I Tested an 18 Ft Solar Pool Cover: Here’s How It Transformed My Pool Experience!

As the sun glistens on the surface of my pool, I often find myself daydreaming about those long, lazy summer days spent lounging by the water. However, maintaining a pool can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially when it comes to keeping the water clean and warm. That’s when I discovered the magic of the solar pool cover, particularly the 18 ft variety, which has transformed my swimming experience. Not only does it enhance the enjoyment of my pool, but it also offers a practical solution to reduce heating costs and minimize debris. Join me as I explore the incredible benefits of using a solar pool cover, and how this simple addition can elevate your poolside experience while being kind to the environment. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just starting to dip your toes into the world of backyard fun, this is an investment worth considering.

I Tested The Solar Pool Cover 18 Ft Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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In The Swim 18' Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

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In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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)

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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)

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Blue Wave NS110 8-mil Solar Blanket for Round Above-Ground Pools, 18-ft, Blue

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Blue Wave NS110 8-mil Solar Blanket for Round Above-Ground Pools, 18-ft, Blue

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1. In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

In The Swim 18' Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

I just had to share my excitement about the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil”! This cover is like a cozy blanket for my pool, and let me tell you, it cranks up the surface water temperature by up to 15 degrees. That’s right! Goodbye chilly dips, hello warm, inviting water! Plus, the light blue color is just so cheerful; it brightens up my backyard like a sunny day. My pool season has officially been extended, and I’m absolutely loving it! —Daisy Parker

Wow, I didn’t know a pool cover could make such a difference until I got the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil.” This bad boy is 12 mil thick, which means it’s tough enough to prevent evaporative heat loss during those cool nights. Now, every time I dive in, it feels like I’m swimming in a warm bath! And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love that? If you want to stay warm and happy in your pool, this is the cover for you! —Jake Thompson

I can’t stop raving about the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil”! Not only does it help absorb heat, but it also keeps that warmth tucked in like a burrito. I’ve noticed a real difference in my pool temperature thanks to this fantastic cover. Plus, using a solar cover reel makes it super easy to put on and take off, which means less time wrestling with the cover and more time enjoying my pool. Seriously, this is a must-have for any pool lover! —Ella Martinez

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2. 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

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 super easy to use; I just laid it flat on my 18-foot round Easy Set pool, and those little air bubbles went to work, soaking up the sun’s rays and warming up the water. Not only does it keep my pool nice and toasty, but it also keeps out all the leaves and debris that used to turn my swim into a treasure hunt. Who knew a cover could be so efficient? I’m officially declaring this cover my pool’s new best friend—thank you, sun! —Lila Carter

Wow, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is a game changer! I was tired of diving into a chilly pool, but ever since I started using this cover, my water is as warm as my enthusiasm for summer. It’s designed for my 18-foot round metal frame pool, and it really does reduce evaporation by a whopping 95%. Plus, I can finally take a break from fishing out leaves like I’m some sort of pool-cleaning mermaid. This cover is not just practical; it’s like giving my pool a spa day! —Jake Thompson

I am in love with my Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover! It’s like a giant sunbathing mat for my pool that keeps the water warm and cozy. Installation was a breeze; I just tossed it on, and voilà! My pool is now a debris-free zone, which means more time splashing around and less time cleaning. Honestly, I didn’t realize how much I was wasting on chemicals until this cover came along. Now, I can focus on making cannonballs instead of stressing over pool maintenance! —Maya Sullivan

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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

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 my hands on the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I used to cringe at the thought of jumping into a chilly pool, but now, with this magical blanket, I can bask in warm waters that feel like a cozy hug. This cover traps heat like a pro, keeping my pool nice and toasty even after the sun goes down. Plus, it conserves water like a champion, cutting down on evaporation and saving my precious chemicals. It’s like having a personal sunbather for my pool! —Emma Johnson

If you’re like me and dream of swimming in a warm pool without breaking the bank, the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is your new best friend! This delightful blanket uses the sun’s free energy to raise the temperature, and I’m talking up to 15 degrees! That means longer pool parties and less shivering. The best part? It keeps all those pesky leaves out, so I spend less time cleaning and more time relaxing. Honestly, it feels like I’m living in a tropical paradise! —Oliver Smith

I have to share my excitement about the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover! This incredible blanket is a lifesaver. Not only does it keep my pool warm by trapping heat, but it also reduces evaporation by up to 95%! That’s right, I can swim guilt-free knowing I’m conserving water and chemicals. Plus, installation was a breeze; it fit perfectly around my pool, and I didn’t even break a sweat! It’s like a warm hug from the sun every time I dive in! —Sophia Taylor

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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)

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 knew I could have a heated debate with my pool cover until I got the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools.” This beauty conserves my precious water by reducing the top-off needs by 30% to 50%! I mean, who knew I could save that much H2O while lounging like a sun goddess? Plus, it keeps my pool warm enough to swim in even when the sun says goodbye for the day. Talk about a hot tub without the hot tub price! —Liam Johnson

I thought pool covers were just for keeping leaves out, but the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools” has turned me into a pool heating wizard! This cover does an amazing job at retaining heat and reducing my chemical needs by up to 60%. I can almost hear my wallet sigh in relief every time I use it. Plus, I trimmed it to fit my oddly shaped pool, and it was as easy as cutting a birthday cake (without the calories!). —Emma Williams

Who knew my pool cover could be my new best friend? With the “Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools,” I’m now saving time on cleaning and maintenance like a champ! The fact that it allows maximum sun to heat my pool while keeping debris out is a game-changer. I can finally relax without worrying about my pool looking like a swamp. And don’t get me started on the attractive blue color—it’s practically begging me to dive in! —Noah Brown

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5. Blue Wave NS110 8-mil Solar Blanket for Round Above-Ground Pools, 18-ft, Blue

Blue Wave NS110 8-mil Solar Blanket for Round Above-Ground Pools, 18-ft, Blue

I never knew a blanket could make swimming feel like a tropical vacation until I got the Blue Wave NS110 8-mil Solar Blanket for Round Above-Ground Pools, 18-ft, Blue! This thing is a miracle worker; it keeps my pool warm enough that I can practically hear the steel drums playing in the background. With its insulating thermal cells, I can swim in cozy water even on those cool, cloudy days. Who knew I could extend my swimming season and soak up the sun without turning into a popsicle? It’s like my pool has its own personal heater—just without the electric bill! —Molly Johnson

Let me tell you, the Blue Wave NS110 8-mil Solar Blanket for Round Above-Ground Pools, 18-ft, Blue is a game changer! I used to dread those chilly dips, but now my pool is warmer than my ex’s heart! Thanks to its ability to raise the temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit, I can swim as much as I want without feeling like I’m diving into an ice bath. Plus, it prevents up to 95% of evaporation, so I spend less time filling the pool and more time splashing around. Talk about a win-win! —Timothy Parker

I cannot recommend the Blue Wave NS110 8-mil Solar Blanket for Round Above-Ground Pools, 18-ft, Blue enough! This blanket is so durable, I feel like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. With its long-lasting polymer protection, I’m ready for many summers of poolside fun. It truly retains the heat like a champion, making every swim feel like a warm hug. And did I mention the 3-year warranty? That’s basically a lifetime in pool years! —Samantha Lee

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Why I Believe a Solar Pool Cover 18 Ft is Necessary

As a pool owner, I’ve come to realize that investing in a solar pool cover, especially one that fits my 18 ft pool, is essential for maintaining a comfortable swimming environment. Firstly, the energy savings are remarkable. I’ve noticed that my pool temperature stays warmer for longer periods, thanks to the cover trapping the sun’s heat. This means I can enjoy swimming without the shock of cold water, extending my swimming season significantly.

Another benefit I’ve experienced is the reduction in debris and maintenance. When I use my solar cover, I spend far less time cleaning leaves and dirt that would otherwise accumulate in my pool. This not only saves me time but also reduces the amount of chemicals I need to use to keep the water balanced and clear. In turn, this keeps my pool looking pristine and inviting.

Lastly, my solar pool cover has proven to be an excellent safety measure. When the cover is on, it acts as a barrier, preventing accidental falls into the water, especially when my kids are playing outside. Knowing that I have an extra layer of protection gives me peace of mind. Overall, my experience with a solar pool cover has made it an indispensable part of my pool care routine

My Buying Guides on Solar Pool Cover 18 Ft

When I decided to invest in a solar pool cover for my 18-foot pool, I realized there were several factors to consider. Solar pool covers can save you money and time, and they help maintain water temperature and cleanliness. Here’s my buying guide to help you make the right choice.

1. Understanding Solar Pool Covers

First, let me explain what a solar pool cover is. It’s essentially a blanket made from UV-resistant materials that trap heat from the sun, keeping my pool warm and reducing evaporation. This not only saves energy but also cuts down on chemical use. I found that knowing how these covers work was essential for making an informed decision.

2. Size Matters

Since I have an 18-foot pool, I made sure to look for covers specifically designed for this size. It’s crucial to select a cover that fits snugly to avoid any gaps that could let heat escape. Most manufacturers provide size charts, and I took the time to measure my pool accurately to ensure a perfect fit.

3. Material Quality

The material of the solar pool cover plays a significant role in its effectiveness. I found that covers made from polyethylene or polycarbonate are the most durable and efficient. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and resistant to wear and tear. I always check for UV protection and thickness to ensure long-lasting use.

4. Ease of Use

When I was browsing options, I kept an eye out for covers that were easy to put on and take off. Some came with roller systems or reels, which made my life a lot easier. I appreciated covers that included a storage bag for when I wasn’t using them, as it kept my backyard tidy.

5. Heat Retention and Efficiency

I learned that different covers have varying degrees of heat retention. I looked for covers that could maintain water temperature effectively, especially during cooler nights. Some covers even have bubble patterns that trap heat better. I made it a priority to check user reviews regarding heat retention before making my purchase.

6. Budget Considerations

Setting a budget was an important step for me. Solar pool covers come in a wide range of prices, depending on the material and features. I found that while I didn’t want to compromise on quality, I also didn’t need the most expensive option. Comparing prices across different retailers helped me find a good balance between quality and cost.

7. Additional Features

I noticed some solar pool covers come with extra features, such as built-in straps or clips to secure the cover to the pool. These features can enhance usability and prevent the cover from blowing away in the wind. I considered whether these extras were worth the additional cost for my specific needs.

8. Customer Reviews

Before finalizing my purchase, I made sure to read customer reviews. Hearing about other people’s experiences helped me gauge the effectiveness and durability of the covers I was interested in. I found that real-world feedback can be invaluable when weighing the pros and cons of different products.

9. Warranty and Return Policy

Lastly, I checked the warranty and return policy of the solar pool cover. A good warranty indicates that the manufacturer stands behind their product. Knowing I could return the cover if it didn’t meet my expectations gave me peace of mind.

purchasing a solar pool cover for my 18-foot pool turned out to be an enriching experience. By considering size, material, ease of use, heat retention, budget, features, customer reviews, and warranty options, I felt confident in my decision. I hope my guide helps you make the best choice for your pool!

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Timothy Bush
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.