Solar pool covers are pool covers that minimize the heat loss caused by evaporation. These pool covers serve as a barrier between the pool, and the air, allowing for the water to stay nice and warm. This has many advantages, of course, but the biggest is that you can save a tremendous amount of money on heating and filtration costs, by investing in a solar pool cover.
These days, there are many of them on the market, and most of them are quite inexpensive. Today, most pool owners are choosing to invest in a solar pool cover, because not only are they a fairly inexpensive investment, but they also save a tremendous amount of money down the road.
In this short, little guide, you’ll learn the key factors and features to look for and consider, when buying your solar pool cover.
Our Recommended Solar Pool Covers in 2023
Best Round Solar Pool Covers in 2023
Intex Solar Cover For 16FT Diameter
The Intex Solar Cover is for pools that are sixteen-feet in diameter. It keeps the water in your pool nice and warm, prevents debris from flowing into it, while also using a drainage system to prevent water build-up.
Setting up this pool cover is very easy. It takes just a few-minutes, and then you’re done.
- Round pool cover is an ideal addition to help you enjoy warmer water for a longer swimming...
- Suitable for Easy Set and Framed 16-foot diameter above-ground outdoor swimming pools
MidWest Canvas Space Age 21-Foot Round Solar Cover
From MidWest, we have the Canvas Space Age 21-Foot Round Solar Cover. With this pool cover, you can cover pools that are up to 21-feet in diameter.
By using this pool cover, you prevent 95% of water evaporation. Because of that, the water in your pool will stay nice and warm.
- WORKS AS GOOD AS IT LOOKS - The Space Age Solar Cover will help your pool become the envy...
- MINIMIZE WATER EVAPORATION - The use of a solar cover helps in preventing up to 95% of...
Best Rectangular Solar Pool Covers in 2023
Intex Solar Cover For 18FT X 9FT Rectangular
For a rectangular pool cover, the Intex Solar Cover For 18FT X 9FT Rectangular is a great choice. It covers rectangular pools that fit those measurements, and it keeps your pool very warm and clean.
In the package, you’ll find a carrying bag that Intex has included. By using this carrying bag, storing the cover is easy.
- Cover keeps debris out of your swimming pool and reduces the consumption of chemicals for...
- Features air bubbles to absorb and transfer sun heat into the pool water, keeping it at a...
Blue Wave NS415 12-MIL Solar Blanket
The Blue Wave NS415 12-MIL Solar Blanket is designed for rectangular pools that are 16FT X 24FT.
Through the use of excellent UV-Resistance Technology, this pool cover can withstand intense heat. By using this technology, it not only keeps your pool clean, but keeps the water in your pool very warm.
- UV-RESISTANT - Built for the outdoors, this Rectangular 12-mil Solar Blanket for In-Ground...
- INNOVATIVE HEAT SOURCE - Our technology employs insulating thermal bubbles that trap heat...
Best Solar Pool Cover Reels in 2023
Intex Aluminum Base Solar Pool Cover Reel
With the Intex Aluminum Base Solar Pool Cover Reel, you can cover rectangular pools that are anywhere from 9FT to 16FT wide. This solar pool cover reel easily attaches to the frame of your pool.
When it is attached to your pool, all you need to do is use the hand-crank. And then, the cover will move across your pool and cover it.
- Roll out your solar pool cover easily with this hand-cranked solar cover reel; Cover is...
- Suitable for rectangular frame pools that measure 9 to 16 feet in width, conveniently...
VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set
From VINGLI, we have the Pool Cover Reel Set. With this solar pool cover reel, you can cover pools that are anywhere from 14FT to 18FT in width.
What sets this solar pool cover reel apart from the others is its excellent design. It is a design that consists of high-quality materials that are eco-friendly, allowing for longevity and durability.
- Easy to Assembly and Easy to Use. Embedded strap link design, making the pulling force...
- Durable, Maintenance-free,Rust Resistence Construction.. Excellent value when compared to...
What Percentage Is The Water Evaporation Minimized?
You’re buying a solar pool cover to prevent the water from evaporating, which saves you a lot of money down the road.
This is the first question you need to ask. And, in all actuality, you probably won’t need to buy the solar pool covers that minimize the water evaporation by as much as 95%. These particular models are quite a bit more expensive than most of the others, and if you only have a smaller pool, then you don’t need something this high-end.
However, if you use your pool a lot – say, every day – then this might be something to consider. As is, pool filtration can be very expensive, and if you’re able to minimize the majority of those costs, for something that you use so frequently, then it might be worth it to purchase a solar pool cover with this level of functionality.
If you own a smaller pool, though, that you don’t use that much, then you should be looking for a percentage of around 70% or more, but no less.
One thing to remember is that you want to find a pool cover with little bubbles on the surface, because these bubbles allow the sun’s rays to pass through, aiding in the heating process.
How Durable Is The Solar Pool Cover?
If you live in a harsh climate where its cold and icy for most of the year – such as North Dakota, for example – then you’re going to need something made with strong materials, allowing for durability.
Reinforced polyethylene is one of the most durable materials that solar pool covers are made of. They work very well in cold climates, as well as warm climates where the sun is always shining on them.
If the climate you live in is neither cold or very hot, this is less of an important factor, but still, something to keep in mind.
One last thing to note is that having a strong, durable pool cover also means that there will be far less risk of things like dirt and debris – such as leaves and grass – getting into the pool, creating the need for cleaning.
What Size And Shape Is Your Pool?
This goes without saying, but you’re going to need to find a solar pool cover that fits your pool. There are many different shapes and sizes of pool covers, and you won’t have any trouble finding a cover that is the right size for your pool.
However, before doing any research or product hunting, obtain the measurements of your pool, which will save a lot of time and, potentially, a lot of money down the road.
How Easy Is It To Install The Pool Cover?
There are two sides to this. The first is that of actually installing the pool cover before you use it. If complicated instructions aren’t your thing, try to find a solar pool cover known for its simplicity.
The second side to this is that of taking the pool cover off, and then putting it back on again. You have two options. Pool covers that make you do this manually, by physically pulling it off – depending on the size of your pool, this can be tricky with just one person – or having a motorized pool cover, where you press a button, and that’s that.
If you’re currently physically impaired, you’ll want a motorized pool cover. Unless you have someone that can help you to take it off. If you’re fine with taking it on and off every time, then a manual pool cover is a good choice, and you’ll save some money.
Final Words
In the end, ask yourself those questions and consider those key factors, and you’ll be able to find the best solar pool cover you could ask for!
If you have any questions or comments, please add them below in the comment section. Similarly, please let us know if you spot any mistakes or omissions. Thanks!
Last Update: 2024-04-26 | Affiliate links/Images from Amazon Product Advertising API