What is the Cheapest Way to Cool a Pool?

Understanding Pool Heat and the Importance of Cooling

Tired of swimming in what feels like lukewarm soup? Pool chillers can deliver serious chill.

Why Your Pool Gets Hot

If your pool feels warmer than your morning shower, you're not alone. Direct sunlight is the biggest culprit.

Shallow pools heat up faster, and with no shade or cooling method, the water temperature keeps rising. Add in high summer temps and little wind, and you’ve got a pool that’s better for poaching eggs than swimming.

It’s not just uncomfortable - it can also lead to more chemical use and faster algae growth.

Benefits of a Cooler Pool

Cooler water feels better, plain and simple. But there’s more to it than comfort.

Lower temps mean slower chlorine burn-off, less algae, and fewer chemical adjustments. That can save you time and money on pool care. A cooler pool also reduces wear on your equipment by keeping everything running smoothly.

The Most Affordable Ways to Cool Your Pool

Harnessing Evaporation with Aerators and Water Features

Evaporation is free and surprisingly powerful when used right. The trick is getting more water exposed to air.

How Aerators Work

Aerators attach to your return line and spray water into the air. This increases surface movement and lets the water cool before it falls back in.

It’s a simple method that can drop temps a few degrees overnight. And installation is usually quick and DIY-friendly.

Utilizing Fountains and Waterfalls

Fountains and waterfalls look great, but they also move a lot of water. That movement helps boost evaporation and cooling.

Maximizing Nighttime Cooling

Night air is cooler, so why not take advantage of it?

Running Your Pump and Filter at Night

Running your pump during the day can trap heat in the water. Shift your schedule to overnight hours instead.

As the cooler air hits the water surface, your pump helps circulate it, cooling the entire pool more evenly. Many pool owners report a noticeable difference by morning.

Creating Shade for Natural Cooling

Sunlight is a huge factor in heating your pool. Blocking it is one of the easiest ways to keep temps down.

Temporary Shade Solutions (Umbrellas, Sails)

Got a patio umbrella? That might be all you need.

Even a few hours of shade during peak sun can make a difference. Shade sails, pop-up canopies, and large umbrellas are low-cost options that can lower temps by several degrees.

Permanent Shade Options (Landscaping, Structures)

If you’ve got the space and budget, plant trees or build a pergola. These solutions take longer to set up, but they last.

A line of palms or tall shrubs near the pool can block sunlight and add privacy too. Just make sure to plant them far enough back to avoid constant leaf cleanup.

Other Cost-Effective Tips and Considerations

The Role of Pool Covers (and their limitations)

Pool covers are great for keeping leaves out and heat in - but they can also help reduce heat gain if used the right way.

Look for reflective or UV-safe covers. These can prevent sunlight from warming the water too much. Just avoid solar covers unless you're trying to raise the temp.

When to Consider More Advanced Cooling Systems

If the free and low-cost methods aren’t cutting it, a more advanced system may be worth it.

Pool chillers are made to cool your water fast and maintain a stable temperature. While they aren’t the cheapest upfront, they’re incredibly effective.

Think of it as a long-term investment for comfort, especially if you use your pool often or entertain guests.