All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier
(9 products available)
Solar pool covers for an oval pool are designed to help retain heat, reduce evaporation, and keep debris out of the water. The solar pool cover's shape is based on the structure of the pool, while the solar pool cover features are determined by the material's structure and the technology used to manufacture the solar cover.
The following are the common types of kidney-shaped solar pool covers based on shape and material:
This is a thin, plastic, bubble-like cover external layer that can be placed on most swimming pool types. It is made from UV-treated polyethylene that traps heat and prevents evaporation. Solar blankets come in different bubble sizes, which determine how much heat is trapped. The larger the bubble, the more heat is trapped.
The solar blanket is usually translucent blue, green, or gold to allow some sunlight to penetrate the pool water and kill bacteria. The solar blanket can easily be rolled on and off manually. However, it is cumbersome, and without a reel system, its use can be a chore, especially for larger pools.
This resembles a solar blanket but is thicker, heavier, and more durable, with different-sized and shaped bubbles. The small bubble cover ensures maximum heat generation and retention, while the large bubble cover is ideal for reducing pool water evaporation.
Unlike a solar blanket, which is generic and can be manufactured for both kidney-shaped above-ground pools and in-ground pools, the solar cover mat is specific to the shape and size of the pool and is usually manufactured for in-ground kidney-shaped pools only.
Solar cover mats can be rolled out manually and are often automated. They also feature special coatings, such as silver heat shield technology on the internal layer, which helps cool the pool by up to 30%.
These innovative solar heating systems can be integrated into any kidney-shaped pool design, including above-ground and in-ground pools. They are made from durable, eco-friendly materials like PVC and polyethylene.
Solar pool tiles are installed on the pool deck and transfer heat to the water. As the water is pumped to the pool, it passes through the solar tiles, which are heated by the sun. This allows the pool to maintain a comfortable swimming temperature without using gas or electric heating systems. The technology used also helps prevent evaporation.
A solar ring is a user-friendly alternative to traditional solar covers. They are popular for their ease of use and effectiveness in smaller pools or as supplementary coverage.
Several factors that affect the performance and effectiveness of solar pool covers for an oval pool are in part influenced by the buyer's decision. Understanding these factors will also help the buyer make an informed decision about which solar cover to select and how to use it effectively.
Solar pool covers are usually made of UV-treated polyethylene or PVC. Polyethylene is lighter and more affordable. It is commonly used for solar blankets and rings. PVC is heavier, thicker, more durable, and expensive. It is usually used for solar tiles and mats.
The bubble size on solar blankets and solar rings significantly impacts heat retention and chemical distribution in the pool water. Larger bubbles create more space for air, improving heat retention. However, smaller bubbles are more effective at distributing chemicals and preventing debris from sinking.
Buyers must ensure the solar cover they purchase is the right shape and size for their kidney-shaped pool. Some solar covers come in universal sizes and can be trimmed to fit the pool shape. However, solar mats are usually custom-made to fit the shape of the pool precisely. This is because solar mats and solar tiles are specific only for in-ground kidney-shaped pools.
Solar covers can be manually rolled on and off, which can be tedious, especially for larger pools. Buyers can purchase solar pool cover reels, which make it easier to install and remove the cover.
Solar covers, especially solar mats, are available with electric solutions to facilitate their rolling on and off. Double and triple covers are also available to enhance the solar cover's effectiveness. Buyers can also find solar covers with different wattages and automated pools for faster and more effective solar heating.
Applying solar covers to a pool helps trap heat and prevents pollutants from entering the water. However, different solar covers offer unique benefits that help enhance the comfort and experience of using the solar pool cover. Below are some of the benefits of using kidney-shaped solar pool covers:
Over 70% of pool heat is lost through evaporation. Solar pool covers help minimize heat loss by creating a greenhouse effect. They trap heat within the pool, keeping the water warmer for longer.
This reduces the need for additional heating systems. It is estimated that using a solar cover can raise the pool temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
Evaporation not only cools the pool water but also results in the loss of pool water. Using solar covers reduces pool water evaporation by as much as 90%. This conserves water, reduces utility bills, and maintains the pool's water level.
Solar covers act as a barrier to debris, such as leaves, dust, and insects. This helps minimize the amount of cleaning required and keeps the pool water cleaner.
With greater heat retention, the swimming season can be extended. The water will be warmer for swimming even on cooler days. This means the pool can be used for longer each year.
Solar covers reduce the need for heating systems, cleaning, and chemical balancing. This can result in significant savings on energy and maintenance costs over time.
Solar covers help reduce evaporation-induced chemical loss. This leads to more stable water chemistry and reduced need for pool chemicals.
The effectiveness of solar pool covers can be hindered by improper installation and maintenance. Buyers can ensure that the solar cover performs at its optimal capacity by correctly installing and maintaining the solar cover and educating the buyer on what to do.
Solar covers can be installed manually or using a cover reel, especially the larger solar blankets. The solar cover should be laid out and positioned on the pool. If the solar cover is a solar blanket or solar ring, the buyer should ensure it is the right shape and size for the pool.
If the cover was customized, the buyer should ensure it was appropriately trimmed. The solar blanket should be rolled out from one end or lifted and placed in the center of the pool. If using a cover reel, the solar blanket should be attached to the reel. The solar cover should then be rolled out and secured on the pool.
Heat retention, evaporation reduction, and pollutant prevention are some benefits that the solar cover offers. However, the buyer must remember that different solar covers serve different purposes. For instance, solar tiles are the best option for minimal evaporation and maximum heat retention, while solar rings are easier to install and do not cost much.
Moreover, to achieve solar heating effectively, ideally, the solar cover should be placed on the pool during the day to trap the sun's rays and create the greenhouse effect within the pool. The solar cover can be left on overnight to retain heat. However, removing it overnight is best if cooler temperatures are expected. This allows the heat to escape rather than trap it within the water.
Regular maintenance and storage of the solar cover when not in use ensure long life and optimal performance. Buyers are advised to regularly check the solar cover for damage and repair it where necessary. They can remove debris using a soft broom or brush after placing the solar cover on the pool.
Pools should be cleaned before placing the cover on to minimize dirt accumulation. Buyers should also regularly flip the solar cover to allow even wear and tear. The solar cover should be cleaned with a gentle detergent and a soft brush after using the solar cover to remove chemical residue. Cover should also be rinsed with water to avoid residue build-up.
A1. Yes, they are actually quite effective. Solar pool covers, especially solar tiles and solar mats, help maintain the pool temperature by minimizing heat loss through evaporation. They create a greenhouse effect by trapping heat in the water, which can raise the temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
A2. Solar covers are usually sold in universal sizes and can be trimmed to fit the pool shape. However, solar mats must be specifically manufactured for the shape and size of the pool.
A3. Ideally, a solar cover should be removed at night when temperatures drop. However, if cooler temperatures are expected, it is better to remove the solar cover.
A4. Solar tiles are one of the most effective solar pool covers. They are manufactured specifically for both above-ground and in-ground pools and can be custom-made to fit the shape and size of the pool almost perfectly.
A5. Buyers should ensure they regularly maintain the solar cover to improve its effectiveness. The solar cover should be cleaned, checked for damage, and stored in a cool and shaded area when not in use.
A6. A solar blanket is lightweight and affordable, while a solar mat is heavier and more durable. However, solar mats are usually manufactured for in-ground pools only, while solar blankets can be used for all pool types.
