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10 Best Solar Swimming Pool Covers 2025 in the United States

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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
10.0
Chosen by1,158
Thickness
Size and Shape
Ease of Use

Most important from
860 reviews

Thickness
The solar cover is impressively thick and sturdy, offering great value with durability that promises several seasons of use.
Size and Shape
The cover fits well and can be trimmed to perfectly suit different pool sizes, providing flexible and customized coverage.
Ease of Use
The lightweight design allows one person to maneuver the cover easily, making pool maintenance hassle-free.

The BigXwell Solar Pool Cover is designed to warm and protect in-ground pools by using its 16-mil thick polyethylene material with thousands of thermal bubbles that capture and retain solar heat efficiently. Its bright blue color and rectangular shape fit pools up to 16 by 32 feet, but it can also be trimmed to better suit other sizes or shapes, which adds flexibility. The cover floats on the water surface, making it simple to put on and remove without hassle.

A key benefit is its ability to reduce water evaporation by about 95%, helping you save water and reduce the need to refill frequently. The material is lightweight yet durable enough to withstand harsh weather, although being polyethylene, it may eventually show wear if exposed to strong sun or rough handling over time. Users appreciate the ease of use and heat retention, but keep in mind it’s best suited for summer use and may not replace a heater in colder climates.

The product provides a practical and cost-effective way to keep your pool temperature stable and reduce maintenance, especially if your pool matches the size range or you don’t mind trimming the cover to fit.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,158
Thickness
Size and Shape
Ease of Use

Most important from
860 reviews

Thickness
The solar cover is impressively thick and sturdy, offering great value with durability that promises several seasons of use.
Size and Shape
The cover fits well and can be trimmed to perfectly suit different pool sizes, providing flexible and customized coverage.
Ease of Use
The lightweight design allows one person to maneuver the cover easily, making pool maintenance hassle-free.
#2

Sun2Solar Blue 20 ft x 40 ft Rectangle Pool Solar Cover | 1600 Series | Heat Retaining Solar Blanket | for Heating Rectangular Inground & Above Ground Swimming Pools | Includes 6 Heavy-Duty Grommets

Rating
8.8
Material
Bubble Design
Ease of Use

Most important from
1108 reviews

Material
The plastic bubbles gradually dissolve over time, limiting the cover’s useful life to about a year, which is typical for solar blankets.
Bubble Design
The plastic bubbles gradually dissolve over time, limiting the cover’s useful life to about a year, which is typical for solar blankets.
Ease of Use
The cover is easy to trim for a custom fit and simple to install and remove due to its lightweight, floating design.

The Sun2Solar Blue 20 ft x 40 ft Rectangle Pool Solar Cover is designed for rectangular inground and above-ground pools. Made from durable resin material with a solid blue color, it offers good heat retention by using solar energy to warm the pool water by up to 15 degrees. Its bubble design traps heat effectively, helping maintain a consistent temperature even after sunset. This cover also reduces water evaporation by up to 95%, which saves water and reduces the need for chemicals.

Sized at 20 by 40 feet, it fits large pools and includes six heavy-duty grommets for secure placement, though trimming might be needed for pools with unusual shapes or features. Installation is straightforward, as it floats on the water and is lightweight, making it easy to put on and remove. One downside is that it requires hand washing to maintain, and as a floating cover, it doesn’t provide a full physical barrier like safety covers might.

While it prevents debris such as leaves from entering the pool, it’s not a substitute for a solid safety cover. It has a solid 4-star rating from users, making it a reliable choice for pool owners looking to extend their swimming season and save on water and heating costs without complicated installation.

Rating
8.8
Material
Bubble Design
Ease of Use

Most important from
1108 reviews

Material
The plastic bubbles gradually dissolve over time, limiting the cover’s useful life to about a year, which is typical for solar blankets.
Bubble Design
The plastic bubbles gradually dissolve over time, limiting the cover’s useful life to about a year, which is typical for solar blankets.
Ease of Use
The cover is easy to trim for a custom fit and simple to install and remove due to its lightweight, floating design.
#3

Sun2Solar Blue 16 ft x 32 ft Rectangle Solar Cover | 1200 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Rectangular Inground & Above Ground Swimming Pools | Use Sun to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets

The Sun2Solar Blue 16 ft x 32 ft Rectangle Solar Cover is a well-regarded option for those looking to retain heat in their swimming pools and reduce water evaporation. Made from durable polyethylene (PE), the cover is designed to trap heat effectively, raising the pool water temperature by up to 15 degrees and retaining warmth overnight. This is especially beneficial for extending the swimming season or enjoying warmer water without relying heavily on traditional heating methods.

Another significant advantage is its ability to prevent up to 95% of water evaporation, which not only conserves water but also reduces the need for chemical additives and pool maintenance time. The cover also helps keep leaves and debris out of the pool, ensuring it stays cleaner for longer periods between cleanings.

Measuring 16 feet by 32 feet, this rectangular cover is suitable for both inground and above ground pools of similar dimensions. The bubble design on the cover aids in heat retention and makes it lightweight enough for easy installation and removal. The blue color may not suit everyone's aesthetic preferences, but it is effective in absorbing and retaining heat. While some users have mentioned difficulty in handling and storage due to its size and weight, which is 26 pounds, its ability to float seamlessly and the additional overlap for a snug fit around pool edges and protrusions add to its ease of use.

Buying Guide for the Best Solar Swimming Pool Covers

Choosing the right solar swimming pool cover can make a significant difference in maintaining your pool's temperature, cleanliness, and overall efficiency. Solar pool covers use the sun's energy to heat the water, reduce evaporation, and keep debris out. When selecting a solar pool cover, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
MaterialSolar pool covers are typically made from durable plastic or vinyl materials that can withstand exposure to sunlight and chemicals. The material is important because it affects the cover's durability and effectiveness in heating the pool. Thicker materials generally offer better insulation and longer lifespan, while thinner materials may be less expensive but might not last as long. Choose a material that balances durability and cost based on how often you use your pool and the climate in your area.
ThicknessThe thickness of a solar pool cover is measured in mils (thousandths of an inch). Thicker covers (12-16 mils) provide better insulation and are more durable, making them ideal for colder climates or pools that are used frequently. Thinner covers (8-12 mils) are lighter and easier to handle but may not offer as much heat retention or durability. Consider your pool usage and climate when deciding on the thickness; if you need more heat retention and durability, opt for a thicker cover.
Size and ShapeSolar pool covers come in various sizes and shapes to fit different pool dimensions. It's crucial to measure your pool accurately and choose a cover that matches its size and shape. A well-fitting cover ensures maximum efficiency in heating and protecting your pool. If your pool has an irregular shape, you may need to look for customizable or cut-to-fit options. Ensure the cover you choose can cover the entire surface of your pool without leaving gaps.
ColorSolar pool covers are available in different colors, such as blue, clear, and black. The color can affect the cover's ability to absorb and retain heat. Clear covers allow more sunlight to penetrate and can heat the pool more effectively, while blue covers offer a balance between heat absorption and durability. Black covers provide the highest heat retention but may be less aesthetically pleasing. Choose a color based on your preference for heat retention and the look you want for your pool.
Bubble DesignMost solar pool covers feature a bubble design, which helps to trap heat and insulate the pool. The size and pattern of the bubbles can vary, with larger bubbles generally providing better heat retention. Smaller bubbles may be more flexible and easier to handle. Consider the bubble design based on your need for heat retention and ease of use. If you prioritize maximum heat retention, opt for covers with larger bubbles.
Ease of UseEase of use includes how easy it is to put on, take off, and store the solar pool cover. Some covers come with reels or other mechanisms to assist with handling. If you plan to use the cover frequently, look for features that make it easy to manage, such as lightweight materials or built-in handles. Consider your physical ability and how often you'll be using the cover when evaluating ease of use.

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