Imagine this: the sun is shining, the water is inviting, but your pool feels more like a lukewarm bath than a refreshing oasis. Does this sound familiar? Keeping your above-ground pool at the perfect temperature can be a real challenge, especially when you’re trying to enjoy those summer days. You want your pool to be ready for fun, not a chilly disappointment!
Choosing the right solar cover for your above-ground pool can feel like a puzzle. There are so many different types, sizes, and features out there. It’s easy to get confused and wonder which one will actually work best for *your* pool and *your* needs. You want to save money on heating costs and spend more time swimming, but how do you pick the cover that will do just that?
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about solar covers for above-ground pools. We’ll help you understand what makes a good one, what to look for, and how to make a smart choice. By the end, you’ll feel confident about picking a cover that will keep your pool warm, clean, and ready for endless summer splashes. Let’s dive in!
Our Top 5 Solar Cover For Above Ground Pool Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Solar Cover For Above Ground Pool Detailed Reviews
1. VEVOR Solar Pool Cover
Rating: 9.3/10
The VEVOR Solar Pool Cover is a smart way to keep your pool warm and clean. This 24 x 12 ft blue cover uses the sun’s energy to heat your water and keeps it from getting dirty. It’s made of tough material that will last a long time.
What We Like:
- Extend Swimming Season: The cover traps heat from the sun, warming your pool water by 8-15°C. This means you can swim longer into the cooler months and save money on heating costs.
- Reduces Evaporation Loss: Its design with tiny bubbles stops up to 95% of water from evaporating. This saves water and keeps your pool full.
- Lower Cleaning Costs: The cover acts as a barrier, keeping leaves and dust out of your pool. You’ll spend less time cleaning and more time swimming.
- Withstands Sun Exposure: Made from strong 12mil PE material, this cover is built to last. It resists tearing and fading, even in bright sunlight.
- Customizable Fit: You can easily cut the cover to fit any pool shape, big or small. It offers complete coverage for your swimming space.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the 12mil thickness might be a bit heavy for some users to handle alone when removing or replacing the cover.
- The bright blue color, while attractive, might be visible from a distance and some users might prefer a more discreet option.
Overall, the VEVOR Solar Pool Cover is an excellent investment for any pool owner. It makes swimming more enjoyable and saves you time and money.
2. INTEX 28013E Solar Pool Cover: for 15ft Round Easy Set and Metal Frame Pools – Insulates Pool Water – Reduces Water Evaporation – Keeps Debris Out – Reduces Chemical Consumption
Rating: 8.6/10
Keep your 15-foot round pool sparkling and warm with the INTEX 28013E Solar Pool Cover. This cover is designed to make pool ownership easier and more enjoyable. It works by trapping the sun’s heat and keeping your water at a comfortable temperature. Plus, it acts as a shield against leaves and other debris, saving you cleaning time and money on pool chemicals.
What We Like:
- Super easy to use: just lay it on top of the water.
- Keeps your pool water warmer, so you can swim longer.
- Blocks out leaves, dirt, and other stuff from getting in your pool.
- Helps your pool chemicals last longer, saving you money.
- Reduces water evaporation by a huge 95%, so you don’t have to refill your pool as often.
- Intex makes safe, good-quality products that are built to last.
- Customer service is ready to help if you have questions.
What Could Be Improved:
- This cover is specifically for 15-foot round pools, so it won’t fit other sizes.
- While it keeps debris out, it’s not a safety cover and doesn’t prevent people or pets from falling in.
This solar cover is a smart and simple way to enhance your pool experience. It offers great value by saving you time, effort, and money.
3. Sun2Solar Blue 24 ft Round Pool Solar Cover
Rating: 8.7/10
The Sun2Solar Blue 24 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is a smart way to heat your pool. It uses the sun’s natural energy to warm your water. This means you can swim longer and enjoy your pool more. It works for both above-ground and in-ground pools. The cover is like a big blanket for your pool.
What We Like:
- Free Solar Energy: It uses the sun to heat your pool water by up to 15 degrees.
- Traps Heat: The cover keeps your pool warm even after the sun goes down. Your water stays at a nice temperature overnight.
- Conserves Water: It stops water from evaporating, cutting down on how much water you need. This also means you use fewer chemicals.
- Debris Prevention: Leaves and other stuff can’t get into your pool. This keeps your pool clean and reduces cleaning time.
- Easy Installation: It’s simple to put on and take off. The cover has extra overlap, so it fits well. You can trim it if needed for a perfect fit.
What Could Be Improved:
- Durability Concerns: While generally durable, some users have reported that the material can become brittle or tear over time, especially with prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions.
- Trimming Required: Although designed for easy installation, some users might find the trimming process a bit tricky to achieve a perfectly snug fit without sacrificing coverage.
This Sun2Solar cover is a fantastic tool for keeping your pool warm and clean. It’s an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to enjoy your swimming pool.
4. In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
Rating: 9.5/10
Ready to extend your swimming season and save money on heating costs? The In The Swim 18′ Premium Blue Round Solar Pool Cover is your answer. This cover is designed to harness the sun’s power to warm your pool water, making those cooler days enjoyable. It’s made with a sturdy 12 Mil thickness, which is a key feature for its heating capabilities. The light blue color is a smart choice, helping to absorb sunlight while also keeping the heat in. This cover is a fantastic way to get more out of your pool.
What We Like:
- It significantly increases your pool’s surface water temperature, potentially by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. This means you can swim longer into the spring and fall.
- The light blue color strikes a good balance. It absorbs sunlight well for heating and also helps hold that warmth in your pool.
- It effectively stops water from evaporating, which is a major cause of heat loss. This keeps your pool warmer, especially on chilly nights.
- It’s built with a 12 Mil thickness, making it durable and effective for solar heating.
- Using a solar cover reel makes putting the cover on and taking it off much easier. It also helps protect the cover from damage.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cover has specific chemical requirements for your pool water. Chlorine levels should be below 2.5 ppm, and pH levels must be above 7.2. This needs careful monitoring.
This solar pool cover is a smart investment for any pool owner looking to maximize their swimming time and reduce heating expenses. It’s a simple yet effective way to enjoy your pool more.
5. 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
Rating: 8.7/10
Keep your 18ft round Intex pool sparkling clean and warm with the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover. This cover works like magic, using the sun’s rays to heat your water and keep out unwanted leaves and debris. It’s designed to fit your Easy Set or Metal Frame pool perfectly.
What We Like:
- Super easy to use! Just lay it on top of your pool.
- It traps the sun’s heat to warm your pool water.
- Significantly cuts down on water evaporation, saving water.
- Keeps leaves, dirt, and other debris out of your pool.
- Helps reduce the amount of chemicals you need to add.
- Intex is known for making safe and quality products.
- Great value for the price.
- Customer service is ready to help if you have questions.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s specifically for 18ft round pools, so it won’t fit other sizes.
- While it keeps debris out, it’s not a safety cover for preventing accidents.
This Intex solar cover is a smart way to enjoy your pool more and spend less time cleaning and maintaining it. It’s an efficient and affordable way to make your pool time even better.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Solar Cover for Your Above Ground Pool
A solar cover is a fantastic addition to your above-ground pool. It helps keep your water warm and clean. Picking the right one can seem tricky with so many options. This guide will help you find the perfect solar cover for your pool.
Why Use a Solar Cover?
Solar covers do two main jobs. First, they trap heat from the sun. This means you can swim longer and enjoy warmer water without running your heater as much. Second, they act like a giant lid. They stop leaves, bugs, and other dirt from falling into your pool. This saves you cleaning time and keeps your water clearer.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a solar cover, keep these important features in mind.
Thickness Matters
Solar covers come in different thicknesses. Thicker covers usually last longer. They also trap more heat. Most covers are measured in mils. A thicker cover, like 12 mil or 16 mil, is a good choice for durability.
Bubble Design
Most solar covers have tiny air bubbles. These bubbles help insulate the water. Some covers have large bubbles, and others have smaller ones. Both types work well, but larger bubbles might offer a bit more insulation.
UV Protection
Look for covers that mention UV protection. This helps the cover last longer in the sun. Sunlight can break down some materials over time. UV protection keeps your cover strong.
Easy to Use
Consider how you will put the cover on and take it off. Some covers are very heavy when wet. Many people buy a reel system to help with this. A reel makes rolling up and unrolling the cover much easier.
2. Important Materials
Solar covers are usually made from polyethylene. This is a type of plastic.
- Polyethylene: This is the most common material. It’s strong and lightweight. It can handle sunlight and water chemicals.
- Air Bubbles: The small pockets of air trapped in the material are key. They act like tiny sleeping bags for your pool water, keeping it warm.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a solar cover better, while others can make it break down faster.
What Makes a Cover Great:
- Good Sealing: A cover that fits your pool well without too many gaps will work best. It will trap more heat and keep more debris out.
- Strong Edges: The edges of the cover should be reinforced. This prevents them from tearing easily.
- Correct Size: Make sure the cover is the right size for your pool. A cover that is too small won’t protect your pool well. A cover that is too big can be hard to manage.
What Can Hurt a Cover:
- Harsh Chemicals: Too many pool chemicals can damage the material over time. Keep your pool balanced.
- Sharp Objects: Be careful not to drag the cover over sharp things. This can cause rips.
- Leaving it on Too Long: While good for heat, leaving a cover on constantly can sometimes reduce airflow. This might affect water chemistry.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Most people love their solar covers. They enjoy warmer water and less cleaning.
- Extended Swim Season: Families often find they can swim earlier in spring and later in fall. The warmer water makes a big difference.
- Reduced Chemical Use: When less debris gets into the pool, you might need to use fewer chemicals to keep the water clean.
- Easier Maintenance: Less time spent skimming leaves and bugs means more time relaxing.
- Dealing with the Weight: The biggest challenge for some users is the weight of the cover when it’s wet. This is why reel systems are so popular.
FAQs About Solar Covers for Above Ground Pools
Q: How do I measure my above ground pool for a solar cover?
A: Measure the diameter of your round pool or the length and width of your oval or rectangular pool. Make sure to add a few extra feet to your measurements to ensure good coverage.
Q: Do solar covers really heat the pool?
A: Yes, they do! They trap the sun’s heat and prevent it from escaping, warming your water naturally.
Q: How long do solar covers typically last?
A: With good care, a solar cover can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years. Thicker covers often last longer.
Q: Can I use a solar cover on my pool when it’s cloudy?
A: Yes, you can. While they work best in direct sunlight, they still help keep heat in and debris out even on cloudy days.
Q: What is the best way to store my solar cover when I’m not using it?
A: It’s best to clean it and let it dry completely before storing it. Roll it up neatly and store it in a dry, shaded place, ideally on a reel.
Q: Will a solar cover help keep my pool water clean?
A: Yes, it acts like a barrier, preventing leaves, dirt, and insects from falling into your pool.
Q: Are all solar covers blue?
A: Most solar covers are blue, but you can find them in other colors like clear or silver. The color doesn’t usually affect how well they heat the water.
Q: Do I need to remove my solar cover before swimming?
A: Yes, always remove the solar cover before anyone gets in the pool. It can be a tripping hazard and can make the water slippery.
Q: Can a solar cover be used in winter?
A: Solar covers are generally not recommended for winter use. They are designed for warmer months. For winter, you’ll need a winter cover.
Q: How often should I check my pool water chemistry when using a solar cover?
A: You should check your pool water chemistry at least once a week, even with a solar cover. The cover helps, but regular checks are still important.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.