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 Pool Solar 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

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
Chosen by1,232
Material
Size and Shape

Most important from
32571 reviews

Material
Despite being made from inexpensive materials, it maintains good condition and performance over extended use.
Size and Shape
This solar cover keeps pool water clean and warm simultaneously, making it an ideal fit for small round pools.

The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is designed to fit 18-foot round pools, especially Intex Easy Set and Metal Frame types. Made from durable plastic, it uses air bubbles to capture and transfer the sun’s heat into the pool water, helping to keep your pool warm while reducing water evaporation by up to 95%. This not only conserves water but also cuts down on the chemicals needed to maintain the pool. Its blue color is common for solar covers and helps with heat absorption and UV protection.

The floating design and round shape make it easy to lay on the pool surface, and it’s lightweight at just over 8 pounds, allowing for simple handling during installation or removal. While it reduces debris, it’s not a hard safety cover, so it won’t prevent accidental falls into the pool. The cover is water-resistant and should be cleaned regularly to avoid mildew.

If you have an 18-foot round pool and want an affordable, easy-to-use solar cover that helps keep your water warm and clean while lowering evaporation and chemical use, this product fits those needs well. However, those needing extra thickness or a stronger safety feature might want to explore other options.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,232
Material
Size and Shape

Most important from
32571 reviews

Material
Despite being made from inexpensive materials, it maintains good condition and performance over extended use.
Size and Shape
This solar cover keeps pool water clean and warm simultaneously, making it an ideal fit for small round pools.
#2

In The Swim 24' Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

Rating
10.0
Thickness

Most important from
892 reviews

Thickness
Thick and durable, the cover is designed to endure and effectively maintain pool temperature, even if it requires some adaptation for perfect fit.

The In The Swim 24' Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover is a practical choice for those looking to extend their pool use by harnessing solar energy. With an 8 Mil thickness, this cover effectively raises pool water temperature by up to 10 degrees, offering a longer swimming season. The light blue color balances heat absorption and retention, making it efficient in maintaining warmer water. Additionally, it helps prevent heat loss during cooler nights, which is crucial for keeping your pool at a comfortable temperature. However, it's important to note that this cover should only be used under specific chemical conditions—chlorine levels below 2.5 ppm and pH levels above 7.2—to avoid damage.

Ease of use is improved with a solar cover reel, which can minimize wear and tear and simplify handling. The cover's manual installation might require some effort, especially considering its large 24-foot diameter, but it is manageable with a bit of patience. This product ranks high in its category, indicating customer satisfaction and reliability. Weighing 23 pounds, it is substantial but not unwieldy for regular use.

Made from resin, the cover likely offers good durability and resistance to the elements. Its round shape is suitable for both above ground and inground pools, providing versatility in application. Those looking for an effective way to conserve pool heat and reduce evaporation without high maintenance costs will find this solar cover a worthwhile investment. However, potential buyers should ensure they meet the pool's chemical requirements to maximize the cover's lifespan and effectiveness.

Rating
10.0
Thickness

Most important from
892 reviews

Thickness
Thick and durable, the cover is designed to endure and effectively maintain pool temperature, even if it requires some adaptation for perfect fit.
#3

Sun2Solar Blue 20 ft x 40 ft Rectangle Solar Cover | 1200 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Rectangular Inground & Above Ground Swimming Pools | Use Sun to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets

Rating
9.9
Material
Size and Shape

Most important from
10404 reviews

Material
It held up through two winters but started to deteriorate with bubbles breaking off and eventual tearing by the third year.
Size and Shape
The cover fits well for rectangular pools and can be trimmed to fit slightly different shapes, though durability may suffer.

The Sun2Solar Blue 20 ft x 40 ft Rectangle Solar Cover is designed for rectangular inground and above-ground pools, offering effective solar heating and protection. Made from durable resin material, this cover features a bubble design that traps heat efficiently, helping raise the pool temperature by up to 15 degrees and retaining warmth overnight. Its blue color is common for solar covers and helps with sunlight absorption. Sized to fit a 20 by 40-foot pool, it provides good coverage and includes extra overlap to fit around any pool protrusions.

The cover also significantly reduces water evaporation—up to 95%—which helps save water and lowers chemical use. It prevents leaves and debris from entering the pool, reducing cleaning efforts. While the cover is lightweight enough for easy installation and removal, it weighs about 40 pounds, which might require some care during handling. The material requires hand washing, so it needs gentle maintenance compared to more durable pool covers.

This product represents a solid choice for pool owners looking for an affordable way to keep water warm using free solar energy, especially if the pool size matches the cover dimensions. For those with non-rectangular pool shapes or who need a cover with enhanced durability or automatic features, it may be beneficial to consider other options.

Rating
9.9
Material
Size and Shape

Most important from
10404 reviews

Material
It held up through two winters but started to deteriorate with bubbles breaking off and eventual tearing by the third year.
Size and Shape
The cover fits well for rectangular pools and can be trimmed to fit slightly different shapes, though durability may suffer.

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.

FAQ