The Best Winter Pool Covers in 2024 (For Inground and Above Ground Pools)

When winter arrives, protecting your pool from the harsh elements becomes essential for extending its life and minimizing maintenance come spring. Choosing the right winter pool cover can keep debris out, prevent costly damage, and reduce the time needed for pool opening. Whether you have an inground or above ground pool, AQUASTRONG has compiled the best winter pool covers for every type of pool, climate, and budget.

Understanding Winter Pool Covers

Before diving into our top recommendations, let’s break down the different types of winter pool covers and help you decide which one is right for your pool.

Types of Winter Pool Covers

1. Winter Pool Safety Covers (Inground Only)

These durable covers are designed to be secured with pins or ties and lie flat over an inground pool. The primary purpose is to prevent accidental falls by people or pets, in addition to keeping debris out. These covers are typically made from solid or mesh materials and require professional installation, which involves drilling holes into the pool’s deck for secure anchoring.

Advantages:

• Provides safety for children and animals
• High-quality construction for winter protection
• Available in both solid and mesh options

Disadvantages:

• Only suitable for inground pools
• Requires professional installation

2. Winter Pool Tarp Covers (Most Popular)

A simple, cost-effective solution for both inground and above ground pools. These covers are typically secured with water bags or a cable-and-winch system. Though tarp covers don't offer safety benefits, they are highly effective at keeping debris out during the winter months. This is the most affordable option for pool owners.

Advantages:

• Inexpensive and easy to install
• Suitable for both inground and above ground pools
• Keeps debris out

Disadvantages:

• No safety features
• Can collect water on top, requiring a pump to remove

3. Automatic Pool Covers (Inground Only)

These covers are deployed automatically and sit just above the pool water’s surface, making them ideal for keeping debris out during the swimming season. However, automatic pool covers are not designed to withstand the elements of winter, and using them as winter covers is not recommended. If you have an automatic cover, consider investing in a dedicated winter safety cover for added protection.

Advantages:

• Automated and easy to use during the swimming season
• Great for debris control in warmer months

Disadvantages:

• Not recommended for winter pool protection
• Expensive installation and maintenance

4. Solar Pool Covers

Made from bubble-like plastic, solar pool covers help retain heat during the swimming season by absorbing sunlight. While these covers help with water evaporation and debris control, they are not designed to handle freezing temperatures and harsh winter weather. For winterizing, solar covers are not suitable.

Advantages:

• Helps warm pool water during the season
• Reduces water evaporation

Disadvantages:

• Not designed for winter weather
• Ineffective for winter debris protection

The Best Winter Pool Cover for Inground Pools

For inground pools, the best option is a high-quality mesh safety cover. These covers allow rainwater and snowmelt to pass through while keeping leaves and debris out. They are safer and easier to maintain than solid covers, which often collect water and debris on top. A mesh cover will drain naturally, preventing excess water buildup, and is much safer for children and pets.

Top Recommendation: AQUASTRONG Premium Mesh Safety Cover

This top-of-the-line mesh safety cover from AQUASTRONG is designed to withstand harsh winter conditions while keeping your pool safe and protected. With reinforced stitching and a robust material, it provides peace of mind while maintaining ease of maintenance.

Features:

• Made from high-density mesh for debris control
• Allows rainwater and snowmelt to drain directly into the pool
• Easy to install with secure fastenings
• Includes a 10-year warranty

The Best Winter Pool Cover for Above Ground Pools

For above ground pools, a solid, durable winter pool cover with a tight-fitting cable-and-winch system is your best choice. This cover keeps debris out while preventing water from seeping through. When shopping for an above ground pool cover, look for one with a high scrim count and a long warranty for added durability.

Top Recommendation: AQUASTRONG Heavy-Duty Above Ground Winter Cover

The AQUASTRONG above ground pool cover is designed to endure the tough conditions of winter. With an impermeable fabric that keeps water and debris out, this cover offers the protection your pool needs to last through the cold months.

Features:

• Heavy-duty water-impermeable fabric
• 4-foot overlap for easy installation
• Includes a winch and cable system for a tight, secure fit
• UV-resistant and designed to resist tearing

Solid vs. Mesh: Which Pool Cover is Right for You?

When choosing between a solid or mesh winter cover, the decision largely depends on your priorities.

• Solid Covers: Best for keeping all light and debris out, which helps prevent algae growth. However, they can accumulate rainwater and snow, requiring regular maintenance to pump off the excess water.

• Mesh Covers: Great for ease of maintenance, as they allow rainwater and snowmelt to pass through while keeping large debris out. Mesh covers are also safer, as they don’t collect excess water that could pose a drowning hazard.

For pools in regions with heavy snowfall or ice, a solid cover may provide better protection. However, if you prefer an easier spring opening, a mesh cover is often the better choice.

How to Choose the Right Winter Pool Cover

When selecting a winter cover for your pool, consider the following factors:

• Material Quality: Look for reinforced polyethylene or polypropylene covers, which resist tearing and UV exposure.
• Size and Fit: Make sure your cover fits snugly, with enough overlap to secure it properly.
• Warranty: The longer the warranty, the better the quality of the cover. Look for covers with warranties of at least 10 years.
• Scrim Count: A higher scrim count (like 8x8 or higher) indicates a stronger cover material that can handle harsh weather conditions.

FAQ: Winter Pool Covers

What is the best material for a winter pool cover?
Reinforced polyethylene or polypropylene are the best materials for winter pool covers. They are durable, tear-resistant, and can withstand harsh winter weather.

Do I really need a winter pool cover?
Yes! A good winter pool cover protects your pool from debris, prevents algae growth, and reduces cleaning and maintenance efforts in the spring.

Should I use a solid or mesh pool cover?
Mesh covers are easier to maintain because they allow water to pass through, but solid covers offer better protection against algae growth. Choose the one that fits your maintenance preferences.

How long should a winter pool cover last?
With proper care, a high-quality winter pool cover can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, depending on the material and environmental factors.

What is the cheapest way to cover a pool?
Basic tarp-style covers are the most budget-friendly option, but they require careful installation and regular maintenance to prevent sagging and tearing.

Conclusion

Choosing the right winter pool cover is an investment in the longevity of your pool. Whether you opt for a mesh safety cover, a solid tarp, or a heavy-duty above ground pool cover, AQUASTRONG offers reliable solutions to protect your pool during the cold months. Make sure to choose a cover that fits your needs, budget, and climate to ensure your pool stays safe and clean for many winters to come.