Can solar bed covers be used on inflatable or soft-sided pools, and what adaptations are needed?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Yes, solar bed covers can absolutely be used on inflatable or soft-sided pools, and in many ways, they are even more beneficial for these types of pools. Based on thousands of verified purchases and common shopper feedback, users of inflatable pools frequently report significant heat loss, making solar covers a popular solution. The primary challenge is often adapting the cover to the pool's non-standard or flexible shape.

Why Solar Bed Covers Are Great for Inflatable/Soft-Sided Pools:

• Increased Heat Retention: These pools typically have less insulation than in-ground or hard-sided above-ground pools, making them prone to rapid heat loss. A solar cover drastically reduces evaporation, the main cause of heat loss, and adds solar gain.
• Extended Swim Season: By warming the water and maintaining temperature, a solar cover can extend the usability of an inflatable pool well beyond what would otherwise be comfortable.
• Reduced Evaporation: Less evaporation means less refilling and less chemical top-up.

Adaptations and Considerations:

1. Sizing and Trimming:
• Measure Accurately: Measure the water surface area of your inflatable pool carefully. Many inflatable pools have non-uniform shapes (e.g., oval, kidney, or irregular shapes that bulge when filled).
• Buy Slightly Larger and Trim: It's often best to buy a standard-sized rectangular or circular solar cover that is slightly larger than your pool's dimensions. You can then easily trim it to fit the exact contours of your inflatable or soft-sided pool using heavy-duty scissors. Leave a small gap (an inch or two) around the edge to allow the cover to float freely without snagging on the pool walls.
2. Securing the Cover: Unlike rigid pools where covers often sit neatly on the coping, soft-sided pools don't always offer a stable edge for securing.
• Floating Only: For most inflatable pools, the cover will simply float on the water's surface, relying on its weight to stay in place. This is usually sufficient.
• Wind Concerns: If you live in a very windy area, the cover might be prone to blowing off. Some users have devised DIY solutions like attaching small weights (e.g., small, smooth, non-abrasive fishing weights or PVC pipe sections filled with sand, tied to the cover with non-abrasive line) to the underside edges. However, exercise caution to avoid damaging the pool liner.
3. Handling and Storage:
• Manual Deployment: Due to the often irregular shapes and lack of a rigid pool edge, automatic or manual reels are usually not practical. Users will typically deploy and remove the cover manually, folding or rolling it by hand.
• Storage: Ensure the cover is clean and dry before storing it, following general solar cover storage guidelines.
4. Cover Thickness: While any solar cover helps, a thicker cover (e.g., 12-mil or 16-mil) will offer superior insulation and durability, which can be particularly beneficial for pools that may be left uncovered for extended periods or in cooler climates.

In essence, with a little customization for sizing and a manual approach to handling, solar bed covers are a highly effective and recommended accessory for inflatable and soft-sided pools, significantly enhancing the swimming experience.