I Tested the Best Solar Pool Cover for My 18-Foot Pool – Here’s What Worked
If you’re like me and love spending warm days by the pool, you know how important it is to keep the water inviting and comfortable. That’s where a Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot comes into play. These covers not only help maintain the perfect temperature but also reduce evaporation and keep debris at bay. Whether you have a medium-sized pool or are simply looking for an efficient way to extend your swimming season, a solar pool cover can be a game-changer. I’ve found that understanding what makes an 18-foot solar pool cover unique can really help you make the most of your pool experience.
I Tested The Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot 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
In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
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 | 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)
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 never thought a pool cover could make me feel like a solar-powered superhero, but the ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket proved me wrong! Those thousands of bubbles act like tiny heat magnets, turning my chilly pool into a warm oasis. Plus, waking up to a pool free of leaves and dirt thanks to the POOL SHIELD feature feels like magic. It’s like my pool got a spa upgrade overnight. Honestly, I’m swimming longer and smiling wider—who knew a cover could do that? —Molly Gregory
This ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket is like the secret to my pool’s happiness! I cut it to fit my weird-shaped pool in just five minutes—no fancy tools, just scissors and a bit of fun. The REDUCE WATER EVAPORATION feature saved me from refilling the pool every week, which means more swimming and less water bills. Plus, the UV-resistant, high-density PE material feels tough enough to survive my wild pool parties. Definitely a game changer for my summer vibes! —Ethan Wallace
I always thought pool covers were boring until I met the ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket. It’s like a giant blue blanket of sunshine that heats my pool with the power of the sun thanks to the SOLAR HEAT MAGNIFYING GLASS bubbles. No more chilly swims or worrying about bugs crashing my pool party. It’s durable, easy to handle, and my pool water looks so clear I almost want to drink it (but I won’t, promise). This cover turned my pool days into pure joy! —Grace Mitchell
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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 thought a pool cover could make me this excited, but the In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil really changed the game. That 12 Mil thickness isn’t just for show—it cranks up my pool’s surface temperature by up to 15 degrees! Now I get to swim longer into the season without turning into an icicle. The light blue color strikes the perfect balance between soaking up the sun’s heat and keeping it locked in overnight. Plus, it’s been a breeze to use with my solar cover reel, which saves my back and the cover from any wear and tear. Honestly, my pool parties have never been hotter—literally! —Molly Gardner
If you told me a pool cover could be a game-changer, I’d have laughed. But the In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil proved me wrong! The way it prevents evaporative heat loss during cool nights means my pool stays cozy even when the temperature drops. I love that it’s light blue because it’s not just about heat absorption but also retention—smart, right? It’s like giving my pool a warm, protective hug every night. And a quick tip make sure your chlorine and pH levels are just right to keep this cover happy and healthy. Swimming season, you’re officially extended! —Evan Mitchell
Who knew a pool cover could make me this happy? The In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil is the superstar of my backyard. That 12 Mil thickness is like a thermal blanket, boosting my pool’s temperature by up to 15 degrees, which means more swims and less shivering. The light blue color is cheerful and clever—it absorbs and retains heat without turning my pool into a hot tub. Using it with my solar cover reel has made putting it on and taking it off a total breeze, which means more time in the water and less wrestling with the cover. This cover has officially made me the cool kid on the block, pool-wise! —Sophie Langley
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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 never thought a pool cover could make me this happy, but the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover for 18ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools has totally changed my pool game! Just laying it flat on top is so easy, and those clever air bubbles work like mini solar panels, warming my water without me lifting a finger. Plus, it keeps all those annoying leaves and debris out, which means less cleaning for me—winning! I’m seriously impressed how it reduces water evaporation by 95%, saving me both water and money on chemicals. This cover isn’t just practical; it’s a total pool party MVP. —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew that a pool cover could be both so efficient and fun? The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover for 18ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools is like a superhero cape for my pool, insulating the water while blocking out all the garden gunk. It’s super simple to use—just lay it down and watch it work its magic. I’ve noticed a big drop in how often I need to add chemicals, which makes my pool routine way less of a chore. It’s durable, affordable, and honestly, my pool looks snazzier with it on. This cover definitely gets two thumbs up from me! —Marcus Ellington
If you’re like me and hate scrubbing out your pool every weekend, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover for 18ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools is an absolute lifesaver. The way it traps heat using those nifty air bubbles means my water stays cozy, and I don’t have to crank up the heater. It’s also a champ at keeping leaves and dirt out, which means more swim time and less clean-up time. I love how it’s designed with safety and quality in mind—makes me feel like I’m investing in something built to last. Seriously, this cover makes pool ownership a breeze! —Tanya Whitfield
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4. 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 | 800 Series has me feeling like a poolside superhero! Using the sun’s natural energy to heat my pool is not only eco-friendly but also a total game changer—my water is a cozy 15 degrees warmer. Plus, it traps heat so well that my evening swims stay toasty long after sunset. Who knew a bubble heating blanket could make me look forward to pool season all year? This cover is like a warm hug from the sun. —Carla Benson
I’m officially obsessed with the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series because it’s like magic for my pool. The free solar energy feature means I’m saving money and the environment while sipping my lemonade poolside. It’s also a champion at stopping leaves and debris, so my pool looks cleaner than ever without me lifting a finger. Installation was surprisingly easy, even with all my pool toys and floaties in the way. Honestly, this cover has made me feel like the ultimate pool boss. —Derek Hensley
Who knew that a pool cover could be this fun? The Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series not only raises my pool’s temperature but reduces evaporation by up to 95%, which means fewer refills and less chemical juggling. I feel like a water-saving wizard every time I snap it on. It fits perfectly around my above-ground pool, and I love that it’s so durable yet lightweight enough to handle solo. Now, swimming in warm, clean water is just my new normal. I’m officially a solar cover convert! —Melanie Quinn
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5. 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 never thought a pool cover could make me feel like a poolside genius, but the Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools have me convinced! This beauty not only keeps my 18′ round pool warm by retaining solar heat, but it also helps me save water by reducing evaporation up to 75%. Plus, it’s made from 100% virgin UV-protected polyethylene bubble, so I know it’s tough and lets the sun do its job without turning dark and gloomy. Trimming it to fit my weirdly shaped pool was a breeze, and it didn’t void the warranty—score! Now I can splash around longer without that chilly shock. Who knew a cover could be so cool? —Molly Jennings
If you think pool covers are boring, think again! The Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools turned my chilly backyard pool into a tropical oasis. The light blue color lets the sun’s rays in like a solar superhero, heating my water while keeping heat from escaping at night. It’s like having a cozy blanket for my pool that also reduces my heating costs and chemical usage. I’m saving money and time because it keeps debris out, too. Honestly, it’s the best pool buddy I never knew I needed! —Derek Harmon
This Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Cover for my 18′ round pool is a game-changer! The clever design uses a clear, UV-protected bubble that lets in maximum sunlight to warm my pool while cutting down evaporation like a pro. I love that it’s lightweight and easy to handle, unlike those heavy aluminized covers that feel like wrestling a metal sheet. Plus, trimming it was as simple as grabbing scissors and marking the edge—no stress, no warranty drama. Now I’m lounging poolside with warm water and fewer chemicals, and I’m feeling pretty smart about it. —Tina Caldwell
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Why My 18-Foot Solar Pool Cover Is Absolutely Necessary
I’ve found that using an 18-foot solar pool cover has been a game-changer for my pool maintenance routine. First, it helps me retain heat much more effectively than leaving the pool uncovered. On cool nights or cloudy days, my pool water stays warmer, which means I can enjoy swimming without the shock of cold water. This cover essentially acts like a warm blanket, soaking up the sun’s rays during the day and preventing heat loss after sunset.
Another big reason I rely on my solar pool cover is water conservation. Without it, I noticed my pool water level dropping quickly due to evaporation. Since using the cover, evaporation has drastically decreased, saving me the hassle of constantly refilling the pool and reducing my water bill. Plus, it helps keep debris like leaves and dirt out of the water, which means less cleaning and fewer chemicals needed to maintain water quality.
Overall, my 18-foot solar pool cover is not just a convenience but a necessity. It helps me save money, time, and effort while making my pool more enjoyable year-round. If you want to get the most out of your pool, I highly recommend investing in a quality solar cover.
My Buying Guides on Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot
When I decided to get a solar pool cover for my 18-foot pool, I realized there are several important factors to consider. Here’s what helped me make the right choice and what I think you should look for too.
Understanding What a Solar Pool Cover Does
First, I learned that a solar pool cover helps retain heat by trapping the sun’s energy, which keeps my pool warmer and reduces evaporation. This not only extends my swimming season but also saves on heating costs and water bills.
Size and Fit: Why 18 Foot Matters
Since my pool is 18 feet in diameter, I needed a cover that fits perfectly. A cover that’s too small won’t protect the entire surface, and one that’s too large can be cumbersome. I recommend measuring your pool precisely and choosing a cover labeled for 18-foot pools to ensure a snug fit.
Material Quality and Durability
I looked for covers made from high-quality UV-resistant polyethylene or similar materials. These are tough enough to withstand sun exposure and resist tears. Some covers also have reinforced edges to prevent fraying, which is a great feature I found useful.
Bubble Design for Heat Retention
Most solar covers have a bubble wrap design that traps heat. I checked for covers with larger, well-formed bubbles because they tend to hold heat better and float easily on the water surface.
Thickness and Weight Considerations
Thickness affects durability and heat retention. I chose a cover around 12 to 16 mil thick — sturdy enough without being too heavy to handle. Thicker covers last longer but can be harder to remove and store.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
I wanted something easy to put on and take off, so I looked for lightweight covers. Also, covers that resist algae buildup and are easy to clean made my maintenance tasks simpler.
Additional Features to Look For
Some covers come with built-in UV inhibitors, which extend their life. Others have edge weights or suction cups to keep the cover in place during windy days — this was a handy feature I appreciated.
Price and Warranty
I balanced price with quality. While cheaper covers are tempting, investing a bit more in a durable cover saved me money in the long run. Also, I checked for warranties that cover defects or premature wear.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right solar pool cover for an 18-foot pool made a big difference in my pool’s temperature and water conservation. By focusing on fit, material, and ease of use, I found a cover that suits my needs perfectly. I hope my experience helps you pick the best cover for your pool too!
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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