What is the primary benefit of using a pool cover?

Using a pool cover primarily serves to reduce evaporation and keep debris out of the pool. When a pool is covered, it creates a barrier that minimizes the amount of water lost to evaporation, which can be significant, especially in sunny or windy conditions. This not only helps to conserve water but also reduces the need to constantly add water to the pool. Furthermore, covering the pool protects it from debris such as leaves, dirt, and other contaminants, which can accumulate and require additional cleaning efforts.

While increasing water temperature, protecting against algae, and maintaining chemical levels are benefits associated with pool covers, they are secondary to the main function of reducing evaporation and keeping debris out. For instance, a covered pool can maintain warmer water temperatures due to trapped heat, and it can inhibit algae growth by limiting sunlight exposure and preventing debris that fosters algae growth. Similarly, covers can help maintain chemical levels by reducing evaporation of pool water, which can dilute chemical concentrations. However, the primary and most immediate benefit remains the reduction of evaporation and protection from debris accumulation.