We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Solar Pool Covers 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

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.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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
9.7
Chosen by1,252
Material
Thickness

Most important from
810 reviews

Material
The sturdy material holds up well over multiple seasons, providing reliable performance in sunny climates.
Thickness
Effectively retains heat overnight, helping maintain warmer pool temperatures even during cooler nights.

The BigXwell Solar Pool Cover is a 16-mil thick polyethylene cover designed for in-ground pools, measuring 16 by 32 feet in a rectangular shape. Its blue color helps it absorb and trap solar heat effectively, which warms your pool on sunny days and helps maintain temperature when it's cloudy or cool. This makes it a great choice if you want to swim in warmer water without extra heating costs. The cover features thousands of small thermal bubbles that boost heat retention and reduce water evaporation by up to 95%, saving you from frequent refills and water waste.

It’s lightweight and easy to handle, and can be trimmed with scissors to fit pools of various shapes, adding versatility. The material is durable enough to withstand harsh weather, but since it's polyethylene, it requires gentle care like hand washing and air drying to maintain longevity. One downside is that it floats on the water and doesn’t have a rigid locking system, so it may shift during windy conditions. Also, while the cover offers good insulation and UV protection, it’s primarily suited for use during the warmer months and may not be as effective in extreme cold.

If you have a rectangular in-ground pool and want a cost-effective way to keep your water warm and reduce evaporation, this cover offers a combination of durability and practical features that make it a solid choice.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,252
Material
Thickness

Most important from
810 reviews

Material
The sturdy material holds up well over multiple seasons, providing reliable performance in sunny climates.
Thickness
Effectively retains heat overnight, helping maintain warmer pool temperatures even during cooler nights.
#2

In The Swim 20' x 40' Premium Blue Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

Rating
9.4
Material
Thickness
Color

Most important from
701 reviews

Material
The cover is sturdy and weighs just enough to be durable while remaining manageable to put on the pool surface solo.
Thickness
The material thickness provides reliable heat retention and protection from evaporative loss, supporting longer swimming seasons.
Color
Designed to optimize heat absorption without causing overheating, the light blue color balances warmth and protection.

The In The Swim 20' x 40' Premium Blue Rectangle Solar Pool Cover is designed to help warm your pool water by up to 15 degrees, thanks to its 12 mil thickness. This thickness strikes a good balance, making it durable enough to retain heat and protect the pool water from evaporative loss during cooler nights. The light blue color is chosen to optimize heat absorption without overheating, which can be a plus for extending your swimming season in both above-ground and inground pools.

The rectangular size covers standard pools well, and its material is made to handle typical pool conditions, but it’s important to maintain proper water chemistry—chlorine below 2.5 ppm and pH above 7.2—to avoid damage to the cover. Using a solar cover reel is recommended to make handling easier and to prolong the cover’s life by reducing wear and tear. Customers rate it positively, reflecting satisfaction with its performance and value.

Weighing nearly 50 pounds, the cover can be a bit heavy, which might make it tricky to handle without assistance. This cover is suitable for pool owners looking for a reliable and effective way to heat their pool and reduce water evaporation, especially if they are mindful of pool chemistry and use accessories like a reel for convenience.

Rating
9.4
Material
Thickness
Color

Most important from
701 reviews

Material
The cover is sturdy and weighs just enough to be durable while remaining manageable to put on the pool surface solo.
Thickness
The material thickness provides reliable heat retention and protection from evaporative loss, supporting longer swimming seasons.
Color
Designed to optimize heat absorption without causing overheating, the light blue color balances warmth and protection.
#3

Solar Pool Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools - 18' x 36' Rectangle 12 Mil Solar Blanket for Inground Pool, Blue

Rating
9.2
Material
Size and Shape

Most important from
399 reviews

Material
The sealed binding on both sides enhances durability compared to previous models that had cut edges through the bubbles.
Size and Shape
It fits well with a slight oversize that ensures nearly full water coverage and good heat retention.

This 12-mil thick solar pool cover is made from durable vinyl and plastic, which is standard for solar blankets and helps it last through regular use. Its blue color is attractive and effective for heat absorption, which means it can help warm your pool water so you can swim comfortably even during cooler days. Sized at 18 by 36 feet and shaped as a rectangle, it fits many inground and above-ground pools, and you can trim it to fit irregular shapes, though cutting might require some care.

One of its strong points is its ability to reduce up to 95% of water evaporation, which saves water and means less refilling for you. It also acts as a barrier against leaves and dirt, keeping your pool cleaner and reducing maintenance. Users find it easy to handle and put on or remove, which is handy for everyday use. However, since it is made of vinyl and plastic, it might be a bit heavy at nearly 49 pounds, so moving or storing it could require some effort.

This cover is a solid choice if you're looking to keep your pool warm, save water, and reduce cleaning time, especially if you want a versatile option that can fit different pool shapes.

Rating
9.2
Material
Size and Shape

Most important from
399 reviews

Material
The sealed binding on both sides enhances durability compared to previous models that had cut edges through the bubbles.
Size and Shape
It fits well with a slight oversize that ensures nearly full water coverage and good heat retention.

Buying Guide for the Best Solar Pool Covers

Choosing the right solar pool cover can make a significant difference in maintaining your pool's temperature, reducing water evaporation, and keeping debris out. Solar pool covers use the sun's energy to heat your pool, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution. When selecting a solar pool cover, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and maximize the benefits of your solar pool cover.
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 lightweight and budget-friendly, go for polyethylene; if you need durability and better 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. Thicker covers (12-16 mils) are more durable and provide better heat retention, but they can be heavier and more difficult to handle. Thinner covers (8-12 mils) are lighter and easier to manage but may not last as long or retain heat as effectively. If you live in a region with a mild climate and prioritize ease of use, a thinner cover may be sufficient. However, if you experience cooler temperatures and want maximum heat retention, a thicker cover is a better choice.
ColorThe color of a solar pool cover can influence its heat absorption and retention properties. Clear covers allow more sunlight to penetrate the water, which can lead to better heat absorption but may not retain heat as effectively overnight. Blue covers are the most common and offer a good balance between heat absorption and retention. Darker covers, such as black or dark blue, absorb more heat and retain it longer, but they can also cause the water to become too warm in hot climates. Choose a color based on your climate and heating needs: clear or blue for moderate climates, and darker colors for cooler regions where maximum heat retention is desired.
Size and ShapeEnsuring that your solar pool cover fits your pool properly is essential for optimal performance. Solar pool covers come in various sizes and shapes to accommodate different pool dimensions. Measure your pool accurately and choose a cover that matches its size and shape. Some covers can be trimmed to fit irregularly shaped pools. A well-fitting cover will provide better heat retention, reduce water evaporation, and keep debris out more effectively. If you have a standard-shaped pool, finding a cover will be straightforward. For custom or irregular shapes, look for covers that can be easily trimmed or customized.
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 wear and tear, fading, and degradation. This means they will last longer and maintain their effectiveness over time. When choosing a solar pool cover, look for one that specifically mentions UV protection in its specifications. This is especially important if you live in a region with high sun exposure, as it will ensure your cover remains durable and functional for a longer period.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now