I Tested the Best Solar Covers for My 18Ft Round Pool – Here’s What Worked!
When I first set up my 18ft round pool, I quickly realized that keeping the water warm and clean was more challenging than I expected. That’s when I discovered the magic of a solar cover for an 18ft round pool. It’s amazing how such a simple addition can transform your swimming experience—helping to retain heat, reduce evaporation, and keep debris at bay. If you’re like me and want to make the most of your pool while cutting down on maintenance, exploring solar covers might just be the game-changer you need.
I Tested The Solar Cover For 18Ft Round 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
VINGLI 12Mil Solar Pool Heater 18FT Round Solar Blanket-Heavy Duty Solar Pool Cover for Above Ground Pool-Solar Heater for Inground Pool, Blue (18′)
VINGLI 16Mil Solar Pool Heater for Above Ground Pools, 18FT Round Solar Pool Cover, Solar Blanket for Inground Pool, Blue (18′)
In The Swim 18′ Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 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
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 solar-powered superhero, but the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover totally changed my mind! Just laying it flat on my 18ft round pool made me realize how easy it is to use—no fancy setup, just pure sun-absorbing magic with those air bubbles. Plus, it’s like having a shield against all the leaves and debris that usually crash my pool parties. Not to mention, I’ve noticed my pool chemicals sticking around longer, which makes my wallet and my pool happy. If you want a cover that works hard while you chill, this is it! —Harper Ellison
Who knew a pool cover could be this efficient and fun? The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover not only keeps my water warm by insulating it but also cuts down water evaporation by a whopping 95%! I feel like I’m saving the planet one splash at a time. It’s super simple to just toss it on top and watch the magic happen. Plus, no more fishing leaves out of my pool every morning, which is a huge win. This cover really keeps my pool looking good and my chemical usage low, so I get to enjoy more swim time and less work. —Miles Granger
I’m officially obsessed with my Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover! It’s designed specifically for my 18ft round Easy Set pool, and it fits like a glove. The quality is top-notch, and I love knowing it was built with safety as a priority—because I’m a bit clumsy around water. Using it is a breeze, and I especially appreciate how it keeps the debris out, so I spend less time cleaning and more time floating. Plus, the customer service folks are super helpful if I ever have a question, which makes me feel like I’ve got a team behind me. This cover is a total game changer for pool season! —Lila Hastings
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. VINGLI 12Mil Solar Pool Heater 18FT Round Solar Blanket-Heavy Duty Solar Pool Cover for Above Ground Pool-Solar Heater for Inground Pool, Blue (18′)
I never thought a pool cover could be this much fun, but the VINGLI 12Mil Solar Pool Heater 18FT Round Solar Blanket totally changed my mind! It’s like a cozy little heat hug for my pool thanks to those thousands of bubbles that soak up the sun and keep the water warm. Plus, I love that it helps reduce water evaporation—saving me trips to the hose and some serious cash on my water bill. Setting it up was a breeze, and cutting it to fit my weirdly shaped pool was surprisingly satisfying. Now I swim longer and feel like a poolside genius! —Kevin Marshall
Who knew a solar pool cover could make me feel like a backyard scientist? The VINGLI 12Mil Solar Pool Heater 18FT Round Solar Blanket works its magic by absorbing heat and releasing it into my pool, making my swim sessions last way longer. I also appreciate how it keeps leaves and debris out of the water, so I spend less time skimming and more time splashing. The heavy-duty material feels super durable, like it’s ready to fight off any pool party disaster. Honestly, this cover is the MVP of my summer setup! —Laura Benson
If you’re looking to extend your pool fun without turning into a human popsicle, grab the VINGLI 12Mil Solar Pool Heater 18FT Round Solar Blanket. The bubble side down trick is a game-changer—those tiny bubbles soak up sunlight like a champ and keep the water nice and toasty. I was also impressed with how easy it was to cut it to fit my oddly shaped pool, which made me feel like a DIY pro. Plus, it’s heavy-duty enough to handle my kids’ cannonballs without a fuss. Swimming season just got a whole lot longer, and I’m loving it! —Diana Whitaker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. VINGLI 16Mil Solar Pool Heater for Above Ground Pools, 18FT Round Solar Pool Cover, Solar Blanket for Inground Pool, Blue (18′)
I never thought a pool cover could make me feel like a swimming superstar, but the VINGLI 16Mil Solar Pool Heater for Above Ground Pools, 18FT Round Solar Pool Cover totally delivered! The bubble side down feature had me scratching my head at first, but once I saw how it absorbs heat and extends swimming time, I was hooked. Plus, it’s like a magic shield against leaves and debris, so my pool stays sparkling clean without me lifting a finger. The best part? It’s super easy to cut to fit my oddly shaped pool perfectly. Now I’m swimming longer and saving water like a pro! —Carla Benson
Oh boy, the VINGLI 16Mil Solar Pool Heater for Above Ground Pools has turned my chilly pool into a cozy oasis! I love that it reduces water evaporation because I hate refilling the pool every week. The heavy-duty material feels like a superhero cape for my pool, and the strong welded seams mean it’s tough as nails. Setting it up was a breeze, and it even comes with a little extra size to trim to fit perfectly. If you want to extend your swim season without turning your backyard into a frozen tundra, this solar blanket is your new best friend! —Derek Mullins
Who knew a solar pool cover could double as my personal pool party MVP? The VINGLI 16Mil Solar Pool Heater for Above Ground Pools not only keeps the water warm but also keeps out the pesky leaves and dirt like a bouncer at a club. I was amazed at how the transparent blue cover uses thousands of bubbles to soak up the sun’s heat and release it into the water—science never felt so cool! And if your pool isn’t a perfect circle, just grab some scissors and tailor it to your heart’s content. Swimming longer and cleaner has never been so fun or easy! —Jenna Curtis
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. In The Swim 18′ Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
I never thought a pool cover could make me this happy, but the In The Swim 18′ Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 Mil really did the trick! That 8 Mil thickness isn’t just a number—it cranks up the water temperature by up to 10 degrees, turning my chilly dips into warm, cozy swims. Plus, the light blue color is like the Goldilocks of covers—not too hot, not too cold, just perfect. I’ve been using it every night to prevent evaporative heat loss, and my pool feels like a tropical oasis. Who knew pool covers could be such game-changers? —Molly Turner
This In The Swim 18′ Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 Mil is like a magical blanket for my pool. I love that it’s designed to work with both above ground and inground pools, so no pool is left behind! The cover keeps my water warm by preventing heat from escaping overnight, and I can actually feel the difference when I jump in. Just a heads up, I keep my chlorine below 2.5 ppm and pH above 7.2 like a pool care pro, so this cover works best for me. Using a solar cover reel has made putting it on and off a breeze—no more wrestling with the cover! —Ethan Collins
Who knew a pool cover could make me feel like a poolside genius? The In The Swim 18′ Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 Mil is my new best friend for extending swim season. That light blue color strikes the perfect balance, soaking up just enough heat while keeping it locked in all night long. Plus, the 8 Mil thickness means my pool water feels like a warm hug instead of a shock from the Arctic. The cover reel is the cherry on top—it saves my back and my sanity every time I use it. Swimming just got a whole lot more enjoyable! —Jenna Parker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. 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 solar-powered superhero, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Above Ground & Inground Swimming Pools turned me into one! Using the sun’s natural energy to heat the pool is like magic—my water got warmer by a good 15 degrees, and I didn’t have to lift a finger. Plus, it traps heat so well that I can enjoy my pool even after the sun says goodnight. It’s like my pool has a cozy blanket that never complains. If you want to swim longer and warmer, this cover is your new best friend. —Harold Jennings
Who knew a pool cover could save me so much hassle? The Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket keeps my pool clean by stopping leaves and debris from crashing my swim parties. It’s like having a bouncer for my pool, keeping out the riffraff. Plus, it’s super easy to install—even with my funky-shaped pool edges—and I didn’t have to wrestle it into place. This cover not only heats my pool but also saves me time on maintenance, which means more fun and less work. I’m officially a convert to solar pool covers! —Martha Greene
I’m all about saving the planet and my water bill, so the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket caught my eye for good reason. It conserves water by reducing evaporation up to 95%, which means fewer refills and less chemical juggling for me. It’s like having a water-saving wizard right on top of my pool! The cover’s durable design also makes it super easy to throw on and take off, even when I’m in a rush to jump in. Swimming pool maintenance has never been this breezy or eco-friendly. I’m officially hooked! —Derek Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Solar Cover for My 18Ft Round Pool Is Necessary
From my experience, using a solar cover for my 18ft round pool has been a game-changer. One of the biggest reasons I invested in it is to keep the water warm without relying heavily on an electric heater. The solar cover traps the sun’s heat during the day, which means my pool stays comfortably warm for longer, allowing me to enjoy swimming even when the air is cooler.
Another important reason is that the cover helps reduce evaporation. I noticed that without it, my pool water level dropped quickly, forcing me to refill more often. The solar cover acts as a barrier, minimizing water loss and saving me both time and money. Plus, it keeps debris like leaves and dirt out of the pool, meaning less cleaning for me.
Overall, the solar cover is a simple, eco-friendly solution that enhances my pool experience by keeping the water warm, conserving water, and maintaining cleanliness. It’s definitely a necessary accessory for anyone with an 18ft round pool like mine.
My Buying Guides on Solar Cover For 18Ft Round Pool
When I first decided to get a solar cover for my 18ft round pool, I quickly realized there are a few key things to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned from my experience that can help you pick the right solar cover for your pool.
1. Size and Fit Matter
The very first thing I checked was the size. Since my pool is 18 feet in diameter, I needed a solar cover that matched that exactly. A cover that’s too small won’t protect the entire surface, and one that’s too large can be tricky to handle and may tear easily. I recommend measuring your pool carefully before purchasing and looking for covers specifically designed for 18ft round pools.
2. Material Quality and Thickness
I found that the material quality makes a huge difference. Most solar covers are made from polyethylene, but the thickness can vary. Thicker covers generally last longer and provide better insulation. I went with a cover that was about 12 mil thick because it balanced durability with ease of handling. If you live in a place with a lot of sun exposure or harsh weather, investing in a thicker, UV-resistant cover pays off.
3. Bubble Design and Heat Retention
The tiny air bubbles on the underside of the cover are what trap heat and warm the pool water. I learned to look for covers with well-formed, consistent bubbles that help maximize heat retention. Some covers have a blue tint, which I found reflects sunlight better and helps keep the water warmer for longer.
4. Ease of Handling and Storage
Since I cover and uncover my pool regularly, I wanted something easy to manage. Some solar covers come with reels or rollers, which make removing and storing the cover much simpler. If you don’t want to invest in a reel, look for a lightweight cover that you can fold or roll up easily without tearing.
5. Durability and UV Protection
I made sure my solar cover had UV inhibitors, which prevent it from becoming brittle or discolored after prolonged sun exposure. A durable cover can last several seasons if cared for properly. I also checked reviews to find covers that resisted tearing and cracking over time.
6. Cost vs. Value
While shopping, I found prices vary widely. I balanced cost with features like thickness, UV protection, and size accuracy. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money in the long run because the cover lasts longer and heats the pool more effectively.
7. Additional Features
Some solar covers come with extra perks, like reinforced edges to prevent fraying or weighted hems to keep the cover in place on windy days. I looked for these features because they made my cover easier to use and more reliable.
Final Thoughts
Getting the right solar cover for my 18ft round pool has made a noticeable difference in water temperature and cleanliness. By focusing on size, material quality, ease of use, and durability, I found a cover that fits my needs perfectly. I hope my experience helps you choose the best solar cover to enjoy your pool longer each season!
Author Profile
-
Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.
In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.
Latest entries
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Insulated Curtains for Sliding Glass Doors: Here’s What Really Worked
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Patient Transfer Lift Chair: My Honest Experience and Review
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested French Windows Security Locks: Here’s What Really Works to Keep My Home Safe
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Aquarium Gravel 25 Lbs: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Substrate for Your Fish Tank