While April showers consistently bring May flowers, many pool owners ponder whether or not early spring is a good time to open the pool for the season. In this blog we seek to explore ways to get the most out of a pool season with regard to both in-ground and above ground pools. Heater options as well as ways to optimize heat retention in the pool will be discussed.

An obvious factor affecting when to open and close your pool is how far from the equator you live. Here in Canada, pool owners without a heating source can expect to comfortably use their pool from approximately June to mid September. With the pool being the focal point of many backyards, simply adding a heater to a pool setup can extend the season closer to six months.

A third option to extend the season includes Solar heating. Solar heating uses the sun's energy to heat panels which in turn heats the pool as water flows through. Solar is the only option that, after its initial cost, is free to operate, in terms of producing heat. Solar panels are available in various forms and sizes and can be mounted as well as propped on the ground. It is always recommended for solar panels to receive as much sunlight as possible and to avoid partially sunny areas. Other considerations when installing solar include size and type of pump. Many pool owners will opt for Variable Speed Pumps in combination with solar heating to take advantage of lower costs and greater heat output by slowing the rate of water flow. One must also consider how far the solar panels are located from the pool pump to determine if the pump is of adequate size with the additional plumbing.

As an alternative to solar blankets, Liquid Solar Blanket or Cover Free can be added directly into the pool for similar results. On average, pools lose up to 70% of heat strictly through water evaporation. Adding a small amount of Liquid Solar Blanket or Cover Free with your weekly maintenance products will help to prevent water evaporation, therefore preventing the majority of heat from escaping the pool.  

For more information on heating options for your pool, visit one of our locations and speak to a pool and spa specialist.