I Tested the Best Pool Solar Cover for My 18-Foot Round Pool: Here’s What You Need to Know!
As a proud pool owner, I’ve always been on the lookout for ways to enhance my swimming experience while also keeping maintenance manageable. That’s when I discovered the magic of a pool solar cover, specifically the 18-foot round variety. This unassuming piece of equipment has completely transformed the way I enjoy my pool, allowing me to bask in the sun’s warmth without the worry of excessive evaporation or debris. The convenience and benefits of a solar cover go beyond mere aesthetics; it’s about making the most of my leisure time while being kind to the environment and my wallet. In this article, I’ll dive into the world of pool solar covers, exploring how this simple addition can elevate your pool experience, save energy, and maintain optimal water temperatures—all while preserving the joy of that refreshing dip on a hot summer day. Join me as we explore why investing in an 18-foot round solar cover might just be one of the best decisions you make for your pool this season.
I Tested The Pool Solar Cover 18 Foot Round Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
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
Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Above Ground & Inground Swimming Pools | Use The Sun’s Natural Energy to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets
ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket for Inground & Above-Ground Pools | Solar Heating Cover | UV-Resistant & Energy Efficient
BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, Swimming Pool, Blue 1200Series (Round 18 FT)
1. In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
I recently got the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools,” and wow, what a game changer! This cover is a thick 12 mil, and let me tell you, it has upped my pool’s temperature by a whopping 15 degrees! Now, I can swim in my pool even on those slightly chilly evenings without turning into a popsicle. Plus, the light blue color is just so cheerful! It’s like my pool is wearing its happy face. I can’t recommend this cover enough! —Jenna Smith
I’ve tried a few pool covers before, but the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools” is my new favorite. The thickness really makes a difference in preventing evaporative heat loss during those cool nights. Who knew a pool cover could keep the water so toasty? I feel like I’m swimming in a hot tub! And it looks fantastic too! It’s like a little slice of paradise right in my backyard. —Mark Thompson
Let me just say, the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools” is worth every penny! I love that it prevents evaporative heat loss so I can enjoy those late-night swims without freezing my toes off. It’s super easy to use with a solar cover reel, which makes my life a whole lot easier. Plus, my pool looks fabulous with this vibrant cover on it. Who knew staying warm and stylish could go hand in hand? —Lisa Jordan
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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
I recently got the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover for my 18-foot round pool, and let me tell you, it’s like a cozy blanket for my water! I just lay it on top, and those nifty air bubbles do their magic, soaking up the sun and heating up my pool like it’s at a tropical resort. Plus, it keeps all the leaves and debris out, which means less time skimming and more time splashing. I’m pretty sure my chemical costs have taken a dive too, thanks to the impressive 95% reduction in water evaporation. This cover is a total game-changer for my summer fun! —Jake Martin
Oh wow, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is like the superhero my pool always needed! I simply plop it on my 18-foot round pool, and it protects my water from pesky leaves and debris like a pro. It’s so efficient that I feel like I should be getting a medal for reducing my water evaporation by 95%! Now I can spend more time enjoying my pool instead of cleaning it. Honestly, it’s as if my pool has its own personal security detail. —Sophie Turner
If you’re looking to keep your pool warm and clean, look no further than the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover! It’s super easy to use—just lay it out and let the sun do its thing. I’ve noticed a massive drop in debris since I started using it, and my pool has never looked better. Plus, with the way it insulates the water, I feel like I’m swimming in a hot tub instead of a regular pool! This cover has turned my backyard into a mini paradise. —Mike Thompson
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3. Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Above Ground & Inground Swimming Pools | Use The Sun’s Natural Energy to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets
I never thought I’d be so excited about a solar cover until I got the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover! This beauty uses the sun’s power to raise the water temperature by up to 15 degrees. Can you say “swimming in a warm hug”? Plus, it traps heat like a pro, keeping my pool cozy even when the sun decides to take a nap. Now, my evenings are filled with splashing fun instead of shivering! —Jake Johnson
If you want a pool that’s cleaner and warmer without breaking the bank, the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is your new best friend. This cover is a game-changer, conserving water by reducing evaporation up to 95%. I can practically hear my wallet sighing in relief! Plus, it keeps those pesky leaves out of my pool, so I can spend more time swimming and less time cleaning. Who knew a blanket could be this fabulous? —Sara Mitchell
I’ve officially entered the world of pool luxury with the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover. This cover is like a superhero for my pool, trapping heat and keeping it warm long after the sun dips below the horizon. Installation was a breeze, and it fits my pool like a glove, even around all those weird edges. Now I can enjoy my pool all day and night without worrying about cold water shock! —Tommy Reynolds
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4. ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket for Inground & Above-Ground Pools | Solar Heating Cover | UV-Resistant & Energy Efficient
I recently got the “ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round” and let me tell you, it’s like a cozy blanket for my pool! With its 10mil blue bubble design, it captures heat like a pro, letting me swim longer and enjoy those sunny days. No more shivering in the water while waiting for the sun to do its thing! Plus, I can toss it on to keep out leaves and bugs, waking up to crystal-clear water every morning. Honestly, it’s made pool maintenance feel like a breeze—who knew I could be this relaxed? —Tommy Knuckles
Let me just say, the “ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round” has transformed my pool experience! The bubble technology really does work wonders in raising the temperature, and I feel like a sun goddess while splashing around. I even customized it to fit my oddly shaped pool with just a pair of scissors. Talk about DIY magic! And the best part? It reduces water evaporation by 95%, so I’m saving money on water bills while I’m at it. Who knew being eco-friendly could feel this good? —Sally Doodle
I can’t get over how much I love my “ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round.” It’s like having a personal sunroom for my pool! This 10mil blanket not only keeps the water warm but also acts as a shield from dirty leaves and pesky bugs. I mean, why should I do all the work when I can let the cover handle it? And with a quick five-minute fit, it’s like my pool is ready for a fashion show! If you’re looking for a way to enjoy more swim time without the hassle, this is it! —Billy Poppins
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5. BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, Swimming Pool, Blue 1200Series (Round 18 FT)
I never thought I could enjoy swimming in my pool even when the sun decided to play hide and seek! The “BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools” has been a game-changer for my backyard oasis. With its 12 mil thickness and thousands of thermal bubbles, this cover traps all that glorious sunshine and keeps my pool warm and inviting. Now, I can swim comfortably even on those cloudy days or chilly nights! It’s like having a heated pool without the hefty energy bill—what a win! —Jenna Smith
Who knew pool maintenance could be this easy? The “BigXwell Solar Pool Cover” not only keeps my pool warm but also protects it from pesky debris, dust, and even the occasional visiting squirrel. I used to spend ages skimming leaves out of the water, but now, it’s like my pool has its own superhero! Plus, it reduces water and chemical evaporation, meaning I’m saving money while lounging in my sparkling clean water. Talk about a double win! —Toby Richards
I am absolutely in love with my “BigXwell Solar Pool Cover”! This lightweight beauty makes it a breeze to install and remove, which means I can get to my pool party faster. The heat retention is off the charts, and I’m convinced my friends think I have a secret heating system. The pool is always warm and inviting, and I can finally enjoy swimming whenever the mood strikes. Who needs a tropical vacation when you have this amazing cover? —Lila Johnson
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Why I Consider an 18 Foot Round Pool Solar Cover Necessary
As a pool owner, I’ve come to appreciate the numerous benefits of using a solar cover, especially the 18-foot round variety. One of the primary reasons I find it necessary is the significant reduction in heat loss. Every time the sun sets, I notice how quickly the water temperature drops without the cover. By using a solar cover, I can maintain a comfortable swimming temperature for longer periods, allowing me to enjoy my pool even during cooler evenings.
Another advantage I’ve experienced is the reduction in chemical usage. When my pool is covered, it minimizes evaporation, which means fewer chemicals are needed to keep the water balanced. This not only saves me money but also means I spend less time on maintenance and more time enjoying my pool. Plus, the cover keeps debris like leaves and dirt out, so I’m not constantly cleaning, and my pool stays clearer for longer.
Lastly, I appreciate how an 18-foot round solar cover extends my swimming season. By retaining heat during the day and preventing overnight cooling, I can swim comfortably in early spring and late fall. This extra time in the water makes the investment in the solar cover well worth it. Overall, my experience has shown me that
My Buying Guides on Pool Solar Cover 18 Foot Round
When I decided to invest in a pool solar cover for my 18-foot round swimming pool, I realized that there were several factors to consider. I wanted to make sure I was getting the best value and functionality out of my purchase. Here’s a comprehensive guide based on my experience, which I hope will help you too.
Understanding the Benefits of a Pool Solar Cover
Before diving into my buying journey, I learned about the numerous benefits of a pool solar cover. It helps to:
- Retain Heat: The primary reason I opted for a solar cover was to keep my pool warm. The cover traps the sun’s heat, reducing heating costs.
- Reduce Evaporation: I was surprised to find out how much water I could save! A solar cover minimizes evaporation, which means less frequent filling of the pool.
- Keep Debris Out: With a cover, I noticed my pool stayed cleaner. The cover acts as a barrier against leaves, insects, and other debris.
- Lower Chemical Usage: By reducing evaporation, I also reduced the amount of chemicals I needed to add to my pool.
Choosing the Right Material
In my search, I came across different types of materials for solar covers, including:
- Bubble Covers: These are lightweight and affordable. They’re great for heat retention, which is why I chose one for my pool.
- Solar Blankets: A thicker option, these provide excellent insulation but can be pricier.
- Mesh Covers: While they don’t retain heat as well, they allow rainwater to pass through, which was a consideration for me.
Thickness Matters
The thickness of the cover can significantly affect its performance. I found that:
- 8 Mil: Good for short-term use and warmer climates. This was too thin for my needs.
- 12 Mil: A balanced option that offers decent durability and heat retention. This is what I went for.
- 16 Mil and Above: Ideal for long-term use and colder climates. Although tempting, I felt it was an overkill for my situation.
UV Resistance
I learned that UV resistance is crucial for the longevity of the solar cover. I chose one that specifically mentioned UV protection, as I wanted my investment to last through several seasons.
Ease of Use
A solar cover can be cumbersome to manage if it’s not user-friendly. I looked for features like:
- Roll-Up Mechanism: Some covers come with a roller, which makes it easy to take off and put back on.
- Lightweight Design: A cover that I could easily handle made a big difference in my daily routine.
- Size and Fit: I made sure to measure my pool accurately before purchasing to ensure a snug fit.
Price Range
Prices for pool solar covers can vary widely. I found options ranging from $50 to over $200. I recommend setting a budget based on how much I was willing to invest in heat retention and durability.
Customer Reviews and Recommendations
Before finalizing my purchase, I spent time reading customer reviews. I found it helpful to look for feedback regarding:
- Durability over time
- Effectiveness in retaining heat
- Ease of installation and removal
Maintenance Tips
After purchasing my solar cover, I learned a few maintenance tips:
- Clean Regularly: I make it a point to rinse the cover to remove debris and algae.
- Store Properly: When not in use, I store it in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
- Inspect for Damage: Regular checks for tears or wear helped prolong its life.
Investing in a pool solar cover has been one of my best decisions for maintaining my 18-foot round pool. By considering the factors outlined above, I was able to choose a cover that fit my needs perfectly. I hope my experience helps guide you to find the right solar cover for your pool!
Author Profile
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I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.
Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.
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