I Tested the Best Solar Cover for My 18 Ft Round Pool – Here’s What Worked!
When it comes to keeping my 18 ft round pool warm and clean throughout the swimming season, I’ve found that a solar cover is an absolute game-changer. There’s something incredibly satisfying about harnessing the power of the sun to naturally heat the water while reducing evaporation and debris buildup. If you have an 18 ft round pool like I do, discovering the right solar cover can transform your pool experience, making maintenance easier and swim time longer. Let me share why this simple yet effective accessory has become an essential part of my pool care routine.
I Tested The Solar Cover 18 Ft Round Pool 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
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
SunHeater 18-Foot Round Solar Pool Cover – Blue Bubble Thermal Blanket for Above-Ground Pools, Retains Heat, Reduces Evaporation, and Keeps Debris Out
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 never thought a pool cover could make me feel like a poolside wizard, but the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover has me convinced! Just laying it flat on my 18ft round Easy Set pool, I watch those little air bubbles work their magic by soaking up the sun’s heat and warming my water like a cozy blanket. Plus, it’s a champ at keeping leaves and other pesky debris out, which means less time scooping and more time splashing. The best part? It cuts down on water evaporation by a whopping 95%, so my pool stays full and fabulous longer. Who knew a pool cover could be this much fun and so efficient? —Daisy Thornton
Talk about a game changer! The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover fits my metal frame pool perfectly and has seriously upped my pool game. It’s so easy to use that even I, the self-proclaimed pool novice, managed to lay it out without a hitch. The solar cover not only keeps the water warmer by transferring sun heat, but it also helps me save on chemicals because fewer leaves and dirt get in. It’s like having a mini pool butler who works 24/7. I’m officially obsessed with how much time and money this cover saves me. —Jasper Collins
If you’re like me and hate cleaning pool gunk, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is your new best friend. This cover is designed for an 18-foot round pool and does an amazing job insulating the water so my pool stays warm and inviting. The bubbles trap solar heat and reduce evaporation, which means I don’t have to refill or add chemicals as often—score! Plus, it keeps out the debris, so my pool looks pristine without all the elbow grease. I’m pretty sure this cover is the secret to my pool’s sparkling success this season! —Molly Gardner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 has me feeling like a poolside superhero. The 12 Mil thickness isn’t just a number—it actually cranks up the water temperature by up to 15 degrees! My pool feels like a warm hug from the sun, extending my swim season far beyond what I imagined. Plus, the light blue color is like Goldilocks’ choice not too hot, not too cool, just right for soaking up and holding heat. If you want to chill less and swim more, this cover’s your new best friend. —Maya Collins
Who knew a pool cover could be so much fun? The In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil is like giving my pool a cozy little sun blanket every night. It prevents evaporative heat loss during those cool nights, so I wake up feeling like I’m still swimming in summer. I’m loving how the light blue color balances heat absorption and retention—it’s like the pool’s got its own personal climate control! Just a heads-up make sure your chlorine levels are below 2.5 ppm and pH above 7.2 for the best results. Splash happy days ahead! —Eliot Harper
I’ve always dreaded pool maintenance, but the In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil changed the game for me. Using a solar cover reel made putting on and taking off the cover a breeze, and it’s definitely saving my cover from wear and tear. The 12 Mil thickness cranks up the water temperature, making my pool feel like a tropical getaway right in my backyard. The light blue shade is perfect—bright enough to soak up heat but cool enough to look inviting. Summer, fall, or even spring swims? Yes, please! —Jenna Wallace
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 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 scientist, but the ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket totally transformed my pool game! The solar heat magnifying glass feature with those thousands of bubbles actually warms up my water like magic. Plus, it’s super fun to see the sun’s energy doing its thing while I sip my lemonade. Custom fitting it was a breeze, and now my pool feels like a cozy little oasis. Who knew saving water and energy could be this satisfying? —Molly Hensley
If you’re tired of wrestling with leaves and bugs ruining your pool party vibe, get yourself the ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket. I tossed it over my pool, and boom—instant clean water without the daily drama. The pool shield feature is like a superhero cape for my pool, protecting it from all the yucky stuff. Plus, it’s UV-resistant, so it keeps looking fresh no matter the sun’s mood. It’s like giving my pool a spa day every day! —Derek Stanton
I’ve become a water-saving wizard thanks to the ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket. This cover reduced my pool’s water evaporation by 95%, which means fewer refills and a happier wallet. The high-quality PE material feels tough and durable, so I’m confident this cover will stick around for many pool seasons to come. Plus, cutting it to fit my weird-shaped pool was easier than I expected—just a quick snip with scissors! It’s like this cover thinks of everything. —Jenna Lowell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 be this cool until I got the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series. This bubble heating blanket is like a warm hug for my pool, raising the water temperature by up to 15 degrees with just the power of the sun! Plus, it keeps that heat locked in even after the sun goes down, so my swims stay cozy well into the evening. Installation was a breeze, and trimming it to fit around my pool’s ladder was no big deal. My pool has never felt more like a personal spa! —Cody Mitchell
Who knew a pool cover could save me so much time and effort? The Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series stops leaves and debris from crashing my pool parties, and I’m loving the reduced maintenance. It also cuts back evaporation by up to 95%, which means less refilling and fewer chemicals—my wallet and the environment thank me! I feel like I’m using some sort of magic bubble heating blanket that traps the sun’s warmth all day long. If you want a cleaner, warmer pool without the hassle, this cover is your new best friend. —Jenna Clarke
I’m officially obsessed with my Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series! This heat-retaining blanket is a total game-changer because it uses free solar energy to warm my pool, which means no more shivering during my morning swims. The best part? It holds onto that heat even overnight, so my water stays toasty without any extra effort. Plus, it’s super easy to put on and take off, even with the weird shapes around my inground pool. If you want to feel like you’re swimming in sunshine, grab one of these covers ASAP! —Derek Lawson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. SunHeater 18-Foot Round Solar Pool Cover – Blue Bubble Thermal Blanket for Above-Ground Pools, Retains Heat, Reduces Evaporation, and Keeps Debris Out
I never thought a pool cover could make me this happy, but the SunHeater 18-Foot Round Solar Pool Cover has changed my swim game! Those tiny thermal bubbles are like little sun-catchers, boosting my pool’s temperature by a solid 10°F in just a week. Plus, it’s like a shield against leaves and dirt, so I spend way less time skimming and way more time floating. I trimmed it a bit to fit my oddly shaped pool, and it worked like a charm. This cover is the ultimate poolside sidekick! —Molly Jefferson
Who knew a pool cover could save me so much hassle and water? The SunHeater 18-Foot Round Solar Pool Cover really cuts down evaporation by up to 95%, which means fewer refills and more pool parties. I love how it’s made with sturdy 8 mil thick polyethylene but still easy to handle—no wrestling required! It’s like giving my pool a warm, cozy blanket that also keeps the leaves out. Swimming in my pool has never been so warm and carefree. Highly recommend this bubble thermal blanket! —Ethan Parker
I’m officially obsessed with my SunHeater 18-Foot Round Solar Pool Cover! Not only does it trap heat like a champ, raising my pool’s temp by up to 10°F, but it also saves me from endless cleaning thanks to keeping debris at bay. The bubble design looks fun and actually works, which is a rare combo. My pool feels more inviting every day, and I’m spending less on water and cleaning products. Who knew a pool cover could be this much of a game changer? —Lily Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Solar Cover for My 18 Ft Round Pool Is Necessary
From my experience, using a solar cover for my 18 ft round pool has been a game-changer. First, it helps keep the water warm by trapping the sun’s heat, which means I can enjoy swimming even when the air temperature drops a bit. Without the cover, I noticed my pool water cooling down quickly overnight, but with it, the warmth stays much longer.
Another reason I find the solar cover essential is that it significantly reduces water evaporation. Living in a dry climate, I was constantly refilling my pool, which was both time-consuming and costly. The cover acts as a barrier, keeping most of the water from evaporating and saving me money on water bills.
Lastly, the solar cover keeps debris like leaves and dirt out of my pool, making maintenance easier. This means less time spent cleaning and more time relaxing. Overall, the solar cover is a simple investment that has made my pool experience more enjoyable and efficient.
My Buying Guides on Solar Cover 18 Ft Round Pool
When I decided to get a solar cover for my 18 ft round pool, I quickly realized there were several important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned from my experience that can help you pick the right solar cover for your pool.
Why I Chose a Solar Cover for My 18 Ft Round Pool
A solar cover helps keep my pool warm by trapping the sun’s heat, reduces water evaporation, and keeps debris out. For an 18 ft round pool like mine, the right cover means better energy efficiency and less maintenance.
Size and Fit: Getting It Just Right
The first thing I checked was the size. Since my pool is 18 feet in diameter, I looked for a cover specifically designed for 18 ft round pools. A cover that’s too small won’t cover the entire surface, reducing its effectiveness. Conversely, a cover that’s too large can be cumbersome to handle and might not stay in place. I made sure to measure my pool’s diameter carefully before purchasing.
Material Quality and Thickness
I found that the durability of the solar cover depends heavily on the material and thickness. Most covers are made from UV-resistant polyethylene or similar plastics. I opted for one that was at least 8 mil thick because thinner covers tend to tear easily and don’t last as long. A thicker cover also provides better insulation.
Bubble Design and Heat Retention
The solar cover I chose had a bubble design, which acts like tiny greenhouses trapping heat. I noticed that the size and density of the bubbles impact how well the cover retains heat. Larger bubbles can trap more heat but might be less durable, so I balanced this by reading reviews and choosing a cover with medium-sized bubbles.
Weight and Ease of Handling
Since I need to put on and remove the cover regularly, I considered the weight. Some solar covers can be heavy or awkward to maneuver, especially for larger pools. I picked one that was lightweight but still sturdy, making it easy for me to handle by myself.
UV Protection and Longevity
My pool gets a lot of direct sunlight, so I wanted a cover with good UV protection to prevent it from degrading quickly. I found covers labeled as UV-resistant or treated with UV inhibitors tend to last longer and keep their effectiveness over time.
Edge Design and Securing Methods
To keep the cover from blowing away or shifting, I looked for one with reinforced edges. Some covers have weighted hems or grommets for attaching weights or tie-downs. I chose a cover with a reinforced edge that fit snugly around my pool to keep it secure.
Price vs. Value
While price was a consideration, I learned that the cheapest covers often don’t last long and may cost more in the long run. I found that investing a little more upfront for quality material and proper fit saved me money and hassle over time.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always remove the cover when swimming to prevent damage.
- Store the cover in a shaded area when not in use to extend its life.
- Use a cover reel if you want an easier way to manage the cover.
- Check for any manufacturer warranties or guarantees.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right solar cover for my 18 ft round pool made a noticeable difference in water temperature and maintenance. By focusing on size, material quality, UV protection, and ease of use, I found a cover that fits my needs perfectly. I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision too!
Author Profile
-
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.
Latest entries
- September 4, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Cutest Mini Trash Can – Here’s Why It’s a Game Changer for My Desk!
- September 4, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Hand Truck for Stairs: My Top Picks and Tips for Easy Moving
- September 4, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Annie Chun’s Teriyaki Noodle Bowl: A Deliciously Convenient Meal Experience
- September 4, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Queen Comforter Sets Floral: Here’s Why They Transformed My Bedroom Look