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10 Best Pool Solar Covers 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

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

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.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,217
Thickness

Most important from
901 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.
#2
9.8 score

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

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.

Rating
9.8
Material
Size and Shape

Most important from
32579 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.
#3
9.8 score

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

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.

Rating
9.8
Material
Size and Shape

Most important from
10407 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.

Top 10 Best Pool Solar Covers 2025 in the United States

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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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