10 Best Pool Solar Covers 2025 in the United States

The BigXwell Solar Pool Cover is designed to harness solar energy to heat your pool. Its 16-mil thickness and thermal bubble design are effective in trapping heat from the sun, which can warm up the pool during sunny days and maintain the temperature during cooler nights. The polyethylene material promises durability and longevity, even under harsh weather conditions, while also being lightweight and easy to install or remove.

The blue color of the cover not only looks appealing but also contributes to UV protection, which is crucial for minimizing water evaporation – claimed to be reduced by up to 95%, helping conserve water significantly. Additionally, the cover can be trimmed to fit pools of various shapes, making it versatile for both in-ground and above-ground pools.

However, at 50.9 pounds, it might be a bit heavy for some users to handle. Given its size of 16 x 32 feet, it is suitable for larger pools. This cover is a robust option for those looking to efficiently heat their pool and reduce water evaporation, with the flexibility of fitting different pool shapes and sizes.

The Blue Wave NS530 14-mil Solar Blanket is a solid choice for owners of rectangular in-ground pools around 20 by 40 feet. Its 14-mil thickness is on the higher side, which helps it conserve pool heat effectively—potentially raising water temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. The clear color allows sunlight to pass through and warm the water while the tightly packed thermal bubbles provide good insulation during cooler nights or cloudy weather.

Made of durable plastic with UV-resistant properties, this cover is built to handle sun exposure and pool chemicals over time, which should extend its lifespan. The floating design makes it easy to place and remove as needed, and it comes with a reassuring 6-year warranty. On the downside, at 40 pounds, it can be a bit heavy to handle alone, and its size and rectangular shape limit it to pools close to those dimensions. Also, while clear covers let sunlight through, they may show dirt or debris more readily than darker colors.

This blanket is well suited for pool owners seeking efficient solar heating and durability without complex installation.

The VINGLI 12Mil Solar Pool Heater is a heavy-duty pool cover designed to extend swimming time by warming pool water using solar energy. Made from durable polyethylene with a 12-mil thickness, it balances strength and flexibility, which helps it last longer against wear and tear. The bubble design on the underside efficiently absorbs heat and traps it in the pool, while also reducing water evaporation—this means your pool stays warmer and loses less water. Its blue color not only looks pleasant but also aids in absorbing sunlight effectively.

Sized at 18 by 36 feet and rectangular in shape, it fits many above-ground and inground pools, and you can easily trim it to match irregular pool shapes. Installation is straightforward, as the cover simply lies on the water surface, and it’s recommended to use a reel for easier handling. One thing to note is that the bubbles might look slightly deflated before warming up in the sun, which is normal due to temperature changes.

This cover requires manual installation and hand washing for cleaning. While it provides good UV protection and helps keep debris out of the pool, it does not offer the highest insulation compared to thicker or multi-layer covers. If you want an affordable and practical solar cover that helps heat your pool and reduce evaporation while keeping it cleaner, this VINGLI model is a solid choice.