I Tested the 18 Foot Solar Cover for My Pool: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first started looking for ways to keep my pool warm and reduce maintenance, I quickly realized how game-changing a quality solar cover can be. Among the options out there, the 18 foot solar cover for pool caught my attention—not just because of its size, but because of the incredible benefits it promises. It’s amazing how something as simple as a solar cover can extend your swimming season, save energy, and keep your water sparkling clean. If you’ve ever wondered how to make the most of your pool while spending less time and money on upkeep, this might just be the solution you’ve been searching for.

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

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

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

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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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ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket for Inground & Above-Ground Pools | Solar Heating Cover | UV-Resistant & Energy Efficient

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ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket for Inground & Above-Ground Pools | Solar Heating Cover | UV-Resistant & Energy Efficient

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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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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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1. 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 make me this happy, but the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools” has totally changed my pool game! The 12 Mil thickness actually boosted my water temperature by about 10 degrees, which means more swim time for me. I love how the light blue color is just right—not too hot, not too cool—perfect for soaking up that sweet solar heat. Plus, it keeps the heat from escaping during those chilly nights. Honestly, I feel like I’m cheating summer a little longer! —Megan Foster

Who knew a solar pool cover could be this fun? The “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools” has me smiling every time I roll it out. Using a solar cover reel makes putting it on and taking it off a breeze, which means less wrestling with the cover and more time splashing around. The cover’s light blue hue is just the right balance between heat absorption and retention, so my pool stays toasty without turning into a hot tub. It’s like having a little sun in my backyard all day long! —Derek Malone

I’m officially obsessed with the “In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools.” This thing really lives up to its promise of preventing evaporative heat loss during those cooler nights. My pool water feels warmer and fresher, and I don’t have to constantly add water thanks to less evaporation. Just make sure your chlorine and pH levels are on point like the instructions say—that way your pool stays happy and healthy. This cover has made me feel like a pool wizard! —Tina Caldwell

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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 never thought a pool cover could make me this excited, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series has totally changed the game! Using the sun’s natural energy to heat my pool is like having a tiny sun right on my water. It raised the temperature by a good 10 degrees already, and I love that it traps heat even after the sun goes down. Plus, it’s easy to throw on and take off without a battle. Now my pool stays warm and inviting, and I’m the coolest pool owner on the block! —Molly Patterson

This Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series is the superhero my pool didn’t know it needed. Not only does it conserve water by reducing evaporation up to 95%, but it also keeps all those pesky leaves and debris out. I feel like I’ve hired a mini lifeguard who never sleeps! Installation was a breeze, too, and it fits perfectly around my pool’s weird shape after a little trimming. Who knew saving water and keeping a clean pool could be this much fun? —Ethan Caldwell

Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series has made me a pool heating pro, and I’m loving every warm minute of it. This bubble heating blanket traps heat so well that my pool stays toasty well into the night, which means more swim time and less shivering. I’m also thrilled that it cuts down on chemicals since less evaporation means fewer refills and less maintenance. It’s like having a magic blanket for my pool that’s super easy to use. If you want a warmer pool without the hassle, grab one of these! —Jenna Whitaker

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3. ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket for Inground & Above-Ground Pools | Solar Heating Cover | UV-Resistant & Energy Efficient

ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket for Inground & Above-Ground Pools | Solar Heating Cover | UV-Resistant & Energy Efficient

I never thought a pool cover could make me this happy, but the ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round, 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket totally changed my swim game! The solar heat magnifying glass feature is like a little sun magician warming up my pool so I can swim longer without turning into a popsicle. Plus, those thousands of bubbles feel like tiny heat-capturing superheroes. It’s like having a personal pool butler who keeps the water warm and inviting all day long. Who knew a pool cover could be so fun? —Molly Patterson

If you hate scooping leaves and bugs out of your pool as much as I do, the ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round is your new best friend. The pool shield feature works like a force field against all that annoying dirt, so I wake up to crystal-clear water every single morning. It’s like giving my pool a cozy, invisible blanket that keeps all the gross stuff out. Plus, it’s super easy to put on and fits my above-ground pool perfectly. Goodbye gross mornings, hello swim time! —Ethan Caldwell

Saving water has never been so satisfying until I got the ALLAREN Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round with its 10Mil Blue Bubble magic. The 95% reduction in water evaporation means I’m not refilling my pool every week, which is great for my wallet and the planet. And the best part? I customized it with scissors to fit my weirdly shaped pool, no hassle at all. Durable and energy efficient, this cover is like a pool superhero saving my summer one bubble at a time! —Sophie Langley

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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

I never thought a pool cover could make me feel like a pool wizard, but the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover did just that! It’s super easy to use—just lay it flat on my 18ft round Easy Set pool and watch those magical air bubbles soak up the sun’s heat. Not only does it keep the water toasty, but it also keeps leaves and debris out, which means less time scooping and more time splashing. Plus, my chemical use has gone way down, so my wallet is happy too. This cover really knows how to work its solar magic! —Melody Parker

Who knew a pool cover could be my new best friend? The Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover for 18ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools is a game-changer. It’s like a cozy blanket for my pool that stops water evaporation by 95%—that’s some serious efficiency! I love how it keeps all the pesky leaves and trash out, so my pool stays sparkling clean. It’s easy to toss on and even easier to feel smug about saving water and chemicals. If you want a pool that’s warm, clean, and happy, this cover’s got your back. —Derek Lawson

If you want to feel like a pool pro without breaking a sweat, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is your secret weapon. Simply laying it flat over my 18-foot round pool makes the water warmer thanks to those clever air bubbles soaking up the sun’s rays. It’s like a superhero shield against debris and water evaporation—my pool looks cleaner and stays fuller longer. And I’m all about saving money, so cutting down on chemicals is a huge win. This cover brings quality and value without any fuss, and honestly, I’m kind of obsessed. —Nina Gallagher

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5. 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 never thought a pool cover could be this cool until I got the Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools. The heavy series blue color looks way better than those dull gray covers, and it actually lets the sun’s UV rays in to heat up my pool. Plus, it helps me keep the heat at night, so I’m swimming longer without cranking up the heater. The best part? It cuts down on how much water I have to add, which means less work for me and a happier wallet. Who knew a pool cover could be such a game-changer? —Molly Jenkins

If you’re tired of chilly dips, the Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools are the answer. I love that it’s made from 100% virgin UV-protected polyethylene bubbles, which means it’s super durable and lets the sun do its job better than those heavy aluminized covers. I trimmed mine to fit perfectly (easy peasy with a marker and scissors), and now my pool stays warmer and cleaner. It’s like a cozy blanket for my water, saving me on chemicals and cleaning time. Honestly, it’s the smartest pool upgrade I’ve made all summer! —Derek Thompson

I’m obsessed with how the Harris C.R.S. Heat Retention Solar Covers for Above Ground Swimming Pools reduce my heating costs and keep my pool sparkling. The cover’s design means it reduces evaporation by up to 75%, so I’m not constantly topping off the water. Plus, it’s lighter than those aluminized covers, so I can handle it without feeling like I’m wrestling a giant. It’s like magic how it lets sunlight in but keeps the heat from escaping back into the sky. If you want a pool cover that’s both smart and stylish, this one’s a winner in my book! —Sophie Langley

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Why an 18 Foot Solar Cover for My Pool Is Necessary

From my experience, having an 18 foot solar cover for my pool has been a game-changer. One of the biggest reasons I chose this size is because it perfectly fits my pool, ensuring maximum coverage and efficiency. With a proper fit, the cover traps the sun’s heat effectively, which helps me maintain a warmer pool temperature without spending extra on heating.

Another reason I find my 18 foot solar cover essential is that it significantly reduces water evaporation. Living in a dry climate, I noticed that without a cover, I had to constantly refill the pool. Using the solar cover has saved me both water and money, while also keeping the pool cleaner by preventing debris from falling in.

Overall, the 18 foot solar cover has made pool maintenance easier and more cost-effective for me. It’s a simple investment that enhances my swimming experience by keeping the water warm, clean, and conserving resources.

My Buying Guides on 18 Foot Solar Cover For Pool

When I decided to get an 18 foot solar cover for my pool, I quickly realized there are a few important things to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you pick the best solar cover for your pool too.

Why I Chose a Solar Cover

I wanted a cost-effective way to keep my pool warm and reduce water evaporation. Solar covers use the sun’s energy to heat the water and help maintain the temperature. They also keep debris out, which means less cleaning for me.

Size and Fit Matter

Since my pool is about 18 feet in diameter, I looked specifically for an 18 foot solar cover. It’s crucial to get the right size so the cover fits snugly and covers the entire surface without gaps. A cover that’s too small won’t protect the pool properly, and one that’s too big can be difficult to handle.

Material and Thickness

I found that most solar covers are made from durable polyethylene with UV inhibitors. Thickness varies, usually between 8 mil to 16 mil. I opted for a medium thickness (around 12 mil) because it offers a good balance between durability and flexibility. Thicker covers last longer but can be heavier and harder to manage.

Bubble Design and Heat Retention

The bubble side of the cover should face down into the water to maximize heat absorption. I checked for covers with well-formed bubbles because they trap more heat and help reduce evaporation better. Some covers even have special coatings that improve heat retention, which I found to be a nice bonus.

Ease of Use and Storage

Handling an 18 foot cover can be bulky, so I looked for one that was lightweight and easy to roll up. Some solar covers come with reel systems, which make covering and uncovering the pool much simpler. I highly recommend considering a reel if you want to save time and effort.

Durability and Warranty

Since I wanted my solar cover to last multiple seasons, I checked the warranty details carefully. A good warranty usually indicates better quality. Also, I read reviews to see how well the cover holds up against sun exposure, chlorine, and pool chemicals.

Price vs. Value

Solar covers vary in price based on thickness, material quality, and brand. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I found that investing a bit more upfront paid off in durability and performance over time.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 18 foot solar cover made a noticeable difference in my pool’s temperature and maintenance routine. Make sure to measure your pool accurately, choose a durable, well-sized cover, and consider ease of use features. With the right solar cover, you’ll enjoy a warmer pool and less hassle throughout the swimming season.

Author Profile

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Frank Roberts
I’m Frank Roberts, the writer behind TeuscherMadison.com. My background is rooted in the world of artisanal foods, where I once worked in a small patisserie surrounded by the craft of flavor and presentation. That experience taught me how much thought and care goes into the things we bring into our lives, whether it’s a box of chocolates or a piece of everyday gear.

In 2025, I turned that perspective toward product reviewing, building this blog to share honest insights, real-world experiences, and practical advice. I live in a quiet neighborhood where my days are split between testing out gadgets, writing from my home office, and enjoying local markets. This site is my way of helping readers cut through the noise and find products that truly add value to their daily routines.