Best pool solar covers

Looking for the best pool solar covers? Here are some top choices you should know. The BIGXWELL Pool Solar Blanket is the best overall. The BigXwell 1600 Series is very strong. TheBIGXWELL Solar Cover keeps heat in very well. No matter if your pool is 16x32 or 12x24, these covers help you save money. They keep your water warm and make cleaning faster. Look at these facts:

With a solar cover, you get warmer swims. You pay less money. Your pool is easier to take care of.

Key Takeaways

• Solar pool covers keep your water warmer. They trap the sun’s heat. This helps you swim longer. It also helps you save money on energy.

• Using a solar cover stops water from evaporating. It can reduce evaporation by up to 95%. This saves thousands of gallons of water each year.

• Solar covers help you use fewer chemicals. They slow down evaporation. This means you lose fewer chemicals. You also spend less money.

• Pick covers that fit your pool size and shape. Think about your climate too. Thicker and darker covers hold heat better. But they may be heavier to move.

• Install your solar cover the right way. Clean it often. Store it correctly. This helps your cover last longer. It also helps it work better.How Solar Pool Covers Work

How Solar Pool Covers Work

https://youtu.be/wWBMFvm9NDY

Heat Retention

When you use a solar pool cover, you trap the sun’s warmth right in your pool. The cover acts like a big blanket. It absorbs sunlight during the day and holds onto that heat at night. You can expect your pool water to get 10 to 15°F warmer with a good cover and plenty of sunshine. That means you can swim earlier in the season and enjoy warmer water without turning on a heater.

• Solar covers work by:

  • Absorbing solar energy and transferring it to the water.

  • Reducing heat loss, especially at night or on cool days.

  • Covering the whole pool surface for the best results.

Research shows that when you cover your pool, you can save over 30% on energy costs. Some studies even found a 50% drop in energy use and less humidity indoors if you have an indoor pool. So, you get to swim in warmer water and save money at the same time.

Evaporation Reduction

Evaporation is a sneaky way your pool loses water and heat. When you leave your pool uncovered, you can lose thousands of gallons of water each year. A solar cover stops most of that loss. It acts as a barrier, keeping water in the pool and blocking the wind.

You can see how much water you save just by using a cover. Less evaporation also means you keep more heat in your pool, so you don’t have to run the heater as much.

Chemical Savings

When water evaporates, pool chemicals go with it. That means you have to add more chlorine and other products to keep your pool clean. With a solar cover, you slow down evaporation, so you use fewer chemicals. Studies show you can save 20% to 40% on pool chemicals just by keeping your pool covered.

Tip: Using a solar cover not only saves water and energy, but also cuts down on the time and money you spend on pool maintenance. That’s a win for your wallet and your free time!

Best Pool Solar Covers

Performance

When you look for the best pool solar covers, you want something that keeps your pool warm and saves energy. The  Pool Solar Blanket stands out for its lightweight design. You can easily put it on or take it off, even if you are alone. It keeps your pool temperature steady, even on chilly days. Many users say their water stays around 71-73°F, even when the air is much cooler. That means you can swim longer each season.

The BigXwell 1600 Series is a heavy-duty option. It has a 16 mil thickness, so it holds in more heat and cuts down on evaporation. You will notice a real difference in water temperature, especially if you live in a cooler area. The covers also do a great job. They come in 400 and 500 micron thicknesses. The color of the cover matters more than the thickness for heat retention. Darker covers usually keep more heat in your pool.

 Solar Cover is another popular choice. While there is less data on its exact performance, many pool owners like how it keeps their water warm and reduces evaporation. If you want the best pool solar covers for heat retention, go for thicker covers or those with special bubble designs.

Tip: Thicker covers and special bubble shapes, like BIGXWELL, can help your pool stay warmer for longer. But they might be a bit heavier to move.

Durability

You want your pool cover to last. The best pool solar covers use strong materials like UV-stabilized polyethylene or vinyl. The BigXwell 1600 Series is known for its tough build. Its 16 mil thickness makes it one of the most durable covers you can buy. You can expect it to last several seasons if you take care of it.

BigXwell covers have a patented bubble design. This design helps them last 25% longer than regular round bubble covers.

Most pool solar covers last about 3 to 5 years. You should look for covers with UV resistance and thicker material. These features help them stand up to sun and weather. The Bigxwell Pool Solar Blanket is easy to handle and lasts well, but it may not be as tough as the thickest covers. Bigxwell does not have as much data on durability, but many users report good results for several seasons.

Suitability

Not every pool cover fits every pool. The best pool solar covers work for both above ground and inground pools. The BigXwell 1600 Series covers are easy to trim, so you can fit them to almost any pool shape or size. The Bigxwell Pool Solar Blanket is also simple to cut and adjust.

solar pool cover, are made for both above ground and inground pools. They use thick PE material and special bubble designs to trap heat and stop water loss. You can use these covers on small round pools or large rectangular ones. Many users say these covers make their pools 3-5 degrees warmer and keep out leaves and dirt.

If you want extra features, look for covers that come with reels or UV covers. These make it easier to roll up and store your cover. Some covers are heavier, so you might need two people to move them. Lighter covers are easier for one person but may not last as long.

Note: Always check the size and shape of your pool before you buy. Most of the best pool solar covers can be trimmed to fit, but you want to make sure you get the right size for the best results.

Comparison Table

Choosing the right pool cover can feel tricky. You want to see all the details in one place. That’s why I made this easy-to-read comparison table. Here, you can check out the specs for the best pool solar covers. Take a look at thickness, color, warranty, pool type, and price range. This way, you can spot the differences fast and pick what works for you.

Tip: Thicker covers usually last longer and keep your pool warmer. Lighter covers are easier to move, but they may not hold heat as well.

 

Think about your pool size and how much you want to spend. The best pool solar covers give you options for every budget and pool type. Use this table to compare your favorites side by side. It makes your choice much easier!

Buying Guide

Pool Size and Shape

You want your solar cover to fit your pool just right. Start by measuring your pool’s length and width. If you have a round or oval pool, measure the widest points. Most covers come in large rectangles or circles, but you can trim them with scissors for a custom fit. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Pool size and shape

• Pool type (in-ground or above-ground)

• Cover type (bubble, ring, or sheet)

• How much sunlight your pool gets

• How long you want to swim each year

• Your local climate

A good fit means better heat retention and less water loss. If your pool has steps or curves, you can cut the cover to match.

Material and Thickness

The material and thickness of your cover matter a lot. Most covers use polyethylene or vinyl. Polyethylene is light and traps heat well, but vinyl lasts longer. Thickness is measured in mils or microns. Here’s what you need to know:

• 8 mil covers are thin and cheap. They work best in warm places.

• 12 mil covers give you a balance of price and performance. They last longer and keep more heat in.

• 16 mil covers are thick and strong. They hold the most heat and last the longest, but they cost more.

Color Choices

Color affects how well your cover heats your pool and protects chemicals. Clear covers let in the most sunlight, so your pool heats up fast. But they also let in more UV rays, which can use up chlorine faster. Light blue covers give you a good mix of heat and chemical protection. Dark blue covers keep heat in best. Silver covers reflect sunlight, but there isn’t much data on how well they work.

Tip: If you want the warmest water, go for clear or light blue. If you want to save on chemicals, try dark blue.

Longer warranties often mean better materials and more years of use. Think about how much you want to spend and how long you want your cover to last.

Accessories

Some covers come with extras that make life easier. You might want a reel to help roll up your cover. UV covers protect your solar cover when it’s not in use. Some brands offer repair kits or storage bags. These accessories help you use and care for your cover with less hassle.

Note: Proper installation and regular cleaning help your cover last longer and work better.

Usage Tips

Maintenance

You want your cover to last as long as possible. Keep it clean by rinsing it with a hose every week. Dirt and leaves can build up fast. Use a soft brush if you see any stubborn spots. Avoid using harsh chemicals or rough scrubbers.

• Check for tears or holes often.

• Patch small holes with a repair kit.

• Keep the cover out of direct sunlight when not in use.

Note: A clean cover works better and lasts longer.

Storage

When swim season ends, you need to store your cover the right way. First, rinse it off and let it dry completely. This stops mold and mildew from growing. Fold or roll the cover loosely. Store it in a cool, dry place, like a shed or garage.

Reminder: Never leave your cover out in the sun when you’re not using it. Sunlight can make it brittle and shorten its life.

Using a solar pool cover helps you save money, keep your pool warm, and cut down on water loss. You get less work and more fun in the pool. Think about your pool type, local weather, and budget before you choose. Check the comparison table and buying guide for quick help. Got questions or tips? Drop a comment below and join the conversation!

FAQ

How do I cut a solar pool cover to fit my pool?

You can use sharp scissors to trim the cover. Lay it flat on your pool, then cut along the edge. Make sure the bubbles face down. Take your time for a neat fit.

Can I leave my solar cover on while swimming?

No, you should always remove the cover before swimming. It can be a safety hazard. Roll it up and store it safely out of the way.

How often should I clean my solar pool cover?

You should rinse your cover with a hose every week. If you see dirt or leaves, brush them off. Keeping it clean helps it last longer.

Will a solar cover work on cloudy days?

A solar cover still helps on cloudy days. It keeps heat from escaping and reduces evaporation. You may not gain much heat, but you will not lose as much either.