Can solar bed covers be used with saltwater pools, and are there any special considerations for their material and maintenance?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

A frequent inquiry from the growing number of saltwater pool owners is whether solar bed covers are compatible with their pool system and if any specific care is needed. The good news is, yes, solar bed covers are generally compatible with saltwater pools. The polyethylene material used in most solar covers is highly resistant to the corrosive effects of salt and chlorine, making them suitable for these environments. However, there are a few important considerations.

Based on expert advice and long-term user experiences, maintaining proper water chemistry in a saltwater pool is even more critical when using a solar cover. While salt itself is not typically an issue, the chlorine generated by salt chlorine generators can, if levels become consistently high, potentially accelerate the degradation of any pool equipment, including solar covers, over many years. Always monitor your free chlorine levels and pH to ensure they remain within recommended ranges. Extreme fluctuations or persistently high concentrations can still impact the cover's material over time.

Regular cleaning of the solar cover, especially the underside, is also advisable for saltwater pools. This helps prevent the buildup of salt crystals or other deposits that could accumulate and potentially affect the material or heating efficiency. Simply rinsing the cover with fresh water periodically can be beneficial. Many verified purchases indicate that covers used in saltwater pools perform just as well and last comparably long as those in traditional chlorine pools, provided that chemical balance and basic maintenance are consistently observed. Opting for a cover with enhanced UV and chemical resistance is always a good long-term investment for any pool type.