Swimming Pool Cover Cost

• Standard winter pool covers are usually made of vinyl or other material, and can need cleaning or draining when water and debris accumulate on top of the cover; a basic version runs $15 -$150 for an aboveground pool and $30 -$350 or more for in-ground. Mesh winter covers require less maintenance because they allow water to drain through instead of building up; they cost about $50 -$250 for aboveground and $200 -$500 for in-ground pools. An automatic version can be $2,000 -$5,000 or more, depending on pool size and the type of automation, and if it's a custom fit.
• Solar covers (also called solar blankets) are made of plastic similar to bubble wrap packaging but the material is thicker and inhibits UV rays; the more expensive versions are sturdier and include a wind-up reel. Expect to pay $20 -$400 for an above-ground pool and $40 -$500 for an in-ground pool, depending on size and quality. Installing a completely automatic solar cover can cost $1,000 -$2,000 and more.
• Winter or solar covers usually don't support any weight. A child or small animal may easily fall through, get trapped and drown. Tightly-fitting safety covers will support as much as 400 pounds of weight or more, eliminating this problem. Because they're stronger and sturdier, safety covers cost more. They are usually mesh but can be solid, and are held in place with hooks or stakes. They cost about $1,000 -$4,000 or more; automatic versions run $3,000 -$8,000 or more.

• Whether a pool is located indoors or outdoors, covering it can reduce water loss through evaporation by 30-50 percent, save 50-70 percent on pool heating costs, cut the use of pool chemicals by 35-60 percent and reduce cleaning time by keeping dirt and other debris out of the pool, according to the US Department of Energy.Some vinyl-liner pool kits and fiberglass pool molds now incorporate the ability to install a cover as a basic part of the design.

• You may want a solar tarp for $8 -$20, to protect your solar cover while it's rolled up.

• Some local water departments offer rebates of $50 -$200 or up to 50 percent of the cost of an energy-efficient pool cover. Check with your local agency.

• Major manufacturers include LoopLoc and Garrett Liners. Plus, in 2001 the US Department of Energy compiled a list of pool cover manufacturers.

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