Keeping your pool warm and reducing energy costs has never been easier! With solar covers, you can extend your swimming season, save water, reduce chemical consumption, and keep debris out of your pool. Did you know that up to 75% of your pool’s heat loss comes from evaporation? A high-quality solar cover can save you hundreds in heating bills while also preserving water. In this article, we’ll dive into the best solar covers for above ground pools in 2024, helping you make the best choice for your backyard oasis!
Get expert reviews on the best above ground pools. Find yours today.
Why Do You Need a Solar Cover for Your Above Ground Pool?
Contents
A solar cover is an essential tool for any above-ground pool owner. It helps in several key areas:
- Reduce Heat Loss: Solar covers prevent heat loss by reducing evaporation. This helps keep your pool warmer for longer and saves on heating costs.
- Lower Chemical Usage: By preventing evaporation, a solar cover reduces the amount of chemicals needed to maintain your pool’s balance. This means you use fewer chemicals and spend less time adjusting water levels.
- Protect from Debris: Solar covers act as a barrier, keeping out leaves, dirt, and insects. This reduces the time you spend cleaning your pool.
- Extend Swimming Season: A solar cover maintains the water temperature, allowing you to enjoy a longer swimming season, even as the weather cools.
- Conserve Water: By minimizing evaporation, a solar cover helps conserve water. This is especially beneficial during dry seasons when water conservation is critical.
Using a solar cover offers both immediate benefits, like reduced maintenance, and long-term savings on heating, chemicals, and water.
Top Features to Look for in a Solar Pool Cover
When choosing the right solar pool cover, there are a few important features to consider:
- Material Quality: Most solar covers are made from polyethylene or vinyl. Polyethylene is lightweight, durable, and offers good heat retention. Vinyl, on the other hand, is thicker and more resistant to wear, making it a great choice if you need extra durability.
- Thickness and Durability: Solar covers come in different thicknesses, typically between 8 mil to 16 mil. Thicker covers provide better insulation and durability. A 16 mil cover will retain more heat and last longer than an 8 mil cover, but it may be heavier and more difficult to handle.
- Bubble Design: The latest innovation in solar covers is micro-bubble technology. These smaller, denser bubbles increase the surface area for better heat retention and more efficient warming of the pool.
- Color and Transparency: The color of the cover affects how much sunlight it absorbs. Clear covers allow more sunlight to pass through and heat the water more efficiently. Blue covers, while still effective, tend to absorb more heat on the surface and may not warm the water as quickly as clear ones.
- Warranty Considerations: A good warranty is crucial for ensuring the longevity of your solar cover. Longer warranties (typically 3-7 years) indicate better product quality and durability, providing peace of mind for your investment.
These features will help you choose a solar cover that best fits your pool and needs, maximizing its performance and lifespan.
Best Solar Covers for Above Ground Pools in 2024: Our Top Picks
| Solar Cover Name | Customer Rating | Top Features | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doheny’s Standard Blue 1600 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover, 24 ft Round | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1) | – 3-year warranty – Reduces water evaporation by 30%-50% – Cuts chemical usage by up to 60% – Increases solar energy absorption by 25% – Micro-bubble tech for better heat retention | Doheny’s |
| Doheny’s Supreme Blue 2400 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover, 24 ft Round | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1) | – 7-year warranty – Reduces water evaporation by 30%-50% – Cuts chemical usage by up to 60% – Increases solar energy absorption by 25% – Twice the bubbles for double heat transfer | Doheny’s |
| Doheny’s Ultimate Clear 3200 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover, 24 ft Round | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1) | – 8-year warranty – Reduces water evaporation by 30%-50% – Cuts chemical usage by up to 60% – Increases solar energy absorption by 25% – Clear cover for maximum solar absorption | Doheny’s |
| Robelle Heavy-Duty 24 ft. Round Blue Solar Pool Cover | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1) | – 3-year warranty – Increases temperature by up to 10°F – Cuts evaporation by up to 90% – Ultraviolet ray-resistant material | Home Depot |
| Robelle Heavy-Duty Space Age 15 ft. x 30 ft. Oval Blue/Silver Solar Pool Cover | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1) | – 5-year warranty – Increases temperature by up to 12°F – Cuts evaporation by up to 90% – Dual-layer blue/silver material | Home Depot |
| VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 36 x 18 ft Rectangle, 16 mil | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.9) | – Made of durable 16mil PE material – Reduces evaporation by 95% – Increases temperature by 8-15°C – Customizable fit for any pool shape | VEVOR |
| Intex 18 Foot Round Easy Set Blue Solar Cover for Swimming Pools | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.9) | – 30-day warranty – Reduces evaporation by 95% – Retains heat and reduces chemical usage – Vinyl material, floats on water surface | Walmart |
1. Doheny’s Standard Blue 1600 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover
The Doheny’s Standard Blue 1600 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover is one of the best solar covers for above-ground pools. It is designed to efficiently retain heat, reduce water evaporation and lower pool maintenance costs. This solar cover is ideal for pool owners looking to extend their swimming season while saving energy and reducing chemical usage.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Micro-Bubble Technology: This solar cover uses innovative micro-bubble technology. With twice the bubbles compared to traditional covers, it enhances heat retention. This means your pool stays warmer for longer, reducing the need for additional heating.
- Reduces Water Evaporation: By covering your pool, the solar cover minimizes water evaporation by up to 50%. This conserves water and reduces the need to refill the pool, saving both time and resources constantly.
- Energy Savings: The cover helps cut heating bills by up to 70%. You rely less on external heating methods by harnessing the sun’s energy and trapping heat, resulting in significant energy cost savings.
- Protects from Debris: Acting as a shield, the cover prevents dirt, leaves, and other debris from entering the pool. This reduces cleaning time and keeps the pool in better condition with less maintenance required.
- Durable Material: Made from UV-stabilized polyethylene, this solar cover is built to last. It resists damage from the sun’s rays, ensuring long-term performance and durability even with regular exposure.
The Doheny’s Standard Blue 1600 Series Solar Cover is an excellent choice for those looking for one of the best solar covers for above-ground pools. It provides substantial energy savings, water conservation, and keeps your pool clean and warm with minimal effort.
2. Doheny’s Supreme Blue 2400 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover
The Doheny’s Supreme Blue 2400 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover is one of the best round solar covers for above ground pools. It offers advanced technology for heat retention, water conservation, and energy savings, making it ideal for pool owners looking to improve the efficiency of their pool’s heating system. With a 7-year warranty, this solar cover is both durable and highly effective.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Micro-Bubble Technology: This solar cover features advanced micro-bubble technology, with twice the bubbles of standard covers. This allows for nearly double the heat transfer, meaning your pool will warm up faster and retain heat more effectively. It also increases solar energy absorption by up to 25%, helping your pool stay warm longer.
- Water Conservation: The cover helps reduce water evaporation by 30%-50%, conserving water and reducing the need for frequent refills. This is especially beneficial during hot, dry seasons, making it an eco-friendly choice.
- Reduced Chemical Usage: By minimizing evaporation, the cover helps reduce chemical consumption by up to 60%. Fewer chemicals evaporate with the water, which means less frequent chemical balancing, saving both time and money on pool maintenance.
- Lower Heating Bills: With the ability to cut heating costs by up to 70%, this solar cover is a great investment for long-term energy savings. It acts as a barrier that keeps heat trapped in the water, reducing the need for external heating systems.
- Durable and Easy to Install: Made from high-quality UV-stabilized polyethylene, the cover is durable and resistant to sun damage. It’s also easy to install and can be cut to fit any pool size without voiding the warranty, ensuring a perfect fit for round pools.
The Doheny’s Supreme Blue 2400 Series is one of the best round solar covers for above ground pools, providing excellent heat retention, water conservation, and savings on energy and maintenance costs. This cover is perfect for pool owners looking to enhance their pool experience while being environmentally conscious.
3. Doheny’s Ultimate Clear 3200 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover
The Doheny’s Ultimate Clear 3200 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover is one of the best solar covers for above ground pools. It features advanced technology designed to increase solar heat absorption while offering excellent durability and long-term savings. With an 8-year warranty and innovative Clear-Tek micro-bubble technology, this solar cover is built to deliver superior performance and energy efficiency.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Micro-Bubble Technology: This cover is equipped with twice the bubbles of traditional solar covers. These smaller bubbles provide nearly double the heat transfer, making it highly efficient at retaining and distributing heat throughout your pool.
- Increases Solar Energy Absorption: The transparent bubble design allows the sun’s rays to penetrate directly into the water, increasing solar energy absorption by up to 25%. This means your pool heats up faster and stays warm for longer periods, reducing the need for additional heating.
- Reduces Water Evaporation: By acting as a barrier between the water and air, this solar cover minimizes evaporation by up to 50%. This helps conserve water and reduces the need for frequent pool top-offs, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Energy Savings: The cover can reduce heating costs by up to 70%. It traps solar energy effectively, minimizing the need for electric or gas heating systems and providing significant long-term energy savings.
- Lower Chemical Usage: By preventing evaporation, the cover also reduces chemical loss, cutting chemical consumption by 35%-60%. This not only saves money on pool chemicals but also reduces the time spent balancing the water’s chemical levels.
- Debris Protection and Easy Maintenance: The cover acts as a shield to keep dirt, leaves, and other debris out of your pool. This reduces the time spent on cleaning and maintenance, allowing you to enjoy a cleaner pool with less effort.
- Durability and Warranty: Made from UV-Stabilized Polyethylene, this cover is built to withstand the sun’s rays and resist wear over time. With an 8-year warranty, it provides peace of mind and ensures long-lasting performance.
The Doheny’s Ultimate Clear 3200 Series Micro-Bubble Solar Cover is a top contender among the best solar covers for above ground pools. It offers exceptional heat retention, energy savings, and water conservation, making it a smart choice for pool owners who want efficiency and durability.
4. Robelle Heavy-Duty 24 ft. Round Blue Solar Pool Cover
The Robelle Heavy-Duty 24 ft. Round Blue Solar Pool Cover is a top contender among the best heavy-duty solar covers for above-ground pools. Designed to trap solar energy and reduce evaporation, this cover is perfect for keeping your pool warm while cutting down on water and chemical usage. With durable materials and a 3-year warranty, it’s a reliable choice for pool owners seeking long-lasting protection and energy savings.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Increases Water Temperature: This solar cover can raise the temperature of your pool water by up to 10°F. By absorbing sunlight during the day and retaining the heat at night, it ensures that your pool stays warmer for longer, extending your swimming season.
- Reduces Water Evaporation: The cover cuts evaporation by up to 90%, helping to conserve water and reduce the need for frequent pool refills. This is particularly beneficial during hot weather or dry seasons when water loss can be significant.
- Decreases Chemical Usage: By minimizing water evaporation, the cover also reduces the loss of pool chemicals, allowing you to use less chlorine and other chemicals to maintain water balance. This translates into both cost savings and less time spent on maintenance.
- Durable Polyethylene Material: Made from 8 mil polyethylene material, this solar cover is designed to withstand regular use and resist damage from UV rays. Its high resistance to ultraviolet light ensures that it won’t deteriorate quickly under the sun’s harsh exposure.
- Extends Swimming Season: By keeping your pool water warmer, this cover extends the swimming season. You can enjoy your pool earlier in the spring and later into the fall without worrying about the water being too cold.
- Easy to Use: The cover floats bubble side down on the water’s surface, making it easy to put on and take off. It’s designed to fit round pools, providing complete coverage and better heat retention.
The Robelle Heavy-Duty 24 ft. Round Blue Solar Pool Cover is one of the best heavy-duty solar covers for above ground pools, offering superior heat retention, water conservation, and chemical savings. Its durable construction and energy-efficient design make it a smart investment for pool owners looking to extend their pool season while reducing maintenance efforts.
5. Robelle Heavy-Duty Space Age 15 ft. x 30 ft. Oval Blue/Silver Above Ground Pool Solar Cover
The Robelle Heavy-Duty Space Age 15 ft. x 30 ft. Oval Blue/Silver Solar Cover is one of the best oval solar covers for above ground pools. Designed with heavy-duty materials and advanced solar technology, this cover is perfect for retaining heat and conserving water, while extending your swimming season. With a 5-year warranty and a durable design, it’s a practical choice for pool owners looking for efficiency and long-term savings.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Increases Water Temperature: This solar cover can raise your pool’s temperature by up to 12°F, allowing you to enjoy warmer water without relying on external heating. It absorbs sunlight during the day and retains heat overnight, making your pool comfortable for longer periods.
- Reduces Water Evaporation: By cutting water evaporation by up to 90%, this solar cover helps conserve water and reduces the need for frequent refills. This is especially useful during hot weather or dry seasons when evaporation rates are higher.
- Decreases Chemical Usage: The cover minimizes water and chemical loss due to evaporation, which helps reduce chemical consumption. As a result, you’ll spend less on chlorine and other pool chemicals, while maintaining balanced water levels.
- Heavy-Duty Polyethylene Material: Made from durable 8 mil polyethylene, the cover is designed to last and resist UV damage. The blue/silver design enhances its heat retention capabilities, allowing more solar energy to be absorbed and stored in the water.
- Extends Swimming Season: With its ability to keep water warmer for longer, this solar cover effectively extends your swimming season. You can start using your pool earlier in the spring and keep it open later in the fall without worrying about the water being too cold.
- UV-Resistant and Long-Lasting: The solar cover is highly resistant to ultraviolet rays, which prevents material deterioration over time. Its durable construction, backed by a 5-year warranty, ensures long-term performance and protection.
The Robelle Heavy-Duty Space Age 15 ft. x 30 ft. Oval Solar Cover is an excellent choice for anyone searching for the best oval solar covers for above ground pools. Its combination of heat retention, water conservation, and chemical savings makes it a smart investment for pool owners looking to maximize their pool’s efficiency and extend the swimming season.
6. VEVOR 16 mil Solar Pool Cover, 36 x 18 ft Rectangle
The VEVOR 16 mil Solar Pool Cover is one of the best thick solar covers for above ground pools. Its heavy-duty design and advanced features make it ideal for pool owners seeking long-lasting heat retention, water conservation, and reduced maintenance efforts. With a 16 mil thickness, this solar cover stands out for its durability and efficiency in keeping pools warm.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Durable 16 mil PE Material: This solar cover is made from a thick 16 mil polyethylene material, offering excellent tensile and tear resistance. It’s designed to withstand intense sun exposure without fading or warping, making it perfect for long-term use in outdoor environments.
- Reduces Water Evaporation: The closed bubble design helps prevent up to 95% of water evaporation. This conserves water and reduces the need for frequent refills, especially during hot weather, which can save time and money.
- Improves Heat Retention: The solar cover efficiently absorbs heat during the day and reduces heat loss at night. It can increase your pool’s water temperature by 8-15°C depending on environmental conditions, extending your swimming season and reducing heating costs.
- Minimizes Pool Maintenance: This cover keeps out debris such as leaves and dust, significantly reducing cleaning efforts. You’ll spend less time maintaining the pool and more time enjoying it.
- Customizable Fit for Any Pool Shape: The VEVOR solar cover can be easily cut to fit any pool shape, whether it’s a standard rectangle or a custom-designed pool. This ensures comprehensive coverage and heat retention for pools of all sizes.
The VEVOR 16 mil Solar Pool Cover is an outstanding option for those searching for the best thick solar covers for above ground pools. Its durable construction, exceptional heat retention, and ability to conserve water make it a top choice for pool owners looking to extend their swimming season and save on maintenance costs.
7. Intex 18 Foot Round Easy Set Blue Solar Cover for Swimming Pools
The Intex 18 Foot Round Easy Set Blue Solar Cover is one of the best solar covers for Intex above ground pools. This affordable and easy-to-use cover is designed to keep your pool water warm, conserve water, and reduce maintenance efforts. It is made from durable vinyl material and fits most round metal framed Intex pools, making it a great addition for any pool owner looking to save time and money on pool upkeep.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Retains Heat Efficiently: This solar cover retains heat by absorbing sunlight during the day, keeping your pool water at a consistently warm temperature. It also works as a thermal blanket for heated pools, reducing heat loss during cooler nights.
- Reduces Water Evaporation: The cover reduces water evaporation by up to 95%, helping to maintain water levels in your pool. This is especially beneficial during hot summer days when water tends to evaporate more quickly.
- Cuts Chemical Usage: By minimizing water evaporation, this cover also reduces chemical loss, helping you save up to 50% on pool chemicals. This not only saves money but also keeps your pool’s chemical balance more stable.
- Protects Against Debris: The solar cover acts as a barrier, preventing leaves, dirt, and other debris from entering your pool. This significantly reduces the time you spend cleaning and maintaining your pool.
- Drain Holes and Easy Removal: Designed with drain holes to prevent water accumulation, the cover is easy to remove without creating a mess. It also comes with a reusable carry bag for convenient storage when not in use.
- Fits Most Round Pools: While designed for Intex pools, this 18-foot round solar cover fits most round above ground pools, making it versatile and functional for a wide range of pool owners.
The Intex 18 Foot Round Easy Set Blue Solar Cover is one of the best solar covers for Intex above ground pools, offering excellent heat retention, water conservation, and debris protection. It’s an affordable and practical solution for maintaining your pool, reducing maintenance costs, and extending your swimming season.
How to Choose the Right Solar Cover for Your Pool
Selecting the right solar cover for your pool involves several key considerations:
- Pool Size & Shape: Customization is essential when choosing a solar cover. While many covers come in standard sizes, being able to cut the cover to perfectly fit your pool’s shape ensures maximum coverage and effectiveness. This helps the cover retain heat better and reduce water evaporation.
- Budget Considerations: Balancing cost and value is important. Higher-priced covers often offer better durability and insulation, saving you more money in the long run on heating and maintenance. However, if you’re on a tight budget, a thinner cover can still offer good protection, though it may not last as long.
- Climate Factors: Your local climate plays a significant role in the effectiveness of a solar cover. If you live in a warm, sunny area, a thinner cover may be enough to keep your pool warm. In cooler climates, you might want to invest in a thicker, more durable cover to retain more heat.
- Ease of Installation: Some solar covers are easier to handle and install than others. Look for covers that can be easily cut to fit your pool’s shape without voiding the warranty. A lightweight cover will also make it easier to remove and replace as needed.
- Storage & Maintenance: Properly storing your solar cover when not in use is important for extending its life. Use a reel or folding method to avoid damage, and make sure it’s stored in a cool, dry place. Regularly cleaning the cover to remove debris will also help maintain its effectiveness.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a solar cover that not only fits your pool perfectly but also meets your budget and performance needs, ensuring long-term benefits.
Benefits of Using Solar Covers for Pool Owners
Solar covers offer a wide range of benefits for pool owners, making them a valuable investment:
- Energy Savings: Solar covers can reduce heating costs by up to 70%. By trapping heat from the sun and minimizing heat loss through evaporation, they help maintain the water temperature without the need for constant use of electric or gas heaters. This translates into significant savings on your energy bills.
- Water Conservation: A solar cover can save up to 50% of your pool’s water by reducing evaporation. Less water lost means you won’t need to top off your pool as often, which is especially important in areas with water restrictions or during dry seasons.
- Environmental Impact: Solar covers are an eco-friendly way to heat your pool. By using the sun’s natural energy, you reduce the need for energy-intensive heating systems, lowering your carbon footprint. Additionally, by conserving water and reducing chemical usage, you’re contributing to a more sustainable pool management approach.
- Reduced Pool Maintenance: Using a solar cover can greatly reduce the time spent cleaning your pool. The cover keeps out debris like leaves, dirt, and insects, minimizing the need for skimming or vacuuming. Additionally, by reducing evaporation, a solar cover also lowers the amount of chemicals needed to maintain the pool’s balance, saving you both time and money on chemical treatments.
Overall, solar covers provide pool owners with financial savings, environmental benefits, and reduced maintenance, making them a smart choice for any pool.
Conclusion:
Investing in the best solar cover for your above ground pool is a smart way to save money, conserve water, and extend your swimming season. By selecting the right material, thickness, and bubble design, you can maximize your pool’s solar energy absorption and enjoy warm, clean water all season long. Ready to make your pool more energy-efficient and eco-friendly? Check out our top picks and find the perfect solar cover for your needs!
- 7 Essential Benefits of Using an Above Ground Pool Winter Cover
- Understanding and Maintaining Above Ground Pool Circulation: The Ultimate Guide for 2024
- 5 Best Above Ground Pool Leaf Covers for 2024: Keep Your Pool Clean Year-Round
- Best Mesh Covers for Above Ground Pools in 2024: A Complete Guide to Keeping Your Pool Clean Year-Round
- 5 Best Above Ground Solid Winter Pool Covers in 2024: Protect Your Pool All Season Long
Leave a Reply