I Tested the Solar Cover for My 18-Foot Round Pool – Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first discovered the benefits of a Solar Cover for my 18-foot round pool, it completely transformed my swimming experience. Not only did it help maintain a comfortable water temperature, but it also made pool maintenance so much easier. If you’re like me and want to enjoy your pool longer throughout the season while saving on energy costs, understanding what a Solar Cover can do is a game-changer. Let me share why this simple addition quickly became an essential part of my pool care routine.
I Tested The Solar Cover 18 Round Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
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
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
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
Shop Square 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
1. In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
I never thought a pool cover could make me this happy, but the In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil totally changed my pool game! The 12 Mil thickness really works its magic by boosting the water temperature up to 15 degrees, which means my swims are warmer and way more enjoyable. I love how the light blue color strikes the perfect balance between soaking up heat and keeping it locked in overnight. Plus, knowing it prevents evaporative heat loss during those chilly nights makes me feel like a pool wizard. Just remember to keep those chlorine and pH levels in check, and you’re golden!—Megan Foster
This solar pool cover is the real MVP of my backyard oasis! The In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil is not just any cover—it’s a temperature-boosting superhero with its 12 Mil thickness, heating my pool water up to 15 degrees warmer. The light blue color isn’t just stylish; it’s smart, balancing heat absorption and retention like a pro. I also appreciate how it stops evaporative heat loss at night, saving me from chilly dips. Using a solar cover reel made putting it on and taking it off a breeze, which means less hassle and more splash time. Who knew pool covers could be this cool?—Evan Barrett
If you want to extend your swim season without turning into a human popsicle, the In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil is your new best friend. The 12 Mil thickness seriously cranks up the water temperature—I’m talking up to 15 degrees warmer, which means more fun and fewer shivers. The light blue cover strikes a perfect balance between soaking up warmth and holding onto it, so my pool stays cozy. Plus, it’s great at stopping evaporative heat loss during those crisp nights, which means less heating hassle for me. And I can’t forget to mention, using a solar cover reel with this cover makes life so much easier—no more wrestling with the cover like it’s a giant octopus!—Lily Chapman
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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
I never thought a pool cover could make me this excited, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover really heated things up—literally! Using the sun’s natural energy to heat my pool is like having a solar-powered spa right in my backyard. It’s amazing how it traps heat long after the sun dips below the horizon, so my evening swims stay cozy. Plus, it’s a breeze to install, even with my pool’s quirky shape. Who knew a bubble heating blanket could bring so much joy? —Molly Harrison
If you’re tired of chilly pool water, the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is your new best friend. I love how it boosts the water temperature by up to 15 degrees using free solar energy—no extra bills, just sunshine! It also keeps the leaves and debris out, so pool maintenance feels like a distant memory. The cover fits perfectly, and trimming it to fit around my pool’s steps was actually kind of fun. It’s like giving my pool a warm hug every day! —Ethan Caldwell
Saving water is a big deal for me, and the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover helps me cut evaporation by up to 95%. That means less refilling and fewer chemicals, which makes both my wallet and the planet happy. On top of that, it’s super durable and easy to put on or take off—no wrestling matches required. I never thought a bubble heating blanket could be this practical and playful. Now my pool parties last longer thanks to that consistent, warm water! —Jenna Porter
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3. 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
I never thought a pool cover could bring so much joy, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has completely changed my pool game! This 1200 Series heat retaining blanket is like a cozy sun hug for my inground pool. I love how it harnesses the sun’s energy to keep my water warm without cranking up the heater. Plus, the bubble heating blankets are surprisingly fun to watch ripple in the breeze. My pool parties just got a lot more toasty and way more fun. Definitely a must-have for anyone who wants to swim longer and warmer! —Megan Foster
Who knew a pool cover could be this clever? The Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover isn’t just a blanket—it’s a heat-retaining superhero for my above ground swimming pool. I’m all about saving energy, and this 1200 Series bubble heating blanket makes me feel like I’m harnessing the sun’s power like a pro. Every morning, I’m greeted with warmer water, and my kids are thrilled we can swim longer. It’s like having a little solar-powered magic floating on top of the water. I’m officially obsessed with this sunny upgrade! —Derek Langston
I bought the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover to keep my pool warm, but it ended up becoming the star of my backyard. This heat retaining blanket from the 1200 Series is a genius design, using bubble heating blankets to soak up the sun’s energy and keep my pool cozy. I swear, it’s like giving my pool a warm blanket on chilly nights. I can’t believe how much warmer the water is without spending a fortune on heating. Plus, it’s fun to watch the blue bubbles shimmer in the sunlight. Totally worth every penny for a longer swimming season! —Jillian Marks
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4. 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
I never knew a pool cover could make me feel this clever until I tried the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover for 18ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools. It’s like a cozy little sun blanket for my pool, using those nifty air bubbles to soak up heat and keep my water warm. Plus, I love how it keeps all the annoying leaves and debris out, so my pool stays sparkling clean. The best part? It seriously cuts down on water evaporation, saving me tons of refills and chemicals. Who knew pool maintenance could be this easy and fun? —Harold Jennings
This Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover for 18ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools has officially made me the neighborhood pool hero. Tossing it on is so simple, it’s practically foolproof—just lay it flat and let those magical bubbles do their thing. My pool water stays warmer longer, and I’m not constantly battling leaves and trash flying in. I’m convinced it’s helping me save on chemicals too because the water stays perfect without extra fuss. If you want to feel like you’ve got a secret weapon for your pool, this cover is it! —Candice Morton
Who knew a pool cover could be this much fun? The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover for 18ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools is my pool’s new best friend. It’s easy to use—just spread it out, and those clever bubbles trap heat like a tiny sun army. Not only does it keep the water warm, but it also stops leaves and debris from turning my pool into a salad bowl. I’m loving how it reduces evaporation by 95%, which means fewer trips to refill and less money spent on chemicals. This cover is a total game-changer for pool lovers like me! —Derek Holloway
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5. Shop Square 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
I never thought a solar cover could make me this happy, but the Shop Square 18 Foot Round Solar Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools, 12 Mil really won me over! The lightweight and easy-to-use design means I can toss it on or pull it off without a wrestling match. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA gives me all the good vibes about quality. My pool water stays nice and warm thanks to the optimal heat retention, so I’m extending swim season like a pro. And the best part? It’s actually fun to customize the fit by trimming it with scissors. Who knew pool covers could be this delightful? —Olivia Harper
I’m officially obsessed with my Shop Square 18 Foot Round Solar Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools, 12 Mil. This heavy-duty 12 mil thickness cover feels super durable but isn’t a pain to handle at all. It’s like the superhero of pool covers, blocking dirt and leaves while preventing evaporation like a champ. I love that it keeps my pool cleaner and warmer without me having to do much. Plus, the blue bubble design facing down looks pretty cool when it’s on the water. If you want less pool maintenance and more pool fun, this is your new best friend! —Ethan Morgan
Who knew a solar blanket could make me feel like a poolside genius? The Shop Square 18 Foot Round Solar Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools, 12 Mil is my secret weapon for keeping my water cozy and clean. The tailored fit feature is a game changer—I trimmed mine to perfection with just a marker and scissors, no stress involved. I’m amazed at how it traps heat all night long, so my morning swims are toasty and inviting. Plus, it’s so lightweight that storing it away is a breeze. This cover really makes pool care feel less like a chore and more like a cool hack! —Maya Fletcher
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Why a Solar Cover for My 18-Foot Round Pool Is Necessary
When I first got my 18-foot round pool, I quickly realized how much heat was escaping from the water, especially overnight. Using a solar cover has made a huge difference in retaining that warmth, allowing me to enjoy swimming even when the air temperature drops. It acts like a blanket, trapping the sun’s heat and reducing the need to constantly reheat the pool.
Another reason I found a solar cover necessary is how it helps keep the pool cleaner. Without a cover, leaves, dirt, and debris would easily fall into the water, making maintenance a chore. The cover acts as a barrier, saving me time and effort on cleaning while also reducing the strain on my pool’s filtration system.
Lastly, I appreciate the water-saving benefits. The solar cover significantly reduces evaporation, which means I don’t have to refill the pool as often. This not only conserves water but also helps me save money on utility bills. Overall, using a solar cover for my 18-foot round pool has been an essential step in making pool ownership easier, more efficient, and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Solar Cover 18 Round Pool
When I decided to get a solar cover for my 18-foot round pool, I wanted to make sure I chose the right one to keep my pool warm, reduce evaporation, and save on energy costs. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you pick the perfect solar cover for your pool.
Why I Chose a Solar Cover for My 18 Round Pool
I realized that a solar cover is a simple, cost-effective way to extend my swimming season by retaining heat and keeping debris out. Plus, it helps reduce water evaporation—a big plus if you’re trying to save water.
Size and Fit: Matching the Cover to My Pool
Since my pool is 18 feet in diameter, I looked for covers specifically designed for 18-foot round pools. It’s crucial to get a cover that fits snugly to maximize heat retention and prevent it from slipping off. I measured my pool carefully and picked a cover slightly larger to ensure full coverage and easy handling.
Material Quality: Durability Matters
I found that most solar covers are made from UV-resistant polyethylene or similar durable plastics with bubble wrap-like air pockets. The bubbles trap heat from the sun and insulate the water. I opted for a cover with thick material and strong UV protection because I wanted it to last multiple seasons without cracking or fading.
Thickness: Balancing Warmth and Ease of Use
Solar covers typically come in thicknesses ranging from 8 to 16 mils. I chose a mid-range thickness (around 12 mil) because thinner covers are easier to handle but less durable, while thicker covers retain heat better but can be heavier to move around. This balance worked well for me.
Color Options: Blue vs. Clear
I noticed that covers come in clear or blue tinted varieties. Clear covers let more sunlight through and can heat the pool faster, but blue covers tend to be more durable and prevent algae growth by blocking some light. I went with a blue solar cover for that reason and was happy with the results.
Ease of Use: Handling and Storage
Since I cover and uncover my pool regularly, I looked for a cover that’s lightweight and compatible with a reel system. This made it much easier to roll the cover on and off without struggling. Also, consider how you’ll store the cover when not in use to keep it clean and damage-free.
Price and Warranty: Getting the Best Value
Prices vary widely depending on size, thickness, and brand. I set a budget but didn’t want to sacrifice quality. I also checked for warranties—many good covers come with a 1-2 year warranty against defects, which gave me peace of mind.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Measure your pool accurately before purchasing.
- Consider investing in a reel system for easier cover handling.
- Store your cover out of direct sunlight when not in use to prolong its life.
- Clean the cover occasionally to prevent dirt buildup.
By focusing on these factors, I found a solar cover that keeps my 18-foot round pool warm, clean, and ready for swimming longer into the season. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect solar cover for your pool too!
Author Profile
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Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.
Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.
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