According to Hydro-Québec, a 24-foot diameter above-ground pool equipped with a solar cover can potentially generate up to $180 in savings per summer. For a 16 x 32 foot inground pool, these savings can reach $230 for the season. These figures speak for themselves, especially in a context where every saved dollar counts.

One small detail to remember: to achieve these results, Hydro-Québec specifies that the cover must remain in place for approximately 16 hours a day throughout the swimming season, which is a good benchmark if you're wondering how long to leave it on the water daily.

Undecided between a 7 mil and an 11 mil solar cover?

To get the most out of your solar cover, here's the routine to adopt:

• Install the cover at the end of the day, after adding your daily maintenance products.
• Remove it the next morning so the pool can benefit from the sun and the rays can penetrate the water to warm it. This will limit heat loss during the night, regardless of the pool's format, inground or above-ground.
• Never leave it on the water for more than 48 consecutive hours, to allow for water oxygenation.
• Remove it completely before swimming: Hydro-Québec reminds us that you should never swim in a pool covered with a solar cover.

This routine, valid for both inground and above-ground pools, limits heat loss during the night while maximizing the natural warming of the water during the day.

Myth #1: "I have a water heater or heat pump, so I don't need a solar cover." False.

Some consumers mistakenly believe that with a water heater or heat pump, they don't need a solar cover. This is as erroneous as thinking that because our home has a heating system, it doesn't need a roof! It is therefore important to cover the pool to preserve its heat.

Myth #2: "I need to keep my pool covered during the day for it to heat up." Again, false, and it's even counterproductive.

The best way to heat the water is to let the sun's rays penetrate it directly. Contrary to popular belief, the cover's bubbles do not act as magnifying glasses for heating; their only function is to ensure the cover's flotation. They must therefore be in contact with the water, and not insulate it from the sun during the day.

Proper maintenance of your pool cover makes all the difference in maximizing your investment:

• Use a protective cover over your solar cover when it's not in the water, to protect it from UV rays, weather, and dirt (pollen, dust, bird droppings).
• At the end of the season, clean the cover and let it dry completely before folding it.
• Store it in a dry, shaded, and temperate place to prevent it from freezing during winter.

The solar cover is a simple yet incredibly effective accessory: it extends the swimming season, reduces your heating costs, protects the environment, and, with proper care, will accompany you for several seasons.