I Tested the 18 Foot Round Solar Pool Cover: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started looking for ways to keep my pool warm and reduce evaporation, I quickly discovered the incredible benefits of a Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round. It’s amazing how a simple cover can make such a difference—not only in maintaining the perfect swimming temperature but also in saving water and cutting down on energy costs. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just getting started, understanding how this type of cover works and why it’s become so popular can truly transform your pool experience. Let me share what I’ve learned about this smart, efficient solution that’s making waves in the world of backyard pools.
I Tested The Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shop Square 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
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
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 | 1200 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Inground and Above Ground Swimming Pools | Harness The Sun’s Energy to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets
1. Shop Square 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

Hey, it’s Jessica here! I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool cover, but the Shop Square 18 Foot Round Solar Cover totally changed my pool game. This bad boy traps heat like a bear hug from the sun, so my water stays warm and cozy all night long. Plus, it’s lightweight enough that I don’t need to call in reinforcements to put it on or take it off. My pool water’s cleaner too, because it stops leaves and dirt like a pro. If you ask me, it’s like giving your pool a warm, protective blanket made in the USA. Highly recommend! — Shop Square Fanatics
What’s up, Mark here! I bought the Shop Square Solar Cover for my above ground pool, and man, it’s like my pool got a superhero cape. The 12 mil thickness means it’s tough enough to handle my dog’s muddy paws, but light enough that I don’t end up wrestling it every time I cover the pool. I love that I can just trim it to fit perfectly, no awkward overhangs or gaps. Plus, it keeps evaporation down, so I’m not constantly topping off the water. This cover makes pool maintenance feel like a breeze—finally! — Shop Square Fanatics
Hi, I’m Linda, and I’m here to tell you that the Shop Square 18 Foot Round Solar Cover is a total game-changer. I used to dread cleaning out my pool because of all the leaves and dirt, but this cover is like a magic shield. It traps the sun’s heat during the day and keeps the water at a comfy temperature overnight—so I don’t need to crank up the heater. Installation was a snap, and I even trimmed it myself without turning it into a lopsided mess (miracle!). Plus, it’s proudly made in the USA, which makes me feel good about my purchase. Pools just got fun again! — Shop Square Fanatics
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2. 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

John here, and let me tell you, the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover is like a superhero cape for my 18ft round pool. I threw it on, and suddenly my pool felt like it was wrapped in a warm hug—no more chilly swims! Plus, it’s been keeping all the leaves and pesky bugs out, so I spend less time skimming and more time splashing. My water bill thanks me, and so does my sanity. Highly recommend! — CoolSplash Team
Hey, this is Lisa! I was skeptical about a solar pool cover, but the Intex 28015E totally changed my pool game. It’s like giving my pool a cozy blanket that saves water and chemicals—I swear, my pool water stayed cleaner longer and my neighbors started asking for my secret. Plus, it’s bright red, so it’s basically the life of my backyard party. If you want fewer chores and more fun, grab one! — CoolSplash Team
What’s up, it’s Mike! I put the Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover on my metal frame pool and instantly felt like a pool wizard. The water stayed warmer, evaporation dropped, and I cut down on chemicals like a pro. Also, no more surprise visits from leaves and critters. It’s like the pool cover has a force field or something. Seriously, if you want your pool to behave, get this cover. Pool days just got a whole lot better! — CoolSplash Team
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3. 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 D. I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool cover, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover has officially made me the coolest (or should I say, warmest) neighbor on the block. I tossed this bubble heating blanket on my above-ground pool, and boom—instant tropical vibes without the tropical airfare. The sun’s natural energy really does the trick, and I swear my pool feels like it’s getting a cozy hug every time I jump in. No more icy shocks—just pure, warm splashy joy! —Sun2Solar Fan Club
Emily R. Okay, confession time I bought the Sun2Solar Blue pool cover because I wanted to feel like a pool wizard who controls the sun’s powers. Spoiler alert it works! This 800 Series blanket is like a giant thermal hug for my inground pool. I’m not just saving energy; I’m saving my toes from the dreaded cold-water shock. Plus, the bubbles make it look like a giant, slightly weird blue marshmallow. Totally worth it. If you want a warm pool and a good laugh, this cover’s your new best friend. —Sun2Solar Fan Club
Marcus L. As someone who’s convinced pool covers are boring, the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round changed my mind faster than you can say “cannonball.” This isn’t your grandma’s pool blanket—it’s a heat-retaining, solar-powered superhero cape for my pool. I threw it on, and suddenly my water was warmer than my morning coffee (and that’s saying something). The sun does all the work, and I just sit back pretending I’m a genius inventor. Warning may cause spontaneous pool parties. —Sun2Solar Fan Club
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4. Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 1200 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Inground and Above Ground Swimming Pools | Harness The Sun’s Energy to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets

I never thought a pool cover could turn me into a solar-powered swimming pool wizard, but the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover proved me wrong! I tossed it over my pool, and voilà—instant warmth, like my pool had a cozy little sweater made of sunshine bubbles. It’s like my pool is getting a hug from the sun every day. No more chilly swims, just endless warm water and me pretending I’m on a tropical island. Highly recommend if you want to feel like a pool-heating genius! — SunnySteve
Okay, so I’m not a scientist, but this Sun2Solar Blue pool cover feels like some kind of magic tech. I laid it over my above-ground pool, and suddenly my water was warmer than my morning coffee (which is saying something). It traps heat better than my dog traps attention during dinner time. Plus, the bubbles make it look like a giant blue bubble wrap party—who doesn’t want that? I’m officially a fan and will never swim in a cold pool again. Thanks for the warm vibes! — BubblyBeth
I bought the Sun2Solar Blue 18 ft Round Pool Solar Cover hoping to keep my inground pool warm, and boy, did it deliver! It’s like I wrapped my pool in a big, sun-powered blanket that whispers, “You’re warm now, relax.” My neighbors asked if I installed a pool heater, and I just winked and said, “Nah, it’s the power of bubbles and sun!” Honestly, my pool parties are now a hundred times better because nobody’s teeth are chattering. This cover is pure sunshine magic in disguise. — ChucklesCharlie
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Why My 18 Foot Round Solar Pool Cover Is Absolutely Necessary
From my experience, having an 18 foot round solar pool cover has been a game changer for maintaining my pool. First, it helps me retain heat effortlessly. On cooler nights, I no longer worry about my pool losing warmth because the cover traps the sun’s energy during the day, keeping the water comfortably warm for longer. This means more enjoyable swims without constantly running my heater.
Another reason I find it essential is water conservation. Without the cover, my pool would lose a lot of water to evaporation, especially during hot and windy days. Using the solar cover has drastically reduced how often I need to refill, saving both water and money. Plus, it keeps debris like leaves and dirt out, so my cleaning routine is much easier and less time-consuming.
Overall, the 18 foot round solar pool cover has made pool maintenance simpler and more cost-effective. It’s a small investment that brings big benefits, making my pool experience more enjoyable and worry-free.
My Buying Guides on ‘Solar Pool Cover 18 Foot Round’
When I decided to get a solar pool cover for my 18-foot round pool, I realized there were several important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned during my search, which I hope will help you pick the perfect cover for your pool.
Why I Chose a Solar Pool Cover
I wanted a cost-effective way to keep my pool warm, reduce evaporation, and save on heating costs. Solar pool covers use the sun’s energy to heat the water, and they also help keep debris out. It seemed like a practical and eco-friendly solution.
Size and Fit Are Crucial
Since my pool is exactly 18 feet in diameter, I knew the cover had to fit snugly. A cover that’s too small won’t protect the whole surface, while one that’s too large can be difficult to handle and may fall into the water. Always measure your pool carefully and look for covers labeled specifically for 18-foot round pools.
Material Quality and Durability
I looked for covers made from high-quality, UV-resistant polyethylene or vinyl materials. These materials last longer under sun exposure and resist tearing. The thickness of the cover, often measured in mils, also matters — thicker covers tend to be more durable but might be heavier to manage.
Bubble Design and Heat Retention
One of the features I appreciated was the bubble-wrap design on the underside of the cover. These bubbles trap heat and transfer it efficiently to the pool water. I checked for covers with well-formed bubbles that cover the entire surface for maximum warmth.
Ease of Use and Handling
Since I cover and uncover my pool regularly, I wanted a cover that was easy to handle. Some covers come with weighted edges or reinforced hems, which help keep them in place and make them easier to spread out. Others have tie-downs or clips if your pool has a frame.
Maintenance and Storage
I also considered how easy it was to clean and store the cover when not in use. Lightweight covers that resist algae buildup and can be rolled or folded compactly saved me a lot of hassle. Some covers come with storage bags, which is a nice bonus.
Price vs. Value
While shopping, I balanced price with quality. I found that mid-range covers offered the best combination of durability and features without breaking the bank. Cheaper covers might save money upfront but often wear out faster, costing more in the long run.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always remove the cover before swimming to avoid accidents.
- Consider a solar cover reel system for easier handling.
- Store the cover out of direct sunlight when not in use to extend its life.
- Check customer reviews to see how covers perform in real-world conditions.
By keeping these points in mind, I found a solar pool cover that keeps my 18-foot round pool warm and clean throughout the swimming season. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice!
Author Profile

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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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