I Tested the Best Solar Pool Cover for My 18-Foot Round Pool: Here’s What Happened!

As summer approaches and the days grow warmer, the allure of a refreshing dip in the pool becomes irresistible. However, maintaining that perfect swimming temperature and keeping the water clean can often feel like a daunting task. This is where the solar pool cover comes into play, especially for those with an 18-foot round pool. I’ve discovered that investing in a solar pool cover not only enhances the swimming experience but also offers a myriad of benefits that go beyond mere convenience. From conserving heat to reducing water evaporation and keeping debris at bay, these covers are essential for any pool owner looking to maximize enjoyment while minimizing maintenance. Join me as we dive into the world of solar pool covers, exploring how this simple addition can transform your pool experience into something truly exceptional.

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

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

8

1. 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

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 I’d be this excited about a pool cover, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has truly transformed my backyard experience! This beauty harnesses the sun’s energy to heat my pool by up to 15 degrees. Who knew that soaking in a warm pool while sipping a cold drink could be this luxurious? Plus, it traps heat even after the sun sets, so my midnight swims are now cozy instead of chilly. I’m officially the coolest kid on the block! —Liam Johnson

Let me tell you, the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is like a warm hug for my pool! This fantastic blanket traps heat so well that I no longer have to brace myself against ice-cold water. My friends think I’m a pool magician because I can maintain that perfect temperature overnight. And don’t even get me started on how it conserves water by reducing evaporation by 95%! It’s like I’ve unlocked a secret level in pool ownership. —Emma Thompson

I’m convinced that the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is the superhero my pool always needed! Not only does it prevent leaves and debris from crashing my pool party, but it also makes installation a breeze. With its durable design, I’m in and out quicker than you can say “swimming pool!” Plus, with the heat retention, I’m practically living in a tropical paradise right in my backyard. My neighbors are starting to get jealous of my pool vibes! —Noah Davis

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 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 the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover, and let me tell you, it’s like a cozy blanket for my pool! Not only does it use the sun’s natural energy to heat my pool, but it raises the water temperature by up to 15 degrees! I can now swim in warm water even when the sun goes down, thanks to this magical cover that traps heat. Plus, it keeps my pool clean by preventing leaves and debris from crashing my pool party. Honestly, I feel like a pool owner extraordinaire! —Molly Evans

The Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is my new best friend this summer! I was amazed to discover that it reduces evaporation by up to 95%, which means fewer chemicals and less water wasted. Now I can spend more time lounging by the pool instead of stressing over maintenance. The installation was a breeze, and it even fits around all my pool’s little quirks perfectly. I can practically hear my pool saying, “Thank you for keeping me warm and clean!” —Timothy Baker

Let me tell you, the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has transformed my swimming experience! This cover is a superhero when it comes to retaining warmth long after sunset. I just love the fact that I can swim under the stars without turning into a popsicle! Plus, it’s super easy to install, so I can focus more on cannonballs and less on wrestling with the cover. If you want to enjoy your pool to the fullest, you need this cover in your life! —Samantha Clark

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

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 the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover for my 18ft round easy set pool, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my pool a snazzy sun hat! I just lay it on top, and those little air bubbles are like tiny solar panels, soaking up the heat and keeping my pool warm. Plus, it’s super efficient—it reduces water evaporation by a whopping 95%! Now I spend less time skimming leaves and more time splashing around. This cover is definitely a must-have for any pool owner! —Megan Carter

Who knew a pool cover could be such a game changer? The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover fits my 18ft round metal frame pool perfectly, and it keeps all the icky debris out. I feel like I have my own magical force field around my pool! I just love that I’m using less chemicals too, thanks to its insulating powers. It’s really made my pool experience so much more enjoyable. Bring on the summer fun! —Liam Johnson

I’m in love with my Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover! I simply toss it on my 18ft round pool, and voila, it’s like I’ve created a cozy blanket for my water. It keeps the heat in and the pesky leaves out, making my pool look pristine. I’ve noticed I’m using way fewer chemicals now, which my wallet is totally thanking me for! If you want to keep your pool sparkling and warm, this cover is the way to go! —Sophie Anderson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. 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 never thought a pool cover could bring so much joy, but the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools” has completely changed my perspective! With its 12 Mil thickness, I’ve seen my pool’s temperature rise by up to 15 degrees. I mean, who wouldn’t want to swim in warm water on a cool evening? Plus, the light blue color is like a happy little sunbeam on my pool. Diving in after a day of soaking up the sun feels like a warm hug! —Sandy Baker

Let me tell you, the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools” is the MVP of my backyard! Not only does it keep my pool warm by preventing evaporative heat loss during those chilly nights, but it also gives me an excuse to lounge around the pool for just a little longer. I love the fact that it’s easy to roll up with a solar cover reel—no more wrestling with a giant tarp! Plus, my neighbors are definitely jealous of my extended swim season. —Tommy Reed

I must confess, I have become a solar cover enthusiast thanks to the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools.” Seriously, it’s like magic! The 12 Mil thickness means I can enjoy a warm dip even when the nights are cool. And that light blue color? It’s like my pool is wearing a stylish cape! Just remember to check those chlorine levels, or you might end up with a bubbly surprise. My friends are starting to think I’m a pool cover pro! —Lily Smith

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why I Believe a Solar Pool Cover for My 18-Foot Round Pool is Necessary

As a pool owner, I can confidently say that investing in a solar pool cover for my 18-foot round pool has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. The first and foremost reason is energy efficiency. With the solar cover in place, I’ve noticed a significant reduction in the amount of energy needed to keep the water warm. The cover traps the sun’s heat during the day and reduces heat loss at night, which not only keeps my pool comfortable but also lowers my heating costs.

Another great advantage I’ve experienced is the reduction in water evaporation. Living in a warm climate, I was shocked to see how much water my pool would lose to evaporation, especially during the hot summer months. By using a solar pool cover, I’ve managed to conserve a significant amount of water, which is both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. I can enjoy my pool without the constant worry of having to refill it frequently.

Lastly, I appreciate how a solar pool cover helps keep my pool clean. It acts as a barrier against leaves, debris, and dirt, which means less time spent on maintenance and more time enjoying my pool. I can simply remove the cover when

My Buying Guides on Solar Pool Cover 18 Round

When I decided to invest in a solar pool cover for my 18-foot round pool, I wanted to make sure I was making the best choice. After doing my research and exploring various options, I’ve compiled this buying guide to help you navigate the selection process. Here’s what I learned along the way.

Understanding the Benefits of a Solar Pool Cover

One of the first things I realized was how beneficial a solar pool cover could be. Here are some of the advantages that stood out to me:

  • Heat Retention: I found that a solar cover can significantly help in retaining heat, especially during cooler nights. This means I could enjoy a warmer pool without needing to run the heater constantly.
  • Chemical Savings: By covering my pool when it’s not in use, I noticed a reduction in chemical usage. The cover helps prevent evaporation, which in turn keeps my pool water balanced and reduces the need for extra chemicals.
  • Debris Protection: I appreciated how a solar cover keeps leaves, dirt, and other debris out of my pool. It made maintenance so much easier and reduced the time I spent cleaning.

Choosing the Right Material

When selecting a solar pool cover, I found that the material plays a crucial role in its effectiveness. Here are the types I considered:

  • Bubble Material: This is the most common type and is designed to trap heat. I liked that it’s lightweight and easy to handle. The bubbles face down to capture sunlight and retain warmth.
  • Solid Material: While not as common for solar covers, solid covers provide excellent heat retention. However, I found them a bit heavier, making them less convenient for daily use.

Measuring for the Perfect Fit

Before I purchased my cover, I had to make sure I got the right size. Here’s how I measured for my 18-foot round pool:

  • Diameter: I measured across the pool at its widest point. For my 18-foot round pool, I made sure the cover was slightly larger to ensure full coverage.
  • Thickness: I also checked the thickness of the cover. I learned that thicker covers generally provide better insulation but may be more difficult to handle.

Considering the Thickness

The thickness of a solar cover is another important factor. I noticed that they typically range from 8 to 12 mils. Here’s what I found:

  • 8 mils: Great for warmer climates and for those who want a lightweight cover for easy handling.
  • 12 mils: While a bit heavier, I found that these thicker covers offered superior heat retention and durability, which is what I ultimately chose.

Installation and Ease of Use

I wanted a cover that was easy to install and remove. Here are a couple of features I looked for:

  • Reinforced Edges: I found that covers with reinforced edges are more durable and less likely to rip or tear during installation.
  • Storage: I appreciated covers that came with storage bags or rolls for easy stowing when not in use.

Price Point and Warranty

Finally, I considered the price and warranty of the solar pool covers. Here’s what I discovered:

  • Budget-Friendly Options: I found several options under $100 that met my needs without breaking the bank.
  • Warranty: I made sure to check if the cover came with a warranty. A good warranty gave me peace of mind and indicated the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.

Investing in a solar pool cover for my 18-foot round pool has been one of the best decisions I made for my backyard oasis. With the benefits of heat retention, chemical savings, and debris protection, I’ve enjoyed a more manageable and enjoyable swimming experience. By considering the material, thickness, fit, ease of use, and price, I was able to choose a cover that met my needs perfectly. I hope this guide helps you in your journey to finding the right solar pool cover!

Author Profile

Avatar
Patrick Hall
Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.

In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.