How Do I Look After My Solar Cover? A Guide To Solar Cover Maintenance

Solar pool covers, or solar blankets, are an essential pool accessory to  prevent both water evaporation and lower the cost of heating your pool. However, they can be difficult to maintain and debris, chemicals, and more can lower their lifespan.

If you treat your pool cover like an afterthought, then it’s liable to flake and fall apart in two seasons or less, whereas a well  treated solar cover can last up to five years. Read on to find the best way to maintain your pool solar cover and keep your water warm.

1. Keep your cover off after shocking

   The most surefire, and quickest, way to destroy your solar cover is by putting your cover on immediately after “shocking” your pool. High chlorine levels are incredibly corrosive, especially to the plastic bubbles of your solar cover.

   After you shock your pool, or add any harsh chemicals, leave the cover off for at least 24 hours. If the bubbles of your solar pool cover are becoming brittle or flaking off into your pool, then your chlorine levels are likely too high.

2. Clean your solar cover

   You wouldn’t fold dirty clothes, so don’t fold your cover while it’s dirty! Throughout the swimming season, debris will accumulate on top of your solar cover. This needs to be removed every time you go to store your solar cover. Cleaning your solar cover is a simple process:

   • Use a garden hose to spray off debris before your roll it up
   • Once or twice a season, spread the cover out and use a soft-bristle brush with a multipurpose cleaner
   • Dry the cover before you fold or roll it up for winter storage to prevent mold and mildew growing in the folds

3. Store in the shade

   Although it may sound counterproductive, when a solar cover is off of the water the sun can cause a great deal of damage. When off the water and rolled up on a solar reel, solar covers act like a magnifying glass, magnifying the heat and melting the bubbles together.

   If you have a solar reel, use a solar reel cover to shade it from the sun. If you don’t have a reel, store the folded cover in the shade or a garage.

4. Handle your solar cover with care

   Every time you drag your cover across a lawn or a deck, you make tiny abrasions which can easily add up. Think about investing in a solar reel to prevent this, as well as making the job of covering and uncovering your pool much easier.

5. Winterize your cover properly

   When the season ends, take care to winterize your pool cover properly, instead of just shoving it in your shed or garage.

   • Give your solar cover a final clean and let it dry completely
   • Either loosely fold or roll your cover
   • Store your cover in a large bin or a heavy-duty bag to prevent pests from damaging it, before putting the bin in a cool, shaded area like a garage or a shed

Keeping your cover clean and shielded from chemical burns will ensure you don’t need to replace your solar pool cover every other spring.

Maintenance Cheat Sheet