10 Best Pool Solar Covers 2025 in the United States

The In The Swim 24' Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover is a solid choice for those looking to efficiently heat their above-ground or inground pool using solar energy. With a substantial 12 mil thickness, it can significantly increase the water temperature by up to 15 degrees, which can help extend your swimming season into the cooler months. This thickness also aids in minimizing heat loss during cooler nights, making it a practical choice for energy conservation. The light blue color strikes a balance between absorbing heat during the day and retaining it as the sun sets, though it may not be as effective as darker colors in heat retention.

Convenience is enhanced when paired with a solar cover reel, which makes handling the cover easier and reduces wear and tear. However, users need to monitor water chemistry closely as the cover should only be used when chlorine levels are below 2.5 ppm and pH levels are above 7.2. This requirement may not be ideal for all users, especially those who prefer a more hands-off approach to pool maintenance.

Its rank as a best seller and high customer ratings indicate user satisfaction, suggesting it meets user expectations for durability and performance. At a weight of 38.5 pounds, it's manageable but could still be cumbersome for some to handle without assistance. For anyone seeking a well-rounded solar cover that balances performance with usability, this product is worth considering.

The Sun2Solar Blue 20 ft x 40 ft Rectangle Solar Cover is designed for rectangular inground and above-ground pools, offering effective solar heating and protection. Made from durable resin material, this cover features a bubble design that traps heat efficiently, helping raise the pool temperature by up to 15 degrees and retaining warmth overnight. Its blue color is common for solar covers and helps with sunlight absorption. Sized to fit a 20 by 40-foot pool, it provides good coverage and includes extra overlap to fit around any pool protrusions.

The cover also significantly reduces water evaporation—up to 95%—which helps save water and lowers chemical use. It prevents leaves and debris from entering the pool, reducing cleaning efforts. While the cover is lightweight enough for easy installation and removal, it weighs about 40 pounds, which might require some care during handling. The material requires hand washing, so it needs gentle maintenance compared to more durable pool covers.

This product represents a solid choice for pool owners looking for an affordable way to keep water warm using free solar energy, especially if the pool size matches the cover dimensions. For those with non-rectangular pool shapes or who need a cover with enhanced durability or automatic features, it may be beneficial to consider other options.

The Intex 28014E Solar Pool Cover is designed for 16-foot round above-ground pools, particularly the Easy Set and Metal Frame pools. It's made from plastic and features a bubble design that helps transfer heat from the sun to the water, keeping your pool warmer. One of its strong points is its ability to significantly reduce water evaporation, almost by 95%, which not only conserves water but also cuts down on chemical usage, making it a cost-effective choice.

Another benefit is its effectiveness in keeping debris such as leaves and dirt out of the pool, which means less cleaning time for you. The cover is blue, which might contribute to its heat retention and UV protection, although it could fade over time due to prolonged sun exposure. At 8.38 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight and manageable for most users.

Its floating installation type may not be as secure as other covers with more robust securing mechanisms, like those with built-in tie-downs. This could be a concern in windy conditions where the cover might move or get displaced. Additionally, while it is marketed as water-resistant, it does not provide a full seal, so some rainwater may still get into the pool. The product is easy to install and use, which makes it a good fit for those who want a hassle-free pool cover solution. With a solid customer rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from a large number of reviews, it's clear many users find it satisfactory. However, as with any product, it might not meet every user's expectations, particularly if they require more robust protection against weather elements or a tighter fit for their pool.