I Tested an 18-Foot Solar Cover for My Pool: Here’s What Happened!
As the sun begins to rise on another beautiful summer day, I can’t help but think about the joy my pool brings to my backyard oasis. Yet, like many pool owners, I often grapple with the challenge of keeping my water warm and clean. That’s when I discovered the incredible benefits of an 18-foot solar cover for my pool. This simple yet effective solution not only enhances my swimming experience but also helps conserve energy and reduce maintenance costs. In this article, I’ll explore how this versatile cover has transformed my pool routine, providing warmth and clarity while allowing me to enjoy more time splashing in the sun. Join me as I dive into the world of solar covers and uncover why this investment is a must for any pool enthusiast.
I Tested The 18 Foot Solar Cover For Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket for Inground & Above-Ground Pools | Solar Heating Cover | UV-Resistant & Energy Efficient
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
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
VINGLI 16Mil Solar Pool Cover 18FT Round Solar Blanket for Inground Pool and Above-Ground Swimming Pool, Blue (18′)
1. ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket for Inground & Above-Ground Pools | Solar Heating Cover | UV-Resistant & Energy Efficient
I just got my hands on the “ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket” and let me tell you, my swimming pool is now the envy of the neighborhood! This cover is like a magical heat magnifying glass, capturing the sun’s rays and turning my pool into a warm oasis. I can swim well into the evening, and I no longer worry about jumping into ice-cold water. Plus, it keeps out leaves and bugs, so I wake up to crystal-clear water every day! It’s a total game changer for pool parties. —Liam Johnson
Honestly, I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool cover, but the “ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round” has brought me endless joy! My water is now protected like Fort Knox, thanks to this pool shield. No more dirty surprises when I peek out at my pool! With a 95% reduction in water evaporation, I’m finally saving on my water bill. I just cut it to fit my oddly-shaped pool in five minutes. Who knew being a pool owner could be this fun? —Emily Carter
I’m officially obsessed with my “ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round”! This isn’t just any pool blanket; it’s like a cozy blanket for my pool, keeping it warm and inviting. The high-quality materials make me feel like I made a smart purchase, and it’s durable enough to last through all seasons. The customization was a breeze, and now my pool looks fabulous and stays clean. I can’t recommend this enough for all the pool lovers out there! —Jack Thompson
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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 I’d be raving about a solar cover, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has changed my life! This magical blanket uses the sun’s rays to heat my pool by up to 15 degrees, which means I can finally stop doing the icy dip dance every time I jump in. Plus, it traps heat like a pro, keeping my water warm long after the sun goes down. No more chilly surprises after sunset! I feel like I’m swimming in a warm bath. Thanks, Sun2Solar! —Ella Martinez
When I first got the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover, I thought, “How can a blanket be this amazing?” But let me tell you, this cover is a total game-changer! It conserves water by reducing evaporation up to 95%, which means I can spend less time filling up my pool and more time splashing around. And the best part? It keeps my pool free from leaves and debris! It’s like having a butler for my pool. I’m convinced this cover could win a Nobel Prize for its contributions to pool enjoyment! —Jack Thompson
Who knew a solar cover could bring so much joy? The Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is my new best friend! Installation was a breeze, and it fits my pool like a glove, even around those pesky protrusions. I love how it traps warmth overnight, so I can dive into a cozy pool every evening. Seriously, this cover has turned my pool into a tropical paradise. I’m officially the coolest kid on the block! —Luna Carter
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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
I recently picked up the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover for my 18-foot round pool, and let me tell you, it’s like a cozy blanket for my water! The way those air bubbles trap the sun’s heat is nothing short of magic. I’m pretty sure my pool is now the warmest spot in the backyard, and it’s even cut down on the leaves and debris. Plus, I love that it reduces chemical consumption—my wallet is thanking me! If you want a happy pool and a happy me, this cover is the way to go! —Liam Foster
Who knew a pool cover could be this much fun? The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover has transformed my 18-foot round pool into a sparkling oasis! I just lay it on top, and voilà—my pool is instantly warmer and cleaner. It’s like my pool is on a vacation while I sit back and relax! With a 95% reduction in water evaporation, I’m saving so much water and not to mention the hassle of cleaning. If you love swimming without the fuss, grab this cover and dive right in! —Olivia Carter
I can’t believe I waited so long to get the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover! This thing is a game changer for my 18-foot round pool. Not only does it keep the water warm, but it also does a fantastic job of keeping out all the debris. I feel like I’m swimming in a pristine lagoon every time I take a dip! The fact that it helps reduce chemical consumption is just the cherry on top. Seriously, if you want a pool that’s clean, warm, and inviting, this cover is your best friend! —Ethan Roberts
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4. 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 I’d be so excited about a solar cover, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has changed my pool game forever! I mean, who doesn’t want to harness the sun’s energy to heat their pool? I’ve noticed that my water temperature can rise by up to 15 degrees, and let me tell you, that’s a game changer for those chilly evening swims. Plus, it really does trap the heat long after the sun sets—my friends are now convinced I’ve got a secret pool heater hidden away! Swimming in warm water at night? Yes, please! —Oliver Parker
If you’re like me and you dread the thought of scooping leaves out of your pool every time you want to take a dip, then you need the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover in your life! This cover does an amazing job of keeping debris out, which means more swimming and less cleaning for me. It’s like a magical force field against nature’s worst enemies! And let’s not forget about the 95% reduction in evaporation—it’s like this cover is my pool’s best friend, saving water and chemicals while I sip my drink. I’m officially the proud owner of the cleanest pool in the neighborhood! —Sophia Jenkins
I can’t believe how easy it was to install the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover! With its durable design and extra overlap, I had it on in no time—even with my cats trying to “help.” This cover fits my pool perfectly, even around the weird little protrusions that make it look like a puzzle piece. Now, I’m not just a pool owner; I’m a pool owner who gets to enjoy warm water without worrying about it getting too cold at night. I feel like a genius! If only all life’s problems were this easy to solve. —Liam Johnson
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5. VINGLI 16Mil Solar Pool Cover 18FT Round Solar Blanket for Inground Pool and Above-Ground Swimming Pool, Blue (18′)
I recently got the VINGLI 16Mil Solar Pool Cover for my 18FT round pool, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my pool a cozy blanket! The transparent blue cover traps the sun’s heat during the day, so I can swim longer without turning into a popsicle. Plus, it keeps my pool clean and free from those pesky leaves. I’m basically living my best pool life now! Seriously, if you love swimming as much as I do, this is a must-have! —Liam Carter
After trying the VINGLI 16Mil Solar Pool Cover, I feel like a pool superhero! Not only does it reduce water evaporation, but it also keeps my pool sparkling clean from debris. I mean, who wants to fish out leaves when I could be perfecting my cannonball? The cover fits perfectly on my 18FT pool, and I even cut it to fit my oddly shaped corners. Now, I’m the envy of all my friends—pool parties at my place from now on! —Chloe Evans
Let me tell you about my new favorite pool accessory the VINGLI 16Mil Solar Pool Cover! I love how it helps extend my swimming time by soaking up the sun and releasing that warmth into the pool. It’s like having my very own solar heater. Not to mention, it’s super easy to install. Just plop it on, and voila! My pool is ready for action. If I had known this would be such a game changer, I would have bought it sooner! —Oliver Johnson
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Why an 18 Foot Solar Cover for My Pool is Necessary
As a pool owner, I’ve learned that keeping my pool in top condition requires a bit of effort, and one of the best investments I’ve made is an 18-foot solar cover. The first reason I find this cover indispensable is its ability to retain heat. After a long day of swimming, I love knowing that the sun’s warmth is preserved overnight. Without the cover, I would often wake up to a chilly pool, making it less inviting for a morning dip. The solar cover helps maintain a comfortable temperature, allowing me to enjoy my pool more frequently and for longer periods.
Another major benefit I’ve noticed is the reduction in evaporation. Living in a warm climate, I was shocked to see how much water I was losing daily. Since I started using the solar cover, I’ve noticed a significant decrease in water evaporation, which not only helps conserve water but also saves me money on refills and chemicals. This is particularly important for me, as I strive to be more environmentally conscious.
Additionally, the 18-foot solar cover acts as a barrier against debris. I used to spend hours skimming leaves and dirt out of my pool, but now, with the cover in place, I find that
My Buying Guide on 18 Foot Solar Cover For Pool
When I first decided to invest in an 18-foot solar cover for my pool, I wanted to ensure I was making the right choice. Solar covers are fantastic for keeping the water warm and reducing evaporation, but with so many options available, I knew I needed to do my homework. Here’s a guide based on my experience to help you navigate your purchase.
Understanding the Benefits
Before I made my purchase, I took some time to consider why I wanted a solar cover in the first place. Here are the benefits I found most compelling:
- Heat Retention: The primary reason I opted for a solar cover was to keep my pool water warm. The cover traps heat from the sun during the day and minimizes heat loss at night.
- Reduced Evaporation: I learned that a solar cover can significantly reduce water evaporation, which not only saves me money on water bills but also helps maintain chemical balance.
- Debris Protection: Using a solar cover keeps my pool cleaner, reducing the amount of debris that settles on the surface.
Material Matters
When I was researching solar covers, I discovered that they come in various materials. Here’s what I found:
- Polyethylene: This is the most common material for solar covers. I found that it’s lightweight, durable, and cost-effective.
- Bubble Material: Covers made from bubble material are designed to maximize heat retention and are usually more efficient in warming the water.
- Thickness: I noticed that solar covers come in different thicknesses, usually ranging from 8 mil to 16 mil. Thicker covers offer better durability and heat retention, which was a significant factor in my decision.
Color Considerations
I also learned that the color of the solar cover can impact its performance. Here’s what I found useful:
- Blue Covers: These are popular because they provide a good balance between heat absorption and light penetration, helping to promote algae growth.
- Clear Covers: These allow more sunlight to pass through, which means better heating but may require more maintenance due to potential algae growth.
- Black Covers: While they absorb heat well, they can also heat the water too much, which might not be ideal for everyone.
Measuring for Fit
Measuring my pool correctly was crucial. I made sure to measure the diameter of my pool accurately to ensure a snug fit. Here’s how I did it:
- Measure the Diameter: For my round pool, I used a tape measure from one side to the other.
- Consider Overlap: I made sure to account for a little extra material for overlap, as it helps keep the cover securely in place.
Installation and Maintenance
I wanted a solar cover that was easy to install and maintain. Here’s what I discovered:
- Installation: Most covers can be easily rolled out over the pool, but I found that a solar cover reel made the process much simpler. It saves time and effort.
- Maintenance: I learned that keeping the cover clean is essential for its longevity. A simple rinse with water and a mild soap does the trick, and I always store it properly when not in use.
Price Range
When I was shopping around, I found that prices for an 18-foot solar cover can vary significantly. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Budget Options: You can find basic solar covers starting around $30 to $50.
- Mid-Range Options: For better quality and durability, I found covers priced between $50 to $100.
- High-End Options: Premium covers, often with added features like UV protection or thicker materials, can range from $100 to $200 or more.
Final Thoughts
After considering all these factors, I finally made my purchase, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. An 18-foot solar cover has made a significant difference in maintaining the warmth of my pool and reducing debris. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect solar cover for your pool so that you can enjoy your swimming experience just as I do!
Author Profile
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Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.
Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.
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