In our picturesque Kelowna, residents are increasingly recognising the dual advantages of automatic pool covers, which not only serve to maintain the cleanliness of their pools but also act as solar pool heaters. This innovative application of pool covers is contributing to a growing trend towards more eco-friendly and cost-effective pool heating solutions compared to the traditional ones. The ability of these covers to retain heat, prevent evaporation and accumulation of debris, significantly reduces maintenance costs, and makes solar pool heating an attractive choice for the residents. These systems are conducive to extending the swimming season whilst also reducing the burden on the household energy budget.

How Solar Pool Covers Contribute to Energy Efficiency

Think of a solar pool cover, or a ‘solar blanket’ if you prefer, as a cosy duvet for your pool, keeping it toasty by soaking up the sun’s warmth. They often look like giant bubble wrap. It’s purpose is to lessen the use of your pool heater nearly as much, or maybe not at all, if your pool gets plenty of sun during the day.

Kelowna, with its plentiful sunshine and mild climate, provides an ideal setting for these covers. As per Natural Resources Canada, Kelowna enjoys an average of 2,047 bright sunshine hours each year, affording ample opportunity for the natural heating solar energy provides.

However, there are drawbacks with solar pool covers. Firstly, as they’re composed of a somewhat lightweight plastic, they cannot serve as safety pool covers. This is particularly crucial to bear in mind if you have children and pets at home, or even in your vicinity. Secondly, solar covers aren’t exactly designed to be long-lasting. Generally, you can anticipate that your solar pool cover will only last for about 1 to 3 years, after which you’ll likely need to consider purchasing a replacement.

Consider An Automatic Pool Cover For Safety & Energy Efficiency

Our automatic pool covers are strong enough for several people to stand on so accidental falls are easily handled. Plus the durable fabric or slat hard covers does double duty as solar pool covers so you get the benefit of solar heating while providing safety and protection for your family.

The versatility of our auto pool cover systems is demonstrated in their compatibility with various pool types, such as in-ground and infinity edge pools and their ability to integrate with existing pool equipment.

Alongside the environmental advantages, adopting automatic pool covers brings substantial cost benefits to Kelowna homeowners. When compared to traditional heating methods, such as gas or electric heaters, a solar pool heating system can reduce annual pool heating expenses by a significant 50-70%. Often, the system recoups its initial cost within 3-7 years.

Using solar power to help retain heat in a pool offer a plethora of benefits to the homeowners of Kelowna. By retaining more heat with the help of our auto pool covers, residents can enjoy an extended swimming season, significant cost savings, and reduced energy consumption. With automatic pool covers doubling as solar pool heaters, enjoying your pool has never been more eco-friendly or economical.

If you are interested in an automatic pool cover, contact us using the handy form below. You can even send us photos of your pool to help us better evaluate your needs and suggest pool cover options!

The success of automatic pool covers hinges on accurate measurements. Even the smallest misalignment can disrupt the cover from smoothly opening or closing. Therefore, the successful installation of an automatic cover begins before the product even arrives on site, with the meticulous construction of the pool and cover vault.

This is where most errors occur. From our decades of experience this is why getting your pool builder and pool cover specialist together early in the pool installation process is key. Even a slight bow in the construction can cause problems. It might not be immediately noticeable to the naked eye, but once you place a straight piece of aluminium next to it, the distortion becomes clear.

The key is to take the time at every stage to ensure the measurements are absolutely right, especially the width. Here at Pool Covers BC we see everything is based on the width dimension – the cover drum, the lead edge bar, the cover.

Masonry Lids: Striking the Right Balance

One of the most exciting developments in pool cover design has been cover-lid trays that accommodate stone, concrete or other materials to match the deck. This makes the cover vault nearly undetectable, blending seamlessly with the rest of the pool area.

However, this requires careful planning. The masonry should be at the same level as the deck, but the trays and the brackets supporting them must not sit so low that they interfere with the cover’s ability to spool. If the masonry used to cover the lid is too thick, the trays and brackets can be placed too low. The sum of all the lid components should be no thicker than the coping.

Also, keep the masonry pieces small and lightweight enough that someone can reasonably lift them. Avoid awkward shapes such as long rectangles.

Positioning the Mechanism: Getting it Right

The mechanism/pulley assembly should be positioned level with the track. This ensures the system works efficiently and minimises wear and tear.

“If it’s too low, it creates a drag on the cover as it goes up and into the pool,” Cooper warns. This can cause the motor or the cover to wear prematurely. To avoid this, the mechanism should sit as close to track level as possible.

It’s also important to centre the mechanism between the tracks. If it’s not centred, the cover won’t open and close correctly, leading to uneven rolling and potential operational issues.

Cutting the Track or Ropes: Measure Twice, Cut Once

For many systems, installers must cut the ropes and tracks to fit the project. However, cutting them too short can lead to problems.

On the rope side, having too little means the cover can’t open all the way. To avoid this, we suggest cutting when the cover is open. Always err on the side of having too much rope rather than not enough.

Cutting the track too short also has its consequences. On some systems, the tracks must tie the guide and end-of-track mounting plate together. This can’t occur if the track is too short. Always consult your pool cover specialist for specific guidelines.

If you are interested in an automatic pool cover, contact us using the handy form below. You can even send us photos of your pool to help us better evaluate your needs and suggest pool cover options!

The price of a safety pool cover in Kelowna depends on the size of your swimming pool and the type of material you choose. The price range for an automatic safety pool cover can fluctuate based on your overall pool design and the custom features you select.

There are three main features that influence the price of new retractable pool covers:

• Materials
• Track Options
• Pool Size and Shape

Additionally, costs for a completely new build versus installing on an existing pool will differ. Given these variables, we can offer an estimated range of prices. An automatic safety cover in BC can start as low as $10,000 for a small, cocktail pool install or a basic under track setup for an existing pool, with the average for a larger existing pool being $14,000 to $15,000. For a larger pool with more complex custom features, a safety cover can cost upwards of $20,000, with a typical new build being $17,000 to $20,000.

Please note: Due to the many variables involved in an auto pool cover, this custom pool covers cost range is a basic estimate only, exact pricing will vary. It is best to contact your nearest automatic pool cover company for an accurate quote.

Are Automatic Pool Covers Worth It?

For more reasons on why purchasing an automatic pool cover is worth the money, see our article here.

Pool Covers Strong Enough to Stand On

Our Coverstar covers are robust and durable, making them an excellent barrier to keep children, the elderly, and pets away from the pool when it’s not in use. Not only will it give you peace of mind, but our safety pool covers provide an extra layer of protection when there’s no adult around to supervise. All our safety pool covers are specifically designed to bear weight and must meet the American Society for Testing and Materials ASTM F1346-91 standard, which requires a minimum weight capacity of 485 kg (1,070 lbs) to protect people and pets from accidental falls into the pool. Our name brand covers can hold up to 2000 lbs.

Benefits of Owning an Auto Pool Cover

1. Backyard Safety For Your Children and Pets: Get peace of mind whenever your pool is open and in use, especially important if you have young children with access to your backyard or when they are near the pool for any period without an adult around.
2. A Clean, Attractive Pool With Low Maintenance
3. Save Water, Use Less Chemicals
4. Save Energy & Operating Costs
5. Fast, Convenient & Consistent

Endorsed by Reputable Organisations

At Pool Covers BC, we have decades of experience installing motorised pool covers in Kelowna. When it comes to safety and efficiency, automatic pool covers have been endorsed by reputable organisations such as the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) and the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP). Additionally, many users have shared their positive experiences, which further establishes the trustworthiness of these products.

Typical Savings from Automatic Pool Covers

• Reduction In Water Evaporation: Savings Up to 90%
• Reduction In Pool Heating Costs: Savings Up to 70%
• Reduction In Power Costs: Savings Up to 50%
• Reduction In Chemical Costs: Savings Up to 70%

If you are interested in an automatic pool cover in Kelowna or a Vancouver pool cover specialist contact us using the handy form below. You can even send us photos of your pool to help us better evaluate your needs and suggest pool cover options!

Pool motor cover benches are becoming more popular due to it being a unique and innovative solution that combines beauty with functionality. It is a multi-purpose outdoor furniture piece that serves as a bench for seating while also disguising the bulk of the pool motor and protecting it from debris. The cover bench is designed to provide a sleek and stylish look that complements the design of the surrounding area.

Functionally, the pool motor is an essential item for any automatic pool cover owner. The pool motor is the heart of the pool system, and without it, the pool will not function correctly. However, the motor is also vulnerable to debris and extreme weather which amounts to less maintenance. A pool motor cover box protects the motor from the elements, extending its lifespan and saving you, the pool owner from costly repairs.

Hidden Storage In Pool Cover Box

The cover bench also serves as a practical storage solution. Certain benches can be designed to accommodate pool equipment such as skimmers, brushes, and chemicals. This means that pool owners can keep their equipment organized and accessible while also keeping the area around the pool tidy and clutter-free.

Functional Beauty & Seating

In addition to its functional benefits, the pool motor cover bench is also a beautiful addition to any outdoor space. The bench is available in a variety of designs, materials, and finishes, making it easy to find a cover bench that complements the design of the pool area. The bench can be made from materials such as wood, metal, or plastic, and can be finished with a variety of colours and patterns to create a cohesive look.

Smart Investment

Overall, a pool motor cover bench is a smart investment for any pool cover owner in Kelowna. Its combination of functionality and beauty makes it an ideal addition to any outdoor space. It is a practical solution for protecting the pool motor from the elements, while also serving as a seating and storage solution. With its sleek and stylish design, it is sure to add value and visual appeal to any pool area.

Contact us. To get a prompt estimate, please use the form below to get in touch with us today!