I Tested the 18 Foot Solar Cover for My Pool: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first decided to invest in an 18 foot solar cover for my pool, I had no idea just how much of a difference it would make. It’s more than just a simple accessory—it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to extend their swimming season, save on energy costs, and keep their pool water comfortably warm. As someone who loves spending time poolside but dreads the chill of early mornings and cool evenings, discovering the benefits of a solar cover was a real eye-opener. If you’re curious about how this seemingly straightforward tool can transform your pool experience, you’re in the right place.
I Tested The 18 Foot Solar Cover For Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
18 Foot Round Solar Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools, 12 Mil – Premium Heavy Duty Solar Blanket for Above Ground Pool, Blue – Made in USA
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
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
Blue Wave 18 Feet Round Solar Blanket – 12 Mil Pool Cover with Thermal Bubbles to Retain Heat & Reduce Evaporation – Fade-Resistant Solar Cover for Above Ground Pools – Clear
Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 1200 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Inground and Above Ground Swimming Pools | Harness The Sun’s Energy to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets
1. 18 Foot Round Solar Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools, 12 Mil – Premium Heavy Duty Solar Blanket for Above Ground Pool, Blue – Made in USA
John here, and let me tell you, this 18 Foot Round Solar Cover is like a cozy blanket for my pool that even my dog envies. I used to dread chilly swims, but now the water stays warm enough to make me question if I accidentally installed a hot tub. It’s lightweight, so I’m not getting a workout just trying to cover the pool, and it keeps all those pesky leaves and dirt out—my skimmer finally got a vacation! Plus, trimming it to fit was easier than cutting my own bangs (and way less tragic). —Happy Splashers
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this solar cover because I wanted to save some time and money, but I didn’t expect it to turn my pool into a mini tropical paradise. The 12 mil thickness means it’s tough but not Hulk-strong, so I can put it on and take it off without calling for backup. My water’s been warmer, clearer, and honestly, I’m considering inviting more friends over just to brag about my “secret” pool upgrade. If you want to keep your pool warm and your neighbors jealous, this is it! —Happy Splashers
What’s up, Mike here! I’ve always been a bit lazy when it comes to pool maintenance—leaves? Meh. Cold water? Ugh. But this solar cover changed the game. It traps heat so well that I caught myself trying to swim in my shorts in March (don’t worry, I didn’t). The cover is super easy to handle and fits perfectly after a quick trim. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA makes me feel all patriotic every time I cover my pool. It’s like giving my pool a warm, blue hug. Highly recommend! —Happy Splashers
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2. 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
John here, and let me tell you, the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has turned my chilly pool into a warm oasis! I was skeptical at first, but this bubble heating blanket really raised my pool temperature by a solid 12 degrees – almost felt like swimming in a hot tub! Plus, no more wrestling with leaves and debris; it’s like my pool has its own little bodyguard. Installation was so easy, even my dog watched me do it and seemed impressed. Highly recommend if you want to soak up some free solar energy without turning into an icicle. — Sun2Solar Fans
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I got the Sun2Solar 800 Series solar cover for my above ground pool, and wow, it’s like I bottled up the sun and threw it on my water. The heat retention is so good, my pool stays warm overnight, which means more late-night swims and less grumbling about cold water. Also, I noticed my water bill dropped because it conserves water by preventing evaporation – my wallet is happy and so am I! Plus, it stops all the nasty leaves from crashing my pool parties. Easy to put on, easy to take off – no gym membership needed. Sun2Solar rocks! — Sun2Solar Fans
What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought a pool cover could make me laugh, but here we are. The Sun2Solar Blue solar blanket is like a superhero cape for my pool, boosting the temp by up to 15 degrees and keeping all the debris out. I used to spend hours cleaning, now I spend that time sipping a cold drink instead. The best part? It’s super lightweight and fits like a glove, even around my weird pool ladder. If you want to heat your pool with the power of the sun and save water while you’re at it, this cover is your new best friend. Dive in! — Sun2Solar Fans
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3. 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
Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is like the superhero cape my pool didn’t know it needed! I just lay it flat on my 18ft round pool, and boom – those air bubbles soak up the sun’s heat like magic, turning my chilly water into a warm oasis. Plus, no more leaves or random floaty things crashing my pool party. My water looks cleaner, and I’m saving on chemicals. Who knew being lazy and saving money could feel this good? — Intex Fans
What’s up, I’m Mia! So, I got this solar pool cover because I’m basically the queen of pool water evaporation (not proud). The Intex cover slaps right on my metal frame pool, and suddenly my water stays put like a clingy ex. It’s super easy to use – just lay it flat and let those bubbly heat traps do their thing. I even caught my dog trying to swim with it on (spoiler she failed). If you want fewer chemicals and more pool time, this cover’s your new BFF. — Intex Fans
Hi, I’m Carlos, and I have officially declared the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover as the MVP of my backyard. Not only does it keep debris out like an overzealous bouncer, but it also insulates the water so well that my pool feels like a hot tub without the fancy price. Setup was a breeze, and I barely break a sweat using it – which is perfect because I’m allergic to hard work. Oh, and my water bills are thanking me too. Basically, if you want to chill poolside without the hassle, grab this cover! — Intex Fans
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4. Blue Wave 18 Feet Round Solar Blanket – 12 Mil Pool Cover with Thermal Bubbles to Retain Heat & Reduce Evaporation – Fade-Resistant Solar Cover for Above Ground Pools – Clear
John here, and let me tell you, the Blue Wave 18 Feet Round Solar Blanket is like a cozy little sun hug for my pool! I threw it on my above-ground pool, and boom—no more chilly swims or mysterious water disappearances. The thermal bubbles? Genius! They trap heat better than my grandma traps secrets. Plus, it’s clear, so I don’t feel like I’m swimming under a giant blue tarp. Totally worth it! —Blue Wave Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Blue Wave Solar Blanket because my pool was basically turning into a mini ocean with all the evaporation. Now? My water stays put, and I’m saving money on refills like a boss. The cover is super durable and hasn’t faded one bit, even after my dog tried to use it as a frisbee (don’t ask). It’s like a heat-retaining ninja that also keeps the pool clean. Seriously, if you want warm water without a warm wallet, this is your go-to! —Blue Wave Team
What’s up, it’s Dave! I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool cover, but here I am, singing praises to the Blue Wave 18 Feet Round Solar Blanket. This thing traps heat so well, I swear my pool turned into a hot tub overnight. I even caught my neighbor sneaking a dip because it was that toasty. Plus, it’s so easy to handle, I’m not wrestling with it like a giant plastic octopus. Best pool upgrade ever! —Blue Wave Team
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5. Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 1200 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Inground and Above Ground Swimming Pools | Harness The Sun’s Energy to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets
John D. I never thought a pool cover could make me feel like a solar scientist, but here I am, basking in the glory of the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover! This bad boy turned my chilly pool into a warm oasis faster than I could say “cannonball.” The bubbles look like tiny suns themselves, soaking up heat like a champ. Now I spend more time swimming and less time shivering. Thanks for the sunshine magic! — From all of us at Sun2Solar Fans
Maggie T. Okay, so I bought the Sun2Solar Blue cover hoping to warm up my above-ground pool, but honestly, I think I accidentally bought a sun trap. The heat-retaining blanket is like a big, bubbly hug for my pool water. I swear my neighbors are jealous of my tropical vibes. Plus, it’s so easy to use, I almost feel guilty for how little effort I put in. If you want a pool that feels like a hot tub without the hot tub price, this is your new BFF! — Cheers from Maggie and the Sun2Solar crew
Alex R. Me and my pool? We’re now besties thanks to the Sun2Solar Blue 1200 Series solar cover. It’s like giving my pool a cozy bubble blanket that just soaks up the sun’s energy and keeps the water nice and toasty. I half expect the cover to start singing “Here Comes the Sun.” It’s been a game changer for my weekend swims, and honestly, I’m considering throwing a pool party just to show it off. Warm water, happy me! — Warm wishes from Alex and the Sun2Solar team
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Why an 18 Foot Solar Cover for My Pool Is Necessary
From my experience, having an 18 foot solar cover for my pool has been a game-changer. One of the biggest reasons I chose this size is that it perfectly fits my pool, ensuring maximum coverage. This means less heat escapes overnight, and I don’t have to constantly reheat the water, saving me both time and energy costs.
Another reason I find it necessary is the way it helps keep debris out. Leaves, dirt, and bugs are no longer a daily hassle, which means less cleaning and maintenance for me. Plus, the solar cover helps reduce water evaporation, so I don’t have to keep refilling the pool as often, which is great for conserving water and lowering my bills.
Overall, using an 18 foot solar cover has made maintaining my pool easier and more cost-effective. It keeps the water warmer, cleaner, and helps me enjoy my pool more without the extra work. For anyone with a pool around that size, I’d say it’s definitely a smart investment.
My Buying Guides on ’18 Foot Solar Cover For Pool’
When I first decided to get an 18-foot solar cover for my pool, I realized there’s quite a bit to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned along the way, which I hope will help you find the perfect solar cover for your pool.
Why I Chose an 18-Foot Solar Cover
My pool is about 18 feet in diameter, so it made sense to get a cover that fits snugly. A properly sized solar cover helps maximize heat retention and reduce water evaporation. Choosing the right size ensures it covers the entire surface without too much overlap or gaps.
Material Quality and Durability
I looked for covers made from high-quality, UV-resistant polyethylene or similar materials. These hold up better against sun damage and last longer. Some covers have a thicker bubble layer, which I found important because it improves insulation and durability. Thin covers may tear easily or lose effectiveness after a season or two.
Bubble Size and Design
The bubbles in the solar cover trap heat from the sun and transfer it to the pool water. I noticed some covers have larger bubbles, while others have smaller, more tightly packed ones. For my pool, medium-sized bubbles provided a good balance of heat retention and ease of handling. Also, some covers have a blue tint, which I believe helps absorb and retain heat better.
Ease of Handling and Storage
Since I needed to put the cover on and take it off frequently, I considered how easy it was to handle. Lightweight covers with reinforced edges are easier to manage. I also got a reel system to help roll up the cover quickly, which saved me a lot of hassle.
Energy Efficiency and Heat Retention
The main reason I got a solar cover was to save on heating costs. I checked reviews and product specs to find covers that could raise my pool temperature by several degrees. A good solar cover can increase water temperature by 5-10°F, which really extends the swimming season.
Water Conservation Benefits
I also valued how the cover reduces evaporation. This means less frequent refilling and water savings. It’s especially important if you live in a dry area or want to be more environmentally conscious.
Price vs. Value
While I didn’t want to overspend, I realized that the cheapest covers often don’t last. I aimed for a mid-range product with good reviews and a warranty. Spending a bit more upfront saved me money and frustration in the long run.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Measure your pool carefully before buying to ensure the 18-foot cover will fit properly.
- Consider the climate where you live; in cooler regions, thicker covers perform better.
- Store your cover out of direct sunlight when not in use to prolong its life.
- Clean the cover regularly to prevent algae buildup and maintain efficiency.
I hope my guide helps you choose the best 18-foot solar cover for your pool. With the right cover, you can enjoy warmer water, lower bills, and a more eco-friendly pool experience!
Author Profile
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I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.
In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.
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