Our favorite, the Sun2Solar 1200 Series Rectangle Solar Pool Cover, keeps pool water at a comfortable temperature, is up to 95% effective at preventing evaporation, and can be cut to fit most pool shapes. Here are the best solar pool covers. This pool cover from Sun2Solar is our top pick because it is available in a variety of sizes and it keeps your pool warm after a long day in the sun. Made of a flexible resin, this cover is durable enough to withstand the elements yet thin enough to transmit solar heat. However, this cover can be prone to rip because of its thin construction, so always be cautious when rolling it up and storing it during the off-seasons. Air bubbles cover the bottom of the Sun2Solar pool cover; place them face down in the water, leaving the smooth side facing up. The surface of the light blue cover absorbs UV rays from the sun, while the bubbles transmit the absorbed energy into the water. Although clear solar pool covers transmit more of the sun’s energy into the water, they also let in more UV rays that cause significant changes to pool water chemistry—requiring more chemicals to avoid algae and maintain ideal water conditions. This light blue cover is a more versatile option for homeowners that are looking for a pool cover to keep out debris, lock in heat at night, and absorb the sun’s energy during the day. It can even be trimmed to better fit your pool, if it’s between sizes. Price at time of publish: $165 Made of 8 mil thick resin, this is not the thickest solar pool cover on the market but it gets the job done. Be sure to pull gently when setting up or removing the cover from your pool. It’s available for small to large swimming pools and can be trimmed to fit your pool specifically. The light blue color of this solar cover absorbs the sun’s energy while reducing its effects on your pool’s chlorine levels. Price at time of publish: $150 The Summer Waves Adjustable Round Pool Cover is sized for above-ground pools with a diameter of 10 to 15 feet. A drawstring cord allows you to pull the cover snugly around the pool perimeter. Keep in mind that smaller pools don’t have as tight a fit, but this cover does provide a solid surface to keep debris from falling into your pool. It’s made of a thick, durable PVC that is also opaque for UV resistance. Price at time of publish: $62 Price at time of publish: $180 The Supreme Solar Cover from Midwest Canvas is made to match the shape of oval pools and comes in seven sizes. Like many other top solar pool covers, this one is also 12 mil thick. It’s clear, so it allows most of the sun’s energy to pass through and heat the water. Keep in mind, though, that this may also mean you need to add more chlorine to the water. Price at time of publish: $139 It measures 8 x 8 feet, but the manufacturer advises you to trim it to fit your spa, with an overhang of about 2 inches. Place the plastic bubbles facedown; they absorb solar energy and transfer it into your hot tub water. Price at time of publish: $67 Price at time of publish: $248
Thickness
Thickness is an important consideration when buying a pool cover since it impacts how heavy the pool cover is along with its durability. Thicker pool covers are less likely to tear or rip when putting the cover on your pool or removing it. Additionally, thinner pool covers typically allow more of the sun’s energy to reach the water below the cover—but also may allow for more heat loss during the night. The thickness of a solar pool cover is measured in millimeters. Typically, you find 8, 12, or 16 mil options, though other thicknesses (like 14 mil) are sometimes seen, as well.
Material
There are three primary materials for solar pool covers: vinyl, polyethylene, and polypropylene. Vinyl pool covers are very durable but can be heavy. Polyethylene and polypropylene covers are very common; choose a thicker cover if you want one that is more tear-resistant. You also have choices regarding the color of the solar cover. Opaque (or solid color) pool covers block UV rays that impact pool chemistry but also result in less passive heating from solar energy. Clear solar covers allow the sun’s rays to pass through to the water below and can result in the largest temperature rise, but also frequently cause an increased need for chlorine. Silver or light blue covers, that fall in between opaque and transparent, are often a good compromise. Solar covers made of these materials block some UV radiation while still allowing for solar heating.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Erica Puisis has been covering the best products for outdoor and indoor living at The Spruce since 2017. Her research and areas of expertise have included pool heaters, cleaners, and water testing equipment. To find the best options for this essential pool accessory, she considered the thickness of each solar cover, its ability to retain heat, block UV rays, or provide passive heating for pool water, and the length of any warranty periods.
