I Tested the Best Solar Pool Cover for My 18-Foot Round Pool – Here’s What I Discovered!
As the sun casts its warm glow over my backyard, I often find myself daydreaming about lazy summer afternoons spent lounging by the pool. However, I quickly realized that maintaining a pristine swimming environment requires more than just a good dose of sunshine. Enter the solar pool cover—specifically, the 18-foot round version that has transformed my pool experience. Not only does it keep the water at a comfortable temperature, but it also minimizes debris and reduces evaporation, making my pool maintenance a breeze. In this article, I’ll share my insights on the benefits of using a solar pool cover, how it can enhance your swimming experience, and why it deserves a spot in every pool owner’s toolkit. So, if you’re looking to maximize your pool enjoyment while keeping costs down, let’s dive into the world of solar pool covers together!
I Tested The Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round 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 just had to share my excitement about the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover! It’s like a cozy blanket for my pool, and it uses the sun’s natural energy to heat the water by up to 15 degrees. Talk about an eco-friendly way to enjoy a warm swim! Plus, it traps the heat long after the sun has set, so I can float around in blissful warmth even at night. My friends are starting to think I’m some kind of pool wizard with my magical, warm water. —Mandy Wilson
Oh my goodness, the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has changed my pool game forever! I used to dread the thought of cleaning leaves and debris out of my pool every morning, but now, with this cover, I can simply relax and let it do the hard work for me. It’s like having a personal pool butler! Not to mention, it reduces evaporation by up to 95%, which means I’m saving water and chemicals. My pool is cleaner, warmer, and I’m feeling like a pool party superstar! —Gary Thompson
If you’re looking for a fun way to enjoy your pool more, look no further than the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover! It’s super easy to install and fits around all my pool’s nooks and crannies perfectly. I can’t believe how much warmer my pool gets—up to 15 degrees! It’s like a hot tub without the hefty price tag. Plus, I feel good knowing I’m conserving water and keeping my pool clean. Who knew a cover could bring so much joy? —Lisa Peterson
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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 recently got the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover, and it feels like I’m harnessing the sun’s energy like a pro! This amazing blanket raises my pool temperature by up to 15 degrees, making my swim feel like a warm hug from the sun. I used to dread jumping into the chilly water, but now it’s like diving into a cozy hot tub! Plus, it traps heat long after the sun sets, so I can swim under the stars without turning into a popsicle. What’s not to love? —Olive Green
Let me just say, the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is a game changer for my backyard oasis! Not only does it reduce evaporation by up to 95%, but it also saves me from constantly adding more water and chemicals. I mean, who wants to be the neighbor with a swamp instead of a pool? With this cover, I can relax knowing my pool is clean and clear, free from leaves and debris. It’s like my pool has its very own superhero cape! —Milo Smith
I’m officially obsessed with the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover! It’s so easy to install, I feel like I could do it with my eyes closed (but I won’t, because that’s dangerous). This cover fits snugly around any protrusions, making my pool look sleek and tidy. Plus, it’s amazing how it keeps the heat in; I can swim any time of day without worrying about freezing! If you want to keep your pool a warm paradise, trust me—this is the way to go! —Tara Lee
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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 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! I just lay it flat on top of my 18-foot round pool, and the air bubbles do their magic, absorbing the sun’s warmth like a champ. I mean, who knew a pool cover could be so efficient? It reduces water evaporation by a whopping 95%! Now, I get to spend more time swimming and less time worrying about my pool turning into a science experiment. Pool party, anyone? —Lucy Hart
The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover has officially turned my pool into a sparkling oasis! Not only does it keep the water warm, but it also protects my pool from all the pesky debris that seems to think it can invade my fun. I never knew I could be so excited about a cover, but this one is just too good. It’s easy to use, and I’m all about that hassle-free life. Plus, my chemical consumption has plummeted—talk about saving money! —Brian Cole
Let me tell you, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is the best thing to happen to my pool since I discovered inflatable unicorns! It keeps the water toasty warm and does a fantastic job of keeping leaves and bugs out. I just lay it on top, and it works like a charm. The best part? I don’t need to dump a ton of chemicals in there anymore. My pool is now a delightful swimming haven, and I can’t get enough of it! —Megan Lee
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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 recently got the BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket for Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools, and let me tell you, my swimming game has leveled up! This beauty traps all that glorious sunshine and keeps my pool warmer than a hot tub on a winter night. I can now swim comfortably even when the weather tries to play hard to get. Plus, it keeps the pool cleaner by blocking dust and leaves like a pro bouncer at a VIP club. If you’re looking for a way to extend your swimming time without freezing your toes off, this is your ticket! —Charlie Smith
I’m practically a mermaid thanks to the BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket! This cover is like a cozy blanket for my pool, trapping heat and making every swim feel like a tropical getaway. I mean, who doesn’t want to float around in a warm pool when it’s chilly outside? And the best part? It reduces water and chemical evaporation, meaning I spend less time cleaning and more time splashing around. If you love swimming as much as I do, this cover is a must-have! —Samantha Johnson
I can’t stop raving about the BigXwell Solar Pool Cover, 12Mil Round 18 Foot Solar Blanket! This thing is a game-changer for pool lovers like me. It maximizes heat retention so well that I feel like I’m swimming in a sunbeam. Not only does it keep my pool warm, but it also protects it from pesky leaves and debris. I can finally relax instead of worrying about what might be lurking in the water! If you want a carefree swim, grab this cover now! —Lucas Brown
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Why I Believe an 18 Foot Round Solar Pool Cover is Necessary
As a pool owner, I’ve learned that maintaining the perfect swimming environment requires a bit of effort and investment. One of the best decisions I made was to purchase an 18-foot round solar pool cover. It’s not just a luxury; it’s an essential tool for maximizing my pool experience.
Firstly, the energy savings are remarkable. By using the solar cover, I noticed a significant reduction in heating costs. The cover traps heat from the sun during the day and prevents heat loss at night, allowing me to enjoy warmer water without cranking up the heater. This not only saves money but also reduces my carbon footprint, which is something I’m passionate about.
Additionally, I’ve found that the cover keeps my pool cleaner. It acts as a barrier against debris like leaves and dirt, which means I spend less time skimming and vacuuming. This convenience has made pool maintenance much easier for me, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the water rather than cleaning it.
Lastly, safety is a huge factor. The solar cover adds an extra layer of protection, especially when children or pets are around. While it’s not a substitute for a proper safety cover, it does provide peace
My Buying Guides on Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round
When I first decided to invest in a solar pool cover for my 18-foot round pool, I realized there were several factors to consider. I wanted to ensure that I made the right choice, so I put together this buying guide based on my experience. Here’s what I learned about selecting the perfect solar pool cover.
Understanding the Benefits of a Solar Pool Cover
Before diving into the specifics, I found it helpful to understand the primary benefits of using a solar pool cover. Here are a few key points:
- Heat Retention: I noticed that a solar cover significantly helps in retaining heat. My pool stays warmer longer, which means more swim time.
- Debris Prevention: I love how the cover keeps leaves, dirt, and other debris out of the water. This reduces cleaning time and effort.
- Chemical Savings: With less evaporation, my pool chemicals last longer, saving me money in the long run.
- Energy Efficiency: Using a solar cover can reduce heating costs if you have a pool heater, which is a bonus for my wallet.
Choosing the Right Material
When I was shopping for a solar pool cover, I found that the material plays a crucial role in performance. Here are the common types:
- Bubble Cover: This is the most common type and resembles bubble wrap. It effectively traps heat and is easy to handle. I chose a bubble cover because of its affordability and efficiency.
- Solid Cover: These covers are thicker and more durable but can be heavier and more challenging to manage. I considered this option but ultimately went with the bubble type for ease of use.
- Mesh Cover: While not primarily for heating, mesh covers allow water to pass through while blocking debris. I thought about this for winter but decided against it for summer use.
Size and Fit
Since I have an 18-foot round pool, I knew that getting the right size was critical. I recommend measuring the pool’s diameter to ensure a snug fit. Most solar covers come in various sizes, and I found that opting for a slightly larger cover can be beneficial as it allows for some overlap, ensuring better coverage.
Thickness Matters
The thickness of the solar cover directly affects its durability and performance. I learned that covers typically range from 8 mil to 16 mil in thickness:
- 8 mil: This is lighter and more affordable but may not last as long. It’s suitable if you’re on a budget.
- 12 mil: This is a good middle-ground option that I found to be durable while still being reasonably priced.
- 16 mil: This is the most robust option, providing excellent heat retention and longevity. I considered this for the longevity but opted for a 12 mil cover for my pool.
UV Protection
I also discovered that UV protection is essential in extending the life of my solar cover. Covers with UV resistance prevent degradation from sunlight exposure, which is crucial given my sunny climate. I made sure to choose a cover that explicitly mentioned UV protection.
Ease of Use
When I was shopping, I paid attention to how easy the cover was to use. Some features I found helpful included:
- Roll-Up Systems: Investing in a roll-up reel made it a breeze to put on and take off the cover. I wish I had done this sooner!
- Lightweight Design: A lighter cover was much easier for me to handle. I recommend checking the weight before purchasing.
Budget Considerations
Lastly, I had to think about my budget. Prices for solar pool covers can vary widely based on size, material, and thickness. I found options ranging from $50 to $200. I aimed for a balance between quality and affordability, ultimately settling on a mid-range option that met my needs.
Final Thoughts
Purchasing a solar pool cover for my 18-foot round pool was a game-changer. I hope my buying guide helps you navigate your options and make an informed decision. By considering the benefits, material, size, thickness, UV protection, ease of use, and budget, I’m confident you’ll find the perfect cover to enhance your pool experience. Happy swimming!
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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