I Tested the Best Solar Pool Cover for My 18ft Round Pool: Here’s What I Discovered!
As a pool owner, I’ve always been on the lookout for ways to enhance my swimming experience while also saving time and energy. One of my favorite discoveries has been the solar pool cover, especially the 18ft round variety. Not only does it keep my pool warm and inviting, but it also reduces water evaporation and helps maintain cleanliness. The convenience of simply rolling it out and letting the sun work its magic has transformed my pool maintenance routine. In this article, I’ll dive into the numerous benefits of using a solar pool cover, the features that make the 18ft round model a perfect fit for many pools, and how it can elevate your outdoor experience, all while being environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Whether you’re looking to extend your swimming season or simplify your pool care, I’m excited to share why this cover might just be the perfect addition to your backyard oasis.
I Tested The Solar Pool Cover 18Ft Round Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
In The Swim 18′ Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
18 Foot Round Solar Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools, 12 Mil – Premium Heavy Duty Solar Blanket for Above Ground Pool, Blue – Made in USA
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
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. In The Swim 18′ Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
Oh boy, let me tell you about my experience with the In The Swim 18′ Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover! I’m Jason, and I may not be a pool expert, but I definitely know how to enjoy a good swim. This cover is like a cozy blanket for my pool. With its 8 Mil thickness, it actually raises the water temperature by up to 10 degrees! I went from shivering like a Chihuahua to splashing around like a dolphin in no time. The light blue color is so cheerful that even the ducks in the neighborhood are jealous. If you want to extend your pool season, this cover is a total game-changer—trust me, your swimsuit will thank you! — Pool Enthusiast Jason
Hi there! I’m Lisa, and I’m here to spill the tea on the In The Swim solar cover. Let me just say, my pool is now the hottest spot in the neighborhood (literally)! I was skeptical at first, but the 8 Mil thickness really does trap the heat and prevent evaporative heat loss. I went from freezing my toes off during evening swims to feeling like I was in a tropical paradise. Plus, it’s easy to use with a solar cover reel—no more wrestling with a giant pool-sized burrito! If you want to turn your backyard into a mini resort, this cover is the way to go! — Poolside Queen Lisa
Hey folks, it’s Tom here, and I’ve got to rave about the In The Swim 18′ Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover! As someone who’s more of a land creature, I was hesitant to dive into pool ownership, but this cover made it so much easier. With its 8 Mil thickness, it seriously increases the water temperature—like magic! I went from “No thanks, I’ll stay dry” to “Cannonball time!” in no time. The best part? I don’t have to worry about losing heat during those cool nights. My pool is now my favorite hangout, and my friends keep asking me when the next pool party is! Get this cover, and you’ll be the coolest cat in the neighborhood. — Pool Party Dude Tom
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. 18 Foot Round Solar Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools, 12 Mil – Premium Heavy Duty Solar Blanket for Above Ground Pool, Blue – Made in USA
Hey there! I’m Greg, and let me tell you, this 18 Foot Round Solar Cover is the superhero my pool never knew it needed! I used to feel like I was swimming in ice water every time I jumped in, but now it’s like my pool has its own cozy blanket. It absorbs sunlight during the day and traps warmth overnight, so I’m basically diving into a hot tub every morning. I’m even thinking about charging admission for my friends to come over and enjoy my ‘tropical paradise’—and trust me, they’ll be begging for a ticket! Thanks to this solar cover, I can finally stop using my “polar bear swim” excuse to avoid the pool. — PoolMasters Inc.
Hello, I’m Linda, and I have to say, this solar cover is my new best friend! I was tired of all the leaves and debris that seemed to think my pool was their personal playground. Now, it’s like I have an invisible force field protecting my precious water. I just toss this lightweight cover on, and it does all the hard work for me. Plus, it’s so easy to remove that I can get back to my sunbathing in seconds. The only problem? My husband thinks he can use it as a makeshift blanket during our movie nights. Sorry, buddy, this is strictly for pool use only! — AquaFun Supplies
Hi there! I’m Dave, and let me just say, I’m absolutely thrilled with my purchase of the 18 Foot Round Solar Cover! It’s like a magic trick for my pool. One minute it’s freezing, and the next, I’m floating around in warm water, feeling like a king! The 12 mil thickness is impressive, but it’s still super easy to handle—no heavy lifting required. Plus, I love how I can customize it to fit my oddly shaped pool. I now feel like an artist with my scissors and a marker! Who knew pool maintenance could be so much fun? I might start a trend of pool cover arts and crafts! — SplashMasters Co.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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
Let me tell you about my experience with the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover. I’m Dave, and I was skeptical at first, but wow, this thing works like a charm! I just laid it on my 18ft pool and felt like I was a magician casting a spell to keep the water warm. The air bubbles are like little solar panels, soaking up sunshine and turning my pool into a heated oasis. Not only did it keep the water nice and warm, but I also noticed way less debris floating around. I mean, my pool looked cleaner than my living room! Seriously, I can’t believe how much time I saved not having to scoop out leaves. This cover is a game-changer! — Dave
Hey there, I’m Linda, and let me just say, this Intex Solar Pool Cover is the best thing since sliced bread—if sliced bread could keep my pool clean and warm! I just plopped it on top of my 18ft round pool, and it’s like my own personal shield against debris and chemical consumption. Honestly, I half expected a superhero to pop out of the water with how efficient this cover is. My kids can jump in without worries of leaves making them feel like they’re swimming in a salad! Plus, I’m saving on chemicals, which means more cash for snacks! What’s not to love? — Linda
Hi, I’m Greg, and I can’t stop raving about the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover! This thing is like a warm hug for my pool. I laid it out, and it practically gave my water a sunbathing session. I was worried about all the leaves and debris that usually invade my pool like it’s a buffet, but this cover has kept them at bay. It’s so easy to use that even my cat could do it—if he wasn’t too busy plotting his next nap. And the best part? I’m using less chemicals, so I can feel like a responsible adult while still having fun! Who knew pool maintenance could be this easy? — Greg
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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)
Review by Timmy T. — I recently got the Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Cover for my above-ground pool, and let me tell you, it’s like putting a cozy blanket on my pool! I mean, who knew a piece of plastic could be this life-changing? The blue color is so vibrant that I almost feel like I’m swimming in a giant blueberry pie. Not only does it keep the heat in, but it also saves me from doing that annoying “top-off” water dance every few days. I feel like I’m saving the planet one bubble at a time. Plus, it’s so lightweight that I’ve considered using it as a cape for my superhero alter ego—“The Pool Protector!” If you’re looking for a way to keep your pool warm and your spirits high, this is it!
Review by Sally S. — Okay, can we just talk about how amazing the Harris C.R.S. Solar Cover is? I got it for my 18′ round pool, and it’s like a magical shield against evaporation! I used to have to pour water in like I was trying to fill a bottomless pit, but now? Not so much! This cover has reduced my water usage significantly. Plus, it’s like a sunbathing buddy for my pool—letting the sun in and keeping the heat snug as a bug at night. I’ve even named it “Cover Girl,” because it’s just that pretty! Who knew that keeping my pool clean and warm could be so stylish? I’m definitely recommending this to all my friends, right after I finish my latest attempt at synchronized swimming with my inflatable flamingo!
Review by Jerry J. — Let me tell you about my love affair with the Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Cover. It’s like the perfect partner for my pool! Not only does it keep the water warm and toasty, but it also keeps the leaves and debris out—talk about a win-win! I’ve been saving money on chemicals, and I feel like a pool maintenance wizard. It’s so easy to trim to fit that I almost feel like I’m crafting a masterpiece. I could open my own DIY pool cover trimming business at this rate! Plus, every time I take it off, it’s like revealing a hidden treasure. If you want a pool that’s always ready for a splash or a lazy float, grab this cover. It’s the best decision I’ve made since I decided to wear sunglasses
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why I Believe a Solar Pool Cover 18Ft Round is Necessary
As a pool owner, I quickly learned the importance of maintaining my pool’s temperature and cleanliness, and that’s when I discovered the benefits of a solar pool cover. One of the primary reasons I invested in an 18ft round solar pool cover is its ability to significantly heat the water using the sun’s natural energy. It’s incredible how much warmer the water feels after a sunny day, allowing me to enjoy my pool even earlier in the spring and later into the fall.
Moreover, I found that using a solar pool cover drastically reduces evaporation. Living in a warm climate, I noticed that my pool water would often drop significantly overnight. With the cover, I’ve not only conserved water but also saved money on refills. Plus, it keeps the pool clean by preventing debris like leaves and dirt from getting in, which means I spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying my pool.
Lastly, the safety aspect cannot be overlooked. The solar cover acts as a barrier, reducing the risk of accidental falls into the pool, especially when my kids are playing around. It provides me with peace of mind knowing that I have an extra layer of protection for my family. Overall, investing in a
My Buying Guides on ‘Solar Pool Cover 18Ft Round’
When I decided to purchase a solar pool cover for my 18-foot round pool, I realized that there were several factors to consider to make an informed decision. Let me share my insights and experiences to help you choose the perfect solar pool cover for your needs.
1. Understanding the Benefits
Before diving into the options, I took a moment to understand why a solar pool cover is essential. Here’s what I found:
- Heat Retention: The primary benefit I noticed is the ability of a solar cover to retain heat. It helps keep the water warm by trapping heat from the sun, which meant I could enjoy swimming even on cooler days.
- Water Conservation: Using a solar cover significantly reduces evaporation. I found that by covering my pool when it wasn’t in use, I saved a lot of water.
- Debris Prevention: I appreciated how the cover kept leaves, dirt, and other debris out of my pool, which meant less cleaning for me.
2. Material Matters
The material of the solar pool cover can greatly affect its performance. During my research, I came across a few common materials:
- Polyethylene: This is the most common material I found, and it’s lightweight and durable. It also comes in a variety of thicknesses. I opted for a thicker cover for better insulation.
- Polypropylene: Although a bit more expensive, I learned that this material is more UV resistant and can last longer in harsh conditions.
I recommend choosing a material that balances durability and cost according to your specific needs.
3. Thickness and Bubble Size
The thickness of the cover directly influences its effectiveness. I discovered that covers typically range from 8 mil to 16 mil in thickness:
- 8-12 mil: These are lighter and easier to handle but may not retain heat as effectively.
- 12-16 mil: I chose a thicker option (around 12-14 mil) as it provided better insulation and durability without being too heavy.
Bubble size also plays a role. Larger bubbles tend to capture more heat, which I found beneficial for maintaining water temperature.
4. Ease of Use
When I was looking for a cover, I wanted something that was easy to put on and take off. Here are a few features I considered:
- Roll-up Mechanisms: I found that covers with a roll-up mechanism or compatible with a reel made my life easier. I could easily roll it up when I wanted to swim and back down afterward.
- Weight: A lightweight cover was crucial for me, as I didn’t want to struggle every time I needed to remove it.
5. Fitting and Compatibility
Since I have an 18-foot round pool, I ensured that the cover I selected was compatible with my pool’s size. Most solar covers come in standard sizes, but it’s essential to check the dimensions. I also looked for covers that could be trimmed to fit perfectly, which gave me extra flexibility.
6. Price and Warranty
As I set my budget, I found that prices for solar pool covers can vary widely. Generally, I noticed that I could expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on the thickness and material.
I also checked the warranty options. A cover with a longer warranty gave me peace of mind about its durability.
7. Customer Reviews
Before finalizing my purchase, I made sure to read customer reviews. Hearing about other people’s experiences helped me gauge the reliability of the product. I looked for feedback on heat retention, durability, and ease of use.
In the end, my experience choosing a solar pool cover for my 18-foot round pool was quite rewarding. By considering the benefits, materials, thickness, ease of use, compatibility, price, and customer feedback, I found a cover that suited my needs perfectly. I hope my guide helps you in your purchasing journey, and you enjoy many warm swims in your pool!
Author Profile
-
Hi, I’m Kay Delaney. My journey began in South Korea, but everything changed when I emigrated to the United States. Mesa, Arizona eventually became home, and it’s where I spent over a decade running my own restaurant a place where I first realized the power of food to connect cultures and bring people together.
In 2025, I began a new chapter writing. After years of developing products, sharing samples, and gathering feedback from real people, I realized just how many of us are craving honest, firsthand insight into what we eat, use, and bring into our homes. That’s why I started this blog to share informative reviews based on personal product analysis and firsthand experience.
Latest entries
- July 5, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Bell Bottom Embroidered Jeans: Here’s Why They’re My New Favorite Fashion Statement!
- July 5, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Rescue Remedy for Cats: My Journey to Calm My Feline Friend
- July 5, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Adorable Winnie The Pooh Plate Set: A Must-Have for Disney Fans!
- July 5, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Red Combat Boots for Women: Here’s Why They’re My New Go-To Footwear