Every pool owner understands that keeping the water clean is a key part of pool maintenance. Solar covers and pool pumps are two basic pieces of equipment needed for proper water filtration in your pool. However, can one use a pool pump alongside a solar cover at the same time?
The quick answer is yes! Keep reading to find out more about whether you can run the pool pump along with a solar cover on it.
A guide on dan You Run the Pool Pump with a Solar Cover On?
Yes, you can run the pool pump even when the pool is covered. It is actually a good idea for multiple good reasons:
- It makes the provision of a continuous mixing of the chemicals by running the pump and keeps the water clean and clear.
- Running the pump keeps the water moving, which helps mix the chemicals evenly and keeps the water clean and clear. It also helps stop algae from growing and keeps the water quality good.
- If you have a solar or thermal cover, running the pump helps spread the heat that the cover creates. It means your pool stays warmer, and you can save on energy costs.
- Running the pump for shorter times regularly can help it last longer by preventing problems that can happen if it sits idle for too long.
Benefits to Run Pool Pump with Solar Cover On
Let's explore some excellent benefits of running a pool pump with a solar cover:
Lower Energy Costs
It is used to prevent heat from escaping the water without increasing heating costs. Pool heaters utilize a water pump, which helps draw cold water into the heater. The utilization of the solar cover will help minimize the pump's workload.
Preventing Evaporation
The other benefit of employing the solar cover is that risks of evaporation are eliminated. Evaporation is the most common cause of swimming pool heat loss. Enclosing the pool at night but allowing the pump to run will stop evaporation, retaining heat in the water.
It will help you save money on water bills since you will not need to frequently refill the pool water.
Keep Debris Out of Your Pool
If you install a solar pool cover, you’ll warm your pool and spend less money at the same time. It also prevents bugs from falling into the water. All you have to do is get rid of the debris that gathers on top of the cover instead of using a net to clean the pool. This will be quite beneficial to you, especially when it comes to reducing the time spent cleaning and taking care of your pool.
Help Your Pool Pump
Keeping the solar cover on also makes it easier for your pool pump. When there is little or no leaves falling on the water surface, the pool pump is not strained to achieve the same standards.
Enjoy a Longer Swimming Season
Having a solar cover on your pool ensures that the water stays warm. This allows you to swim for longer than the season allows. Solar covers are used to prolong the swimming season by several months.
Types of Pool Covers and Their Importance
Here are the different types of pool covers you need to know:
Solar Covers
The thick plastic sheets with bubbles on one side that sit on the water surface of your pool are called solar covers. They assist in insulation of the pool, retain heat, and accommodate solar warmth. You should probably opt for a solar cover pool heater.
They come in different sizes and can be cut to fit your pool, similar to the bubble wrap you find in packages.
Solar covers can heat your pool in as little as six hours. To maximize the benefits of the solar cover, cover all the surface of the pool.
Winter Pool Covers
These covers are used in colder areas and are usually placed on pools at the end of the swimming season when you're getting ready for winter. They stay on all winter to keep it clean and force dirt and debris out of the water.
If you take care of your pool equipment and store it, you won't be running your pump. However, if you don't store it, continue to circulate the water. You can run your pump much less during the cold months, which helps you save on electricity.
Also, make sure to get a good cover pump for winter pool cover to remove any water that builds up on top of your cover.
Pool Pump Safety Tips
Running your pool pump with the cover on is usually safe, but here are some important tips to keep in mind. Here are some essential tips you need to consider for pool cover with a pump:
· Good Airflow
Make sure your pool cover lets air flow through. It is especially important for solid covers, as they can trap harmful gases like chlorine gas, which can damage equipment and be dangerous to health. Mesh or breathable covers are better for airflow.
· Check for Debris
Regularly look for and remove any debris on the cover. It can block water flow and put extra strain on the pump.
· Keep the Water Level Right
When the pool water level is low, it is unwise to run the pump. This reduces the pump's effectiveness. Make sure the water level stays within the recommended range.
· Regular Maintenance
You should routinely check and service your pool pump & filtration system. This involves cleaning of the pump basket, filter back washing and examination of the pump for signs of wear out or damage.
Final Thoughts
You can run your pool pump even when there is a solar cover. It even offers multiple benefits, from removing debris to avoiding water evaporation and more. By following the tips mentioned here, you can keep your pool clean, warm, and inviting all season long.