The bubble cover is a protection device for the pool. Light, easy to use and effective, it is placed on the surface to help maintain the temperature of the water and to limit the natural effect of evaporation. It can constitute a safety device for the pool if it meets the NF P 90-308 standard and if it can support the weight of an adult. Let’s take a look at the characteristics of the bubble cover, its advantages, disadvantages and cost.
How does a pool bubble cover work?
The bubble cover for swimming pool, or summer cover or isothermal cover, is an interesting accessory to cover your pool. To be placed on the surface of the water, it has several uses, in particular the fact of protecting the swimming pool although it is not systematically listed among the safety devices in accordance with the law. Note that if it meets the NF P 90-308 standard, it can act as a secure pool cover. In addition, it maintains the temperature of the water by preventing heat loss at night, it limits the evaporation of bathing water, and it prevents waste and various debris from falling into the water.
Its principle of operation is simple. The bubbles it contains are made up of air and are trapped between several layers of polymers. It is their presence that prevents heat loss at night and evaporation during the day. It is therefore a good way to reduce energy expenditure since maintaining the temperature limits heating needs; the normal nighttime water temperature reduction of around 4 to 6°C is reduced to only 1 or 2°C. In addition, by reducing evaporation by almost 90%, the bubble cover retains a large part of its water and saves you from regularly refilling the pool.
There are two types of bubble covers:
- Transparent bubble covers : they are to be preferred in the coolest regions, because the sun can better cross it and warm the water. On the other hand, these models allow photosynthesis to take place, which disturbs the proper balance of the pool.
- Opaque bubble covers : these are less effective in heating bathing water naturally, but they limit the effect of photosynthesis. It is also a good way to reduce the use of disinfectant chemicals.
What are the pros and cons of a pool bubble cover?
The advantages of the bubble cover
The bubble cover has real advantages:
- It reduces the evaporation of water from the pool by approximately 90%, which helps to reduce water costs to fill the pool to level.
- It reduces temperature drops at night by covering the surface thanks to its isothermal function. It thus contributes to reducing the energy bill since heating needs are limited.
- By protecting the surface of the water, it limits its pollution. Plant debris is slowed down and cannot fall into the pool. As a result, the bubble cover reduces the use of cleaning and disinfection products.
- It also reduces the evaporation of chlorine, which is sensitive to the sun’s rays. If you opt for this type of treatment, you avoid having to reapply regularly, which will save you money.
- The pool bubble cover is very easy to use. It simply arises on the surface to act and to do this, it is enough to unroll it and roll it up again since it is very light and easy to handle.
- It is inexpensive in relation to the service it provides. It is one of the least expensive blankets.
- If it meets the NF P 90-308 standard, it also acts as legal swimming pool protection. This safety is therefore able to support the weight of an adult, which is necessary to prevent a child or an animal from falling into the water.
- The opaque bubble cover avoids the natural phenomenon of photosynthesis by preventing light from passing through. This will prevent the development of algae in the pond.
The disadvantages of the bubble cover
- The cheaper the bubble cover, the less solid, robust and efficient it is. Its life will be shortened and you will have to consider replacing it after 3 to 4 swimming seasons.
- It is not biodegradable and its replacement generates non-recyclable waste.
- To limit its erosion, avoid placing it on your pool for 48 hours after a shock treatment, when the water has a pH between 7 and 7.4 or when its temperature exceeds 28°C.
- It does not contribute to the wintering of the pool. The bubble cover should be removed, rinsed, brushed and dried before being folded and stored in a dry, dark place.
How much does a pool bubble cover cost?
A bubble cover for a swimming pool costs more or less depending on its category and its thickness. It is also necessary to count on a higher budget for a model that meets the NF P 90-308 standard which acts as a safety device.
On average count 5 to 10 euros per square meter, knowing that many models can be cut according to your needs and the dimensions or shape of your pool.