Top Notch Solar Pool Cover Review Guide For 2022-2023

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Top Notch Solar Pool Cover Review Guide For 2022-2023 – With all the joys that a swimming pool brings comes a number of costs to keep in a tip-top condition. One of the biggest running expenses for pool owners is often water heating. But what if there was a way to reduce heater use and harvest sunlight to warm the water? A solar pool cover does exactly that.

Thanks to its plastic film that consists of countless air bubbles, the best swimming pool solar cover works as an insulating layer on the water surface and prevents heat loss. Not only this, but it also lets a substantial amount of sunlight through, effectively helping raise the water temperature.

Finding the best solar pool cover involves knowing the right type, size, thickness, and color. Our buying guide and solar pool cover reviews will help you choose a top rated swimming pool solar cover that will keep the water warm and even extend your pool season. To see our picks keep reading our Top Notch Solar Pool Cover Review Guide For 2022-2023

Intex Solar Pool Cover

The Intex swimming pool cover is an innovative solution that works great for any type of Intex pool – both easy set and framed models. It easily fits within the edges of any 12-foot pool. Because of the dense blue bubbles on the underside, it’s able to reduce evaporation by 95%, saving you a lot of money.

As a bonus, the cover comes with a convenient carry bag, making it more convenient to store and preventing damage when not in use. Of course, the cover acts as a physical barrier too, blocking debris from getting in and keeping your water clean.

Product Details:

• Solar-heat-retaining cover for 12-foot round pools
• Reduces evaporation by 95%; retains heat
• Drain holes to prevent water accumulation
• Easy to store; Includes a reusable carry bag for storage

What Makes This Solar Pool Blanket Stand Out:

• Drain holes in the surface prevent water accumulation
• Blue bubbles reduce evaporation by 95%
• Reusable carry bag for convenient storage
• Lightweight (2.6 lbs) for easier setup and removal

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Pool type: Above ground
• Shape: Round
• Dimensions: 12 feet (diameter)
• Color: Blue
• Warranty: 1 year

Splash Pools Round Solar Pool Cover

Thanks to its high-quality polymer plastic and dense bubble design, the Splash Pools solar cover raises the water temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit (if the weather is sunny of course). It’s very easy to use and has the potential of reducing evaporation by 95 percent.

We also like that it’s very versatile and works with any type of pool. You can get it in six different sizes, so finding the right one won’t be difficult. Additionally, the mentioned polymer plastic has plenty of strength to keep debris out, and you can count on it to last for several years.

Product Details:

• Durable Solar Cover For Medium-Sized Family Pools
• Keep Your Pool Water Cleaner By Blocking Out Dirt And Debris Which Will Save On Chemicals
• Cuts Water Evaporation By Up To 95%; Prevents Heat Loss
• Country Of Origin: United States

What Makes This Solar Pool Blanket Stand Out:

• Efficient at keeping debris out of the water
• Raises the pool temperature by 15°F
• Works with both in-ground and above ground pools
• Several different size options available

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Pool type: Above ground and in-ground
• Shape: Round
• Dimensions: 18 feet (diameter)
• Material: Polymer plastic
• Color: Blue

Bestway Solar Pool Cover

If you have a smaller pool, the Bestway solar blanket might be the optimal way to keep it warm. It has a 10-foot diameter and it’s very easy to set up. The blue color works like a charm for generating heat, and the bubble structure makes sure it stays in the pool.

The design also comes with drain holes, making sure the blanket remains on the surface. Bestway provides a carry bag with this model, so you can safely store it and protect it from damage during the off-season. Lastly, it’s incredibly affordable too, which may be important to pool owners on a limited budget.

Product Details:

• Drain holes to prevent some of the water accumulation
• Provide Heat Insulation
• Minimized Pool Debris

What Makes This Solar Pool Blanket Stand Out:

• Surface has holes to keep water from accumulating
• Perfect fit for smaller 10-foot pools
• Carry bag with insert for easier storage
• Retains heat well and significantly reduces debris

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Pool type: Above ground
• Shape: Round
• Dimensions: 10 feet (diameter)
• Color: Blue

MidWest Canvas Above Ground Solar Pool Cover

High performance is the main focus of the MidWest Canvas bubble cover. The blue top lets sunlight through and warms up the water, while the silver underside retains heat and prevents evaporation. This type of design has shown excellent results in heat retention, which leads to big savings in pool heating.

The diameter of 21 feet that can easily be cropped, so it’s great for just about any above ground pool. Besides being 8mm thick, the MidWest Canvas cover is also UV protected, which guarantees excellent durability. In addition, you’ll get a 5-year warranty to cover any problems you might have.

Product Details:

• 8-mm
• Blue on silver round bubble pattern
• UV protected
• Pulls in heat during the day
• Retains heat at night

What Makes This Solar Pool Blanket Stand Out:

• UV-protected material for greater durability
• Blue and silver combination can retain heat well
• Thicker than most covers (8 millimeters)
• Generous five-year warranty

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Pool type: Above ground
• Shape: Round
• Dimensions: 21 feet (diameter)
• Thickness: 8mm
• Color: Blue on silver
• Warranty: 5 years

Blue Wave NS520 14-mil Solar Pool Cover

The Blue Wave solar cover is completely clear to let 100% of sunlight through and warm up the pool in the most efficient way. When the water gets heated up, the Magni-clear bubbles do a fantastic job of keeping it inside, which can result in up to a 15-degree increase in water temperature.

Compared to most other models, these covers are slightly thicker. With their 14-mil thickness, the Blue Wave covers are able to prevent up to 95% of water evaporation. These savings will be a welcome relief on your budget and reduce chemical costs. As a cherry on top, you get a 6-year warranty.

Product Details:

• Conserves energy – this 14-mil blanket covers your swimming pool and employs Solar heating to increase the water temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Minimizes heat loss: our insulating thermal bubbles provide effective heating all summer long. This blanket is packed with innovative cells ensuring your swimming pool stays warm through cool nights and cloudy days.
• Superior durability – this Rectangular 14-mil Solar blanket for in-ground swimming pools is designed to withstand deterioration caused by ultraviolet rays and chemicals.
• Reduce evaporation: prevent up to 95% of pool water and chemical evaporation with the use of a Solar blanket. This reduction of evaporation is not Only environmentally-safe, it will save you time and money, as well.
• 6-Year limited Warranty

What Makes This Solar Pool Blanket Stand Out:

• Clear color for greater heating efficiency (up to 15 degrees F)
• Countless bubbles prevent heat loss during the night
• Plastic is highly resistant to UV rays and pool chemicals
• Blue Wave makes it easy to customize for unusual pool shapes

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Pool type: In-ground
• Shape: Rectangular
• Dimensions: 32 x 16 feet
• Thickness: 14 mil
• Material: UV-protected plastic
• Color: Clear
• Warranty: 6 years

Pool Mate 2040RS-8SBD BOXPM Deluxe Solar Pool Cover

Due to its unique design, the Pool Mate solar blanket is significantly better at keeping the pool warm compared to an average solar cover. In fact, heat loss is reduced as much as 14.6%. This greatly lowers the overall maintenance costs, as you won’t need to add water or heat the pool as much.

The cover has an aluminum heat shield that can trap the heat that would otherwise be lost. It’s able to resist UV rays as well as exposure to harmful chemicals. We also like that it’s very tough, so you can count on it to keep the water clean too.

Product Details:

• Unique aluminum heat shield that traps otherwise lost heat back into the pool
• Material is highly resistant to ultraviolet rays which inhibits deterioration
• 14.6% greater heat retention
• 5-Year Warranty

What Makes This Solar Pool Blanket Stand Out:

• Aluminum underside layer traps more heat
• Up to 14.6% better than average heat retention
• Stable and UV-resistant materials used
• Three different sizes available

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Pool type: In-ground
• Shape: Rectangular
• Dimensions: 20 x 40 feet
• Thickness: 12 gauge
• Material: Plastic, thin aluminum
• Color: Blue on silver
• Warranty: 5 years

Sun2Solar Blue Rectangle Solar Pool Cover

In addition to top-level performance, the Sun2Solar pool cover also offers a high degree of adjustability. Not only can you get it in 12 different sizes (12 to 36 feet in diameter), but it’s also incredibly easy to trim so you can get the perfect fit over the water.

It’s made of high-quality blue plastic that keeps the water warm. The countless bubbles on the underside work as an insulating layer, so the Sun2Solar pool solar blankets have no problem maintaining the temperature. Considering the quality, these are the best solar pool covers if you need an affordable long-term solution.

Product Details:

• ATTRACTIVE BLUE DESIGN – Sun2Solar solar blankets are made from a film of thousands of tiny bubbles, which work together to collect and retain heat both at night and on those chilly days. The blue color provides an appealing look while also using the sun’s rays to help warm your swimming pool.
• MINIMIZE WATER EVAPORATION – The use of a solar cover helps in preventing up to 95% of pool water evaporation. When not enjoying a refreshing swim, keeping your pool covered lessens the vast amount of water lost into the environment. Fill up your swimming pool less and enjoy it more!
• JUMP INTO WARMTH – Show friends and family your bravery by jumping in without the standard toe dip. Enter the swimming pool confidently knowing the Sun2Solar solar cover has kept the water warm just for you. It’s easy to put on and take off allowing more time for showing off.
• HEAT RETENTION – After everyone has called it a day with wrinkled fingers from too much fun in the sun, make sure to place this solar cover back atop the water. Don’t lose all of that warmth generated throughout the day when the sun sets. Assure your pool’s temperature does not drop too much by protecting it at night through use of a solar blanket.
• TRIM TO FIT – Your pool may be uniquely shaped and getting the right fit is as easy as finding a marker and sharp pair of scissors. Have the bubbles facing down to the water and trace a line on the cover showing where you should cut off the additional material. Do so confidently knowing this won’t affect the manufacturer’s warranty—they understand.

What Makes This Solar Pool Blanket Stand Out:

• Great for both pool types (in and above ground)
• Thick bubbles give a high degree of heat retention
• Efficient at preventing water loss through evaporation
• Safe for cutting to make a better fit

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Pool type: Above ground and in-ground
• Shape: Round
• Dimensions: 24 feet (diameter)
• Color: Blue

Thermo-Tex 2831224 Solar Pool Cover

By offering a high-quality construction for a very reasonable price, the Thermo-Tex pool cover has gained quite a popularity among pool users. It’s made of tough plastic polymer that is UV stabilized to prevent deterioration from sun exposure. It’s very lightweight, so you won’t have any problems spreading it over the pool or packing it when you want to jump in.

This model measures 12 by 24 feet in size, which will be good for most medium-sized home pools. If your pool is smaller, you can also trim it to fit the surface better. It’s a US-made product that offers a 3-year warranty with the purchase.

Product Details:

• Thermo-Tex Solar pool covers will extend your swimming season and lower your operating costs.
• According to the us Department of energy, Solar pool covers reduce chemical consumption, reduce pool heating costs, and reduce water evaporation. “U.S. Department of energy”
• Thermo-Tex Solar pool covers are made from high quality, UV stabilized polymers that resist degradation caused by the sun and pool chemicals.
• Lighter weight design makes it easier to put on and take off of your pool.
• 3 Year manufacturer’s limited Warranty. Made in USA and Canada.

What Makes This Solar Pool Blanket Stand Out:

• Polymer construction resists damage from UV and chlorine
• Extends pool season by up to 2 months
• Greatly reduced chemical and pool heating costs
• Lightweight design makes setup much easier

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Pool type: In-ground
• Shape: Rectangular
• Dimensions: 12 x 24 feet
• Material: UV-stabilized polymer
• Color: Blue
• Warranty: 3 years

In The Swim 16-mil Solar Pool Cover

With a thickness of 16 mils, In The Swim pool cover offers much better durability than most other models. The excellent warranty period testifies to this, as this model comes with 8 years of coverage. As for the design, it’s a clear cover that lets a lot of sunshine in.

Because of this, In The Swim pool cover can raise the temperature by 10 degrees over just 7 days. Additionally, the model is fitted with an aluminum bottom layer to prevent heat loss and evaporation. You can get it in 14 different sizes and, even though it costs a bit more, we feel that it’s worth it.

Product Details:

• Raises water temperature up to 8-10 degrees in approximately 5-7 days of consistent sunlight
• Reduces your water evaporation and chemical loss to save you money
• Reduces heat loss and minimizes the amount of debris that can get in the water
• Extends the swimming season by maintaining a comfortable swimming temperature in the pool
• 8 Year Manufacturer’s Limited Coverage

What Makes This Solar Pool Blanket Stand Out:

• Large range of sizes to fit any pool
• Aluminum bottom improves heat retention
• Keeps debris from getting in the water
• 8-year warranty (longest on the list)

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Pool type: In-ground
• Shape: Rectangular
• Dimensions: 16 x 32 feet
• Thickness: 16 mil
• Material: Polyethylene
• Color: Clear
• Warranty: 8 years

Top Notch Solar Pool Cover Buying Guide For 2022-2023

Types of Solar Covers:

Even though most of us think of bubble covers when solar covers are mentioned, there are actually three different types of solar pool covers that use the sun’s energy to heat the water. These include a bubble cover (solar blanket), solar rings, and liquid pool covers.

Solar blankets: This is the type that looks like a large sheet of bubble wrap. Those air bubbles serve a dual purpose – they help the cover float on the surface and prevent heat loss and evaporation from the water.

These covers for pools come with a varying degree of thickness and in plenty of different sizes so you can find a model that fits your pool. A thicker cover will be more durable and retain heat better, but the tradeoff is that it’s more difficult to handle (set up and remove).

As for the size, solar blankets pools come in all the standard pool dimensions, regardless if you have a round or rectangular pool. If you can’t find your size or your pool has an unusual shape, an advantage is that you can trim them so they fit properly.

Solar rings: The way these rings work is exactly the same as solar blankets, but the design is a bit different. Basically, solar rings are cut out circles of the blanket material that you throw on the water surface.

They are limited in size (don’t cover the whole pool), so their performance will be limited too. However, they can stay in the pool the whole time, and you can put them in and remove them more easily.

Liquid solar cover: Compared to a physical cover, a liquid cover is much more convenient to use. You pour it over the water and it forms a thin film on the surface.

This film works as a barrier that helps pool water warm up and prevents evaporation, but you can still take a dip when you want. As a downside, these solar pool covers offer no debris protection and you’ll have to add the solution often for it to work (usually lasts a month).

Pool Size:

Pool size is one of the most important considerations if you want the cover to be as efficient as possible. As you probably know, it should cover the whole water surface, neither too big nor too small.

A cover that is too big is going to be very difficult to handle. It will also be much easier for the wind to pick it up and move it. On the other hand, a cover that is too small won’t be as efficient. Obviously, it won’t heat the water well, and the uncovered areas will lose heat and evaporate.

For this reason, you must know the pool dimensions before buying a cover. This way you’ll be able to get the exact size or a model that is just slightly larger so you can easily trim it afterward.

Pool Shape:

Solar pool covers are mainly sold in one of three shapes: rectangular, round, or oval. Above ground pools are generally round in shape (due to their construction), so round covers are usually made with this type of pool in mind. On the other hand, most in-ground pools are rectangular and have solar pool covers in a matching shape.

But what if you have a non-standard pool? In this scenario, you’ll have two options. You can get several smaller covers for the pool – this is less expensive but also less efficient. As an alternative, you can get a larger pool cover and then cut it. This is pretty easy to do, but it might be costly because you’ll throw away a lot of material.

Thickness:

Thickness plays a big role in how effective your solar cover is going to be. However, getting the thickest cover won’t always be the best solution.

Of course, it’s true that a thicker solar cover is more effective at keeping that heat locked in. It magnifies the sunlight better before it reaches the water, adding more heat.

Also, a thicker cover will insulate the pool water better – there is more material to block the heat from escaping. Another benefit is that a thicker material also means more weight, so the pool blankets will be more secure and stable in stronger winds (won’t get blown away).

On the other hand, there are some downsides to the extra thickness too. The product will be more difficult to roll up and store due to its weight. Also, they are generally more expensive than thinner models. While it’s usually better to go for a thick solar cover, keep all this in mind before making your choice.

Color: Clear vs Blue Solar Pool Cover:

While for most other products color is a matter of aesthetic choice, a solar cover color can actually make a vital difference to how it performs. Most solar blankets for pools are either clear or blue, but you can also find dark models or various combinations.

Clear solar pool cover: It allows almost all light through, magnifying it in the process. It doesn’t absorb much heat, so the water temperature will rise quicker. On the other hand, it’s not as efficient at retaining heat, and the unfiltered UV rays damage the chemicals in the pools.

Blue solar pool cover: This type is somewhere in the middle between heating water and keeping it warm. It lets a substantial amount of sunlight through, but it can also block much of the heat loss and maintain temperature. It also absorbs a portion of UV rays so they don’t degrade the chemicals.

Dark solar pool cover: Darker colors are best for heat retention (dark blue, grey, silver, black). If the water is warm, this cover will be the most efficient to prevent heat loss. Unfortunately, they absorb most of the sunlight so the water underneath them won’t get warmed up easily.

Warranty Coverage:

With so many terms and conditions, the world of warranties can be a difficult one to understand. These apply to various aspects and tell you when the warranty is valid and when it isn’t. Unfortunately, most swimming pool solar covers come with this type of limited warranty that covers you only in certain scenarios.

For this reason, you must check the provided warranty for each product. Even if a model offers 7 or 8 years of coverage, this won’t mean much if it only covers material defects in perfect conditions.

On the other hand, some models offer full coverage for the first few years. This means that even if you have a tear or some other damage, they will replace the product. This is a big plus as it gives a sense of security, especially if you need a larger solar blanket pool cover. Also, checking the product reviews can give you an idea and show you what you can expect in the long run.

FAQs:

Q: What Is A Solar Pool Cover?

A: A solar pool cover is a plastic sheet that helps heat the pool water and keeps it warm. It usually has lots of air bubbles (like a bubble wrap) that insulate the water, prevent cooling down, and reduce evaporation. With this pool cover solar energy is used to heat your pool instead of a traditional pool heater. Overall, it’s a great and affordable way to raise and maintain pool temperature.

Q: What Are The Main Benefits Of Using A Solar Pool Cover?

A: The benefits of solar pool covers include water heating, retaining the sun’s heat, preventing evaporation, and keeping debris out. The plastic layer lets sunlight through to warm up the water, while the air bubbles maintain the temperature and work as a barrier to prevent drying up. Additionally, this physical barrier will also keep your pool clean from dirt and debris.

Q: What Are Different Types Of Pool Covers?

A: As we’ve mentioned earlier, there are three different types – bubble covers, solar rings, and liquid covers. Solar bubble covers are the most common (and efficient), while the other two have some limitations. Solar rings will only cover a limited area, while a liquid pool cover needs to be applied frequently to work.

Q: Are Solar Pool Covers Safe?

A: Yes, a solar pool cover is perfectly safe to use on the pool water. However, you should be aware of its limitations. This is not a safety cover, meaning nobody can walk on it without falling in (even kids or pets). Also, make sure that when you use solar blankets pools remain empty. Otherwise, somebody might get trapped underneath the blanket.

Q: How Does A Solar Pool Cover Work?

A: A solar pool cover resembles a see-through bubble wrap, just made of much better materials. The transparent surface lets sunlight through to heat up the water. On the other hand, the bubbles are filled with air that works as insulation and prevents heat from leaving the water. As a bonus, a pool solar cover greatly reduces evaporation too.

Q: How Well Do Solar Pool Covers Work?

A: It depends on the weather conditions and what you expect from the cover. If the weather is cloudy and cold, the cover won’t be able to do much in terms of heating. Still, many people use it to retain the heat generated by a heater, and it can really shine in this scenario even in bad weather.

Q: How To Install A Solar Pool Cover?

A: This is not hard to do – it’s just a matter of fitting the cover well. Here’s what you need to do:

If you don’t know the exact pool dimensions, measure it
If an exact cover size doesn’t exist, go with a slightly larger cover
Mark the pool outline on the cover and cut off the excess material (it needs to cover the whole surface)
Place the cover in the swimming pool with the bubble side facing the water

Q: How To Clean A Solar Pool Cover?

A: Cleaning the cover properly before storing it will significantly improve its durability. You can do this by following a few easy steps:

• Remove the debris from the cover surface (use a hand skimmer or push it into the pool filter)
• Remove the cover and put it on a soft surface (grass for example)
• Hose off the pool chemicals and other dirt (algae can often be removed this way too)
• If you need to scrub it, make sure you only use a soft cloth or brush
• If water is not enough, you can use a mild detergent or a mild bleach solution
• If some of these cleaners were used, make sure to rinse the cover properly afterward
• Leave to dry completely before storing to avoid mold and smells

Q: How To Cut A Solar Pool Cover?

A: This is very simple to do, and you can do it with your regular household scissors (as long as they’re sharp). As we said, you need to know the swimming pool dimensions, mark them on the cover and follow the marked lines. Keep in mind that it’s smart to cut a bit less initially and do small corrections, as this will allow you to find the exact fit.

Q: How To Keep A Solar Pool Cover From Blowing Off?

A: The simplest way to do this is to add some weight to the cover surface. If the cover doesn’t have drain holes, you can pour a small amount of water over it with a hose (0.5 inches will do the job). If this isn’t possible, you can pour water into plastic bags and put them around the edges.

Q: How To Store Solar Pool Cover?

A: You should store the solar cover in a dry place, away from sun’s heat or any other heat source. Before you store it, make sure you clean it properly and it’s fully dry. It’s even better if you put it in a box or a storage bag (included with some models). If it’s on a reel, you can leave it there but make sure it’s covered and protected.

Conclusion:

Solar bubble pool covers are a great solution for keeping your pool water warm without spending a fortune on heaters. A pool solar blanket requires only sunlight to work, and just a few sunny days are enough to raise the temperature by 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

On top of this, both inground pool covers and above ground pool covers prevent water evaporation too, so you get a double benefit. Hopefully, our buying guide helped you find the best solar pool cover that will keep your pool warm for many seasons to come. Thanks for taking the time to read our Top Notch Solar Pool Cover Review Guide For 2022-2023.