Hopping into a cold pool on a hot day can be one of the most refreshing feelings ever. However, jumping into a cold pool can make you rethink your relaxing swim and fast.
Swimming is meant to cool you down during those humid and heated summer months, not make you uncomfortably cold. To balance the two wants (and needs) out, many pool owners will heat the water, whether swimming indoors or outside.
While heated swimming pools might seem like something only the rich can afford to own, the truth is that anyone can heat a pool without breaking the bank.
The Best Ways to Heat a Pool
Ideally, we would all have the funds to purchase a high-end, fast-acting heating method for our pools. However, with most of these products ranging between two and three thousand dollars each, it isn't plausible for most budgets.
Luckily, a pool heater isn't the only thing that can help increase your pool's water temperature. With the right tools and a little help, you can keep your hard-earned money in your pocket while still heating your pool.
A Simple Solar Pool Cover/Blanket/Rings
Your environment and the natural elements surrounding your pool are the number one reason your water quickly drops in temperature. Evaporation can quickly turn a nice swim into a polar plunge.
By using a solar pool cover, you are eliminating the option for evaporation even to happen. In fact, solar covers do the exact opposite, absorbing solar heat and aiding in warming the water.
Solar rings work similarly to solar covers. However, you place these large rings in the pool side by side until the entire surface area is full.
A Black Hose
Who would have thought you could dual-purpose your black garden hose and use it to help heat your swimming pool?
Although you need a lot of hose length, this is another excellent solution to cold pool problems.
To make this trick successful, you need a lot of hose (about 150-250 feet). Take one end of your hose and attach it to the pool pump return. Coil the rest of the hose into a tightly fitted circle on top of a shed roof, deck, or any other area with plenty of sunlight.
Finally, extend the opposite end of the hose back down and directly into your pool.
Block the Wind
When it is windy yet sunny outside, you try to find reprieve from the cold breeze while still getting the effects of warm sun rays, right? The same should be said for your pool.
Another great way to heat your pool on a budget is by protecting it from the wind, which can quickly lower your water temperature on a blustery day.
Some people will purchase structures specifically designed to sit directly over your pool, while others will put their pools near fences and sheds.
If you spring for the pool enclosure structures, they can also double as protection when it rains, allowing you to swim in otherwise unfavourable conditions.
Liquid Solar Cover
Yes, this is a real thing. A liquid solar blanket does the same job as a traditional one but with much less bulk. This option is actually a pool chemical you add to the water as a part of pool maintenance, creating a film on the surface.
This film is nearly invisible, and you can swim at any time, never noticing it is there. Is it safe to use? Because of the combination of products, it is a very safe option when heating your pool water.
Liquid solar covers are also safe for your pool pump and don't create the same breeding grounds for algae as a plastic cover.
A liquid cover isn't going to give you the exact same outcome as the original covers can, but it is much easier to use and only needs to be added to the water once a week.
Solar Heat Pump
Solar heating pumps are not cheap, which doesn't seem to fit into this article. Right? Wrong. While the initial unit isn't cheap, it runs off of solar energy, saving you a ton of money in the long run compared to gas heaters or an electric pool heater.
A solar heat pump can be an excellent investment if you use it often and maintain it well.
Double Down
The options above are great for getting your pool up to a warm and enjoyable temperature. However, if you double them up, you get warmer water faster and longer.
If you use a solar heat pump pool heating system, why not add a little liquid solar cover? Using the black hose method? Why not throw a solar blanket or rings in, too, for good measure?
Invest in a pool cover structure with glass panes and add your black hose. This scenario will keep the wind from cooling down the warm water the hose offers you.
Tips for Saving More Money When Using Pool Heating Products
Just as important as the pool heating product you choose is how you use it. Here are a few tips to follow to get the best results.
- Know the size of your pool. Make sure the method you choose is ideal for the size of your pool. If only part of your pool is protected, you aren't going to get the best results. If the hose is too small for the amount of water you have, you won't see a significant rise in temps.
- Follow directions. Read the directions carefully when using solar pool chemicals. If you are not using the product properly, it isn't going to be effective.
- Maintain your products. Keep your pool covers clean and stored correctly when not used. Clean your solar pool heaters and maintain them regularly. Store your chemicals accordingly. These methods will only work if the product is utilized 100%.
- Keep up with your routine. Many people forget to replace the pool covers when getting out or realize they have run out of chemicals the next time they go to add it in. If you don't keep up with your routine, you won't enjoy the full benefit of the products.
Having a pool can require a bit of work. But when done right and the water is comfortable, there is nothing more relaxing than a hot summer swim.
Enjoy Your Swim in Warm Water Without High Heating Unit Prices
These tips for heating a swimming pool are perfect for those with or without a heating unit. Using the products listed above in tandem with your pool heater can save you a ton of money on your utility bills each month.
However, you can use these options independently (or paired together) to raise your water temperature quickly and without breaking the bank.