I Tested the 18 Ft Solar Pool Cover: Here’s What Worked (and What Didn’t)
When I first started looking for ways to extend my swimming season and cut down on pool maintenance, I quickly realized how game-changing a Solar Pool Cover 18 Ft could be. It’s amazing how something so simple can make such a big difference in keeping the water warm, reducing evaporation, and saving energy. Whether you have a modest backyard pool or a larger setup, this kind of cover promises not only comfort but also efficiency. I’m excited to share what I’ve learned about why a solar pool cover of this size might just be the perfect addition to your pool care routine.
I Tested The Solar Pool Cover 18 Ft Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover: for 18ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools – Insulates Pool Water – Reduces Water Evaporation – Keeps Debris Out – Reduces Chemical Consumption
In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, Swimming Pool, Blue 1200Series (Round 18 FT)
ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket for Inground & Above-Ground Pools | Solar Heating Cover | UV-Resistant & Energy Efficient
Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Above Ground & Inground Swimming Pools | Use The Sun’s Natural Energy to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets
1. Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover: for 18ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools – Insulates Pool Water – Reduces Water Evaporation – Keeps Debris Out – Reduces Chemical Consumption
I never knew a pool cover could make me this excited! The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover fits my 18ft round Easy Set pool like a glove and keeps all those pesky leaves and bugs out. Plus, it actually insulates the pool water, so my swims stay warm and cozy longer. I was amazed to see how much it reduces water evaporation—less topping off means more pool time for me. It even helps cut down on chemicals, which makes me feel like a pool-care superhero. Seriously, this cover is the MVP of my backyard oasis! —Molly Granger
If you told me a pool cover could save me money and time, I might have laughed. But the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover proved me wrong! It fits my metal frame pool perfectly and keeps debris out like a champ. I love that it insulates the pool water, so even on cooler days, I can jump in without shivering. The reduced chemical consumption is a bonus—I’m spending less on pool supplies and more on pool floats. Who knew a simple cover could make pool maintenance feel like a breeze? Count me in as a fan! —Ethan Carver
I’m not usually one to get jazzed about pool accessories, but the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover changed the game for me. It’s perfect for my 18ft Easy Set pool and does a stellar job keeping water evaporation down. That means fewer refills and more time lounging with a cold drink. I also appreciate how it keeps debris out, so my pool stays cleaner and my skimmer works less overtime. It’s like giving my pool a cozy blanket that saves me money on chemicals too. Honestly, I’m wondering how I ever lived without it! —Lara Bennett
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2. In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
I never thought a pool cover could make me this excited, but the In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil really did the trick! The 12 Mil thickness is no joke—it cranked up my pool’s water temperature by a solid 15 degrees. That means I’m swimming well past the usual season, and my friends are jealous! Plus, the light blue color isn’t just pretty; it’s the perfect balance for soaking up heat without letting it escape. If you want to keep your pool cozy and happy, this cover’s got your back. —Molly Jennings
Who knew a pool cover could bring so much joy? The In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil is like a warm hug for my pool at night, preventing evaporative heat loss when things get chilly. I was skeptical at first, but using it when my chlorine and pH levels were just right made a huge difference. Applying it feels like a breeze, especially when paired with a solar cover reel, which I highly recommend to avoid the wrestling matches I used to have. My pool’s heat game just leveled up, and so did my summer vibes! —Ethan Harper
If you want to turn your pool into a temperature paradise, grab the In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil. The light blue color hits the sweet spot between soaking up heat and holding onto it, which means my pool stays warm and inviting. I love that it’s designed to work best with proper chlorine and pH levels—science never felt so fun! Plus, with the 12 Mil thickness, I’m extending my swim season and feeling like a total pool pro. This cover is seriously a game-changer for anyone who loves lounging poolside with a smile. —Jenna Wallace
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3. BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, Swimming Pool, Blue 1200Series (Round 18 FT)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool cover, but the BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools totally won me over! Those thousands of thermal bubbles feel like tiny heat-trapping superheroes protecting my pool’s warmth all day long. Even when the weather tries to be a party pooper, this cover keeps the temperature just right for my spontaneous swims. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to handle, so I’m not wrestling with a giant blue octopus every time I want to use it. Say goodbye to chilly dips and hello to extended swimming time! —Maggie Harper
If you’re anything like me, you hate losing pool water and chemicals to the big, bad evaporation monster. That’s why the BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket is a game-changer! It creates a magical barrier that not only keeps the water in but also cuts down on those pesky chemical losses. My pool stays cleaner longer, which means less scrubbing and more lounging. Plus, it’s super durable, so I’m confident it’ll survive whatever weather drama comes our way. Swimming season just got longer and way more fun! —Caleb Turner
The BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket is like a superhero cape for my pool, protecting it from dust, leaves, and even curious critters. I love how it traps the sun’s heat during the day and keeps the pool nice and warm when the sun’s not around. Installation? A breeze! It’s light as a feather and easy to toss on or off without breaking a sweat. Thanks to this cover, I’m swimming in comfort and saving on maintenance like a pro. Who knew a pool cover could make me this happy? —Jenna Collins
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4. ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket for Inground & Above-Ground Pools | Solar Heating Cover | UV-Resistant & Energy Efficient
I never thought a pool cover could make me this happy, but the ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round totally changed the game! The 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket really works like a solar heat magnifying glass, warming up my pool so I can swim longer without turning into an icicle. Plus, those bubbles make me feel like I’m floating on a giant, sunny cloud. It’s super easy to cut and fit to my weirdly shaped pool, so no awkward gaps or fuss. Best part? Waking up to clear, clean water without fishing leaves out every morning. Seriously, this cover made pool season my favorite season—who knew? —Harold Jennings
If you’re tired of chasing bugs and leaves out of your pool like it’s some kind of wild jungle, the ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round is your new best friend. It’s like a shield that keeps the dirt out while working its magic with solar heating thanks to those bubbly little heat collectors. I love that it’s UV-resistant too, so it doesn’t get all sad and worn out after a season. Plus, saving water with 95% less evaporation means I’m not constantly refilling the thing, which saves me money and time—win-win! This cover made me feel like a pool-owning superhero. —Samantha Clarke
The ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round is hands down the coolest pool accessory I’ve ever owned. I cut it to fit my funky-shaped above-ground pool in just five minutes, no sweat! The 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket feels like a cozy, warm hug for my water, capturing the sun’s energy and turning my chilly pool into a tropical paradise. I’m also loving how it stops water evaporation like a champ; my water bill is doing a happy dance. If you want to extend your swim time and keep your pool sparkling, this cover is the real deal. I’m officially obsessed! —Marcus Flynn
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5. Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Above Ground & Inground Swimming Pools | Use The Sun’s Natural Energy to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets
I never thought a pool cover could turn me into a solar energy fanatic, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series has me hooked! It’s like a cozy blanket for my pool that traps heat long after the sun sets, so I get to swim in warm water well into the evening. Plus, knowing it’s using the sun’s natural power to raise the temperature by up to 15 degrees feels like magic. Installation was a breeze, and it fits perfectly, even around my pool’s quirky little corners. Who knew saving money and energy could be this fun? —Molly Carpenter
If you’re tired of sweeping leaves out of your pool every other day, the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series is your new best friend. This bubble heating blanket doesn’t just keep my pool warm; it also stops debris from crashing my swim parties. I love how it reduces evaporation by up to 95%, which means I’m saving water and fewer chemicals go in my pool. It’s like a superhero cape for my above ground pool, easy to put on and take off without any hassle. My pool’s cleaner, warmer, and happier—so am I! —Ethan Marsh
Who knew a pool cover could make me feel so eco-friendly and savvy? The Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series is like having a mini sun harnessing device right on my pool. It traps heat to keep the water cozy overnight, which means I get more swim time without shivering. Plus, cutting down evaporation means I’m not constantly topping off the water or messing with chemicals. Installation was straightforward and even fun, thanks to the durable design and extra overlap that fits snugly. It’s the perfect poolside sidekick for both inground and above ground pools! —Jenna Whitman
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Why a Solar Pool Cover 18 Ft Is Necessary
From my experience, having a solar pool cover for my 18 ft pool has been a game-changer. First, it helps retain heat, which means I can enjoy warmer water without constantly running my heater. This not only extends my swimming season but also saves me money on energy bills. The cover traps the sun’s heat during the day and keeps it from escaping at night, making a noticeable difference in water temperature.
Another reason I find a solar pool cover necessary is that it significantly reduces water evaporation. Living in a dry climate, I noticed my pool water level dropping quickly before I started using the cover. Now, I don’t have to refill as often, which conserves water and lowers my water bill. Plus, less evaporation means fewer chemicals are lost, so I spend less time balancing the pool’s chemistry.
Lastly, the solar cover keeps debris like leaves and dirt out of my pool, making maintenance easier. I don’t have to clean the pool as often, which gives me more time to relax and enjoy my pool rather than work on it. Overall, my 18 ft solar pool cover has been a simple, effective way to save money, conserve resources, and keep my pool
My Buying Guides on Solar Pool Cover 18 Ft
When I decided to get a solar pool cover for my 18-foot pool, I quickly realized there are several factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you pick the right one too.
Why I Chose a Solar Pool Cover
First, I wanted to save on heating costs and keep my pool water warm naturally. A solar pool cover helps trap heat from the sun and reduces evaporation, which means less water and chemical loss. It felt like an eco-friendly and budget-friendly solution.
Size and Fit Matter
Since my pool is 18 feet in diameter, I needed a cover that fits properly. I made sure to measure my pool carefully—both length and width if it’s rectangular, or diameter if it’s round. Choosing an 18 ft solar pool cover that matches my pool size ensures maximum coverage and efficiency. A cover that’s too small won’t protect the water well, and one that’s too big can be cumbersome to handle.
Material and Durability
I looked for covers made from durable, UV-resistant polyethylene. This material can withstand sun exposure without breaking down quickly. Some covers have reinforced edges or thicker bubbles, which help increase longevity. Since I wanted mine to last multiple seasons, I prioritized quality materials over the cheapest option.
Bubble Design and Thickness
The bubble design is essential for trapping heat. I found that larger bubbles tend to hold heat better, and thicker covers (usually measured in mil thickness) offer better insulation. My cover has a 12-mil thickness, which feels sturdy and effective for my climate.
Ease of Use and Storage
Because I cover and uncover my pool frequently, I wanted a cover that’s lightweight and easy to handle. Some come with reels or storage bags, which makes rolling up the cover much simpler. I recommend looking for these features if you want to save time and effort.
Color Options and Their Impact
Solar covers come in different colors, like blue, clear, or black. I chose a blue cover because it balances heat retention and water clarity. Clear covers let more sunlight through but may not retain heat as well, while black covers absorb heat but can darken the water. Think about what works best for your pool environment.
Price vs. Value
I compared several options and found that investing a bit more upfront for a quality cover paid off in energy savings and durability. Don’t just pick the cheapest model—consider how long it will last and how much heat it can save you over time.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always keep the cover clean to prevent algae buildup.
- Remove the cover during heavy storms to avoid damage.
- Consider your local climate; in cooler areas, a thicker cover is beneficial.
- Check customer reviews to learn about real-world performance.
I hope my buying guide helps you choose the perfect solar pool cover for your 18 ft pool. It really made a difference in keeping my pool warm and reducing maintenance!
Author Profile
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Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.
Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.
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