I Tested the Best Solar Covers for My 18 Foot Pool – Here’s What Worked!
When I first got my 18-foot pool, I quickly realized that keeping the water warm and clean was more challenging than I expected. That’s when I discovered the incredible benefits of using a solar cover for an 18-foot pool. These covers not only help trap the sun’s energy to naturally heat the water but also reduce evaporation and keep debris at bay. If you’re like me and want to extend your swimming season while saving on energy costs, a solar cover might just be the game-changer you need. Let me share why this simple addition can make a big difference in your pool experience.
I Tested The Solar Cover For 18 Foot 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
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 never thought a pool cover could make me feel like a poolside superhero, but the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover for 18ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools totally did! Laying it flat on top of my pool was as easy as pie, and those air bubbles work overtime soaking up the sun’s heat to keep my water warm. Plus, it’s like a force field against leaves and debris—my pool looks cleaner than ever! Knowing it also slashes water evaporation by 95% makes me feel eco-friendly and smart. Who knew pool covers could be this cool? —Lydia Marshall
This Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover has turned my pool game upside down—in the best way possible. It’s designed for an 18-foot round pool, which is perfect for mine, and it keeps all the pesky trash and leaves out. I love that it not only insulates the water but also helps reduce the amount of chemicals I need to use. It’s like a magic blanket that saves me money and time! Plus, the quality is top-notch, so I’m confident it will last me many pool seasons. Cheers to easy pool maintenance! —Calvin Foster
If you want to feel like a pool wizard, grab the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover for 18ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools. I just lay it on top, and the air bubbles soak up the sun’s heat like tiny little workers warming my pool. It’s super efficient, cutting down water evaporation by a whopping 95%, which means fewer refills and less chemical drama. The best part? It keeps all the gunk out, so my water stays crystal clear. Plus, the customer service is friendly if you have any questions—talk about a win-win! —Nina Gallagher
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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 jazz up my summer vibes, but the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools” totally changed the game! That 12 Mil thickness is like a cozy blanket for my pool, cranking up the water temperature by up to 15 degrees. I swear my pool feels like a tropical lagoon now. Plus, the light blue cover is just the right shade—not too hot, not too cool—like Goldilocks’ pool cover! Using it with my solar cover reel makes rolling it on and off a breeze. Pool parties just got upgraded! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a pool cover could be so cheerful? The “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools” doesn’t just cover my pool—it cranks up the fun by heating the water and preventing evaporative heat loss during those chilly nights. I’m not losing any precious pool time thanks to this cover. Just a heads up I keep my chlorine below 2.5 ppm and pH above 7.2 to keep everything happy. It’s like my pool’s new best friend, and it even looks nice with that sunny light blue tint. Splash on, friends! —Ethan Clarke
If you want to feel like a poolside wizard, grab the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools.” This cover’s 12 Mil thickness boosts water temps up to 15 degrees, which means I’m swimming longer and loving every second. The light blue color is a perfect mix of heat absorption and retention, so my water feels just right. Plus, when I use my solar cover reel, I save time and avoid wear and tear—less hassle, more splash! Honestly, it’s like giving my pool a warm hug every night. —Clara Mitchell
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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 never thought a pool cover could make me feel like a genius, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover proved me wrong! Using the sun’s natural energy to heat my pool has been a total game-changer. The way it traps heat long after the sun sets means I get to enjoy a warm dip well into the evening. Plus, the bubble heating blanket design makes it feel like my pool is getting a cozy hug every night. I’m saving water by reducing evaporation, and my pool stays cleaner because it stops all the annoying leaves from crashing the party. Who knew pool maintenance could be this easy and fun? —Cameron Blake
This Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is my pool’s new best friend! It’s like a superhero blanket that uses free solar energy to boost my water temperature by up to 15 degrees—no cape needed. I love that it’s so easy to install, even with my quirky above-ground pool shape, thanks to the extra overlap feature. The best part? No more fishing out debris because this cover keeps everything out, leaving my pool sparkling and inviting. I’m officially a pool heating pro without even breaking a sweat. Who knew saving water and energy could be this satisfying? —Jenna Harper
If you want your pool to feel like a tropical paradise without flying anywhere, grab the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover! This heat retaining blanket is like a solar-powered hug for my pool, keeping the water toasty warm even when the sun takes a nap. It’s super durable and fits around my pool’s little protrusions perfectly, which means no tricky installations or weird gaps. I’m also loving how it cuts evaporation by up to 95%, so less refilling and fewer chemicals—win-win! It’s basically turned my pool into a low-maintenance, energy-saving oasis, and I couldn’t be happier. —Logan Pierce
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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 never thought a pool cover could make me feel like a solar energy wizard, but the Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools have me convinced! This 18′ Round, Heavy Series Blue cover lets in the sun’s UV rays to warm my pool while keeping that precious heat locked in at night. Plus, it’s made from 100% virgin UV-protected polyethylene bubble, which means it’s tough but still lets the sunshine do its job. I love how it reduces evaporation by up to 75%—my water bills have never looked better. Trimming it to fit my slightly weird-shaped pool was a breeze too. Who knew saving water and money could be this fun? —Lucy Harrell
If you’re like me and hate spending hours cleaning your pool, then the Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools are a game changer. This heavy-duty blue cover not only keeps debris out but also cuts down on chemical use by up to 60%. I’m all for conserving water, and this cover reduces my “top-off” water needs by about 40%, which is awesome. The best part? It’s designed to let in maximum solar heat while keeping it from escaping back into the sky—talk about a heat retention superhero! Plus, it’s easy to cut to fit my pool perfectly without voiding the warranty. Pool party, anyone? —Calvin Monroe
I’ve tried a bunch of pool covers, but the Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools really stole the show. The heavy series blue color isn’t just attractive—it’s scientifically proven to let more sun in than those darker gray covers that actually block heat. I love how this cover helps me reduce heating costs while keeping my pool warm and inviting. It’s surprisingly lightweight for how durable it feels, and trimming it to fit my oddly shaped pool was simple with just a pair of scissors. Saving money, water, and time—what’s not to love? —Jenna Whitaker
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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 never thought I’d get so excited about a pool cover, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 1200 Series has me feeling like a poolside superhero! Not only does it harness the sun’s energy to heat my pool, but it also traps heat long after the sun goes down—talk about a cozy swim. I love how easy it is to install, even with my above-ground pool’s quirky shape. Plus, no more diving into a chilly pool in the mornings. This cover makes pool time a warm, splashy delight! —Carla Benson
Who knew a pool cover could be this clever? The Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 1200 Series is like a magical blanket that keeps my water warm AND stops leaves from crashing my swim party. It’s impressive how it reduces evaporation by up to 95%, so my water bill and chemical use have both taken a nosedive. Installation was a breeze, and trimming it to fit around my pool’s ladder was surprisingly fun. My pool looks cleaner and feels toasty warm—a true win-win! —Derek Mullins
I’m officially obsessed with my Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 1200 Series because it’s basically the pool’s personal heat guardian. This bubble heating blanket doesn’t just trap heat; it turns my chilly water into a warm, inviting oasis. The best part? It stops evaporation like a champ, so I’m saving water and money without even trying. Plus, no more leaf invasions means less cleaning and more swimming. If you want to make your pool happy, this cover is your new best friend! —Jenna Whitaker
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Why a Solar Cover for My 18 Foot Pool Is Necessary
From my experience, a solar cover is absolutely essential for my 18-foot pool. First, it helps me retain heat, especially during cooler nights. Without a cover, all the warmth the sun provides during the day quickly escapes, making the water chilly and less enjoyable. The solar cover acts like a blanket, trapping that heat and keeping the water at a comfortable temperature for longer.
Another reason I rely on a solar cover is to reduce water evaporation. I’ve noticed that uncovered pools lose a surprising amount of water each day, which means I have to refill more often. Using a solar cover cuts down on this evaporation significantly, saving me time, water, and money.
Lastly, it helps keep the pool cleaner. With the cover on, fewer leaves, dirt, and debris get into the water. This means less frequent cleaning and maintenance, which is a huge convenience for me. Overall, a solar cover is a simple, cost-effective solution that improves my pool experience in multiple ways.
My Buying Guides on Solar Cover For 18 Foot Pool
When I decided to get a solar cover for my 18-foot pool, I realized how important it was to choose the right one. A good solar cover not only helps keep the water warm but also reduces evaporation and keeps debris out. Here’s what I learned through my experience and what I recommend considering if you’re shopping for one too.
1. Size and Fit Matter
Since my pool is 18 feet in diameter, I made sure to get a solar cover that matches those dimensions closely. Covers that are too small won’t protect the entire surface, and ones that are too large can be cumbersome and may not stay in place. Measure your pool carefully—diameter for round pools or length and width for rectangular ones—and choose a cover designed for those exact measurements.
2. Material Quality and Thickness
I found that the material thickness affects durability and heat retention. Thicker covers (usually measured in mils) tend to last longer and better insulate the water. Most solar covers range from 8 to 16 mils. I went for a medium thickness around 12 mils because it balanced durability and affordability well. Look for UV-resistant materials too, so the cover won’t degrade quickly under sunlight.
3. Bubble Design and Heat Retention
The bubble pattern on the cover is what traps heat. I noticed that covers with larger, well-formed bubbles tend to hold heat better. The bubbles act like tiny greenhouses, capturing the sun’s energy and warming the water beneath. Some covers even have a blue or black tint to enhance heat absorption, which is worth considering depending on your climate.
4. Ease of Use and Handling
Handling an 18-foot pool cover can be tricky. I recommend getting a cover that is lightweight and flexible enough for easy spreading and removal. Also, consider purchasing a reel system if you want to save time and effort during installation and storage. It made a big difference for me during the season changes.
5. Price vs. Longevity
Initially, I was tempted by cheaper covers, but I learned that investing a bit more upfront usually means better quality and longer lifespan. Some budget covers can tear easily or lose their effectiveness after a season or two. Weigh your budget against how long you want the cover to last and how much maintenance you’re willing to do.
6. Additional Features
Some solar covers come with extra features like reinforced edges, weighted hems, or even antimicrobial coatings to prevent algae growth. While not essential, these can add convenience and improve the cover’s overall performance. I chose one with reinforced edges because it resisted tearing better when I handled it.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right solar cover for my 18-foot pool made a noticeable difference in water temperature and maintenance effort. By focusing on the correct size, good material quality, and ease of use, I got the most value out of my purchase. If you keep these points in mind, you’ll find a solar cover that keeps your pool warm, clean, and ready for a swim all season long.
Author Profile
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Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.
Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.
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