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10 Best Pool Solar Covers 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, Blue 16-mil 18x36 Foot Rectangle Pool Heaters for In-Ground Pools, 1600 Series Heavy-Duty Insulating Pool Heater Cover for Swimmer

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,265
Thickness
Bubble Design

Most important from
903 reviews

Thickness
The cover’s heavy-duty, thick construction ensures it lasts significantly longer than thinner alternatives.
Bubble Design
Its thoughtful design minimizes water loss by allowing steam to condense and return to the pool.

The BigXwell Solar Pool Cover is designed to help heat in-ground pools naturally by capturing the sun’s energy. Made from durable polyethylene material, it offers a thick 16-mil construction which provides strong insulation and helps retain heat effectively. Its large size (18 by 36 feet) and rectangular shape make it suitable for many in-ground pools. The cover’s blue color is common in solar covers and helps absorb sunlight to warm the pool water. It floats on the surface and features a heavy-duty design that resists damage from weather, while remaining lightweight enough to handle easily for installation and removal.

By reducing evaporation of water and chemicals, it also helps save on maintenance and costs. The cover protects the pool from debris like leaves and dust, keeping it cleaner. Some users might find the large size a bit heavy at about 57 pounds, so it might require two people to manage comfortably. This solar cover is a sturdy, affordable option for pool owners looking to extend their swimming season with safer chemical use and lower energy bills, though those wanting specialized UV protection or bubble patterns might want to explore other models.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,265
Thickness
Bubble Design

Most important from
903 reviews

Thickness
The cover’s heavy-duty, thick construction ensures it lasts significantly longer than thinner alternatives.
Bubble Design
Its thoughtful design minimizes water loss by allowing steam to condense and return to the pool.
#2

BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, Blue 16-mil 16 x 32 Foot Rectangle for In-Ground Pools, 1600 Series Heavy-Duty Insulating Pool Heater Covers.

Rating
9.1
Material
UV Protection

Most important from
903 reviews

Material
The material is sturdy and effectively raises and maintains the pool temperature overnight.
UV Protection
Even after two years in South Florida, the cover has shown no signs of deterioration.

The BigXwell Solar Pool Cover is designed to harness solar energy to heat your pool. Its 16-mil thickness and thermal bubble design are effective in trapping heat from the sun, which can warm up the pool during sunny days and maintain the temperature during cooler nights. The polyethylene material promises durability and longevity, even under harsh weather conditions, while also being lightweight and easy to install or remove.

The blue color of the cover not only looks appealing but also contributes to UV protection, which is crucial for minimizing water evaporation – claimed to be reduced by up to 95%, helping conserve water significantly. Additionally, the cover can be trimmed to fit pools of various shapes, making it versatile for both in-ground and above-ground pools.

However, at 50.9 pounds, it might be a bit heavy for some users to handle. Given its size of 16 x 32 feet, it is suitable for larger pools. This cover is a robust option for those looking to efficiently heat their pool and reduce water evaporation, with the flexibility of fitting different pool shapes and sizes.

Rating
9.1
Material
UV Protection

Most important from
903 reviews

Material
The material is sturdy and effectively raises and maintains the pool temperature overnight.
UV Protection
Even after two years in South Florida, the cover has shown no signs of deterioration.
#3

VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 28 x 14 ft Rectangle Solar Cover 16 mil for Pools, Inground Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar Blanket with Bubble, Heat Retaining Solar Covers Blue

Rating
8.5
Material
Thickness
Size and Shape

Most important from
512 reviews

Material
Constructed from thick material, this cover feels more durable and well-made than previous versions.
Thickness
While strong and protective, the cover can feel somewhat heavy to handle during placement and removal.
Size and Shape
The cover fits perfectly without any need for trimming, making installation hassle-free.
UV Protection
Designed to resist fading and sun damage, it supports long-term use with proper care.
Bubble Design
The bubble design not only retains heat but also helps keep leaves and debris out, reducing cleaning efforts.

The VEVOR Solar Pool Cover is a practical choice for pool owners wanting to extend their swimming season by keeping water warmer. Made from durable 16 mil thick polyethylene, its blue color and bubble design efficiently absorb and retain heat, potentially raising water temperature by 8-15°C. The tiny bubbles also help reduce water evaporation by up to 95%, saving water and cutting down on heating costs. Measuring 28 by 14 feet, this rectangular cover fits most pools and is easy to customize by cutting to shape, which makes it flexible for various pool sizes and types. It’s designed to resist fading and damage from prolonged sun exposure, supporting long-term use.

Additionally, by keeping leaves and debris out, it helps lower cleaning efforts. On the downside, at 29 pounds, it can be somewhat heavy to handle, and as a floating cover, it might require occasional adjustment. While it’s strong and protective, users need to clean and store it properly to maintain its performance. For those seeking an affordable, sturdy solar cover that balances heat retention and water conservation, this product fits well, especially for rectangular pools needing an easy-to-fit, reliable solution.

Rating
8.5
Material
Thickness
Size and Shape

Most important from
512 reviews

Material
Constructed from thick material, this cover feels more durable and well-made than previous versions.
Thickness
While strong and protective, the cover can feel somewhat heavy to handle during placement and removal.
Size and Shape
The cover fits perfectly without any need for trimming, making installation hassle-free.
UV Protection
Designed to resist fading and sun damage, it supports long-term use with proper care.
Bubble Design
The bubble design not only retains heat but also helps keep leaves and debris out, reducing cleaning efforts.

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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