Insulation for Above Ground Swimming Pools

Abstract

Insulation for plastic sided metal framed above ground swimming pools whereby vertically-ribbed inflatable flexible plastic panels 17 are designed such that by means of zips 18 and 19 and the degree of inflation of the individual panels a continuous insulating solar panel is formed around and in close contact with the perimeter of the pool 10.

Description

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION[0001]This invention relates to ways in which panels of insulation may be attached to the exterior face of the walls of above ground swimming pools.[0002]Granted UK applications by the inventor GB2425146 and GB2425147 describe clips which may be used to attach such insulation to above ground pools, mainly of the steel walled variety. Prior to these innovations it was generally not considered necessary or possible to attach insulation to the walls of above ground pools, even though many users would attempt to heat their pools at some considerable expense to try and extend the swimming season beyond the height of Summer.[0003]The present invention describes a method of attaching inflatable insulation panels as described below to above ground swimming pools where the walls of the pool are formed by a plastic liner supported by a metal frame.[0004]It is advantageous to use transparent material as an insulation material, since the solar energy of th...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0004]It is advantageous to use transparent material as an insulation material, since the solar energy of the sun will pass through the material and heat up the pool wall and hence the water. The greater the degree of transparency of the insulation material the quicker the sun's energy will be transferred to the pool wall. Heat loss from the pool by means of conduction and convection will be greatly reduced by using an insulation material that incorporates air. Where a pool is heated by means of electricity, gas, or solid fuel, significant savings in energy will be made. A warmer pool, for more of the year and / or cost savings will be achieved with a pool insulated in this way.

[0005]For convenience, and for economies of transportation and storage, it is desirable to fashion the insulation panels by using a transparent plastic material to construct standard size inflatable ribbed panels. These will be of compact dimensions when deflated, but of a size to match the dimensions of the swimming pool wall when inflated.

Problems solved by technology

Prior to these innovations it was generally not considered necessary or possible to attach insulation to the walls of above ground pools, even though many users would attempt to heat their pools at some considerable expense to try and extend the swimming season beyond the height of Summer.

Images