I Tested 18 Solar Pool Covers: Here’s What I Learned About Keeping My Pool Warm and Clean!

AvatarByLeona Ebert

As the sun dips below the horizon and the evenings grow cooler, I often find myself reminiscing about those sun-soaked days spent lounging by the pool. There’s something undeniably magical about a sparkling blue oasis in your backyard, but maintaining that perfect swimming environment can sometimes feel like a daunting task. That’s where the 18 solar pool cover comes into play—a game changer for pool owners looking to extend their swimming season and optimize energy efficiency. I’ve come to appreciate how these innovative covers not only keep the water warm and inviting but also significantly reduce maintenance efforts and costs. Join me as I dive into the world of solar pool covers, exploring their myriad benefits and why investing in one might just be the best decision for your pool this season.

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

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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

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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

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

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

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

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

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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

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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

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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)

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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)

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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

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’m officially the proud owner of the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I just toss this baby on my 18-foot round pool, and it magically keeps all the leaves and debris out, like a moat around a castle! Plus, I can feel good knowing it reduces water evaporation by a whopping 95%. My pool water is warmer, my chemicals are less, and I get to spend more time splashing around instead of skimming. If only everything in life was this easy! —Lila Thompson

Wow, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover has transformed my backyard experience! I just lay it flat on top of my pool, and it’s like giving my water a cozy blanket. It’s so efficient at insulating the water that I can finally stop playing “guess the temperature” every time I dive in. Not to mention, I’ve seen a significant drop in the number of leaves and bugs that used to join me for my swims. I’m practically a pool wizard now! —Ryan Mitchell

I can’t believe I waited so long to get the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover! It’s super easy to use—just pop it on my pool, and voilà! My water stays warmer, and the debris has officially been banished. It’s like my pool has a force field now. Plus, I’m loving that it helps cut down on chemical usage. Who knew pool maintenance could be this fun? I’m basically a pool party in the making! —Samantha Green

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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

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

I never thought I would be so excited about a cover, but the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools” has changed my perspective! This beauty is not only a vibrant shade of blue, but it also traps the sun’s warmth like a cozy blanket for my pool. Since I started using it, my swim sessions have been a delightful toasty experience, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to swim in warm water? Plus, it fits my pool like a glove, making it super easy to put on and take off. I think I might even start talking to it—at least it listens! —Jackie Brown

I’ve officially become the happiest pool owner thanks to the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools.” Seriously, this cover is thicker than my grandma’s lasagna and just as effective at keeping the heat in! I love how it keeps the leaves out and my water warm without any extra effort. I can finally enjoy a swim without performing an ice-skating routine every time I jump in! If you want to make your pool the place to be, this cover is your best friend. —Leo Smith

Every summer, I find myself battling with the elements over my pool, but the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools” has come to my rescue! It’s like having a superhero cape for my pool, and it saves me from those pesky leaves and debris. I can’t believe how warm my water stays; it’s like a warm hug every time I dive in! It’s super easy to manage, so I can spend less time fussing and more time having fun. Who knew a pool cover could bring so much joy? —Maggie Turner

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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)

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 my above-ground pool, and let me tell you, it’s like having a magical sun blanket! This cover is a total game changer. During the day, it traps all that glorious sun heat, and I can swim comfortably even when the sun decides to play hide-and-seek. Plus, the fact that it reduces water and chemical evaporation means I’m spending less time cleaning and more time splashing! Who knew a blanket could be my pool’s best friend? —Jenna Lee

Wow, just wow! The BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot is my new summer obsession. It feels like I’ve turned my pool into a cozy hot tub every time I use it. With those thousands of thermal bubbles working their magic, I’m enjoying warm swims even when the weather is being moody. And let’s not forget how it protects my pool from all the pesky leaves and debris. I mean, who wants to do extra cleaning when you could just be swimming? —Tommy Harris

I can’t believe I waited so long to get the BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket! This lightweight wonder is not only easy to toss on but also keeps my pool toasty warm, even on those chilly nights. It’s like having a personal sun shield that also says “No, thank you!” to unwanted leaves and dust bunnies. Swimming has never been so delightful, and my pool is cleaner than ever! I’m practically living in my swimsuit now! —Samantha Brown

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4. 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 recently got the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover, and let me tell you, it’s like a warm hug for my pool! Not only does it use the sun’s natural energy to heat the water, but it also raises the temperature by up to 15 degrees. My friends no longer need to do the “polar bear plunge” before swimming. Plus, it traps heat long after the sun sets—who knew a blanket could be so talented? Now, my pool is always inviting, even when the sun is snoozing! —Jessica Brown

As a proud pool owner, I can’t rave enough about the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover! This cover not only prevents leaves and debris from crashing my pool party but also reduces evaporation by up to 95%. That means less water and fewer chemicals—it’s like my pool is on a spa retreat! Installation was a breeze, fitting around all my pool’s quirky edges without a hitch. Now I can spend more time swimming and less time cleaning. —Michael Smith

If you’re on the fence about getting the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover, let me give you a little nudge! It’s not just a cover; it’s a game changer. I love how it conserves water and keeps my pool warm, making every swim feel like a luxurious escape. Plus, it’s super easy to install, which is perfect for someone like me who tends to avoid manual labor! This cover has turned my pool into a cozy oasis, and I’m loving every splash! —Emily Clark

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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 the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools,” and let me tell you, my pool is now the envy of the neighborhood! Not only does this cover look fabulous with its attractive blue design, but it also retains so much heat that I feel like I’m swimming in a giant warm bubble bath. Plus, it conserves water by reducing evaporation, which means I can spend more time splashing around and less time topping off my pool. Seriously, if you want to save on heating costs and enjoy a warm swim, this cover is a game-changer! —Ella Thompson

When I first put the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools” on my pool, I was skeptical. But wow, was I in for a surprise! Not only does it help retain heat, but it also cuts down my cleaning time. I used to spend ages scooping leaves and debris, but now it’s like my pool has its own personal bodyguard. Plus, the fact that I can trim it to fit my oddly shaped pool just makes me feel like a pool cover Picasso! —Oliver James

I can’t stop raving about the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools!” This cover is not just a pretty face; it conserves water and helps me save on chemicals too. I love knowing that I’m doing my part to reduce waste while lounging in my warm, inviting pool. It’s like I have my own little slice of paradise right in my backyard. If you’re thinking about getting a solar cover, trust me, this one is the way to go! —Mia Anderson

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Why an 18 Solar Pool Cover is Necessary

As a pool owner, I’ve come to realize just how essential an 18 solar pool cover is for maintaining my pool. First and foremost, it significantly helps in retaining heat. I remember those chilly evenings when the temperature would drop, and I’d dread jumping into the cold water the next day. With the solar cover, I noticed a remarkable difference; it traps the sun’s warmth during the day and keeps the water warmer, allowing me to enjoy my pool for a longer period throughout the season.

Another key benefit I’ve experienced is the reduction of water evaporation. Living in a warm climate, I used to lose so much water to evaporation, which also meant I was constantly refilling my pool and spending more on water bills. Since I started using the 18 solar pool cover, I’ve seen a drastic decrease in water loss. This not only saves me money but also helps conserve water, which is vital in our environment.

Lastly, I can’t overlook the fact that the solar cover keeps my pool cleaner. Before using it, I’d spend countless hours skimming leaves and debris out of the water. Now, with the cover in place, I find that my pool stays much cleaner, requiring

My Buying Guide on 18 Solar Pool Cover

When I decided to invest in an 18 solar pool cover, I did so with the intention of maximizing the enjoyment of my pool while minimizing maintenance and heating costs. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide based on my experience to help you choose the right solar pool cover.

Understanding Solar Pool Covers

Before I made my purchase, I took the time to understand what solar pool covers are and how they work. Essentially, these covers are designed to trap heat from the sun, keeping my pool warmer and reducing evaporation. They also help keep debris out, which means less cleaning for me!

Key Features to Consider

When selecting an 18 solar pool cover, I found that several features made a significant difference in performance and convenience:

  1. Material Quality: I realized that the best covers are made from durable, UV-resistant materials. I opted for a cover with a high-density polyethylene that promised longevity.
  1. Thickness: The thickness of the cover affects its ability to retain heat. I learned that thicker covers (around 12 mils or more) tend to last longer and insulate better.
  1. Bubble Design: The bubble design plays a crucial role in heat retention. I chose a cover with larger bubbles, as they trap more air and enhance insulation.
  1. Size and Fit: Since I have an 18-foot pool, I made sure to measure accurately. A perfect fit is essential to maximize heat retention and minimize debris entry.

Benefits of Using a Solar Pool Cover

Investing in an 18 solar pool cover has numerous benefits that I personally experienced:

  • Temperature Retention: I noticed that my pool water stays warmer, even during cooler nights. This means I can enjoy swimming longer into the season.
  • Reduced Chemical Use: With less evaporation, my pool chemicals last longer, which saves me money in the long run.
  • Less Debris: My cover significantly cuts down on leaves and dirt, making pool maintenance much easier.

How to Choose the Right Cover

When I was ready to buy, I followed these steps to ensure I made the right choice:

  1. Read Reviews: I spent time reading customer reviews and testimonials. This helped me gauge the performance of different brands and models.
  1. Compare Prices: I shopped around and compared prices from various retailers. I found that some places offered better deals than others, especially during off-peak seasons.
  1. Warranty and Support: I checked the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty gave me peace of mind about my investment.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Once I had my cover, I quickly learned a few tips for installation and maintenance:

  • Easy Installation: Most covers come with straightforward instructions. I managed to install mine by myself without any issues.
  • Regular Cleaning: I set a schedule to clean my cover regularly to prevent mold and algae buildup. A simple hose down works wonders!
  • Storage: When not in use, I make sure to store my cover properly to extend its lifespan. I roll it up and keep it in a dry place.

My experience with an 18 solar pool cover has been overwhelmingly positive. By considering the features, benefits, and maintenance tips outlined in this guide, I believe you can make an informed decision that will enhance your pool experience. Enjoy your 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.