6 Reasons a Solar Pool Cover Is Essential During Autumn & Winter in Australia

As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop across Australia, many pool owners begin to pack up for the winter. But did you know that using a solar pool coverduring the cooler months can save you money, extend your swimming season, and reduce your pool maintenance?

Whether you swim year-round or simply want to protect your pool investment, here are six key reasons why a solar pool cover is one of the smartest pool accessories you can own.

1. Traps Heat and Keeps Your Pool Warmer

One of the biggest challenges of swimming in the cooler months is maintaining a comfortable water temperature. Solar pool covers are designed to absorb and retain the sun’s heat, acting like a thermal blanket for your pool. Even in autumn and early winter, there’s still plenty of sunlight to help heat your pool passively.

If you use a pool heater, a solar cover can significantly reduce heat loss overnight, meaning your system won’t have to work as hard (or as long) to maintain your desired temperature—resulting in lower energy bills.

Product Highlight:

We carry a wide range of premium solar blankets in 400, 500, and 600 micron thicknesses, each offering excellent insulation, UV protection, and durability. Ask us which one is right for your pool.

2. Dramatically Reduces Water Evaporation

You might not think about evaporation in winter, but cool, dry winds and sunny days can still pull litres of water from your pool each week. A solar cover helps prevent this by creating a physical barrier between the water and air.

In fact, using a solar pool cover can reduce evaporation by up to 95%, helping to conserve water and reduce the need to constantly top up your pool.

Did You Know?

Water loss through evaporation is the number one cause of pool water depletion in Australia—even in winter.

3. Keeps Leaves, Dirt & Debris Out

Autumn is notorious for shedding leaves and debris that blow into pools, clog filters, and create extra cleaning work. A solar cover helps keep your pool water cleaner by blocking leaves, insects, dust, and other debris from entering.

This means less vacuuming and scooping debris, fewer chemicals, and less time maintaining your pool.

Tip: Pair your solar cover with a roller system for easy removal and storage. We have manual and motorised roller options available in-store.

4. Reduces Chlorine & Chemical Usage

A solar cover plays a crucial role in maintaining a more stable pool environment. By reducing the exposure of your pool water to the sun, it helps preserve your pool’s overall balance, including temperature and pH levels. This means fewer fluctuations and less need for frequent adjustments, keeping your pool water in optimal condition with less effort and cost.

Tip: We offer free water teststo ensure your pool’s chemistry is spot-on. Plus, we carry a large range of pool chemicals to keep everything in perfect balance year-round.

5. Protects Your Pool Equipment

A more stable pool environment means less wear and tear on your filter, pump, and chlorinator. Clean water, consistent temperature, and balanced chemistry reduce strain on your system—helping to extend the life of your equipment and lowering maintenance costs over time.

We also stock replacement filter cartridges, chlorinators, and pool pumps—ask us about winter servicing.

6. Saves You Money Year-Round

By reducing water loss, cutting heating costs, and lowering chemical usage, a solar pool cover offers serious cost savings. In many cases, a quality cover pays for itself within a season or two.

You’ll enjoy more swim time, better water quality, and peace of mind knowing your pool is protected.

Choosing the Right Solar Pool Cover

When selecting a solar cover, it’s important to consider the size, shape, and usage of your pool. Here’s what to look for:

•    Thickness: Ranges from 200 to 600 microns. Thicker covers offer better insulation and longer lifespan.

•    Bubble Design: Look for high-quality UV-stabilised bubbles for improved heat retention and durability.

•    Custom Fit: We can cut covers to size and recommend roller systems to match.

We offer:

•    Custom-fitted solar blankets

•    Roller systems for easy handling

•    Professional advice and installation support

•    Delivery available across Australia

Ready to Cover Up and Save?

At Clark Rubber, we’re passionate about helping Aussie pool owners get more out of their pools—even in the colder months. Our expert team can help you choose the right cover for your pool and guide you through the setup.

Visit us in-store – Clark Rubber, Your Local Pool Shop 

Or call 13 80 90