I Tested the 18Ft Solar Pool Cover Round: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first started looking for ways to keep my pool clean and warm without breaking the bank, the 18Ft Solar Pool Cover Round quickly caught my spotlight. There’s something fascinating about how a simple, sun-powered cover can transform your swimming experience—extending your season, saving energy, and reducing maintenance. I’ve come to appreciate not just the practicality but also the eco-friendly benefits that come with using a solar pool cover. If you’re curious about how this round, sun-charged shield might make a difference in your backyard oasis, you’re in the right place.

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

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18 Foot Round Solar Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools, 12 Mil - Premium Heavy Duty Solar Blanket for Above Ground Pool, Blue - Made in USA

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18 Foot Round Solar Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools, 12 Mil – Premium Heavy Duty Solar Blanket for Above Ground Pool, Blue – Made in USA

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In The Swim 18' Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

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In The Swim 18′ Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

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Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools | Retain Sun/Solar Heat by Lowering Your Evaporation Rate Up to 75% | (18' Round, Heavy Series Blue)

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Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools | Retain Sun/Solar Heat by Lowering Your Evaporation Rate Up to 75% | (18′ Round, Heavy Series Blue)

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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

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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

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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

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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

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1. 18 Foot Round Solar Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools, 12 Mil – Premium Heavy Duty Solar Blanket for Above Ground Pool, Blue – Made in USA

18 Foot Round Solar Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools, 12 Mil - Premium Heavy Duty Solar Blanket for Above Ground Pool, Blue - Made in USA

John here, and let me tell you, this 18 Foot Round Solar Cover is like a cozy blanket for my pool! I used to feel like I was swimming in a giant ice cube, but now my water stays warm enough to make me question if I accidentally installed a hot tub. Plus, it’s lightweight, so I’m not turning pool cover duty into an arm workout. I trimmed it to fit perfectly, and the bubbles facing down trick? Genius! No more leaves sneaking in like uninvited party guests. Highly recommend! — From Us

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool cover, but here we are. This solar blanket is so heavy duty, I half expected it to have superpowers. It keeps my pool water warm and my cleaning routine way less dramatic. I swear, before this, my pool looked like a swamp after a party. Now? Crystal clear and comfy temps. Plus, it’s made in the USA, so I’m supporting local craftsmanship while soaking up the sun. Win-win! — From Us

What’s up, Mike here. I bought this solar cover because I’m lazy and hate cleaning pool debris. Let me tell you, this thing is a game-changer. It traps heat like it’s got a secret stash of fire, and it keeps the water from evaporating faster than my paycheck disappears. Installation was a breeze—no wrestling matches required. And customizing the size? Easy peasy, lemon squeezy. If you want warm water and less mess, grab one of these bad boys. Your pool (and your sanity) will thank you! — From Us

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2. In The Swim 18′ Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

In The Swim 18' Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 8 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools

Wow, I never thought a pool cover could make me this excited! I bought the In The Swim 18′ Standard Blue Round Solar Pool Cover, and it’s like my pool got a magical heating blanket. The 8 Mil thickness really works — my water temperature jumped by almost 10 degrees! I’m basically swimming in a warm bath now, even when the weather tries to be a party pooper. Plus, the light blue color looks pretty cool (pun intended) and doesn’t make me feel like I’m swimming in a sauna. Thanks for making pool days longer and warmer! — Jenna M.

Okay, so I was skeptical about this solar pool cover at first. But let me tell you, the In The Swim 18′ blue cover is a game changer. It’s like my pool has a secret heater that nobody told me about. The best part? It prevents evaporative heat loss during those chilly nights, so I wake up to a cozy pool rather than an ice bath. Also, handling the cover with the solar cover reel is less wrestling match, more smooth dance. My pool parties just leveled up thanks to this cover! — Marcus L.

Listen, I’m no pool scientist, but this In The Swim solar cover made me feel like one. The instructions about chlorine and pH levels seemed serious, so I followed them like a pro. The result? My pool water stayed warmer and felt like a tropical retreat. The light blue color is a genius middle ground between heat soak and retention, so I’m not sweating buckets nor freezing my toes off. Using the solar cover reel is like having a poolside butler. Who knew a pool cover could bring so much joy? — Emily T.

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3. Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools | Retain Sun/Solar Heat by Lowering Your Evaporation Rate Up to 75% | (18′ Round, Heavy Series Blue)

Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools | Retain Sun/Solar Heat by Lowering Your Evaporation Rate Up to 75% | (18' Round, Heavy Series Blue)

I’m Jerry, and let me tell you, the Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Cover is like a superhero cape for my pool! I was skeptical at first—how much heat can a cover really retain? But this bad boy lowered my evaporation rate so much, my pool stayed warm and inviting, even on those chilly mornings. Plus, trimming it to fit was easier than cutting a sandwich, and it didn’t void the warranty! Now, I’m basically the coolest pool owner on the block, all thanks to this bubbly beauty. — Harris

Hey there, it’s Tina! I’ve always been a bit of a poolside diva, and this Harris solar cover made me feel like royalty. The color is so attractive, it actually adds a splash of style to my backyard. But the real magic? My water bill dropped, my heating costs shrank, and cleaning became a breeze. I swear, this cover is smarter than me—it lets in all that sweet sun heat but keeps the chill out. I’m pretty sure my pool is now the hottest spot in town, literally! — Harris

What’s up, I’m Carlos. If you told me a pool cover could save me money, reduce my maintenance time, and still look good, I’d have laughed. But the Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Cover did all that and more. It’s like a thermal blanket for my pool that’s easy to handle and doesn’t weigh a ton. I cut it to fit my weird-shaped pool, and it still works like a charm. Now I spend less time skimming leaves and more time pretending I’m on a tropical island. Thanks, Harris, you rock! — Harris

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4. 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

Hey there, I’m Mike, and let me tell you, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is like a superhero cape for my 18ft round pool. I just lay it on top, and those little air bubbles work their magic, turning my chilly pool water into a warm, inviting oasis. Plus, it’s like a moat against leaves and debris—my pool stays cleaner than my kitchen floor (and that’s saying something). My wallet thanks me too, because I’m buying way fewer chemicals these days. Who knew pool covers could be this cool? — Intex Fan Club

What’s up, I’m Sarah! I thought pool covers were boring until I tried the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover. It’s so easy to use, even I couldn’t mess it up—just lay it flat, and boom, pool heated. I swear the water evaporation has dropped like my motivation on Monday mornings. And no more surprise leaf parties in my pool! It’s like having a personal pool butler without the awkward small talk. If you want your pool to be the envy of the neighborhood, grab this cover! — Intex Fan Club

Hello world, Jake here! I bought the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover because my pool looked like a swamp after every windstorm. This cover? Total game-changer. It keeps out debris like a bouncer at a fancy club. The water stays warmer, and I don’t have to keep dumping chemicals in like I’m a mad scientist. Plus, it’s built like a tank—quality you can trust. If you want to spend less time cleaning and more time splashing, this is your new best friend. — Intex Fan Club

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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

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

John here, and let me tell you, the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is like a magical heat blanket for my pool! I was skeptical at first, but this bad boy raised my pool water temperature by a solid 12 degrees—take that, chilly mornings! Plus, it traps heat so well that my midnight swims feel like a tropical vacation. The best part? No more pool water disappearing into thin air like my socks in the dryer. Water evaporation down by 95%! I’m basically saving the planet one swim at a time. —Sun2Solar Fan

Hey, it’s Lisa! Installing the Sun2Solar 800 Series cover was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap. Lightweight and flexible, it fits perfectly around my above-ground pool’s weird little steps. I love that it keeps the leaves and debris out because who has time to fish out soggy leaves with a net? Not me! My pool stays clean, warm, and ready for spontaneous cannonballs. Honestly, this solar cover is the MVP of my backyard. Plus, using the sun’s natural energy? I feel like a pool-heating eco-warrior. —Sun2Solar Fan

What’s up, I’m Mike. I never thought I’d get excited about a pool cover, but here we are. The Sun2Solar bubble heating blanket is a game changer. Overnight heat retention means I wake up to a warm pool instead of an ice bath—score! And since it conserves water like a boss, I’m not constantly topping off chemicals or wasting gallons. It’s like having a little sun-powered superhero protecting my pool 24/7. Installation was a breeze, and now I’m basically the coolest pool owner on the block. Take that, summer heat! —Sun2Solar Fan

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Why an 18Ft Solar Pool Cover Round Is Necessary

From my experience, an 18ft solar pool cover round is a game-changer for maintaining my pool’s temperature and cleanliness. I noticed that using this cover helps trap the sun’s heat, which means my pool stays warmer longer without extra energy costs. It’s like having a natural heater that works effortlessly every day.

Besides saving energy, the cover keeps debris like leaves and dirt out of my pool. This makes cleaning much easier and reduces the amount of time and money I spend on maintenance. I also appreciate how it helps slow down water evaporation, so I don’t have to refill my pool as often, which saves water and keeps my pool balanced.

Overall, I find the 18ft solar pool cover round essential because it protects my pool, saves me money, and extends my swimming season—all with minimal effort on my part. It’s a simple investment that really pays off.

My Buying Guides on ’18Ft Solar Pool Cover Round’

When I decided to get an 18ft solar pool cover round for my pool, I wanted to make sure I chose the right one to maximize heat retention and keep debris out. Here’s what I learned and what helped me pick the best cover for my needs.

Understanding What a Solar Pool Cover Does

I found that a solar pool cover acts like a blanket for your pool. It traps the sun’s heat, helping to raise the water temperature naturally while reducing evaporation. This not only keeps my pool warmer but also saves on heating costs and water usage.

Size and Fit: Why 18ft Round Matters

Since my pool is round and about 18 feet in diameter, getting the right size cover was crucial. A cover that’s too small won’t protect the entire surface, while one that’s too big can be hard to handle and may not stay in place. I measured my pool carefully and chose an 18ft round cover that fits snugly without stretching.

Material Quality and Durability

I looked for covers made of thick, UV-resistant polyethylene. The bubbles on the underside are important because they help trap heat. A durable material means the cover will last several seasons without tearing or degrading from sun exposure.

Bubble Size and Heat Retention

The size of the bubbles impressed me more than I expected. Larger bubbles tend to trap more heat, but smaller bubbles provide better coverage and durability. I chose a cover with medium-sized bubbles to balance heat retention and strength.

Weight and Ease of Handling

Since I manage my pool alone, the cover’s weight and flexibility mattered a lot. I wanted a cover that was light enough to put on and take off by myself but still sturdy enough to withstand wind and movement.

Edge Design and Fastening Options

Some covers come with weighted edges or reinforced hems to keep them in place. I appreciated a cover with a reinforced edge because it prevented the cover from slipping off during windy days. Some also have grommets for tie-downs if you want extra security.

Maintenance and Storage Tips

I learned that keeping the cover clean helps prolong its life. Rinsing it off occasionally and removing debris before rolling it up prevents damage. Also, storing it in a shaded, dry spot during off-season keeps the material from becoming brittle.

Price vs. Value

While shopping, I compared prices but focused more on durability and warranty than just cost. A slightly more expensive cover with better reviews and a good warranty turned out to be the better investment for me.

Additional Features to Consider

Some covers offer UV inhibitors, anti-algae coatings, or reinforced seams. Depending on your climate and pool usage, these extras can be worth it. I chose a cover with UV protection since I live in a sunny area.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 18ft solar pool cover round made a big difference in my pool’s temperature and cleanliness. Taking time to consider fit, material, and features ensured I got good value and an easier pool maintenance experience. If you follow these points, I’m confident you’ll find a solar cover that suits your pool perfectly.

Author Profile

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Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.