Yes, pool water can still evaporate even when covered, though the extent of evaporation depends significantly on the type of pool cover used. While covers are highly effective at reducing water loss, not all provide complete protection against evaporation.
Understanding Pool Evaporation Under Covers
While the primary purpose of a pool cover is often to keep out debris or retain heat, a major benefit is the reduction of water loss due to evaporation. However, different cover materials and designs offer varying degrees of effectiveness in this regard. It's crucial to understand that even with a cover, a minimal amount of evaporation may still occur, particularly with certain types.
Impact of Different Pool Cover Types on Evaporation
The effectiveness of a pool cover in preventing evaporation is directly tied to its design and material. The two main types discussed in the reference offer distinct levels of protection:
Mesh Leaf and Debris Covers
These covers are primarily designed to keep leaves, dirt, and other debris out of the pool. However, their woven mesh structure, while effective for debris, still allows for significant water exchange with the atmosphere.
- Evaporation Rate: A mesh leaf and debris style pool cover (like a Pooltex or Leafstop) will stop around 50% of evaporation. This means that half of the water that would normally evaporate without a cover can still be lost even when the pool is covered with a mesh type.
- Primary Benefit: Excellent for keeping the pool clean from large debris.
- Drawback for Evaporation: Their permeable nature means they are not ideal for water conservation or heat retention.
Solar Pool Covers
Solar covers are specifically designed to maximize heat retention and minimize water evaporation. They typically consist of a solid, bubble-wrap-like material that floats directly on the water's surface, creating a barrier.
- Evaporation Rate: A solar cover such as the Oasis Solar Cover range will pretty much stop evaporation completely. Specifically, ABGAL Oasis Solar Pool Covers have been independently tested and proven to stop up to 99.84% of evaporation. This indicates an extremely high level of effectiveness, with only a negligible amount of water loss.
- Primary Benefit: Significant reduction in water evaporation, excellent heat retention, and reduced chemical consumption.
- Drawback (Minor): Can be cumbersome to put on and take off for some users, and they don't block small debris as effectively as solid safety covers (though they do keep most out).
Pool Cover Effectiveness Summary
The table below summarizes the evaporation prevention capabilities of common pool cover types:
| Cover Type | Evaporation Reduction | Primary Benefit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mesh Leaf and Debris Cover | ~50% | Debris prevention | Still allows significant water loss. |
| Solar Pool Cover | Up to 99.84% | Water & heat retention | Virtually eliminates evaporation. |
Practical Tips to Minimize Pool Water Loss
To ensure you're maximizing water conservation and minimizing evaporation from your pool:
- Choose the Right Cover: If water conservation is a top priority, invest in a high-quality solar cover.
- Ensure Proper Fit: A cover that fits snugly over the pool surface, with minimal gaps around the edges, will be most effective at preventing evaporation.
- Regular Maintenance: Inspect your cover for tears or damage. Even small rips can compromise its effectiveness.
- Keep the Cover On: The more consistently your pool is covered when not in use, the more effective it will be at preventing evaporation.
By understanding the differences between pool cover types, you can make informed decisions to significantly reduce water loss from your pool.
