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10 Best Pool Solar Covers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

In The Swim 24' Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,267
Thickness

Most important from
813 reviews

Thickness
Thick and durable, the cover is designed to endure and effectively maintain pool temperature, even if it requires some adaptation for perfect fit.

The In The Swim 24' Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover is a practical choice for those looking to extend their pool use by harnessing solar energy. With an 8 Mil thickness, this cover effectively raises pool water temperature by up to 10 degrees, offering a longer swimming season. The light blue color balances heat absorption and retention, making it efficient in maintaining warmer water. Additionally, it helps prevent heat loss during cooler nights, which is crucial for keeping your pool at a comfortable temperature. However, it's important to note that this cover should only be used under specific chemical conditions—chlorine levels below 2.5 ppm and pH levels above 7.2—to avoid damage.

Ease of use is improved with a solar cover reel, which can minimize wear and tear and simplify handling. The cover's manual installation might require some effort, especially considering its large 24-foot diameter, but it is manageable with a bit of patience. This product ranks high in its category, indicating customer satisfaction and reliability. Weighing 23 pounds, it is substantial but not unwieldy for regular use.

Made from resin, the cover likely offers good durability and resistance to the elements. Its round shape is suitable for both above ground and inground pools, providing versatility in application. Those looking for an effective way to conserve pool heat and reduce evaporation without high maintenance costs will find this solar cover a worthwhile investment. However, potential buyers should ensure they meet the pool's chemical requirements to maximize the cover's lifespan and effectiveness.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,267
Thickness

Most important from
813 reviews

Thickness
Thick and durable, the cover is designed to endure and effectively maintain pool temperature, even if it requires some adaptation for perfect fit.
#2

In The Swim 18' x 36' Premium Blue Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

Rating
10.0
Color
Size and Shape

Most important from
561 reviews

Color
The light blue color design allows sunlight to pass through efficiently while retaining heat during cooler nights.
Size and Shape
Cutting the cover to fit your pool size may be necessary, but trimming it precisely before installation improves the fit and performance.

The In The Swim 18' x 36' Premium Blue Rectangle Solar Pool Cover is designed to heat your pool efficiently while reducing water evaporation. Made from durable polyethylene material with a thickness of 12 mil, it can raise your pool water temperature by up to 15 degrees, allowing for a longer swimming season. The light blue color allows the sun’s heat to pass through while retaining warmth during cooler nights.

Its rectangular shape and large size fit most above-ground and inground pools of similar dimensions, making it a versatile choice. The cover helps prevent evaporative heat loss, conserving water and energy. It is best used when your pool’s chlorine and pH levels are within recommended ranges to avoid damage.

The cover floats and is easy to place on the water, but removing it without a reel might be cumbersome due to its size and weight (about 51.5 pounds). Using a solar reel is recommended to make handling easier and to extend the cover’s life. Some users may find the care instructions require attention, as it needs hand washing and careful storage. This cover provides a practical and effective way to warm your pool and reduce water loss, though it requires proper maintenance and chemical balance.

Rating
10.0
Color
Size and Shape

Most important from
561 reviews

Color
The light blue color design allows sunlight to pass through efficiently while retaining heat during cooler nights.
Size and Shape
Cutting the cover to fit your pool size may be necessary, but trimming it precisely before installation improves the fit and performance.
#3

Solar Pool Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools - 20' x 40' Rectangle 12 Mil Solar Blanket for Inground Pool, Blue

Rating
10.0
Size and Shape

Most important from
241 reviews

Size and Shape
Sizing is flexible; it can be easily trimmed to fit pools with irregular shapes without compromising performance.

This solar pool cover is made from durable 12 mil thick polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a strong material designed to last while efficiently retaining heat in your pool. Its blue color not only looks attractive but also helps in absorbing sunlight to warm your water. Sized at 20 by 40 feet and rectangular, it fits most inground and above ground pools, and it can be trimmed to fit irregular shapes easily, thanks to its bubble design with bubbles facing down.

The cover offers excellent water evaporation reduction—up to 95%—which means you'll save water and reduce the need to refill your pool frequently. It also works as a barrier to keep leaves and debris out, helping to keep your pool cleaner and reduce maintenance. While the cover does not explicitly mention advanced UV protection, the PVC material and thickness contribute to durability and some UV resistance.

Installation and removal are manual, which may require some effort depending on your pool size and setup. This product is a practical, easy-to-use cover that helps warm your pool, conserves water, and keeps it cleaner throughout the swimming season.

Rating
10.0
Size and Shape

Most important from
241 reviews

Size and Shape
Sizing is flexible; it can be easily trimmed to fit pools with irregular shapes without compromising performance.

Buying Guide for the Best Pool Solar Covers

Choosing the right pool solar cover can make a significant difference in maintaining your pool's temperature, reducing water evaporation, and keeping debris out. When selecting a pool solar cover, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and enjoy a more comfortable and efficient swimming experience.
MaterialThe material of a pool solar cover is crucial because it affects durability, heat retention, and overall performance. Common materials include polyethylene, polypropylene, and vinyl. Polyethylene is lightweight and affordable, making it suitable for mild climates. Polypropylene is more durable and offers better heat retention, ideal for moderate climates. Vinyl is the most durable and provides excellent heat retention, perfect for colder climates. Choose a material based on your climate and how often you plan to use the cover.
ThicknessThickness is an important factor as it influences the cover's insulation properties and durability. Pool solar covers typically range from 8 mils (thousandths of an inch) to 16 mils. Thinner covers (8-12 mils) are lighter and easier to handle, suitable for warmer climates where heat retention is less critical. Thicker covers (12-16 mils) provide better insulation and are more durable, making them ideal for cooler climates or if you want to maximize heat retention. Consider your climate and how much insulation you need when choosing the thickness.
ColorThe color of a pool solar cover affects its heat absorption and retention capabilities. Common colors include blue, clear, and black. Blue covers are popular for their balance of heat absorption and aesthetic appeal. Clear covers allow more sunlight to penetrate, providing better heat retention but may not be as effective at blocking debris. Black covers absorb the most heat and are excellent for warming the pool quickly, but they can make the water too hot in very sunny climates. Choose a color based on your preference for heat retention and how much sunlight your pool receives.
Size and ShapeGetting the right size and shape is essential for effective coverage and performance. Pool solar covers come in various sizes and shapes to fit different pool dimensions. Measure your pool accurately and choose a cover that matches those dimensions. Some covers can be trimmed to fit irregular shapes. Ensure the cover fits snugly to prevent heat loss and debris from entering the pool. Consider whether you need a custom-fit cover for uniquely shaped pools.
UV ProtectionUV protection is important because it extends the lifespan of the pool solar cover by preventing damage from the sun's rays. Covers with UV inhibitors are more resistant to wear and tear, ensuring they last longer and maintain their effectiveness. Look for covers that specifically mention UV protection, especially if your pool is exposed to a lot of direct sunlight. This feature is particularly important in sunny climates where UV exposure is higher.
Bubble DesignThe bubble design on a pool solar cover helps with heat retention and insulation. The bubbles trap heat and transfer it to the water, keeping the pool warm. Different covers have varying bubble sizes and patterns. Larger bubbles can provide better insulation but may be bulkier, while smaller bubbles are more flexible and easier to handle. Consider the bubble design based on your preference for ease of use and the level of insulation you need.

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