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10 Best Pool Solar Heaters 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Sun2Solar Blue 24 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
10.0
Chosen by1,428
Heating Capacity
Installation Type
Durability and Materials

Most important from
4098 reviews

Heating Capacity
The cover raises pool water temperatures significantly, turning cool pools into warm, inviting swimming spots even on cooler evenings.
Installation Type
The fit is precise for round pools up to 24 feet, making installation and removal effortless and ensuring the cover stays in place even in windy conditions.
Durability and Materials
Its durable, thick material promises long-lasting use, outperforming cheaper alternatives that deteriorate quickly and cause maintenance issues.
Efficiency
It effectively retains heat overnight while preventing up to 95% of water evaporation, which also reduces the need for frequent refilling and chemical use.

The Sun2Solar Blue 24 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is designed to help raise your pool’s water temperature by up to 15 degrees using solar energy. It acts as a heat-retaining blanket that also minimizes heat loss overnight. Made of durable plastic with a lightweight design, it’s easy to place and remove, fitting round pools up to 24 feet across. Besides heating, it conserves water by preventing up to 95% of evaporation, which also reduces the need for chemicals and refilling. It helps keep debris like leaves out of your pool, cutting down on cleaning time.

While this cover doesn’t have traditional solar panels, its bubble design efficiently captures and holds heat from the sun. This makes it suitable for both inground and above-ground pools, fitting well with most pool systems without complicated installation. However, because it’s a cover rather than a solar collector panel, it may not heat the water as quickly or as much as dedicated solar panel heaters with larger surface areas.

The material is sturdy enough for regular use, but it may need gentle cleaning and proper storage to maintain its lifespan. This product provides a practical and affordable way to boost your pool’s warmth while saving on water and chemical use, especially for those who prefer a low-maintenance solution rather than a full solar heating system.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,428
Heating Capacity
Installation Type
Durability and Materials

Most important from
4098 reviews

Heating Capacity
The cover raises pool water temperatures significantly, turning cool pools into warm, inviting swimming spots even on cooler evenings.
Installation Type
The fit is precise for round pools up to 24 feet, making installation and removal effortless and ensuring the cover stays in place even in windy conditions.
Durability and Materials
Its durable, thick material promises long-lasting use, outperforming cheaper alternatives that deteriorate quickly and cause maintenance issues.
Efficiency
It effectively retains heat overnight while preventing up to 95% of water evaporation, which also reduces the need for frequent refilling and chemical use.
#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

Rating
10.0
Heating Capacity
Durability and Materials

Most important from
32386 reviews

Heating Capacity
The cover significantly heats the pool water, turning it into a hot tub on sunny days.
Durability and Materials
Easy to handle and strong, the cover effectively keeps the pool warm overnight and free from debris.

The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is designed for 18ft round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools. One of its standout features is its simplicity in use; you just lay it on top of your pool and let the air bubbles absorb and transfer heat from the sun to the pool water. This cover excels in protecting the pool from debris, reducing water evaporation by 95%, and minimizing chemical consumption, which can save you money over time.

It's constructed from durable plastic that ensures longevity and is designed to float, making the installation process straightforward. However, it's important to note that while it insulates the pool water, it may not provide the same heating capacity as more sophisticated solar heaters with multiple panels. Additionally, the cover primarily serves to keep the pool clean and maintain water temperature rather than significantly heating the pool.

It's water-resistant and easy to clean, but you must ensure proper maintenance to avoid mildew. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to keep your pool clean and reduce evaporation, this cover is a solid choice. However, if substantial heating is your primary goal, you might need to consider additional solar panels for more effective results.

Rating
10.0
Heating Capacity
Durability and Materials

Most important from
32386 reviews

Heating Capacity
The cover significantly heats the pool water, turning it into a hot tub on sunny days.
Durability and Materials
Easy to handle and strong, the cover effectively keeps the pool warm overnight and free from debris.
#3

BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, Blue 16-mil 12 x 24 Foot Rectangle Solar Blanket for In-Ground Pools, 1600 Series Heavy-Duty Insulating Pool Heater Covers for Swimmer

Rating
9.7
Heating Capacity
Durability and Materials

Most important from
684 reviews

Heating Capacity
This is the best pool cover in 45 years, with its thicker material making it easier to handle and effectively heating the pool.
Durability and Materials
After 2 years of use, the cover shows no signs of deterioration and retains heat exceptionally well, allowing swimming even on cooler days.

The BigXwell Solar Pool Cover is a well-rounded option for those looking to naturally heat their in-ground swimming pools while cutting down on energy costs. The cover is designed with 16-mil thickness and thousands of thermal bubbles to efficiently harness and retain heat from the sun, making it a great choice for maintaining a comfortable pool temperature even on cloudy days or cooler nights. This can reduce your reliance on traditional, more costly heaters and lower your energy bills. Additionally, the cover helps protect your pool from dirt, debris, and unwanted guests, which can decrease maintenance efforts and costs over time.

By minimizing water and chemical evaporation by up to 95%, it also ensures you won't need to constantly refill your pool or add chemicals, saving further resources and costs. Installation is simple, as it merely floats on the water's surface, and its lightweight makes removal and storage straightforward. However, it is worth noting that due to its polyethylene material, it might not be as durable as some other materials under extreme weather conditions over the long term.

This product is particularly suitable for pool owners who prioritize energy efficiency, ease of use, and maintenance reduction. The cover comes in a standard 12x24 foot size, which is perfect for most in-ground pools.

Rating
9.7
Heating Capacity
Durability and Materials

Most important from
684 reviews

Heating Capacity
This is the best pool cover in 45 years, with its thicker material making it easier to handle and effectively heating the pool.
Durability and Materials
After 2 years of use, the cover shows no signs of deterioration and retains heat exceptionally well, allowing swimming even on cooler days.

Buying Guide for the Best Pool Solar Heaters

Choosing the right pool solar heater can significantly enhance your swimming experience by extending your pool season and maintaining a comfortable water temperature. When selecting a pool solar heater, 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 your pool to the fullest.
Heating CapacityHeating capacity refers to the amount of heat the solar heater can generate and transfer to your pool. This is important because it determines how effectively the heater can warm your pool water. Heating capacity is usually measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) or square footage of the solar panels. Larger pools require higher heating capacities. To choose the right one, consider the size of your pool and the desired temperature increase. For small to medium-sized pools, a lower capacity may suffice, while larger pools will need a higher capacity to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Panel Size and NumberThe size and number of solar panels determine the surface area available to capture sunlight and convert it into heat. This is crucial because more surface area generally means more heat generation. Panels come in various sizes, and the number you need depends on your pool size and the climate of your location. In sunny regions, fewer panels may be needed, while in cooler or less sunny areas, more panels will be necessary. Assess your pool's surface area and local climate to decide the optimal panel size and number for efficient heating.
Installation TypeInstallation type refers to how and where the solar panels are installed. This can be on the roof, ground, or mounted on a rack. The installation type is important because it affects the efficiency and convenience of the system. Roof installations save space and can be more efficient due to better sun exposure, while ground installations are easier to access for maintenance. Consider your available space, ease of access, and sun exposure when choosing the installation type. Roof installations are ideal for limited ground space, while ground or rack-mounted systems are suitable for easy maintenance.
Durability and MaterialsDurability and materials refer to the construction quality of the solar panels and other components. This is important because durable materials ensure a longer lifespan and better performance. Common materials include UV-resistant plastics, aluminum, and copper. High-quality materials withstand harsh weather conditions and prolonged sun exposure. When choosing, consider the climate and environmental conditions of your area. Opt for materials that offer resistance to corrosion, UV damage, and wear and tear to ensure your solar heater lasts longer and performs reliably.
EfficiencyEfficiency measures how effectively the solar heater converts sunlight into usable heat for your pool. Higher efficiency means more heat is generated with less sunlight. This is important for maximizing the performance of your solar heater, especially in areas with less consistent sunlight. Efficiency is often indicated by the design and technology used in the panels. Look for systems with high-efficiency ratings, especially if you live in a region with variable weather. Higher efficiency systems are ideal for maximizing heat output and maintaining a comfortable pool temperature with minimal sunlight.
Compatibility with Pool SystemCompatibility with your existing pool system ensures that the solar heater integrates seamlessly with your pool's pump and filtration system. This is important to avoid any operational issues and ensure efficient heating. Compatibility involves matching the flow rate and pressure requirements of the solar heater with your pool system. Check the specifications of your pool pump and filter to ensure they can handle the additional load of the solar heater. Choose a system that is designed to work with your pool's existing setup to ensure smooth operation and optimal performance.

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