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10 Best Swimming Pool Solar Covers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

In The Swim 20' x 40' Ultra Silver Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 16 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,478
Thickness
Size and Shape

Most important from
436 reviews

Thickness
Impressive quality and thickness of the cover; effectively keeps the pool warmer, reducing the need for the heat pump during cooler months.
Size and Shape
Requires trimming to fit smaller pools, but overall satisfaction with its performance.

The In The Swim 20' x 40' Ultra Silver Rectangle Solar Pool Cover is designed for effective solar heating of both above-ground and in-ground pools. With a substantial 16 Mil thickness, this cover can increase water temperature by up to 18 degrees, making it ideal for extending your swimming season. The silver color enhances light penetration, which helps in rapid temperature increase. It also effectively prevents evaporative heat loss during cooler nights, thus maintaining the warmth of the pool water.

However, it requires careful monitoring of chlorine and pH levels to ensure longevity and performance. Chlorine levels should be below 2.5 ppm, and pH levels above 7.2 when using this cover. Utilizing a solar cover reel can improve convenience and reduce wear and tear, but it may add to the initial setup cost. The cover is well-rated, holding a 4.4 out of 5 stars from 414 customer reviews, indicating general satisfaction among users.

Given its size, shape, and UV protection, this cover is suitable for large rectangular pools, and its bubble design aids in effective heat retention. However, its weight (58 pounds) might make handling challenging without a reel. This solar cover is a good investment for pool owners looking to maintain a warm pool temperature with minimal heat loss.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,478
Thickness
Size and Shape

Most important from
436 reviews

Thickness
Impressive quality and thickness of the cover; effectively keeps the pool warmer, reducing the need for the heat pump during cooler months.
Size and Shape
Requires trimming to fit smaller pools, but overall satisfaction with its performance.
#2

Sun2Solar Blue 33 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

Rating
9.8
Material
Color
Size and Shape

Most important from
3996 reviews

Material
Superior quality materials ensure the cover lasts many seasons, even in high UV conditions, making it worth the investment.
Color
The clear cover heats the water at a deeper level, resulting in overall warmer water compared to traditional blue covers.
Size and Shape
The cover fits perfectly, holds heat well, and prevents water evaporation, helping maintain a comfortable swimming temperature even during cooler evenings.
Bubble Design
While the cover typically lasts around 3 years before starting to rip, it is considered the best available option for its effectiveness in warming the pool quickly.

The Sun2Solar Blue 33 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is designed to leverage solar energy to heat your swimming pool, making it a great option for both inground and above-ground pools. It effectively raises the pool water temperature by up to 15 degrees, which can be particularly appreciated during cooler months or for those wanting to extend their swimming season. The cover is made of durable resin, and its bubble design efficiently traps heat, minimizing overnight heat loss.

A standout feature is its impressive ability to prevent up to 95% of water evaporation. This not only helps in conserving water but also reduces the need for frequent chemical top-ups, thus lowering maintenance costs. The cover also serves as a barrier against debris, keeping the pool cleaner and reducing cleaning time. With a round shape and a diameter of 33 feet, it fits large pools well, though it may not be suitable for non-standard pool shapes without trimming.

Its UV-resistant quality ensures longevity under sunlight, though users should note that it weighs 47 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some during installation or removal despite the manufacturer’s claim of lightweight design. An added overlap feature simplifies fitting around pool protrusions, but care must be taken to ensure it is securely placed to avoid wind displacement. For maintenance, it is hand wash only, which could be a downside for those looking for low-maintenance options. In conclusion, this solar cover is ideal for pool owners looking to enhance energy efficiency and reduce maintenance, but they should be prepared to handle its size and weight during setup.

Rating
9.8
Material
Color
Size and Shape

Most important from
3996 reviews

Material
Superior quality materials ensure the cover lasts many seasons, even in high UV conditions, making it worth the investment.
Color
The clear cover heats the water at a deeper level, resulting in overall warmer water compared to traditional blue covers.
Size and Shape
The cover fits perfectly, holds heat well, and prevents water evaporation, helping maintain a comfortable swimming temperature even during cooler evenings.
Bubble Design
While the cover typically lasts around 3 years before starting to rip, it is considered the best available option for its effectiveness in warming the pool quickly.
#3

VINGLI 12Mil Solar Pool Cover 20x40FT Rectangle Solar Blanket for Inground Pool and Above-Ground Swimming Pool, Blue (20' x 40')

Rating
9.6
Material
Thickness

Most important from
250 reviews

Material
This cover is of much better quality than previous ones, with thick and stiff plastic that floats well and retains heat effectively.
Thickness
The thickness and well-made design make it easy to use and very effective as a thermal solar blanket.

The VINGLI 12Mil Solar Pool Cover is a robust choice for both inground and above-ground swimming pools. Made from heavy-duty polyethylene (PE), the material promises durability and longevity. Its 12Mil thickness contributes to effective heat absorption and retention, allowing for extended swimming time even during cooler periods.

The transparent blue color aids in solar heat absorption and visually complements most pool settings. Sized at 20x40 feet in a rectangular shape, it suits large pools and can be easily cut to fit any irregular shapes, giving users flexibility in installation. The bubble design on the cover maximizes heat transfer, reducing water evaporation and conserving pool water levels.

The UV protection feature helps in maintaining the cover's integrity against sun damage. Installation is straightforward, though it may require manual effort, and using a cover reel is recommended for ease. At 51.9 pounds, it is relatively heavy, possibly making handling cumbersome for some users. This solar cover is ideal for pool owners who prioritize energy efficiency, water conservation, and cleanliness, while also being prepared for the manual effort required during installation and removal.

Rating
9.6
Material
Thickness

Most important from
250 reviews

Material
This cover is of much better quality than previous ones, with thick and stiff plastic that floats well and retains heat effectively.
Thickness
The thickness and well-made design make it easy to use and very effective as a thermal solar blanket.

Buying Guide for the Best Swimming Pool Solar Covers

Choosing the right swimming pool solar cover can significantly enhance your swimming experience by maintaining water temperature, reducing evaporation, and keeping debris out of the pool. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a swimming pool solar cover.
MaterialThe material of a solar cover is crucial as it affects durability, heat retention, and overall performance. Common materials include polyethylene, polypropylene, and vinyl. Polyethylene is lightweight and affordable, making it a popular choice for many pool owners. Polypropylene is more durable and offers better heat retention, while vinyl is the most durable and provides excellent heat retention but can be heavier and more expensive. Choose a material based on your priorities: if you need a budget-friendly option, go for polyethylene; if you want something long-lasting and efficient, consider polypropylene or vinyl.
ThicknessThickness of a solar cover is measured in mils (thousandths of an inch) and it impacts the cover's durability and heat retention capabilities. Thinner covers (8-12 mils) are lighter and easier to handle but may not last as long or retain as much heat. Medium thickness covers (12-16 mils) offer a good balance between durability and heat retention. Thicker covers (16-20 mils) provide the best heat retention and durability but can be heavier and more difficult to manage. If you prioritize ease of use, a thinner cover might be suitable, but for maximum heat retention and longevity, opt for a thicker cover.
ColorThe color of a solar cover affects its heat absorption and retention properties. Clear covers allow the most sunlight to pass through, heating the water directly but may not retain heat as effectively overnight. Blue covers are the most common and offer a good balance between heat absorption and retention. Darker colors like black or dark blue absorb more heat and retain it better but can also cause the water to become too warm in hot climates. Choose a color based on your climate and desired water temperature: clear for cooler climates, blue for moderate climates, and darker colors for warmer climates.
Size and ShapeSolar covers come in various sizes and shapes to fit different pool dimensions. It's important to measure your pool accurately to ensure a proper fit. Some covers can be trimmed to fit irregular shapes, while others are designed for specific pool types like rectangular, oval, or round. A well-fitted cover will be more effective in retaining heat and preventing debris from entering the pool. Make sure to choose a cover that matches your pool's dimensions or can be easily adjusted to fit.
UV ProtectionUV protection is an important feature that extends the lifespan of a solar cover by preventing damage from the sun's ultraviolet rays. Covers with UV protection are more resistant to wear and tear, fading, and degradation. This is especially important if your pool is exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. Look for covers that specifically mention UV protection to ensure you get a product that will last longer and maintain its effectiveness over time.
Bubble DesignThe bubble design on a solar cover plays a key role in heat retention and durability. Bubbles trap heat and transfer it to the water, while also providing insulation. Different covers have varying bubble sizes and patterns. Larger bubbles tend to retain more heat but may be less durable, while smaller bubbles offer better durability but might not retain as much heat. Consider your priorities: if heat retention is your main concern, opt for larger bubbles; if durability is more important, choose a cover with smaller bubbles.

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