Best Solar Pool Covers for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: February 5th, 2024

☀️So, you're looking to keep your pool warm and clean without breaking the bank? A solar pool cover might just be what you need. These covers do a lot more than you might think: they reduce energy costs, cut down on water evaporation, and keep out all that annoying debris.

We’ve gone through heaps of reviews and data to find the best solar pool covers for 2024. From budget-friendly options to heavy-duty covers for huge pools, we've got choices to suit everyone.

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Overall Best: Sun2Solar 1200 Series Crystal Clear Round Cover

Sun2Solar Crystal Clear 14-Foot Round Solar Cover | 1200 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for In-Ground and above-Ground Round Swimming Pools | Use Sun to Heat Pool | Bubble-Side Down 14' Round Clear

Our top pick for 2024 is the Sun2Solar 1200 Series Crystal Clear Round Cover. Crafted from durable polyethylene and with a substantial thickness of 12 mils, this cover is resistant to tears and daily wear and tear. The clear design allows sunlight to penetrate deeper into the pool, effectively raising the temperature of the water. Available in various sizes, it's easy to find one that matches your pool dimensions. This cover excels in heat retention and can be easily trimmed for custom fits, making it a versatile and reliable option for most pool owners.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$69.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Sun2Solar 14-Foot Round Solar Cover? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How long does the Sun2Solar Crystal Clear 14-Foot Round Solar Cover typically last?
The **Sun2Solar Crystal Clear 14-Foot Round Solar Cover** is designed to capture the sun's energy and help keep your pool warm. It's suitable for both in-ground and above-ground pools and is described by the manufacturer as eco-friendly, helping you save on energy costs by reducing reliance on electricity or fossil fuels. As for how long it lasts, it's a bit of a mixed bag based on our research. Some folks notice wear and tear—like tearing or bubbles deteriorating—after just a season or two, which might happen due to rough weather or not handling it carefully. On the bright side, others have found it pretty durable, thanks to its thickness, especially in tougher conditions. To make it last longer, it's a good idea to handle it gently—maybe avoid dragging it across rough surfaces—and store it somewhere cool and dry when you're not using it. Giving it a clean with some mild soap and water could also help. So, while it's great for keeping your pool warm and reducing evaporation, the cover's lifespan can really depend on how you use and care for it. If your pool faces extreme conditions, just keep in mind you might find yourself getting a new cover every couple of seasons.
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How effective is the Sun2Solar Crystal Clear 14-Foot Round Solar Cover at heating pool water?
The Sun2Solar Crystal Clear 14-Foot Round Solar Cover seems to work pretty well for heating pool water, whether it's an in-ground or above-ground round pool. One handy thing is that it comes with a 2-4 inch overlap, according to the manufacturer's product description. This means you can cut it down to perfectly fit your pool size, which is really useful if your pool has unusual measurements. Our research shows this feature makes it quite adaptable. You can trim the cover without worrying about messing up its performance or warranty. For example, someone easily adjusted it to fit a 20-foot pool, and it still worked great. The cover is made from polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, which are known for being strong and good at holding heat. People have commented on how robust it is and how well it retains heat even after being custom fit to different pool sizes. As for performance, it's designed to cut down on water evaporation and keep heat in, which helps warm up your pool. While specific temperature increases aren't always detailed, the general vibe from many who have used it is satisfaction with both its heat retention and energy savings. Plus, because the cover is clear, it lets sunlight through while minimizing heat loss, which several folks really liked since it boosts the heating effect during the day. So, if you need a solar cover that's easy to customize and does a good job at keeping your pool warm, this one seems to be a reliable choice based on how it’s designed and the positive feedback we found.
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Is the Sun2Solar Crystal Clear 14-Foot Round Solar Cover easy to install and remove?
If you're thinking about getting the Sun2Solar Crystal Clear 14-Foot Round Solar Cover, it's good to know that it's designed to be pretty easy to put on and take off. Our research shows that the cover comes a bit larger than advertised. This is on purpose so you can have a 2-4 inch overlap, which you can trim down to fit your pool perfectly. Yeah, trimming might sound like extra work, but it turns out to be really helpful. Doing this helps the cover do its job better by keeping heat in, reducing water evaporation, and stopping debris from getting in. To trim it, lay the cover bubble-side down on your pool, mark the spots you need to cut with a permanent marker, and then trim it with some sharp scissors. Many people actually like this feature because it allows for a snug fit, which boosts the cover's effectiveness. And don't worry about warranties—trimming the cover doesn't void them. The manufacturer expects some customization. If you're new to trimming a solar cover, don't stress. Most people find it pretty easy and manageable. Even those who were initially nervous about it found it rewarding in the end. The benefits, like saving on evaporation and retaining more heat, typically outweigh any minor hassle. So, while you might have to do a bit of trimming, it's worth it for a snug fit that helps your solar cover work best for your pool.
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Runner-up: Blue Wave 12-Mil Round Solar Blanket

The Blue Wave 12-Mil Round Solar Blanket is our runner-up pick, providing excellent durability and performance. Made from a thick polymer material, this cover effectively blocks UV rays while utilizing its air bubbles to absorb and retain heat. It is available in multiple round sizes, perfect for those who want a robust and effective solution to keep their pool warm throughout the season. Users frequently praise its build quality and efficiency in maintaining pool temperatures.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$63.50 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Intex 18 Foot Round Easy Set Solar Cover

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 18 ft Cover

If you're looking for an affordable yet efficient option, the Intex 18 Foot Round Easy Set Solar Cover is your best bet. It's priced economically, offering moderate UV resistance to reduce evaporation and retain heat overnight. Its lightweight design simplifies handling and storage, fitting any 18-foot diameter circular pool perfectly. Though it isn't the thickest cover available, it delivers considerable benefits for the price, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious pool owners.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$39.17 at Amazon

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Still curious about the "Intex Solar Pool Cover for 18ft Pools"? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How long does the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover typically last?
So, if you're wondering about how long the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover typically lasts, it really depends on a few factors. The cover is made for [18ft round Easy Set](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dintex%2Beasy%2Bset%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Metal Frame Pools](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dmetal%2Bframe%2Bpools%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and does a great job at reducing water evaporation and keeping your pool water warmer. There are tiny holes that let some water through—perhaps to avoid water buildup on top. From what we've found, the cover uses air bubbles to soak up sunlight and transfer that warmth into your pool. It helps maintain the pool's temperature overnight and can lower water evaporation by up to 95%. A lot of folks seem to like how easy it is to manage, which is a plus when you're putting it on or taking it off the pool. As for how long it'll last, that's where the experiences can differ. Some people say it holds up for about two seasons, especially if the pool is in extreme weather or has high levels of chlorine or salt. This might be due to the lightweight plastic material, which is pretty common for budget-friendly pool covers. In the end, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover seems to offer decent value and functionality, but it's not completely watertight and its durability might vary. If you know what to expect in terms of how long it might last and take care of it, it could be a good option for covering your pool without breaking the bank.
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Does the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover keep debris out of the pool?
The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is a neat option for folks with 18ft round Easy Set and Metal Frame pools. It does a decent job of keeping leaves and other debris out of your pool, which is a big help if you're tired of fishing out stuff every day. The main deal with this cover is that it's designed to warm up your pool a bit by using solar energy, and it can cut down on water evaporation too. But a nice side benefit is that it works like a barrier against debris. The manufacturer mentions that it can help keep your pool cleaner, possibly reducing the need for as many chemicals because you won't be constantly dealing with unwanted leaves and such. We've seen a lot of positive feedback from pool owners mentioning how well it keeps stuff out. It's user-friendly since it's lightweight but still sturdy enough to handle. People generally find it easy to secure over the pool, thanks to its design with air bubbles, which help it float and insulate the water—making those early swims a bit cozier. Now, on the downside, a few people did report that it's not the sturdiest option out there and might wear out quicker, especially if you leave it out in bad weather for too long. It's fairly cheap at around $39.17, though, so some folks don't mind replacing it now and then instead of shelling out for a pricier cover. If you want to get more life out of it, some pool owners suggest folding it for smaller pools or using sheltered hooks to store it when it's not in use. If you're aiming for an economical way to keep your pool cleaner and maybe a bit warmer, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover could be a good fit, just keep the durability in mind.
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How effective is the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover at heating pool water?
The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is made for 18-foot round [Easy Set](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Deasy%2Bset%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Metal Frame Pools](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dmetal%2Bframe%2Bpool%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). It's pretty good at insulating the pool water and can reduce water loss from evaporation by up to 95%, while also keeping out debris. According to the manufacturer's description, the cover acts like a thermal blanket, capturing solar energy to warm the pool water and helping maintain the heat, which means you might rely less on other heating systems. Based on our research, most people agree that it does a solid job at keeping the water warm, even overnight. This gives you a nice, stable water temperature, making swimming much more enjoyable. Plus, it keeps a good amount of gunk out of the pool, which cuts down on cleaning time and chemical use. Some folks have pointed out that the cover might not last forever. Many have used it through several seasons without issues, but a few have noticed it wearing out quicker in harsh climates. So, while it's generally durable, how long it lasts can depend on your local weather and how you take care of it. The cover itself is made from hardy plastic and floats on the surface, so you don't need any special equipment to manage it. Lots of folks appreciate this since it makes using the cover straightforward—just throw it on or pull it off. If you're worried about its longevity, think about storing it carefully, maybe using [pool noodles](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dpool%2Bnoodles%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to protect it when it’s not in use, especially if your area gets severe weather. Overall, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is handy for naturally warming your pool water and keeping it clean. It's good for what it's designed to do, but paying a bit more attention to how it's handled and stored can help it stick around longer.
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Best for Heating: Blue Wave Solar Blanket for Rectangular In-Ground Pools

Blue Wave NS420 12-mil Solar Blanket, 16' W x 32' L x 0.5" H, Blue

For those primarily focusing on heating, the Blue Wave Solar Blanket for Rectangular In-Ground Pools is unmatched. This cover can increase pool temperatures by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit, making a significant difference in extending your swimming season. It also stands out for its ease of installation and removal, making it a practical and efficient solution for those who want to warm their pools with minimal effort.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$154.53 at Amazon

Best for Large Pools: Sun2Solar Clear Rectangle Solar Cover

Sun2Solar Clear 18-Foot-by-38-Foot Rectangle Solar Cover | 1600 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for In-Ground and above-Ground Rectangular Swimming Pools | Use Sun to Heat Pool | Bubble-Side Down… 18' x 38' Rectangle Clear

The Sun2Solar Clear Rectangle Solar Cover is the top choice for large pools. Covering an area of 25 x 50 feet, it’s designed for expansive pool spaces. The resin construction quickly raises water temperatures, and the integrated grommets help with water drainage and provide secure anchoring even on windy days. Pool owners frequently commend this cover's performance and ease of use, especially in more extensive pool setups.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$184.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Sun2Solar 18x38 Clear Solar Pool Cover? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How long does the Sun2Solar Clear 18' x 38' Rectangle Solar Cover typically last?
The Sun2Solar Clear 18' x 38' Rectangle Solar Cover is pretty handy if you're trying to keep your pool warmer for longer by using solar energy. It's made for both in-ground and above-ground pools and works like a blanket to trap heat. According to our research, the clear bubble design of the cover is quite efficient at capturing the sun's UV rays, which can raise your pool's temperature by about 5 to 8 degrees after a few sunny days. Nice for those cooler months when you still want to swim. As for how long this solar cover lasts, the feedback is a bit mixed. The manufacturer's warranty is between 7 to 10 years, but from what we found, it typically lasts around 2 to 3 years. Some people have mentioned issues with the bubbles and seams not holding up well, especially if they're always in the sun. That said, a lot of people like it for how well it warms the pool and cuts down on water evaporation. This makes it a useful addition if you're looking to conserve water alongside getting some extra heat. To help the cover last longer, it's a good idea to take care of it—things like storing it properly when you're not using it can help protect it from wear and tear. So, while it might not last forever, the Sun2Solar cover does a solid job at warming the pool and saving water, which many pool owners find worth it as they make the most of the solar benefits.
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How effective is the Sun2Solar Clear 18' x 38' Rectangle Solar Cover at heating pool water?
The Sun2Solar Clear 18' x 38' Rectangle Solar Cover does a pretty solid job at warming up pool water using the sun's energy. From what we've gathered, it successfully increases the water temperature, which can make swimming more pleasant and can even extend your swimming season. What stands out about this cover is how easy it is to customize. Folks really like that you can trim it to fit an irregularly shaped pool. The manufacturer mentions that you just need to mark where you want to cut and then trim it with scissors. This makes it easy to get a snug fit, which helps it work better. Regarding durability, the manufacturer claims it's a 1600 series cover, suggesting it's pretty sturdy due to its thickness. Some people have found it lasts for multiple seasons when cared for properly, although experiences vary. It seems keeping up with the care instructions is key to making sure it lasts. The cover is also good at holding the water's heat overnight, which can be a money-saver because it cuts down on the need to run pool heaters. Plus, it helps reduce water evaporation, which means you'll save on both water and pool chemicals. If this size isn't what you need, there are other sizes from Sun2Solar, like a [24' x 40' cover](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSun2Solar%2B24%2527%2Bx%2B40%2527%2Bcover%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which has similar features to accommodate larger pools. Overall, this Sun2Solar solar cover seems like a dependable choice for heating your pool while being easy to use and flexible enough for different sizes. Just remember that taking care of it properly is important for keeping it in good shape.
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Can the Sun2Solar Clear 18' x 38' Rectangle Solar Cover be trimmed to fit irregularly shaped pools?
Yep, you can absolutely trim the Sun2Solar Clear 18' x 38' Rectangle Solar Cover to fit pools that are a bit irregular in shape. The way the manufacturer describes it, it's built to be flexible, so you can cut it down to size for your unique pool shape. Pretty nifty if you're dealing with something other than a standard rectangle. The cover's got a smart design with little bubbles that really help to trap heat. This means your pool stays warmer longer and you save on water from evaporation. Our research shows that some folks have noticed their pool water getting warmer by a few degrees with this cover. As for the clear color, it’s a plus because it lets sunlight get through better, heating the pool more effectively than those blue covers. That's something people like Nan K. have pointed out. However, durability can vary. Some folks, like Dawn W., have used their [1600 Series cover](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D1600%2BSeries%2Bcover%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for multiple seasons without issues. But, others, like Edna C., saw it start wearing out within a few months because of the sun. To keep it in good shape, it might be a good idea to cover it up when it’s not in use. There is a warranty that can last up to 7 years, but be prepared to provide some proof if you encounter any issues—like taking pictures, according to our research. In the end, think about how your local weather and how you handle the cover will affect its longevity. If you take care of it and protect it from too much sun exposure when it's not on the pool, it should last longer and do its job well. It's definitely useful for keeping the pool warm and reducing evaporation; just a bit of TLC will go far in making sure it holds up.
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