best solar pool covers

15 Best Solar Pool Covers & Their Reviews [Updated 2022]

Having a pool can be a great asset, but it also requires a lot of maintenance – something that pool owners know all too well. Part of this maintenance involves the regulation of your pool’s water level and temperature.

On warm and sunny days, a substantial amount of water evaporates from your pool, and during the colder nights, your pool’s temperature can drop considerably. Using a solar cover for your pool can capture the sun’s warming energy and keep a lot of water from evaporating – saving water, and keeping your pool at a more agreeable temperature.

We’ve compiled a list of 15 of the best solar pool covers you can buy online to help you to take advantage of this cost effective and environmentally friendly solution.

1. Sun2Solar Heating Blanket

Sun2Solar Clear 16-Foot-by-34-Foot Rectangle Solar Cover | 1200 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for...

This heating blanket uses free energy from the sun to warm your pool.

Each blanket contains thousands of pockets that capture and retain warmth which offsets the lower night-time temperatures so your pool stays warmer for longer.

The Sun2Solar heating blanket with its rich blue color is a solution that works as well as it looks. Not only does it heat your pool, but it also reduces water evaporation by up to 95%.

Saving water is good for the environment and for your pocket, and reduces the amount of maintenance your pool requires because you won’t need to fill it that often.

The pool cover will also keep out dirt and debris, which dramatically reduces the effort required to keep your pool clean.

Be sure to replace the cover at the end of the day so that you don’t lose the day’s warmth during the night.

Also, make sure you keep the cover in place on days that you don’t use your pool so that you minimize the amount of water lost to evaporation.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Aesthetically pleasing – the rich blue color of the blanket looks great
  • Limited evaporation – almost no water is lost when the cover is in place
  • Customizable – you can use a pair of sharp scissors to cut the blanket to fit the shape of your pool

Check Price on Amazon


2. MidWest Space Age Solar Canvas

MidWest Canvas Space Age 18-Foot Round Solar Cover | 12 Mil | Heating Blanket for Above-Ground...

A pool is a place of fun and relaxation, but the maintenance part of it can be a bit of a headache.

With the MidWest Solar Canvas, you can substantially reduce the burden of pool maintenance so you get more enjoyment from your pool and less stress from taking care of it.

For a one time investment, you get a solution that will save you time and effort for many years to come.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Keeps out debris – less time is wasted trying to keep your pool clean
  • Keeps in heat – your pool stays nice and warm
  • Saves water – less water evaporates, reducing your water bill and helping the environment

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3. Midwest Clear Diamond Solar Canvas

MidWest Canvas Clear Diamond 12-Foot-by-18-Foot Oval Solar Cover | 16 Mil | Heating Blanket for...

Not just another solar cover. The innovative diamond shape of this solar canvas allows for more pockets per square meter/foot, resulting in more heat gains.

Get the most out of your pool with a smart solution that saves you time and energy and ultimately makes owning a pool less of a chore. Less time spent maintaining your pool and more time enjoying it.

Beyond being an effective solution, the clear diamond pattern of the solar canvas is visually appealing as well, and because it will keep out dirt and debris, it will leave your pool looking great.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Improved efficiency – more bang for your buck
  • Visually pleasing – works well, looks great
  • Temperature regulation – less heat loss
  • Water savings – cost effective and environmentally friendly

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4. XtremepowerUS Round Pool Solar Cover

XtremepowerUS Round Pool Solar Cover Blanket Tarp 12-mil 24' x 24'

Want a lasting solution to temperature and water loss? This solar cover is made from durable UV protected material which means it will keep working for you for many years to come.

If you own an above-ground or submerged round pool, this could be the solution you’re looking for. It’s long lasting and packs a lot of benefits.

You’ll save on your water, heating and maintenance bills, and extend your swimming season which means a lot less hassle, and more fun in the sun.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Durable and UV protected – it will keep working for years to come
  • Reduced heat loss – your pool temperature doesn’t drop as much during the night or on cold and cloudy days
  • Minimal evaporation – which means you’ll need to replace less water and fewer chemicals

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5. Intex Easy Solar Cover

Intex Solar Cover for 15ft Diameter Easy Set and Frame Pools

Have an above-ground pool that you want to keep warm? Check out this easy solar cover by Intex – available in 5 different sizes.

The solar cover fits easily inside your pool and goes straight to work heating your pool and keeping the water from evaporating. It’s a simple solution that makes owning a pool so much easier.

It comes with a handy carry bag included, for easy storage when not in use.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Fits easily to 10, 12, 15, 16, 18ft pools
  • Saves heat and water – cost effective and good for the environment
  • Keeps out dirt and debris – requires less effort to keep your pool clean

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6. In The Swim Solar Pool Cover

In The Swim 18 x 36 Foot Rectangle Premium Pool Solar Blanket Cover 12 Mil

Take advantage of the 14 different size options available with this pool cover to find the best fit for your pool.

You can also cut it to size if you have an oddly shaped pool, without losing your 7-Year Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty.

Let the solar cover’s thousands of heat capturing pockets go to work for you to maintain your pool at a warmer temperature for a greater part of the year.

You’ll save on water and won’t need to use so much of the chemicals required to maintain your pool, because the solar cover, in addition to warming your pool, reduces the effects of evaporation.

It’s a simple and smart solution that solves many of the problems associated with owning a pool.

Pros and Benefits

  • Many different sizes – find the right one for your pool
  • Customizable – cut it to match the shape of your pool
  • Retains heat – your pool won’t cool down as much during the night
  • Reduced water and chemical evaporation – good for your pocket, good for the environment

Check Price on Amazon


7. Pool Mate Solar Blanket

Pool Mate 1836RS-8SBD BOXPM Deluxe Swimming Pool Solar Heating Cover, 18 x 36, 5-Year Blue/Silver

Get added heat retention with a solar blanket that combines the heating capturing power of a more efficient diamond pattern and an aluminum heat shield.

Invest in a great looking solar blanket for your pool that uses smart design to give you more days of fun in the sun.

Owning a pool should be a treat, but it often becomes a chore. Why not let the Pool Mate solar blanket ease the burden of pool management?

It will keep your pool warmer for longer, reduce water and chemical evaporation, and also prevent dirt and debris from falling in your pool.

It also comes with a 5-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty so you can rest assured that if for some reason your solar cover doesn’t live up to quality standards, you can have it replaced with one that will.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Innovative design – improved heat retention
  • UV protected – will last longer
  • 5-year warranty – purchase with peace of mind
  • Save water – save money and be nicer to the environment

Check Price on Amazon


8. Thermo-Tex Solar Pool Cover

Thermo-Tex 2831224 Swimming Solar Pool Cover, 12' x 24', Blue

Have a longer swimming season with the Thermo-Tex solar cover and reduce your water and chemical costs by limiting the effects of evaporation.

Wishing you could get more from your pool and that it didn’t require so much work? Check out the Thermo-Tex Solar Cover.

It’s an attractive and cost-effective solution to pool maintenance that will save you lots of time and money in the long run.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Lower pool maintenance costs – saves you money and headaches
  • Lower environmental impact – Use fewer chemicals, save water and reduce energy requirements to heat your pool
  • UV protected – longer lasting
  • 3 Year Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty – reduced risk of purchasing a defective product

Check Price on Amazon


9.

A cost effective solution to pool maintenance that works well and looks great. This rich blue solar cover will help you get the most out of owning a pool and reduce the hassle of taking care of it.

It’s available in 10 different sizes, so you can easily find the cover that best fits your pool, and go on to enjoy an increase of your pool temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pros and Benefits:

  • One time cost – years of savings
  • Easy to install – saves you time and energy
  • Warms your pool so you get to use it for longer


10. Splash Pool Round Solar Cover

Splash Pools Round Solar Pool Cover, 18-Feet

Keep your pool warm and free of dirt and debris with one of these round solar covers. It’s a simple and effective solution that costs very little compared to what it will save you in time and money over the years to come.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Keeps out dirt and debris – requires less effort and chemicals to keep your pool clean
  • Limits evaporation and heat loss – better manage water and temperature levels
  • Available in several different sizes – find the one that’s right for you

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11. Robelle Heavy-Duty Space Age Solar Cover

Robelle 24S-10SBD Box Extra Heavy-Duty Space Age Swimming Pool Solar Heating Cover, 24 Foot

This heavy-duty solar cover is made from a space-age material that offers up to 14.6% greater heat retention.

The solar cover features two layers – an attractive blue upper layer and aluminum under layer that improves heat retention. Available in different shapes and sizes.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Improved heat retention – your pool stays warmer for longer
  • Reduced evaporation – saves water and chemicals required for pool maintenance
  • 10 Year Warranty – invest in better pool management with peace of mind

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12. Doheny's Clear Solar Cover

Doheny's 18 ft x 36 ft Rectangular Solar Cover-Clear Clear 16ML

The clear solar cover allows the light from the sun to penetrate the blanket and warm your pool.

Your pool stays warmer for longer, extending your swimming season and allowing you to get the most out of your pool.

The solar cover will also help to keep your pool clean by keeping out dirt and debris, so you can spend more time relaxing and less time taking care of your pool’s appearance.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Clear cover lets through more light – your pool gets warmer
  • Limits evaporation – you spend less on water and chemicals
  • Easy to install – a simple solution that offers a lot of benefits

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13. Blue Wave Solar Blanket

Blue Wave NS500 Blanket for Oval 18 x 33-ft Above-Ground Pools-Clear 12 mil Solar Blank

This UV-protected solar blanket is long lasting and offers a lot of cost-saving benefits.

By reducing the evaporation of water and chemicals by up to 95%, you save a lot of money and reduce the environmental impact of owning a pool.

The cover will also keep out dirt and debris which reduces the amount of effort required to keep your pool clean.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Heat your pool by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit – you can enjoy your pool for longer
  • Reduced loss of water and chemicals due to evaporation – good for your pocket, good for the environment
  • 5 Year Manufacturer Warranty – ensures you’ll get a quality product

Check Price on Amazon


14. Solar Sun Squares

Solar Sun Rings SSSA-SB-02 UV Resistant Above Ground Inground Swimming Pool Hot Tub Spa Heating...

These sun squares work on the same principle as a traditional solar blanket but their size and weight make them easier to manage than a solar blanket that covers your whole pool.

Instead of one large cover, you use multiple smaller ones. These come with anchors included, which keep them from being moved around or blown away in areas with high winds.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Smaller size – easier to manage
  • Warms your pool so you can keep using it for longer
  • Reduces evaporation – better for your pocket and the environment
  • Made from UV resistant material – it will last longer
  • 2-Year Warranty – buy with peace of mind

Check Price on Amazon


15. Solar Sun Rings

Solar Sun Rings Solar Pool Heater (6) SSR-SB-02

These solar sun rings work on the same principle as the sun squares above. By being smaller in size and weight, they’re easier to manage than a full-size solar cover.

They come with a 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty which gives you peace of mind in knowing that if your product has a manufacturing defect, you can request a new one.

Pros and Benefits:

  • Smaller and lightweight – easier to manage
  • Made from UV-resistant vinyl – long lasting
  • Effective heat retention – warms your pool during the day and keeps it from cooling down too much during the night or on cold and cloudy days

Check Price on Amazon


What To Keep In Mind With A Solar Power Pool Cover

We’ve presented you with 15 different options. Hopefully you’ve found the one that will work for you, but in case you haven’t, don’t worry, we’re here to help you decide.

There are a few things you need to keep in mind when shopping for a solar cover for your pool. These will help you choose the right cover and hopefully clear up any doubts you might still have at this point.

Is It Worth It?

If you consider that a one-time investment of between $20 – 170 could save you time and money for years to come, the answer should be a resounding yes!

A solar cover will reduce the water, chemical and energy requirements of owning a pool and drastically reduce the maintenance involved in regulating the temperature and water levels.

You’ll also invest less time and money in keeping it clean. It pays for itself!

Now that you’re sure you want a solar cover, here are some things you need to keep in mind when buying one:

How Big is Your Pool?

It sounds obvious, but not everyone knows exactly how big their pool is. Once you know the size of your pool, you can then shop for a cover that matches it as closely as possible.

What is the shape of your pool?

Once again, sounds obvious if your pool is either square, rectangular or round, but if you have an oddly shaped pool you’ll need to consider which shape would be best to start with if you have to cut out a shape that matches your pool.

Which color would you prefer?

Clear covers let in more light and as such do a better job of heating your pool, whereas blue covers add an aesthetic quality to your pool that’s very pleasing to the eye.

It’s up to you to choose what you prefer – a cover that adds more heat, or that adds a pleasing aesthetic element.

What is your budget?

The prices of covers vary, so you’ll need to find one that best suits your pocket. Be sure to consider what you get for your money.

For example, a slightly more expensive cover that is made from a UV-resistant material, and has a longer warranty, will generally last longer, and save you more in the long run.

Is it UV protected?

Your solar cover will spend a lot of time being baked by the sun, so if you want it to last longer, consider getting one that is made from a UV-resistant material.

Does it come with a warranty?

Manufacturers know that even if they strive to maintain the highest quality standards, sometimes a product could still for some reason leave the factory floor with some kind of defect.

That’s why many of them offer warranties.

It’s a way of saying “we stand behind our product – if it’s defective, we’ll replace it”. Many of the solar covers on the list include warranties – it’s worth it to buy some peace of mind.

Where will you store it?

Some of the solar covers come with carry bags that makes storage easier and others don’t. Either way, you need to consider where you will put your solar cover when you are not using it.

When it comes to storage, although it doesn’t require too much work to remove and replace your solar cover, there are some solutions that make this process easier.

The Vingli Pool Cover Reel Set for instance, not only makes placing and removing your solar cover easier, but also takes care of storage.
This easy-to-assemble pool cover reel, is made from rust-free materials and makes the process of placing and removing your solar cover so simple that nearly anyone can do it.

It’s a neat solution that perfectly complements the already impressive functions of your solar cover. It’s also adjustable, and works with pools with a width of between 14 and 18 ft or less.

An above-ground pool will require a different storage solution.

You might not be able to take advantage of the easy roll-on/roll-off functionality of the in-ground pool cover reel, but it will still provide a neat and simple storage solution.

The Solar Saddle Pool Solar Cover Holder is easy to install and attaches to the top rail of your pool.

Adding or removing your pool cover is simple. When you want to remove the pool cover, just pull the cover across the pool so it collects in the cover bracket.

Removing it is equally simple. Just pull it back across the length of the pool so it covers the entire surface area of the pool.

Having the cover attached to your pool means you don’t have to find separate storage for it, and you don’t have to carry it to and from its storage location. 


Final Thoughts

A pool is an expensive investment and maintaining it can be costly as well, both in terms of time and money.

Depending on how much your time is worth, it might make sense to hire someone to take care of your pool for you.

If you add up the costs of hiring someone to maintain your pool for a year, and add to that the additional expenses related to your pool’s water, energy and chemical requirements, your pool becomes a significant annual expense.

You can dramatically reduce those costs and get more out of your investment by using a solar cover for your pool.

Most solar covers are made with UV-resistant materials and come with Manufacturer’s Warranties which means a one-time investment will give you years of savings and benefits.

Getting a solar cover for your pool is a no-brainer. By keeping your pool warmer for longer, you’ll get to use it for more days out of the year.

It also reduces maintenance and the amount of water and chemicals lost to evaporation which helps you to not only save money, but the environment as well.

Invest in a pool cover and start saving today.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the 15 best solar pool covers and their reviews for 2022.

See one that’s not on this list and should be? Let us know in the comments below.