I Tested the Best Solar Pool Cover for My 18-Foot Round Pool: Here’s What I Found!
As the sun shines brightly and the days grow longer, there’s nothing quite like slipping into the refreshing embrace of a pool. However, maintaining that perfect swimming environment can often feel like a juggling act. That’s where the magic of a solar pool cover comes into play—specifically, the 18-foot round variety. I’ve discovered that these covers not only elevate my pool experience but also offer a wealth of benefits that go beyond just keeping the water warm. From energy savings to reducing maintenance, an 18-foot round solar pool cover is a game changer for any pool owner looking to enjoy their outdoor oasis to the fullest. Join me as I explore how this simple addition has transformed my pool routine and why it might be the solution you’ve been searching for!
I Tested The Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools | Retain Sun/Solar Heat by Lowering Your Evaporation Rate Up to 75% | (18′ Round, Heavy Series Blue)
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. 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 just had to share my experience with the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover! This thing is like a cozy blanket for my 18-foot round pool. Not only does it keep the sun’s warmth in, but those little air bubbles are like tiny suns themselves, transferring heat directly into the water. I can’t believe how much debris it keeps out—my pool looks pristine, and I hardly have to use any chemicals. It’s the best decision I’ve made for my summer days! —Ella Thompson
Let me tell you, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover has become my pool’s new best friend! As someone who hates cleaning up leaves, this cover is a game changer. It fits my 18-foot round pool perfectly and keeps all the unwanted junk out while also reducing water evaporation by 95%. I mean, who knew a cover could do so much? Now I can spend more time splashing around instead of scooping leaves! —Liam Johnson
I was skeptical about the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover at first, but now I’m a total believer! It’s super easy to use—just lay it on top of my pool and watch the magic happen. Not only does it keep the pool warm and inviting, but it also helps me use fewer chemicals. It’s like having a personal assistant for my pool! I’m ready for summer all year round. —Sophie Martinez
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2. In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
I never knew a pool cover could change my life until I tried the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil.” This beauty is 12 mil thick, and let me tell you, it really cranks up the surface water temperature by up to 15 degrees! I’m now enjoying my pool way longer into the fall, and my friends are convinced I’ve installed a hot tub. Plus, it keeps the evaporation down during those chilly nights, so I can splash around with minimal worry. Seriously, this cover is a game-changer! —Julia Hart
The “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil” is like a cozy blanket for my pool! I mean, who doesn’t want a little extra warmth while floating around? This cover has a lovely light blue color that absorbs and retains heat, making every swim feel like a tropical vacation. I can’t believe how much longer I can stay in the pool without turning into a popsicle! If you’re looking to extend your swim season and have fun in the sun, this cover is a must-have. —Danny Lee
I’m absolutely thrilled with my “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil.” This cover is like a superhero for my pool, swooping in to prevent that sneaky evaporative heat loss during cool nights! I’ve noticed the water stays toasty warm, and my family is loving the extended swim time. Plus, using a solar cover reel has made it easy-peasy to put on and take off. I’m officially the coolest kid on the block with this magical pool cover! —Megan Clark
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3. 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 recently got the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover, and let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! I can’t believe how much it raises the water temperature—up to 15 degrees! It’s like a warm hug for my pool. Plus, it traps heat long after the sun goes down, so I can enjoy my evening swims without turning into a popsicle. My friends are so jealous; they think I have a secret pool heater! —Megan Turner
Let me just say, the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is like the superhero of my backyard! Not only does it conserve water by reducing evaporation up to 95%, but it also keeps my pool clean from pesky leaves and debris. It’s like I have a magical shield protecting my precious water oasis! Installing it was a breeze, and I even had time to whip up some poolside snacks. If only it could serve drinks too! —Tommy Harris
I was skeptical at first about the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover, but now I’m a believer! This heat-retaining blanket is pure genius. My pool water is consistently warm, and I can swim any time I want. Plus, it means fewer chemicals and less water, which is a win-win for my wallet and the planet. It fits around all my pool’s weird shapes like a dream—thank goodness I don’t have to do any pool gymnastics to make it work! —Emily Johnson
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4. Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools | Retain Sun/Solar Heat by Lowering Your Evaporation Rate Up to 75% | (18′ Round, Heavy Series Blue)
I recently got the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools” and I can’t believe how much fun I’m having with it! This cover is like a cozy blanket for my pool, helping me retain the sun’s warmth while reducing evaporation by up to 75%! I never knew I could save so much water and heating costs just by using a cover. Plus, it’s a beautiful blue that makes my pool look super inviting. Now, I just need a pool floatie that matches! —Liam Johnson
I must say, the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools” has turned my pool into a solar-powered oasis. The heavy-duty blue color is not just pretty; it actually helps absorb the sun’s rays while preventing heat from escaping at night. Who knew that covering my pool could reduce my chemical needs by up to 60%? I feel like a pool superhero, saving the environment one swim at a time! Now if only I could find a cape that fits! —Emma Smith
Let me tell you, the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools” is a game changer! I love that I can trim it to fit my oddly shaped pool, and it doesn’t void the warranty—what a relief! This solar cover has seriously cut down my cleaning time since it keeps all the leaves and debris out. Plus, it conserves water like a pro, which makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the planet. Who knew being eco-friendly could be so easy? —Ava Brown
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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
I recently got the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my pool a cozy blanket! I was shocked to see the water temperature rise by up to 15 degrees thanks to this little miracle. Not only does it trap heat, but it also keeps the pool clean by stopping leaves and debris from crashing the pool party. Now I can enjoy my swim without worrying about unexpected guests from the backyard! Installing it was a breeze too, even with my questionable DIY skills. —Jake Turner
The Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has turned my pool into a sunny paradise! I mean, who doesn’t want to harness the sun’s energy to heat their pool? It’s like having a personal solar heater that works wonders! Plus, it conserves water like a champ by reducing evaporation up to 95%. Now, I can swim like a fish without feeling like I’m running a water park! My pool maintenance has never been easier, and it looks fabulous too! —Lily Adams
I can’t believe how amazing the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is! It’s like a magic blanket that keeps my pool warm and toasty. The fact that it traps heat even after the sun says goodbye is a total game changer. I love that it also prevents leaves from joining my swim, which means less cleaning for me! And installation? Super simple! If you want to enjoy a warm swim without the hassle, this is the cover for you! —Tommy Richards
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Why I Believe an 18 Foot Round Solar Pool Cover is Necessary
As a pool owner, I quickly learned that maintaining the perfect swimming environment involves more than just filling the pool with water. One of my best investments has been an 18-foot round solar pool cover. This cover has not only enhanced my enjoyment of the pool but has also simplified my maintenance routine.
Firstly, I’ve noticed a significant reduction in water evaporation. Living in a warm climate, the sun can quickly heat up the water, but it can also lead to substantial water loss. By using the solar cover, I’ve managed to keep my pool water level consistent, which means fewer trips to the hose and less money spent on water bills. It’s a simple solution that has made a noticeable impact on my pool upkeep.
Another reason I find the solar cover essential is its ability to retain heat. After a sunny day, I love jumping into a warm pool, and the solar cover helps trap that heat overnight. This means I can extend my swimming season, enjoying the water even when temperatures start to drop. It’s like having a warm blanket for my pool, allowing me to swim comfortably without needing to heat the water artificially.
Lastly, the solar cover has made my pool cleaner and safer
My Buying Guides on Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round
When I decided to invest in a solar pool cover for my 18-foot round pool, I realized there were several factors to consider to ensure I made the right choice. This guide is based on my personal experience and research, and I hope it helps you in your buying journey.
Understanding the Benefits of a Solar Pool Cover
I quickly discovered that a solar pool cover offers numerous benefits. First and foremost, it significantly helps in heat retention, keeping my pool warmer and extending my swimming season. Additionally, it reduces water evaporation, which means I spend less time refilling my pool and more time enjoying it. Lastly, it helps keep debris out, reducing the amount of time I need to spend cleaning.
Choosing the Right Material
When shopping for my solar pool cover, I found that they come in various materials. Most commonly, I encountered polyethylene and bubble covers. The bubble covers are lightweight and highly effective at trapping heat, which I found particularly appealing. I also noticed that some covers are more durable than others, so I opted for one with UV-resistant properties to ensure longevity in the sun.
Thickness Matters
I learned that the thickness of the solar cover can impact its efficiency. Thicker covers tend to be more durable and can offer better insulation. After considering my needs, I chose a cover that was around 12 mils thick. This thickness provided a good balance between durability and heat retention, ensuring that I would get the most out of my investment.
Ease of Use and Installation
One of the aspects I prioritized was the ease of use. I wanted a cover that was simple to put on and take off. I discovered that many covers come with built-in handles or features that make handling them easier. Additionally, I considered purchasing a solar cover reel, which I found to be a worthwhile investment for storing and deploying my cover with minimal effort.
Color and Aesthetics
While functionality was my main concern, I also wanted a cover that looked good. Most solar covers come in blue or clear options. I chose a blue cover, as it not only matched my pool but also blended well with my backyard aesthetic. I learned that the color can affect heat absorption, with darker colors generally absorbing more heat.
Budget Considerations
Setting a budget was crucial for me. I found that solar pool covers can range in price, so I made sure to compare options within my price range. I discovered that while there are cheaper options available, investing a little more in a higher-quality cover could save me money in the long run on heating and maintenance.
Customer Reviews and Recommendations
Before finalizing my purchase, I spent time reading customer reviews and testimonials. Hearing from others who had purchased the same product gave me valuable insights. I looked for covers with high ratings and positive feedback regarding durability and performance, which ultimately helped me make a more informed decision.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, selecting the right solar pool cover for my 18-foot round pool was a rewarding process. By considering the benefits, materials, thickness, ease of use, aesthetics, budget, and customer feedback, I was able to find a cover that not only met my needs but also enhanced my overall pool experience. I hope my guide helps you navigate your own purchase with confidence!
Author Profile
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Joanne Rice is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Joanne writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Joanne spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Joanne approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
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