Explaining Passive and Active Solar Pool Covers

While solar energy has not been perfected to where it can be a main energy source, there are still some perfect circumstances where solar energy is the ideal option.  Solar pool covers just seem to fit the bill.  This is the perfect use solar energy. 

Your pool is going to be exposed to the sun.  You will only need to use it during the months when the sun is readily available.  What better way to harness the power of the sun then using a solar pool cover?

Solar pool technology comes in two different types: active solar applications and passive solar applications. For instance, let's say you want to charge a battery which will be used to power an automatic pool cover. That would be considered an automatic application. In contrast, let's say you want to keep your pool warm with a special cover, but you don't mind putting the cover on manually and then taking it off manually. In such a case, this would be a passive solar application.

If you want a passive solar pool cover, then there are a number of models you might want to consider. One of the more prominent models is "The Reel Deal." As the name suggests,  this model consists of a solar blanket and a reel. The solar blanket or solar pool cover functions to cover the pool and to, by design, concentrate sunlight in the pool and trap it inside. The reel allows you to easily remove and recover the pool.

If you have an in-ground pool, then a popular passive solar pool cover is the "blue wave" model.  This is rectangular and will fit over the top of your pool. The manufacturer promises that your pool will be at least fifteen degrees hotter than if it were uncovered. Prices for this model range from $60 to $100; but may depend on the size of your pool.

If you want to purchase an active solar pool cover, then you will have to do a considerably larger amount of work and will need to plan on spending more money. You may need to purchase a small-scale solar power station, including several solar panels, a block of batteries, and the necessary wiring, possibly including a control panel. This may set you back a few hundred dollars, but it also may give you a new means of powering outdoor applications, including floodlights, grills, and bug magnets.

The choice between active or passive is solely up to you.  They both, basically, work the same.  So you are going to get what you need out of  either type.