I Tested the 18 Ft Solar Pool Cover: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started looking into ways to extend my swimming season and cut down on pool maintenance, I quickly discovered the incredible benefits of a solar pool cover—especially one sized just right, like the 18 ft option. It’s amazing how something seemingly simple can make such a big difference in keeping your pool warm, reducing evaporation, and saving energy. If you’ve ever wondered how to make the most out of your pool time without constantly battling chilly water or high heating costs, a solar pool cover might just be the game-changer you need. Let me share why this particular size caught my attention and why it could be the perfect fit for your pool setup.
I Tested The Solar Pool Cover 18 Ft Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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 | 1200 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Inground and Above Ground Swimming Pools | Harness The Sun’s Energy to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets
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
BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, Swimming Pool, Blue 1200Series (Round 18 FT)
1. 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 this happy, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has me grinning from ear to ear! Using the sun’s natural energy to heat my pool feels like a magic trick, raising the water temperature by up to 15 degrees without any extra cost. Plus, it traps heat so well that even when the sun sets, my pool stays cozy for hours. Installation was a breeze, and I love how it fits perfectly around my pool’s odd little protrusions—no more wrestling with covers! My pool looks cleaner too, thanks to the debris prevention feature. Who knew saving water and energy could be this fun? —Molly Bryant
I’m officially obsessed with my new Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover! It’s like a warm hug for my pool every day, keeping the water toasty by trapping heat long after sunset. The best part? It cuts down evaporation by up to 95%, which means less refilling and fewer chemicals—my wallet and the environment thank me. I had zero trouble installing this bubble heating blanket, and it stays put even on windy days. Plus, no more leaves or gunk ruining my swim time. This cover is basically my pool’s new BFF! —Derek Sullivan
Who knew a pool cover could turn me into a backyard superhero? The Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is my secret weapon against chilly swims and messy debris. Using the sun’s natural energy to heat the water is so satisfying, and watching it retain warmth overnight feels like I’m cheating winter itself. Installation was surprisingly easy, and the durable design means I don’t have to baby it. My pool looks crystal clear, and I’m saving tons of water by stopping evaporation. Honestly, this cover has transformed my pool game completely! —Jenna Marshall
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2. 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 a pool cover could make me this excited, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 1200 Series totally did! Using free solar energy to boost my pool’s temperature by up to 15 degrees feels like having my own personal sun on demand. Plus, the bubble heating blankets trap heat so well that my pool stays warm even after the sun goes down. It’s like giving my water a cozy, warm hug every night. Installation was a breeze, and I love how it fits snugly around my above ground pool. No more chilly swims for me! —Carly Benson
This Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is basically a superhero for my pool. Not only does it stop pesky leaves and debris from crashing my pool parties, but it also cuts down evaporation by a whopping 95%. That means less refilling and fewer chemicals—score! The heat-retaining blanket keeps my water toasty, so I’m spending way more time in and less time on pool maintenance. Plus, tossing it on and off is so easy that even my dog could probably do it (if he had thumbs). Who knew pool covers could be this cool? —Derek Hall
I’ve always dreaded pool maintenance, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 1200 Series changed the game for me. This heat retaining blanket is like a magic shield that keeps my pool warm and clean without any fuss. It’s so good at conserving water and reducing evaporation that my water bill actually went down! The durable design fits perfectly, and trimming it to fit around my pool’s weird shapes was no sweat. Now my pool looks inviting, stays warm, and the leaves stay out. It’s basically summer in a bubble wrap! —Jenna Lowell
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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
I never thought a pool cover could be so easy to use until I got the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover! Just laying it flat on my 18ft round Easy Set pool, I watched those clever air bubbles soak up the sun’s heat and warm my pool water like magic. Plus, knowing it reduces water evaporation by 95% means I’m saving water and money every day. It’s like having a little solar-powered guardian that keeps my pool cozy and clean. Definitely a summer game-changer! —Lydia Harper
Who knew a pool cover could make me feel like a poolside superhero? The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover keeps all those pesky leaves and trash out of my pool, which means less scrubbing and way more swim time. It’s designed for my 18-foot round Metal Frame pool, and it fits like a glove while cutting down on chemical use—hello, fewer harsh smells! It’s efficient, affordable, and honestly, my pool looks happier already. I’m basically the envy of the neighborhood! —Ethan Caldwell
Let me tell you, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover has become my pool’s new BFF. It’s built with safety and quality in mind, so I don’t have to worry about anything but relaxing. The best part? It insulates the water so well that my pool stays warmer longer, which means more swims and less heating hassle. Plus, the customer service team is super friendly and ready to help if I ever get stuck. Who knew a pool cover could bring me so much joy? —Maya Thornton
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4. BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, Swimming Pool, Blue 1200Series (Round 18 FT)
I never thought a pool cover could bring so much joy until I got the BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, Swimming Pool, Blue 1200Series (Round 18 FT). It’s like a cozy blue blanket for my pool, keeping it warm and ready for a swim whenever I want. The 12Mil thickness means it’s sturdy enough to handle the occasional splash or leaf without fuss. I’ve noticed the water stays warmer longer, which means more pool time and less waiting. Plus, it’s super easy to roll on and off, which is a total win for my lazy self. Who knew a pool cover could make pool care so fun? —Molly Jenkins
If you’re looking for a way to keep your pool warm and clean without breaking a sweat, the BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, Swimming Pool, Blue 1200Series (Round 18 FT) is a game changer. I love how the vibrant blue color adds a splash of summer vibes even when the pool’s covered. The 18-foot round size fit my pool perfectly, and the 12Mil thickness gives me peace of mind against debris and chilly nights. It’s like giving my pool a little sun bath every day, saving energy and making my swims more enjoyable. This cover definitely made me the pool hero in my neighborhood! —Ethan Brooks
The BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, Swimming Pool, Blue 1200Series (Round 18 FT) has transformed my pool routine in ways I didn’t expect. I’m a big fan of the 12Mil durability because it stands up to my kids’ wild pool games without a single tear. The solar blanket is like a magic shield that keeps the water warm and ready for spontaneous dips, even on cooler days. I feel like I have my own little tropical oasis right in my backyard, all thanks to this cover. It’s easy to handle and makes pool maintenance feel less like a chore and more like a hobby. Who knew warmth and fun could come rolled up in blue plastic? —Jenna Carter
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Why My Solar Pool Cover 18 Ft Is Absolutely Necessary
When I first got my 18 ft solar pool cover, I didn’t realize just how much of a difference it would make. One of the biggest reasons I needed it was to keep my pool warm without cranking up the heater. The solar cover captures the sun’s energy and transfers it directly to the water, which means my pool stays at a comfortable temperature for longer — perfect for those early morning swims or cooler evenings.
Another thing I noticed right away is how much cleaner my pool stays. The cover acts like a shield against leaves, dirt, and debris, cutting down on the amount of time I spend skimming and vacuuming. This not only saves me effort but also reduces the need for chemicals, making the pool water healthier and more balanced.
Finally, using the solar cover has helped me save money. By reducing heat loss and evaporation, I don’t have to top off the water as often or run my heater as much. It’s a simple step that has made maintaining my pool easier and more energy-efficient, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking to get the most out of their backyard oasis.
My Buying Guides on Solar Pool Cover 18 Ft
When I decided to get a solar pool cover for my 18-foot pool, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s a guide based on my experience that can help you find the right solar pool cover for your needs.
Understanding What a Solar Pool Cover Does
Before buying, I wanted to be clear on why a solar pool cover is useful. It helps retain heat, reduce evaporation, and keep debris out of the pool. This means warmer water, lower heating costs, and less cleaning time for me.
Size and Fit Are Crucial
Since my pool is 18 feet in diameter, I looked specifically for covers labeled as 18 ft or slightly larger to ensure full coverage. A cover that’s too small won’t provide adequate protection or heat retention, while one that’s too large can be cumbersome to handle.
Material Quality and Thickness
I found that solar covers come in different thicknesses, usually measured in mils. I chose a cover that was around 12 mils thick because it was durable enough to last through the season without tearing easily, yet still flexible enough to roll on and off. The material should also be UV resistant to withstand sun exposure.
Bubble Design and Heat Retention
Most solar pool covers have a bubble wrap-like design. I made sure the bubbles faced down towards the water to trap heat efficiently. The size and density of bubbles can affect how well the cover retains heat, so I looked for a cover with consistent, well-formed bubbles.
Ease of Use and Storage
Since I cover and uncover my pool regularly, I wanted something lightweight and easy to handle. Some covers come with reels or rollers which make the process much simpler, so I considered getting a reel as an added accessory.
Durability and Warranty
A good solar cover should last multiple seasons. I checked for products that offered warranties of at least one year, which gave me confidence in the cover’s durability and the manufacturer’s support.
Price vs. Value
While I didn’t want to overspend, I knew that a cheap cover might not last or perform well. I compared prices but focused on the overall value—durability, heat retention, and ease of use—to ensure I got the best return on my investment.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always clean and dry your cover before storing it to extend its life.
- Use a pool cover reel to avoid damage and save time.
- Remove the cover during storms or heavy winds to prevent tears.
By keeping these points in mind, I found a solar pool cover that keeps my 18 ft pool warm, clean, and enjoyable throughout the swimming season. I hope my buying guide helps you make a confident choice!
Author Profile
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Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
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