Solar Reel & Blanket

[bob57]

Hello - Our pool water right now is a nice 70 degrees without a solar blanket. I think if I purchase one it should get it a little warmer for the upcoming months. My question is what is the best reel? I want to be able to have one person take it off. Also, I see so many different blankets-blue, clear, 3 or 5 year warranty....what should I be looking for? Or are they all basically the same? Also, do you cut around the stairs? Thanks for your help.

[fcfrey]

I have the Feher Guard reel and can get the solar blankets (Ell shape so there are 2 pieces) off in about 2 minutes. Putting them back takes a bit longer but not over 3 or 4 minutes.
I started with the silverized diamond type first --- It got too hot on the reel (didn't have it covered) and melted to itself. It was replaced by a blue "cheapie" which has now come apart.
I just ordered the clear extruded type from SPP (Chairmans Choice) which has been recommended by others on this site. Several advantages are it will not delaminate, it does not need to be covered when on the reel and supposedly it is more efficient (we'll see).

The blue cheapie has kept my pool above 75 despite 45 degree nights lately. I'm holding out for maybe some more sun to warm the pool with solar so I can get back in but it's not looking good.

One more thing --- the guarantee is for manufacturing defects ONLY-- I checked with about 6 or 8 different supplier and they all said the same thing. So if the bubble tops come off or it gets brittle from heat or chlorine etc. They will say it is not covered (they call it "chemical damage).