Are Pool Covers Worth It?

Are Pool Covers Really Worth It?

If you own a swimming pool or are planning to build one, you’ve probably asked the question: are pool covers worth it? Pool covers are often seen as an optional extra, but in reality, they can deliver significant benefits in terms of cost savings, maintenance, safety, and water conservation.

For Australian pool owners dealing with hot summers, evaporation, water restrictions, and rising energy costs, a pool cover can be one of the most practical investments you make. That said, not every pool cover is the same, and whether it’s “worth it” depends on your pool type, usage, and budget.

In this guide, we’ll break down what pool covers do, the different types available, their pros and cons, and whether a pool cover makes sense for your pool.

What Does a Pool Cover Do?

A pool cover sits on or over the surface of your pool when it’s not in use. While it may seem simple, it performs several important functions.

Core Functions of a Pool Cover

• Reduces water evaporation
• Helps retain heat
• Keeps debris out of the pool
• Improves safety
• Reduces chemical usage
• Lowers maintenance time

For many pool owners, these combined benefits far outweigh the upfront cost.

The Different Types of Pool Covers

Not all pool covers offer the same level of performance. Choosing the right type is key to getting value for money.

Solar Pool Covers

Solar covers (also known as bubble covers) are one of the most common and affordable options.

Pros of Solar Pool Covers

• Reduce evaporation significantly
• Help warm the pool using solar energy
• Lower heating costs
• Lightweight and easy to remove
• Cost-effective

Cons of Solar Pool Covers

• Limited safety protection
• Can degrade over time due to UV exposure
• Often require a roller for convenience

Solar covers are popular for homeowners who want lower running costs and warmer water without a large upfront investment.

Thermal Pool Covers

Thermal covers are designed specifically for heat retention and insulation.

Pros of Thermal Pool Covers

• Excellent heat retention
• Reduce heat loss overnight
• Lower heating costs
• Extend swimming season

Cons of Thermal Pool Covers

• Higher cost than basic solar covers
• Still limited safety protection

These covers are ideal for pools that rely on gas, electric, or heat pump heating systems.

Automatic Pool Covers

Automatic covers are motorised systems that open and close at the push of a button.

Pros of Automatic Pool Covers

• Maximum convenience
• Strong safety benefits
• Excellent heat and evaporation control
• Clean, modern appearance

Cons of Automatic Pool Covers

• Higher upfront cost
• Professional installation required
• Ongoing servicing needed

Automatic covers are often chosen for luxury pools or homeowners wanting premium functionality and safety.

Manual Safety Covers

Manual safety covers are tensioned covers designed primarily for safety.

Pros of Manual Safety Covers

• Strong safety protection
• Reduces debris and evaporation
• Long lifespan

Cons of Manual Safety Covers

• More effort to remove and install
• Higher cost than solar covers

These covers are popular with families who prioritise child and pet safety.

Do Pool Covers Really Save Water?

Yes — and often more than homeowners expect.

Water Loss Through Evaporation

In Australia’s climate, evaporation is one of the biggest causes of water loss in pools. An uncovered pool can lose thousands of litres per year, particularly during hot, windy conditions.

How Pool Covers Help

A pool cover can reduce evaporation by up to 90%, which means:

• Fewer top-ups
• Lower water bills
• Reduced reliance on mains water
• Better compliance with water restrictions

For many pool owners, water savings alone justify the cost of a cover.

Do Pool Covers Reduce Heating Costs?

Heating is one of the most expensive aspects of pool ownership.

Heat Loss Without a Cover

Most pool heat loss occurs overnight due to evaporation and heat transfer to cooler air.

Heat Retention With a Cover

A pool cover acts as insulation, helping to:

• Retain heat overnight
• Reduce heater run time
• Maintain consistent water temperature
• Extend swimming season

Whether you use solar heating, a heat pump, or gas heating, a pool cover can significantly reduce energy costs.

Do Pool Covers Reduce Maintenance?

From a pool builder’s perspective, covers are one of the best tools for reducing ongoing maintenance.

Less Debris in the Pool

Covers block:

• Leaves
• Dirt and dust
• Insects
• Pollen

This means less skimming, less vacuuming, and cleaner water overall.

Reduced Chemical Use

With less debris and evaporation:

• Chemical levels remain more stable
• Less chlorine is lost to sunlight
• Lower ongoing chemical costs

Over time, this can add up to meaningful savings.

Are Pool Covers Safe?

Safety is one of the biggest reasons homeowners invest in pool covers.

Safety Benefits

Depending on the type, pool covers can:

• Prevent accidental falls into the pool
• Support weight (safety-rated covers)
• Act as an additional barrier alongside fencing

Important Safety Note

Not all covers are safety covers. Solar and thermal covers do not replace compliant pool fencing and should never be relied on as the sole safety measure.

Are Pool Covers Worth It for Families?

For families with children or pets, pool covers offer extra peace of mind.

Family-Friendly Benefits

• Improved safety
• Cleaner water for swimming
• Reduced maintenance time
• Lower running costs

Many families find that the combination of safety and convenience makes a pool cover well worth the investment.

Do Pool Covers Extend the Life of Your Pool?

Yes — indirectly, but significantly.

Reduced Wear on Equipment

Lower evaporation and cleaner water means:

• Less strain on pumps and filters
• Reduced heater usage
• More stable water chemistry

This can extend the lifespan of pool equipment and finishes, reducing long-term repair and replacement costs.

How Much Do Pool Covers Cost?

The cost of a pool cover varies depending on type, size, and installation.

General Price Ranges (Guide Only)

• Solar covers: Lower cost
• Thermal covers: Mid-range
• Manual safety covers: Higher cost
• Automatic covers: Premium pricing

While upfront costs vary, many pool owners recover the investment over time through water, energy, and chemical savings.

Are There Any Downsides to Pool Covers?

While pool covers offer many benefits, they aren’t perfect for everyone.

Potential Downsides

• Upfront cost
• Storage requirements
• Manual handling for some cover types
• Maintenance and replacement over time

Choosing the right cover for your pool and lifestyle minimises these drawbacks.

Are Pool Covers Worth It in Australia?

In most cases, yes — particularly in Australian conditions.

Why Pool Covers Make Sense Locally

• Hot climate increases evaporation
• Rising water and energy costs
• Strong sun degrades chemicals quickly
• Longer swimming seasons

For many Australian pool owners, a pool cover pays for itself faster than expected.

How to Choose the Right Pool Cover

Before purchasing a pool cover, consider:

Key Factors

• Pool size and shape
• How often the pool is used
• Safety requirements
• Heating method
• Budget
• Willingness to handle manual covers

A professional pool builder or pool technician can help you select the best option for your specific setup.

Final Thoughts: Are Pool Covers Worth It?

For most pool owners, pool covers are absolutely worth it. They save water, reduce heating and chemical costs, lower maintenance time, improve safety, and help protect your investment.

While the upfront cost may seem like an added expense, the long-term savings and convenience often make pool covers one of the smartest upgrades you can make to your pool.



If you’re unsure which type of pool cover suits your pool, speaking with a pool professional can help ensure you get the best return on investment and maximum benefit for years to come.