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10 Best Pool Solar Covers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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
10.0
Chosen by1,380
Material
Size and Shape

Most important from
10280 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
10.0
Chosen by1,380
Material
Size and Shape

Most important from
10280 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.
#2

INTEX 28013E Solar Pool Cover: for 15ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools – Insulates Pool Water – Reduces Water Evaporation – Keeps Debris Out – Reduces Chemical Consumption

Rating
10.0
Material
Thickness

Most important from
32296 reviews

Material
This solar cover is surprisingly durable, lasting more than one season where others failed, making it a great value for the price.
Thickness
It fits well and is thick enough to provide effective heat retention for round above ground pools.

The INTEX 28013E Solar Pool Cover is designed specifically for 15-foot round pools, making it a great choice if you have an Easy Set or Metal Frame pool of this size. Made from durable polyethylene material, it features a blue color and floating design with built-in air bubbles that help trap solar heat and transfer it into the pool water. This bubble design is important because it acts like insulation, reducing water evaporation by up to 95% and helping to keep your pool water warmer naturally. The cover also offers protection against debris like leaves and trash, which can save you time cleaning and reduce the need for extra chemicals.

While the cover doesn’t explicitly mention UV protection in the specs, the polyethylene material and bubble layer help block some sunlight, slowing down water evaporation and chemical breakdown. The 15-foot round shape fits the pool snugly, but it won’t work well if your pool is a different shape or size. Installation is easy—just lay it flat on the water surface—and it’s lightweight at 5 pounds, so handling is simple. Customers generally find the cover effective and good value, with many highlighting its efficiency at warming pools and cutting chemical use.

One downside is that it requires some care to avoid tearing, as polyethylene can puncture if handled roughly. Also, it doesn’t include extra safety features like locking mechanisms, so it’s mainly for heat retention and debris protection rather than pool safety. If your pool matches the size and shape, this cover provides a reliable, budget-friendly solution to extend your swimming season and reduce maintenance.

Rating
10.0
Material
Thickness

Most important from
32296 reviews

Material
This solar cover is surprisingly durable, lasting more than one season where others failed, making it a great value for the price.
Thickness
It fits well and is thick enough to provide effective heat retention for round above ground pools.
#3

In The Swim 18' x 36' Premium Blue Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

Rating
9.9
Color
Size and Shape

Most important from
395 reviews

Color
The light blue color design allows sunlight to pass through efficiently while retaining heat during cooler nights.
Size and Shape
Cutting the cover to fit your pool size may be necessary, but trimming it precisely before installation improves the fit and performance.

The In The Swim 18' x 36' Premium Blue Rectangle Solar Pool Cover is designed to heat your pool efficiently while reducing water evaporation. Made from durable polyethylene material with a thickness of 12 mil, it can raise your pool water temperature by up to 15 degrees, allowing for a longer swimming season. The light blue color allows the sun’s heat to pass through while retaining warmth during cooler nights.

Its rectangular shape and large size fit most above-ground and inground pools of similar dimensions, making it a versatile choice. The cover helps prevent evaporative heat loss, conserving water and energy. It is best used when your pool’s chlorine and pH levels are within recommended ranges to avoid damage.

The cover floats and is easy to place on the water, but removing it without a reel might be cumbersome due to its size and weight (about 51.5 pounds). Using a solar reel is recommended to make handling easier and to extend the cover’s life. Some users may find the care instructions require attention, as it needs hand washing and careful storage. This cover provides a practical and effective way to warm your pool and reduce water loss, though it requires proper maintenance and chemical balance.

Rating
9.9
Color
Size and Shape

Most important from
395 reviews

Color
The light blue color design allows sunlight to pass through efficiently while retaining heat during cooler nights.
Size and Shape
Cutting the cover to fit your pool size may be necessary, but trimming it precisely before installation improves the fit and performance.

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.

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