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8 Best Above Ground Solar Pool Covers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

In The Swim 24' Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,405
Material
Thickness
Size and Shape

Most important from
671 reviews

Material
This solar cover is heavy-duty and fits perfectly, promising a lifespan of several seasons.
Thickness
Durability is evident as the solar cover is very thick, designed to withstand regular use.
Size and Shape
Some minor adjustments might be needed for a perfect fit, but overall, it adapts well to different pool sizes.
Ease of Use
Despite its weight, the cover is easy to remove, though reapplying it may require two people for larger pools.

The In The Swim 24' Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover is designed to enhance the heating of above-ground and inground pools. With its 12 Mil thickness, it can increase the surface water temperature by up to 15 degrees, making it a great choice for extending the pool season. The light blue color strikes a balance between heat absorption and retention, contributing to efficient heating while maintaining a pleasing aesthetic.

Additionally, the cover helps prevent evaporative heat loss during cool nights, which is a valuable feature for those looking to minimize heat loss and conserve energy. However, it is important to monitor chlorine and pH levels when using this cover, as it should only be used when chlorine levels are below 2.5 ppm and pH levels are above 7.2 for optimal effectiveness and longevity. Ease of use is enhanced by the recommendation to use a solar cover reel, which simplifies the process of putting on and taking off the cover while reducing wear and tear.

The cover’s dimensions fit well for 24’ round pools, making it suitable for many standard pool sizes. It ranks well in customer reviews with a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating from 560 reviewers, indicating general satisfaction. Weighing 38.5 pounds, the cover is relatively manageable but may require some effort to handle. This solar pool cover offers strong heating performance and ease of use, though attention to pool chemical levels is necessary for optimal results.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,405
Material
Thickness
Size and Shape

Most important from
671 reviews

Material
This solar cover is heavy-duty and fits perfectly, promising a lifespan of several seasons.
Thickness
Durability is evident as the solar cover is very thick, designed to withstand regular use.
Size and Shape
Some minor adjustments might be needed for a perfect fit, but overall, it adapts well to different pool sizes.
Ease of Use
Despite its weight, the cover is easy to remove, though reapplying it may require two people for larger pools.
#2

In The Swim 18' x 36' Ultra Silver Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 16 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

Rating
9.6
Thickness
Size and Shape

Most important from
478 reviews

Thickness
The quality and thickness of the cover are impressive, keeping the pool warmer and reducing the need for the heat pump to run as often.
Size and Shape
The cover may require trimming to fit smaller pools, which can be inconvenient for some users.

The In The Swim 18' x 36' Ultra Silver Rectangle Solar Pool Cover is designed for both above-ground and inground pools, boasting a 16 Mil thickness which is notably robust. This thickness is a strength as it helps increase the water temperature by up to 18 degrees, thus extending pool season enjoyment. The silver color is also advantageous as it allows more light energy to penetrate the water, rapidly raising the temperature.

Furthermore, this cover effectively prevents evaporative heat loss during cooler nights, making it more efficient in maintaining warmth. The cover's weight of 55 pounds might make it cumbersome for some users to handle without a solar cover reel, which is recommended for ease of use and reducing wear and tear.

The product's size and shape are standard and should fit most large rectangular pools effectively. One potential drawback is the specific conditions required for its use; chlorine levels must be below 2.5 ppm and pH levels above 7.2, which might require careful monitoring by pool owners. This solar pool cover is excellent for extending the swimming season and maintaining warmer water, though its weight and specific usage conditions may pose challenges for some users.

Rating
9.6
Thickness
Size and Shape

Most important from
478 reviews

Thickness
The quality and thickness of the cover are impressive, keeping the pool warmer and reducing the need for the heat pump to run as often.
Size and Shape
The cover may require trimming to fit smaller pools, which can be inconvenient for some users.
#3

Sun2Solar Blue 27 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 1200 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Inground and Above Ground Swimming Pools | Harness The Sun's Energy to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets

Rating
9.4
Material
Ease of Use

Most important from
4023 reviews

Material
The cover is durable and offers excellent value, often lasting as long or longer than more expensive store-bought options.
Ease of Use
Its lightweight design makes installation and removal easy, simplifying pool maintenance.

The Sun2Solar Blue 27 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is designed to help pool owners efficiently raise and retain water temperature by up to 15 degrees, making swimming more comfortable without extra energy costs. Made from durable resin material with a blue color, it is strong yet lightweight, making it easy to install and remove. The round 27-foot size fits well for round pools, and the cover floats on the water, which simplifies handling. UV resistance helps protect the cover from sun damage over time, ensuring it lasts through multiple seasons.

One of its standout features is its ability to reduce water evaporation by up to 95%, which not only conserves water but also reduces the need for added chemicals, lowering pool maintenance efforts. It also acts as a barrier against leaves and debris, keeping the pool cleaner. The product care requires hand washing, which might be a bit inconvenient for some users.

This cover is an effective choice for above-ground pool owners looking for an affordable way to boost pool temperature and reduce maintenance, especially if the pool is round. If your pool shape or size differs, or if you prefer a thicker cover for colder climates, you might want to explore other options.

Rating
9.4
Material
Ease of Use

Most important from
4023 reviews

Material
The cover is durable and offers excellent value, often lasting as long or longer than more expensive store-bought options.
Ease of Use
Its lightweight design makes installation and removal easy, simplifying pool maintenance.

Buying Guide for the Best Above Ground Solar Pool Covers

Choosing the right above-ground solar pool cover can make a significant difference in maintaining your pool's temperature, cleanliness, and overall enjoyment. Solar pool covers use the sun's energy to heat your pool, reduce water evaporation, and keep debris out. To find the best fit for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they impact performance and usability.
MaterialThe material of a solar pool cover is crucial because it affects durability, heat retention, and ease of use. Common materials include polyethylene, polypropylene, and vinyl. Polyethylene is lightweight and affordable, making it a popular choice for many pool owners. Polypropylene is more durable and offers better heat retention, but it can be more expensive. Vinyl is the most durable and provides excellent heat retention, but it is also the heaviest and most costly. Choose a material based on your priorities: if you want something budget-friendly and easy to handle, go for polyethylene; if you need better durability and heat retention, consider polypropylene or vinyl.
ThicknessThe thickness of a solar pool cover is measured in mils (thousandths of an inch) and affects its durability and heat retention capabilities. Thinner covers (8-12 mils) are lighter and easier to handle but may not last as long or retain as much heat. Medium thickness covers (12-16 mils) offer a good balance between durability and heat retention. Thicker covers (16-20 mils) provide the best heat retention and durability but can be heavier and more challenging to manage. If you prioritize ease of use and don't mind replacing the cover more frequently, a thinner cover may be suitable. For better heat retention and longevity, opt for a thicker cover.
ColorThe color of a solar pool cover can influence its heat absorption and aesthetic appeal. Common colors include blue, clear, and black. Blue covers are popular because they provide a good balance of heat absorption and visibility. Clear covers allow more sunlight to penetrate, which can lead to better heat retention but may also promote algae growth. Black covers absorb the most heat but can make the pool water too warm in hot climates. Choose a color based on your climate and personal preference: blue for a balanced option, clear for maximum heat retention, and black for the highest heat absorption.
Size and ShapeThe size and shape of your solar pool cover should match your pool's dimensions to ensure optimal performance. Covers are available in various standard sizes and shapes, but you can also find custom options if your pool has unique dimensions. Measure your pool accurately and choose a cover that fits well to maximize heat retention and minimize water evaporation. If your pool has an irregular shape, consider a larger cover that you can trim to fit. A well-fitting cover will provide the best results in terms of heating and maintaining your pool.
UV ProtectionUV protection is an important feature that extends the lifespan of your solar pool cover by preventing damage from the sun's ultraviolet rays. Covers with UV protection are more resistant to fading, cracking, and deterioration. Look for covers that specifically mention UV protection in their specifications. If you live in an area with intense sunlight, investing in a cover with strong UV protection will ensure it lasts longer and maintains its effectiveness over time.
Ease of UseEase of use refers to how simple it is to put on, take off, and store your solar pool cover. Lighter covers are generally easier to handle, while heavier covers may require a reel system for convenient use. Consider the weight and flexibility of the cover, as well as any additional features like handles or grommets that can make it easier to manage. If you plan to use the cover frequently, prioritize ease of use to ensure you can quickly and effortlessly cover and uncover your pool.

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