwood would turn thi planter/coverbox into a handcrafted, design feature.  

Budget Friendly: Mesh or Vinyl Safety Pool Cover

The Budget-friendly Yard Guard

For winterization or extended periods of non-use, a manually installed vinyl or mesh pool cover is the economic choice.  There are so many manufacturers to choose from, but we like the Yard Guard brand because they offer great pricing and many levels of protection depending on your needs.  

Designer Pick:  Sliding Deck Safety Pool Cover

Image from Azenco

If you like to impress all who visit your outdoor sanctuary, then a sliding deck cover is the luxury pool cover solution for you. While these covers come in at the high end of the budget, they certainly provide the most flexibility and long term durability. Having a party and need more area for mingling?  No problem, just close the deck lid and now you have an additional seating area for guests. We like these from Azenco Outdoor. They function easily with the push of a button and can be customized to coordinate with any architectural finishes.