---
title: Picking the Best Above Ground Pool Covers
description: When it comes to above ground pool covers, there’s a little more than meets the eye when selecting which one to use.
image: https://blog.watsons.com/hubfs/pools_clp3.jpg
---
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# Picking the Best Above Ground Pool Covers
Posted by [Watson's](https://blog.watsons.com/blog/author/watsons) on Aug 26, 2022 3:24:14 PM
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When it comes to [above ground pool](https://www.watsons.com/pool) covers, there’s a little more than meets the eye when selecting which one to use.
In fact, there are two different types of pool covers, each used for different purposes. The first being your everyday pool cover used during your swimming season. These are typically solar pool covers that also help to naturally heat your pool. The second is a more durable winter cover for when you’re ready to close your pool for the season.
Let’s look at both pool covers so you can make the best selection for when you need them both.
**In-Season Pool Covers**
Pool covers during your swim season are an important accessory. Not only for when you’re on vacation and not using the pool, but also for reducing the amount of cleaning you need to do.
They provide coverage from debris that may enter the pool from storms, windy days, or tree coverage, and many also act as a natural heater using solar heating. If you don’t plan on being in your pool every day or only use on weekends, it’s best to keep it covered.
Watson’s carries two high-quality brands for solar pool covers for above ground pools.
[Thermotex® technology](https://www.watsons.com/chemicals/covers-reels/above-ground-solar-covers?brand=1434&product_list_limit=all) maximizes the covers ability to absorb thermal energy and maintain it. It keeps pools cleaner, cuts water evaporation by up to 95%, and cuts heating costs by 70% or more.
Our [Clear Platinum Plus solar covers](https://www.watsons.com/chemicals/covers-reels/above-ground-solar-covers?brand=1200&product_list_limit=all) also use the Thermotex® technology to diffuse heat throughout the pool, reduce evaporation, and lower energy and operating costs so you can have a more comfortable swim at just the right temperature.
And don’t worry! Watson’s carries these solar pool covers in any size you’d need to assure an extended and enjoyable swim season.
**Winter Pool Covers**
To ensure the integrity of your pool through the winter, it’s important to use a high-quality winter pool cover. Between cold temperatures, snow, and other possible debris, winterizing your pool correctly with a good cover can mean many, many more swim seasons.
When selecting a winter pool cover, the weave correlates to the quality of the cover. The less the weave, the less likely it will hold up. The higher the weave count, the better the cover is for resisting the environmental elements. It will also last longer when properly cared for.
Our [Platinum Plus Winter Cover from GLI Pool Products](https://www.watsons.com/chemicals/covers-reels/above-ground-winter-covers?brand=1200) are high-quality and come with a 12-year limited warranty and 3-year full warranty. Each cover has an additional four feet of cover to ensure protection not only of the pool, but also the rails and outside walls.
Our [Premier Winter Covers from Swimline](https://www.watsons.com/chemicals/covers-reels/above-ground-winter-covers?brand=1362) are also great options with a 10-year warranty. These also come with an additional four feet of cover for extra protection specifically for above ground pools and have some other benefits, including UV inhibitors, triple vinyl reinforcement and double bonded sewn seams.
Watson’s carries winter pool covers in both [round](https://www.watsons.com/pool/above-ground-pools) and [oval](https://www.watsons.com/pool/oval-models) shapes and any size to fit your pool perfectly to ensure years of protection during the off-season.
**Other Considerations for Above Ground Pool Covers**
When you’re ready to purchase a pool cover, it’s important to understand the following considerations so you can make the best selection.
**Maintenance: **The better you maintain your pool cover, the longer it will last. While some people opt to purchase a new pool cover each season, that can add up quickly. It’s best to purchase a high-quality cover and clean and store when not in use to save you money.
**Solar Reels:** To make it easier to cover your pool with a solar cover, consider also purchasing a [solar cover reel](https://www.watsons.com/premium-solar-reel-24-above-ground-pools-14493). Easy for one person to operate, they make covering and uncovering your pool simple and fast.
**Cover Pump:** Another item to consider for maintaining your pool cover and to make opening your pool easier is a [pool cover pump](https://www.watsons.com/electric-cover-pump-350-gph-178806). These are made to remove water from your pool cover that may be sitting after rain or melted snow.
For all your [above ground pool](https://www.watsons.com/pool) needs from covers and chemicals to accessories and inflatables, stop into any of [Watson’s nine superstore locations](https://www.watsons.com/services/contact-us) today. Our experts are ready to answer your questions and get you set-up with an above ground pool and all the necessities to enjoy a summer splashing around.
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