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Do I really need a pool cover?
One of the most common questions we receive from clients during the pool design and pool quotation stage is, ‘…do I really need a pool cover?’ and it's often accompanied by an odd facial expression. If you want to extend your swim season, reduce pool heating and chemical costs, and prevent water evaporation, then the answer is an absolute yes!
The number one reason why people don’t like the idea of a pool cover (and make that facial expression) is purely due to aesthetics. Yes, a pool cover may detract from the visual you are trying to create. But, wouldn’t you prefer a pool (when combined with a heating system) that provides six, nine or twelve-months’ worth of family fitness and entertainment? Compared to your new pool simply becoming a very large water feature you cannot enjoy.
Let's face it, we live in Victoria and are not blessed with balmy pool weather year round. Taking an holistic and considered approach to pool heating during the pool design stage of your project is essential if you would like to get the most enjoyment out of your new pool.
Comparing Pool Cover Options
With an industry wide focus on climate care solutions, you are now spoilt for choice when it comes to pool cover options. The Pool Cover Option Comparison Table below is a snapshot of a selection of pool cover products available in the marketplace today (June 2020), including an approximate budget you should allow when planning your pool project. The estimates are based on a rectangular pool design measuring 6.0m x 3.0m.
| Pool Cover Product | Budget | Reduces Evaporation | Retains Heat | Aerates Water | Prevents Pet & Child Access | Lockable/ Automation | Warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABGAL Triple Cell Solar Pool Cover 610 Micron | $570-$670 |  By 99% | Up to 8 Degrees Heat Gain | No | No | No | 12 Years pro-rata | |
| Sunline AquaVent Pool Blanket | $700-$800 | By 97% | | | No | No | 12 Years pro-rata | |
| ABGAL Thermal Heatshield Pool Cover | $750-$950 | By 95% | Plus cuts Heat Loss by 75% | No | No | No | 8 Years pro-rata against UV degradation and 12 months against delamination | |
| ABGAL Oasis Solar Pool Cover 500 Micron | $520-$620 | By 99.84% | Up to 8 Degrees Heat Gain | No | No | No | 8 Years pro-rata | |
| ABGAL Pooltex Leafstop Pool Cover | $950-$1,050 | By up to 70% | No, does block sunlight to prevent algae growth. | | Pets Only. | No | 8 Years pro-rata | |
| Remco PoolGuard Pool Cover | $3,500-$4,000 | | | | Can withstand a load up to 100KG | Lockable - Yes Automated - No | 5 Years | |
| Remco Coverstar Pool Cover | Above Pool: $12,000-$15,000 Integrated: $22,000-$30,000 | | | | Can withstand a load up to 400KG | | 5 Years | |
| Remco Swimroll Pool Cover | Above Pool: $12,000-$15,000 Integrated: $22,000-$30,000 | | | No | Can withstand a load up to 70KG | | 5 Years |
Table Notes:
- All pool cover options require a compliant safety barrier to surround the pool zone. Although lockable, pet and child proof, the Remco Pool Cover Options do still require a compliant safety barrier.
- The prices listed above are inclusive of GST, representative of June 2020 pricing and are intended as a guide only. Due to delivery and installation, the price provided by your pool builder may be higher.
Top 2 Pool Covers
To get the most enjoyment from your soon-to-be-built swimming pool without breaking the budget, our top 2 pool cover options for 2020:
Best Pool Cover Option Under $1,000
- ABGAL's Triple Cell 610 Micron Solar Pool Cover
To learn more, download ABGAL's Triple Cell 610 Micron Pool Cover Fact Sheet.
For storage, consider an ABGAL Endurance Pool Cover Roller (when purchased with a ABGAL Pool Cover, receive a free Pool Cover and Roller Protector) or if budget allows, an Underground Pool Blanket Box may be the better space saving solution (for a 6.0m x 3.0m pool allow approximately $4,200 supply only of the blanket box).
Best Pet & Child Proof Pool Cover Option Under $4,000
- Remco's PoolGuard Pool Cover
To learn more, download Remco's PoolGuard Pool Cover Brochure.
Can I add a pool cover later?
Yes of course, your pool cover options may however become limited and if you have not planned for a pool cover (particularly its storage), a pool cover may become difficult and cumbersome to incorporate into your pool zone after it is complete. Some clients choose to see how they use the pool in the first 12 months before deciding on whether or not it is worth investing in a pool cover - this is also a great idea however, always remember to plan for this addition during your pool project planning stage.
If you are in the midst of pool planning and have not spoken to an Albatross Pools Designer or received an obligation free swimming pool quote, we would welcome the opportunity to speak with you - let's discuss your pool project today!