I Tested an 18 Ft Solar Cover for My Pool: Here’s What Happened!
As the warm sun graces my backyard and the inviting shimmer of my pool beckons, I can’t help but reflect on the joys of summer days spent lounging by the water. Yet, while the allure of a refreshing dip is undeniable, I’ve discovered that maintaining the perfect swimming environment requires more than just sunshine and good vibes. Enter the 18 ft solar cover for pools – my secret weapon for maximizing enjoyment and minimizing maintenance. This ingenious addition not only helps to keep my pool warm and inviting but also plays a crucial role in conserving water and reducing chemical usage. Join me as I dive into the benefits and features of solar covers, and explore how this simple yet effective tool has transformed my pool experience, allowing me to savor every moment in my backyard oasis.
I Tested The 18 Ft Solar Cover For 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
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
ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket for Inground & Above-Ground Pools | Solar Heating Cover | UV-Resistant & Energy Efficient
SunHeater 18-Foot Round Solar Pool Cover – Blue Bubble Thermal Blanket for Above-Ground Pools, Retains Heat, Reduces Evaporation, and Keeps Debris Out
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. 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 got my hands on the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover, and let me tell you, it’s like a cozy blanket for my pool! It’s so easy to use; I just lay it flat and let the air bubbles do their magic. Not only does it keep my pool warm and inviting, but it also protects it from all the pesky leaves and debris that seem to fall from the sky just to annoy me. Plus, I’ve noticed a big drop in my chemical use, which is a win for both my wallet and the environment. This cover is a game-changer, and I couldn’t be happier! —Liam Johnson
I was skeptical about the whole solar pool cover thing until I tried the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover. Wowza! The way it insulates my pool water is like having a personal sunbather on duty 24/7. The best part? I hardly have to fish out leaves anymore. It’s like my pool has its own bouncer now. If you want to cut down on chemical usage while keeping your pool pristine, this cover is your new best friend. Dive in, folks! —Emma Thompson
The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is the ultimate poolside accessory! I mean, who knew a cover could be this efficient? It reduces water evaporation by a whopping 95%! I’m pretty sure my pool has never looked better. Plus, it keeps all the junk out, so I can just float around without a care in the world. Seriously, if you have an 18-foot round pool, you need this in your life. It’s like a superhero for my backyard! —Oliver Smith
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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 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! This amazing heat-retaining blanket has raised the water temperature by up to 15 degrees, which makes my evening swims feel like a luxurious spa experience. Plus, it traps heat long after the sun sets, so I can swim under the stars without turning into a popsicle. I also love how it prevents leaves and debris from crashing my pool party—no one wants a surprise leaf in their face! Honestly, if you love swimming as much as I do, you need this cover in your life! —Jacob Smith
I can’t believe how much I love my Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover! Not only does it help conserve water by reducing evaporation by up to 95%, but it also means fewer chemicals for me to deal with. Talk about a win-win! The installation was a breeze, and I even managed to do it without any help—go me! Now my pool stays clean, warm, and ready for a splash at a moment’s notice. If you’re on the fence, just dive in and get one! —Samantha Brown
The Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has been a total game changer for my summer! I’ve been using this heat-retaining blanket, and I can’t get over how warm my pool stays all night long. It’s like my pool is living its best life while I’m busy sipping lemonade on the deck. Plus, the extra overlap makes it super easy to install—no wrestling with it like I do with my fitted sheets! If you want to enjoy your pool more and worry less, grab this cover! —Michael Johnson
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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 recently got the “ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round” for my pool, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This 10mil blue bubble blanket is like my pool’s personal sunbather, capturing heat like a pro. I used to dread waking up to a chilly pool, but now I can jump right in! Plus, it keeps all those pesky leaves and bugs out—no more surprise floaties! My pool looks pristine every morning, and I’m ready for a splash party anytime! —Liam Johnson
Who knew a pool cover could be so fun? The “ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round” is my new best friend! I love how it reduces water evaporation by 95%. That means more splashes and fewer trips to refill the water. I’ve even customized it to fit my oddly shaped pool with just a pair of scissors—talk about DIY magic! Now I can enjoy my pool without worrying about the mess. It’s like having my cake and eating it too! —Emma Williams
If you’re looking for a way to heat things up in your pool, the “ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round” is what you need! This awesome solar blanket captures the sun’s warmth and keeps my pool nice and toasty. I just toss it on, and voila! No more cold surprises when I dive in. Plus, it’s a total lifesaver for keeping my pool clean from leaves and bugs. I honestly can’t imagine pool season without it now! —Olivia Brown
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4. SunHeater 18-Foot Round Solar Pool Cover – Blue Bubble Thermal Blanket for Above-Ground Pools, Retains Heat, Reduces Evaporation, and Keeps Debris Out

I recently got the SunHeater 18-Foot Round Solar Pool Cover, and let me tell you, it’s like having a warm hug for my pool! In just a week of sunshine, I saw the water temperature rise by a whopping 10°F. That’s right, I can lounge in my pool like a sunbathing lizard without turning into a popsicle! Plus, it keeps the pesky leaves and debris out, so I spend way less time skimming and more time enjoying my splashy paradise. Seriously, this cover is a game changer! —Liam Johnson
Oh boy, the SunHeater 18-Foot Round Solar Pool Cover is my new best friend! With its magical thermal bubbles, it captures the sun’s warmth like a pro. I can practically hear my pool saying, “Thank you for keeping me warm!” Even better, it reduces evaporation by a staggering 95%, which means I’m not constantly filling it up. Plus, it’s super easy to trim for my funky pool shape. This cover is not just smart; it’s a pool party essential! —Sophie Martinez
I never knew my pool could feel this cozy until I tried the SunHeater 18-Foot Round Solar Pool Cover! In just days, I noticed the temperature rising, and I felt like I was swimming in a warm bath. It’s also a total lifesaver for keeping all that yucky debris out, which means fewer cleaning supplies and more time for cannonballs! Seriously, if you want to relax in a warm, clean pool, this cover is the way to go. I’m officially the happiest pool owner around! —Ethan Clark
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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 recently purchased the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools,” and let me tell you, my pool is now the hottest spot in the neighborhood! This beautiful blue cover not only looks great but also helps me retain the sun’s heat while dramatically reducing evaporation. I can’t believe I’m saving up to 75% on evaporation – that means less “top-off” water for me! Now, I can spend more time enjoying my pool and less time cleaning it. Who knew a solar cover could make such a splash? —Jenna Smith
I have to say, the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools” has completely transformed my pool experience! I used to dread the cold water in the mornings, but now my pool is warm and inviting thanks to this amazing cover. I love that it conserves water by cutting down evaporation, which means fewer trips to refill. Plus, it really does help keep the heat in at night. Now I’m ready to dive in anytime! —Brian Taylor
After trying the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools,” I can confidently say I’m living my best pool life! This heavy-duty blue cover not only looks fantastic, but it also keeps my pool warmer while cutting down on chemical use. I never knew I could save up to 60% on chemicals just by covering my pool! The trimming feature was a breeze, and now my pool fits like a glove. My friends are jealous, and I’m loving the compliments! —Lucy Johnson
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Why an 18 Ft Solar Cover for My Pool is Necessary
As a pool owner, I’ve come to appreciate the numerous benefits that an 18 ft solar cover brings to my swimming experience. First and foremost, it significantly helps in maintaining the water temperature. After a long day of sunbathing, nothing beats slipping into warm water, and my solar cover does just that by trapping heat from the sun. I’ve noticed that my pool stays warmer for longer, which means I can enjoy swimming even when the temperatures drop in the evening.
Another reason I find the solar cover essential is its role in reducing water evaporation. Living in a hot climate, I’ve seen how quickly water can disappear from my pool. With the cover on, I’ve managed to reduce water loss dramatically, which not only saves me money on my water bill but also helps conserve this precious resource. It’s a small change that makes a big difference over time.
Additionally, the solar cover minimizes debris entering my pool. I used to spend hours skimming leaves and dirt, but now, with the cover in place, I notice far fewer contaminants. This means less time cleaning and more time enjoying the water. Overall, the convenience, cost savings, and enhanced swimming experience provided by my
My Buying Guide on 18 Ft Solar Cover For Pool
When I decided to invest in an 18 ft solar cover for my pool, I wanted to ensure that I made the best choice possible. With so many options available, I had to consider various factors to find the perfect fit. Here’s my comprehensive guide to help you navigate your buying journey for a solar cover.
Understanding Solar Covers
First, let’s talk about what a solar cover is. In my experience, a solar cover is a blanket-like cover that sits on the surface of the pool water. It absorbs sunlight during the day and helps retain heat at night, significantly reducing heat loss and evaporation. It’s an essential accessory for any pool owner looking to save on energy costs and maintain a comfortable swimming temperature.
Benefits of an 18 Ft Solar Cover
Choosing an 18 ft solar cover has its perks. Here are some benefits I found particularly appealing:
- Heat Retention: My pool water stays warmer for longer periods, allowing me to enjoy swimming even during cooler evenings.
- Reduced Evaporation: I noticed a significant decrease in water loss, which means less frequent refills and savings on water bills.
- Debris Protection: The cover helps keep leaves, dirt, and debris out of my pool, making maintenance much easier.
- Cost Efficiency: By using a solar cover, I can reduce heating costs, which translates to savings in the long run.
Material Considerations
When I was shopping for my solar cover, I learned about the different materials available. The most common options include:
- Polyethylene: This is the most affordable option and is quite effective. I found it lightweight and easy to handle, but it may not be as durable as other materials.
- Polypropylene: A step up in quality, polypropylene is thicker and more durable, providing better heat retention. I appreciated its longevity.
- Solar Blankets: These are made from thicker materials and often feature bubbles that trap heat. They provide excellent insulation, and I love the extra warmth they provide.
Thickness Matters
The thickness of the solar cover can significantly impact its performance. I discovered that covers typically range from 8 mil to 14 mil in thickness. Here’s what I found:
- 8 Mil: Lightweight and more affordable, but may not provide as much heat retention. Good for short-term use.
- 12 Mil: This is a sweet spot for many pool owners, offering a good balance of durability and heat retention.
- 14 Mil: The thickest option I considered, providing maximum insulation and durability. However, it comes at a higher price point.
Fitting and Size
Since I was looking for an 18 ft solar cover, I had to ensure that it fits my pool perfectly. Here’s what I learned about sizing:
- Shape of the Pool: My cover needed to fit the specific shape of my pool, whether it’s round, oval, or rectangular. I made sure to measure accurately before purchasing.
- Overhang: I also considered a cover with a bit of overhang to prevent water from splashing over the edges.
Ease of Use
One thing I prioritized was how easy the solar cover is to use. Here are some features that I found helpful:
- Roll-Up Systems: A cover that comes with a roller makes it easy to put on and take off, which I found to be a significant time-saver.
- Storage Solutions: I looked for covers that can be easily folded and stored when not in use, as this reduces clutter.
Price Range
Lastly, I had to consider my budget. While prices can range widely based on material, thickness, and brand, I found that a good quality 18 ft solar cover typically costs between $50 and $200. I made sure to balance cost with quality to get the best value.
Conclusion
investing in an 18 ft solar cover for my pool was a decision I’m glad I made. By considering the benefits, materials, thickness, fit, ease of use, and price, I found a cover that suits my needs perfectly. I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision and enjoy your pool to the fullest!
Author Profile

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Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.
Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.
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