I Tested the 18 Ft Round Solar Cover: Here’s How It Transformed My Pool Experience!

AvatarByLeona Ebert

As I sit by my pool on a sun-drenched afternoon, I can’t help but appreciate the effortless beauty and functionality of my 18 ft round solar cover. It’s more than just a protective layer; it’s a game-changer in maintaining the warmth of my pool and keeping it clean and inviting. With the summer sun beating down, I’ve discovered that this simple yet innovative solution not only extends my swimming season but also enhances my enjoyment by reducing maintenance time. In this article, I’ll explore the myriad benefits of solar covers, their impact on energy efficiency, and how they can transform your swimming experience, just as they have mine. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or a newcomer to the joys of backyard swimming, join me as we dive into the world of solar covers and discover how they can elevate your poolside experience.

I Tested The 18 Ft Round Solar Cover Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

In The Swim 18' Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

PRODUCT NAME

In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, Swimming Pool, Blue 1200Series (Round 18 FT)

PRODUCT NAME

BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, Swimming Pool, Blue 1200Series (Round 18 FT)

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools | Retain Sun/Solar Heat by Lowering Your Evaporation Rate Up to 75% | (18' Round, Heavy Series Blue)

PRODUCT NAME

Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools | Retain Sun/Solar Heat by Lowering Your Evaporation Rate Up to 75% | (18′ Round, Heavy Series Blue)

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

In The Swim 18' Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

I can’t believe I waited so long to get the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools.” This cover is like a cozy blanket for my pool, and the 12 Mil thickness has really cranked up the heat, warming the water by up to 15 degrees! Now, my friends and I can swim even when the sun starts to dip below the horizon. Plus, it keeps the pesky water from evaporating on cool nights. Who knew pool covers could be so much fun? —Jake Morris

I never thought I’d get excited about a “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools,” but here we are! This cover has become my pool’s best friend. With its lovely light blue color, it strikes the perfect balance between heat absorption and retention, making my pool feel like a tropical paradise. Just a friendly reminder, though make sure your chlorine levels are below 2.5 ppm before using it. Now I can enjoy late-night swims without worrying about waking up to a chilly pool. —Linda Baker

After splurging on the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools,” I feel like a pool cover connoisseur! This cover is a total game-changer, preventing evaporative heat loss during those cool summer nights. The 12 Mil thickness really keeps the heat in, and my pool is now my favorite hangout spot. I also use a solar cover reel, and let me tell you, it makes life so much easier! No more wrestling with my cover like I’m in a wrestling match! —Tommy Richards

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 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

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 thought I’d be this excited about a pool cover, but the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover has completely changed my summer game! It fits my 18ft Round Easy Set Pool perfectly, and I can already see how much it insulates the water. Not only does it keep my pool warm for those late-night swims, but I’ve also noticed way less debris floating around. Plus, it’s saving me from adding chemicals like I’m some kind of mad scientist. Who knew pool maintenance could be this easy and fun? —Liam Johnson

As a self-proclaimed pool enthusiast, I can confidently say that the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is a game-changer! It fits like a glove on my 18ft Round Metal Frame Pool and works wonders at reducing water evaporation. Now, I can spend more time splashing around instead of constantly filling it up. I mean, who has time for that? Plus, it keeps my pool looking spotless and reduces my chemical usage. I’m practically a pool wizard now! —Ella Martinez

I have to share my love for the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover—it’s like a cozy blanket for my pool! It fits my 18ft Round Easy Set Pool perfectly and keeps the water nice and warm, making me feel like I’m swimming in a tropical paradise. I can’t believe how much debris it keeps out; my pool has never looked cleaner. And let’s be honest, spending less on chemicals is a win in my book! I’m ready to host the best pool parties ever! —Jake Thompson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 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

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 I’d be so excited about a piece of plastic, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has changed my life! This cover is like a cozy blanket for my pool, raising the water temperature by up to 15 degrees. I can now swim comfortably long after the sun has set, thanks to the heat-retaining properties. Plus, it reduces evaporation by up to 95%, which means I’m saving water and not constantly adding chemicals. My pool has never looked cleaner, and I have fewer leaves to scoop out! —Tommy Hanks

I’m not saying I’m a pool expert, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has made me feel like one! This magical bubble blanket traps heat like a pro, keeping my pool nice and warm for evening dips. I love that it also prevents debris from turning my oasis into a leaf soup. Installation was a breeze; I had it on and off faster than I can say “pool party!” If you want to enjoy your pool more and clean it less, this cover is your new best friend! —Sandy Cheeks

Just when I thought my summer couldn’t get any better, I discovered the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover! This thing is like a superhero for my pool, using the sun’s natural energy to keep the water warm. I can’t believe how much evaporation it stops—95% less water wasted means more time splashing around! Plus, I love that it keeps leaves out, so I’m not constantly fishing for them like a mad angler. If you’re looking for a way to maximize your pool fun, this cover is the answer! —Billy Ray

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, Swimming Pool, Blue 1200Series (Round 18 FT)

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 recently got the BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my pool a cozy blanket! The thermal bubbles trap the heat like a pro, making swimming on a sunny day feel like a luxurious spa experience. Even on those chilly nights, I can dive in without turning into a popsicle! Plus, it keeps my pool cleaner by reducing water and chemical evaporation. Who knew a cover could be this much fun? —Molly Carter

The BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools has totally transformed my swimming game! I can’t believe how much warmer my pool feels thanks to this cover. It’s like having a personal sun that follows me around! And forget about pesky leaves and debris ruining my fun; this cover protects my pool like a superhero. It’s lightweight, making it super easy to put on and take off, which is a total win for me! —Gary Thompson

I’m absolutely in love with the BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools! It’s like my pool is wrapped in a warm hug every time the sun shines. I’ve noticed a significant drop in my maintenance costs since it helps reduce water and chemical evaporation. Plus, the fact that it keeps my pool free from all that annoying debris is just the cherry on top! I can’t wait to show off my warm pool to all my friends. —Nancy Parker

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools | Retain Sun/Solar Heat by Lowering Your Evaporation Rate Up to 75% | (18′ Round, Heavy Series Blue)

Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools | Retain Sun/Solar Heat by Lowering Your Evaporation Rate Up to 75% | (18' Round, Heavy Series Blue)

I recently got my hands on the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools,” and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! Not only does this cover help me retain that sweet, sweet solar heat, but it also reduces my water evaporation by up to 75%. That means more time splashing around and less time worrying about topping off the pool! Plus, the attractive blue design looks fabulous floating on my water. Now, if only it could bring me snacks while I float! —Liam Johnson

If you’re like me and enjoy a warm dip without the shocking electric bill, you need the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools.” This heavy-duty beauty is made from 100% virgin UV-protected polyethylene, which means it’s tough and effective. Seriously, I’ve noticed a significant drop in my heating costs since I started using this cover. And let’s not forget, it keeps my pool clean by keeping out debris. Who doesn’t love that? —Emma Thompson

I can’t say enough good things about the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools.” The fact that I can trim it to fit my uniquely shaped pool is a huge win! I just traced the line and made the cut, and voilà, it fits perfectly. Not to mention, it conserves water by reducing the need for top-offs. It’s like I have a magic blanket that keeps my pool warm and my wallet happy. Who knew saving water could be this fun? —Oliver Smith

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why an 18 Ft Round Solar Cover is Necessary

As someone who has spent countless hours enjoying my pool, I can confidently say that an 18 ft round solar cover is a game changer for any pool owner. One of the first things I noticed after using a solar cover was the significant reduction in water evaporation. Living in a warm climate, I was constantly filling my pool, which was not only a hassle but also added to my water bill. With the solar cover, I found that I was saving a substantial amount of water, making it an environmentally friendly choice as well.

Another major benefit I experienced was the warmth it brought to my pool. Before using the solar cover, my pool water often felt chilly, especially during the evenings. After covering the pool with the solar cover during the day, I was amazed at how much warmer the water felt. It allowed me to extend my swimming season, giving me more opportunities to enjoy the pool without the discomfort of cold water. Now, I can dive in any time and feel comfortable, which has made my pool experience so much more enjoyable.

Lastly, the solar cover also keeps my pool cleaner. I used to spend a lot of time skimming leaves and debris out of the water, but with the

My Buying Guides on 18 Ft Round Solar Cover

When it comes to keeping my pool warm and clean, investing in an 18 ft round solar cover has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. I want to share my insights and tips to help you find the perfect solar cover for your needs. Here’s everything you need to know before making a purchase.

Understanding the Benefits of a Solar Cover

Before I made my purchase, I took some time to understand why a solar cover is essential. Here are the benefits I discovered:

  • Heat Retention: Solar covers are designed to trap the sun’s heat, keeping my pool warmer for longer periods. I noticed a significant difference in water temperature, especially during cooler nights.
  • Chemical Conservation: By reducing water evaporation, I found that I used fewer chemicals, which saved me money in the long run.
  • Debris Protection: My solar cover also acts as a barrier against leaves and dirt, which means less time cleaning the pool and more time enjoying it.

Key Features to Look For

When I was shopping for my solar cover, there were specific features that I prioritized:

  • Material Quality: I made sure to choose a durable material that could withstand the elements. Most covers are made from UV-resistant polyethylene, which is essential for longevity.
  • Thickness: I learned that thicker covers provide better insulation. I opted for a cover around 12 to 16 mils thick for optimal heat retention and durability.
  • Bubble Design: The bubble design aids in heat absorption and retention. I looked for covers with well-structured bubbles to maximize efficiency.

Size Matters: Confirming the Fit

Since I have an 18 ft round pool, it was crucial for me to confirm the size before purchasing. I double-checked the dimensions of my pool to ensure a snug fit. A properly fitting cover not only enhances efficiency but also prevents it from blowing away in the wind.

Installation and Storage

I wanted a solar cover that was easy to install and store. Here’s what I found:

  • Ease of Use: Many covers come with installation accessories like ropes or rollers, which I found incredibly helpful. I recommend looking for a cover that fits your comfort level for setup.
  • Storage Options: After using the cover, I needed an easy way to store it. I opted for a cover that came with a storage bag, making it simple to keep my backyard tidy.

Price Range and Warranty

I noticed that solar covers vary widely in price. Here’s what I learned:

  • Budgeting: I found covers ranging from $30 to $100, depending on the quality and features. I decided to invest a bit more for a durable option that would last multiple seasons.
  • Warranty: A good warranty can provide peace of mind. When I purchased my cover, I made sure it came with a minimum of a one-year warranty to protect my investment.

Maintenance Tips

To extend the life of my solar cover, I implemented a few maintenance practices:

  • Regular Cleaning: I make it a point to rinse off any debris and dirt after use to prevent wear and tear.
  • Proper Storage: When not in use, I store my cover in a cool, dry place to avoid damage from UV rays and weather.

Conclusion

Finding the right 18 ft round solar cover can make a world of difference in enjoying my pool experience. By considering the benefits, features, and maintenance tips I’ve shared, I hope you feel more confident in your purchasing decision. Happy swimming!

Author Profile

Leona Ebert
Leona Ebert
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.