You love your inground pool, but those heating bills are brutal. Gas and electric heaters eat cash faster than kids eat ice cream on a hot day. That’s why you’re checking out solar pool covers for inground pools. They promise to trap heat and keep debris out, which sounds perfect. But do they actually work, or are you just buying a fancy tarp? I’ve tested a few this season to find out.
Here’s the thing about solar covers: they’re not all created equal. Some are thin and rip after one windy afternoon. Others are thick enough to stop a falling branch. You want one that actualy saves you money without driving you crazy during installation. Let’s break down what’s worth your hard-earned cash and what’s destined for the recycling bin.
Product Comparison Table: 9 Best Solar Pool Covers For Inground Pools
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 32 x 16 ft Pool…
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9.5 |
Read Review |
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VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 28 x 14 ft Rectangle…
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9.3 |
Read Review |
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VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 32 x 16 ft Rectangle…
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9.2 |
Read Review |
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In The Swim 16′ x 32′ Premium Blue Rectangle…
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9.0 |
Read Review |
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In The Swim 18′ x 36′ Premium Blue Rectangle…
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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In The Swim 18′ x 36′ Ultra Silver Rectangle…
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8.7 |
Read Review |
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20′ x 40′ Rectangle Solar Cover for Inground and…
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8.5 |
Read Review |
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Sun2Solar Blue 16 ft x 32 ft Rectangle Solar…
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8.4 |
Read Review |
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Sun2Solar Blue 14 ft x 28 ft Rectangle Solar…
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8.2 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 9 Solar Pool Covers For Inground Pools
VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 32 x 16 ft Pool Bubble Cover, 16 Mil Pools Solar Blanket with Dual Heat-Locking Air Layer for Pools, Daytime Heat Absorption, Nighttime Heat Retention, Blue & Silver, Cuttable
The VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 32 x 16 ft Pool Bubble Cover, 16 Mil Pools Solar Blanket with Dual Heat-Locking Air Layer for Pools, Daytime Heat Absorption, Nighttime Heat Retention, Blue & Silver, Cuttable is a practical tool designed to make your pool more comfortable and easier to maintain. If you want to strech your swimming season without cranking up the heater, this cover is worth a look. It works by using a 16 mil bubble design with thousands of tiny air pockets.
These micro bubbles create a dual air layer that traps heat during the day and slows down heat loss at night. The result is warmer water for longer swims. The dense bubble spacing forms an even thermal barrier across the entire surface. This means you can enjoy your pool even when the air starts to cool. The cover is made from quality PE material that holds up well outdoors. It resists stretching and tearing, so it wont crack or age quickly under the sun.
Just be careful not to use it in highly acidic or chlorinated water, as that can shorten its lifespan. For regular pool conditions, it should last you through many seasons. You can use it on both inground and above ground pools. It fits round or rectangular layouts, and since it is cuttable, you can trim it to match an irregular pool shape. Multiple size and thickness options are available, so you can choose what works best for your setup.
VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 28 x 14 ft Rectangle Solar Cover 16 mil for Pools, Inground Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar Blanket with Bubble, Heat Retaining Solar Covers Blue
The VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 28 x 14 ft Rectangle Solar Cover 16 mil for Pools, helps you get more use out of your pool without a lot of fuss. It is designed for both inground and above ground pools, and it works by trapping the suns heat during the day. At night, it slows down heat loss, so your water stays warmer longer. Depending on your local weather, this cover can raise the water temperature by 8 to 15°C.
That means you can start swimming earlier in the spring and keep going later into the fall. You will also save on heating costs, which is a nice bonus.
This cover does more than just hold heat. It is made from a film of thousands of tiny bubbles, and those bubbles act like a barrier. They stop up to 95% of water evaporation. That is a big deal, because evaporation is one of the main ways pools lose water and heat.
The thick PE material adds extra insulation, helping you save water and energy over time. You will fill your pool less often, and your heater won’t have to work as hard.
Keeping your pool clean gets easier too. The cover sits on top of the water, so leaves, dirt, and dust land on it instead of in your pool. You spend less time skimming and vacuuming, and more time actualy swimming.
VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 32 x 16 ft Rectangle Solar Blanket for Pools, 16 mil Solar Covers for Inground Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar, Blue
The VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 32 x 16 ft Rectangle Solar Blanket for Pools, 16 mil Solar Covers for Inground Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar, Blue is designed to make your pool easier to manage and more enjoyable. It works by using the sun’s energy to heat your water naturally. The blanket absorbs heat during the day and helps keep it from escaping at night. Depending on your local weather, it can raise the water temperature by 8 to 15°C.
That means you can start swimming earlier in the spring and keep going later into the fall. You’ll also save on heating costs since you won’t need to run your heater as much.
This cover is built with thousands of tiny bubbles that create a strong barrier. It stops up to 95% of water evaporation from your pool. That’s a big deal if you live in a dry area or just want to save on your water bill. The thick PE material also adds insulation, so the water stays warm longer.
You’ll refill the pool less often, and you wont have to worry about constantly checking the water level.
Keeping your pool clean gets easier too. The VEVOR cover acts like a shield against leaves, dirt, and other debris. Less stuff falls in, so you spend less time skimming and vacuuming. That leaves you with more time to actually swim or relax by the pool. It’s a simple way to cut down on maintenance without a lot of extra work.
Durability is a key part of this product.
In The Swim 16' x 32' Premium Blue Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
The In The Swim 16′ x 32′ Premium Blue Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil is a straightforward tool for keeping your pool warm and clean. It works for both above ground and inground pools, using the sun to heat the water naturally. The cover soaks up solar energy during the day, which helps raise your pool’s temperature without costing you extra on energy bills. At night, it works to hold that heat in, so you wake up to a pool that’s still comfortable for a morning swim.
This means you can start using your pool earlier in the spring and keep it going longer into the fall.
Water evaporation is a big problem on hot, windy days, but this cover cuts it down a lot. You won’t have to drag out the hose as often to top off the water level. Plus, less evaporation means your pool chemicals stay more balanced. You will probably notice you need to add less chlorine and other treatments over the summer, which saves you time and money.
The cover also blocks leaves, grass, and bugs from blowing in, so your filter doesn’t have to work as hard.
The 12 mil thickness is a key feature. It is a heavy-duty polyethylene material, and the seams are wide to handle stress without tearing. It is built to last through a full season of sun and wind, and it folds up for storage when you close the pool. The cover comes in a 16 by 32 foot rectangle, but you can trim it down with scissors.
In The Swim 18' x 36' Premium Blue Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
The In The Swim 18′ x 36′ Premium Blue Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil is built to help you get more out of your pool without a lot of fuss. It uses the sun’s energy to naturally warm the water during the day and then helps keep that heat in overnight. That means you can extend your swimming season without running up your energy bill. The cover also cuts down on water evaporation, which is a big deal when the summer sun is beating down.
You will need to add less water over time, and that saves you both effort and money.
This is a 12 mil heavy-duty cover, so it is thicker than basic models. The material is a durable polyethylene, and the seams are wide to handle wear and tear. It should hold up well through multiple seasons if you take care of it. The cover comes as one large rectangle, but you can trim it down yourself. Just use a pair of scissors to cut around ladders, steps, or any odd shapes your pool might have.
This makes it a flexible option for both above ground pools and inground pools.
Another practical benefit is that it helps reduce the amount of chemicals you need. By keeping debris out and limiting evaporation, your pool water stays more balanced. You wont have to test and adjust the chemistry as often, which frees up some of your weekend time. The cover is a simple tool, but it does a lot of the heavy lifting for you.
In The Swim 18' x 36' Ultra Silver Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 16 Mil for Solar Heating Above Ground Pools and Inground Pools
The In The Swim 18′ x 36′ Ultra Silver Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 16 Mil is a heavy-duty cover designed to help you get the most out of your pool without driving up your energy bill. It uses the sun’s natural energy to warm your pool water during the day, and then works overnight to help hold that heat in. This means you can keep swimming comfortably even when the air starts to cool down in the evening or early fall.
It’s a practical way to extend your swimming season withouth spending extra on gas or electricity.
One of the biggest things this cover does is cut down on water evaporation. During hot, sunny days or when the wind picks up, your pool can lose a lot of water. This cover acts as a barrier, so you won’t have to keep refilling it as often. That’s especially helpful in the middle of summer when water use tends to spike. It also helps reduce the amount of chemicals you need.
By keeping debris and direct sunlight out, your pool water stays more balanced, meaning you can use less chlorine and other treatments. That saves you time and a bit of money on chemicals.
This cover is 16 mil thick, which is the thickest option In The Swim offers in this line. It’s made from polyethylene and has wide seams for extra strength. It holds up well against tears and daily wear, so you can expect it to last through multiple seasons if you take care of it.
20' x 40' Rectangle Solar Cover for Inground and Above Ground Pools, 12 Mil – Premium Heavy Duty Solar Blanket for Above Ground Pool, Blue – Made in USA
The 20′ x 40′ Rectangle Solar Cover by Pool Mate is a 12 mil premium heavy duty solar blanket made in the USA. It is designed for both inground and above ground pools. This cover is built to do one thing really well: keep your pool warm and clean without a lot of work on your end. The blue color is not just for looks. It helps trap heat from the sun during the day and holds it in at night. The 12 mil thickness makes it durable enough to handle regular use without falling apart quickly.
You can expect a warmer swimming experience day and night, even when the weather is a bit cool.
One of the biggest hassles with owning a pool is water evaporation. This solar cover stops up to 95% of that. That means you won’t have to drag out the hose to refill your pool as often. Less evaporation also means your pool chemicals last longer, which saves you time and money. The cover also works as a barrier against leaves, dirt, and other debris.
Your pool stays cleaner, and you spend less time skimming or vacuuming. It’s a simple way to keep the water inviting without constant maintenence.
This blanket is also very easy to use. It is lightweight enough for one person to handle, but strong enough to stay in place. You can take it on and off in minutes. It works for any pool shape, including round, oval, or irregular. If you have a hot tub, it can be cut down for that too.
Sun2Solar Blue 16 ft x 32 ft Rectangle Solar Cover | 1200 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Rectangular Inground & Above Ground Swimming Pools | Use Sun to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets
The Sun2Solar Blue 16 ft x 32 ft Rectangle Solar Cover, 1200 Series is a practical tool for keeping your pool warm and clean. It works by harnessing free solar energy, which can raise your water temperature by up to 15 degrees. That means you get more use out of your pool without turning on a heater. The cover is designed to trap heat, so the warmth sticks around even after the sun goes down.
This helps your pool stay at a comfortable temperature overnight, which is nice if you like to swim in the morning.
It also helps you conserve water. By reducing evaporation by up to 95 percent, you won’t have to top off your pool as often. That also means you can cut back on chemicals, since less water is lost. The cover stops leaves and other debris from getting into the pool, so your cleaning routine is a lot easier. You will spend less time skimming and more time enjoying the water.
The material is a bubble blanket, similar to what you might see on a greenhouse, and it floats right on top of the surface.
Installation is simple, even if you are not handy. The cover has extra overlap built in, so you can trim it to fit around pool ladders, steps, or any other protrusions. It works for both inground and above ground rectangular pools. Just lay it out, cut where needed, and you are good to go. The blue color looks nice on the water and helps absorb sunlight.
Sun2Solar Blue 14 ft x 28 ft Rectangle Solar Cover | 800 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for Rectangular Inground & Above Ground Swimming Pools | Use Sun to Heat Pool | Bubble Heating Blankets
The Sun2Solar Blue 14 ft x 28 ft Rectangle Solar Cover, part of the 800 Series, is a heat retaining blanket designed for both inground and above ground rectangular swimming pools. It works by using the sun’s free energy to raise your pool’s water temperature by up to 15 degrees. This is a simple, direct way to extend your swimming season without running up your energy bill.
This cover does more than just add heat. It also traps the warmth long after the sun goes down.
So, you get a more consistent water temperature overnight, which means your pool is more comfortable when you want to use it the next day. There is no complicated technology here, just a smart bubble blanket that does its job.
Water conservation is a big bonus. The cover reduces evaporation by up to 95%. That is a huge amount of water you save over a season. Plus, because less water evaporates, you do not need to add as many chemicals to keep the balance right.
This saves you money and time. It is a practical choice if you want to lower your pool maintenance workload.
Another benefit is keeping your pool cleaner. The cover acts as a barrier against leaves, grass, and other debris. You will spend less time skimming and cleaning, and more time enjoying the water. It is a straightfoward way to reduce the dirt that gets into your pool.
Installation is easy.
Solar Pool Covers For Inground Pools Buying Guide
Inground pool owners rely on solar pool covers for inground pools to retain heat and reduce cleaning. But here are the truth: picking the wrong one can leave your cold (literally). You want a cover that works hard, lasts more than one season, and actually pays for itself in energy savings. Let’s break down what matters most so you make a smart choice.
Material Thickness and Durability
Thickness is measured in mils. A 12-mil cover is fine if you are on a budget, but it will tear faster. Go for 15 or 16 mil if you want something that survives wind, kids, and accidental snags. Thicker covers also trap heat better. Think of it like a winter coat—a thin one just doesn’t cut it when the weather turns. Have you ever had a cover rip after one season? That’s the pain point thicker material solves.
Bubble Size and Heat Retention
Not all bubbles are the same. Small bubbles (3/8 inch) are lighter and easier to handle. But large bubbles (1/2 inch or more) trap more air, which means better insulation. If you want to swim in early spring or late fall, choose large bubbles. They also float higher, so debris slides off easier. Simple choice: more bubbles equals warmer water.
UV Protection and Lifespan
Sunlight destroys cheap covers fast. Look for UV inhibitors in the material. A cover with good UV protection won’t turn brittle or crack after a few months. You are investing money here, so don’t let the sun eat it up. A quality cover with UV resistance can last 3 to 5 years. Without it, you are replacing it next summer. That’s just frustrating.
Size and Fit Accuracy
Measure your pool carefully. A cover that is too small leaves gaps for heat to escape and dirt to blow in. Too large, and it bunches up, looking messy and trapping leaves underneath. Most covers come in standard sizes, but custom is worth it if your pool is oddly shaped. Get it right the first time—remeasuring is a hassle you can skip.
Ready to pick? Focus on thickness, bubble size, and UV protection. The right cover saves you money and keeps your pool enjoyable longer. Don’t settle for a flimsy one. Your back (and your wallet) will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Pool Covers For Inground Pools
How does a solar pool cover actually work?
A solar pool cover is a big sheet of plastic with tiny bubbles inside. Think of it like bubble wrap for your pool. It traps heat from teh sun during the day. That heat warms up your water. It also stops evaporation. Less evaporation means less heat loss at night. Simple and effective.
Will it really warm my pool?
Yes, it can raise your pool temperature by 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. That is a big difference. You will feel it right away. It works best on sunny days. The cover acts like a greenhouse. It lets sunlight in but keeps the heat trapped. Your pool will be comfortable for swimming longer in the season.
Do I need to cut it to fit my inground pool?
Most covers come as a big rectangle. You will need to cut it yourself. It is easy to do with scissors. Just lay it over your pool and trim the extra material. Leave a few inches extra around the edges. This helps it stay in place. Make sure the bubbles face down into the water for best results.
How do I roll it up and store it?
You can buy a reel system for easy rolling. It saves your back and time. Without a reel, just fold it carefully. Keep it clean and dry when not in use. Store it in a cool, shady spot. The sun can damage the plastic if left out all year. A cover can last 3 to 5 years with good care.
Does it keep the pool clean too?
It helps a little. The cover blocks leaves, dirt, and bugs from getting in. But it is not a solid safety cover. Some debris can still slide off the sides. You will still need to skim and clean your pool. The main job is heating, not cleaning.
Is it hard to install?
Not at all. You just unroll it over the water. That is it. No tools or special skills needed. Just make sure the water is clean first. A dirty pool under the cover can lead to algae. That is a common mistake people make. Keep your water balanced and you will be fine.
Can I use it with a pool heater?
Yes, and it will save you money. The cover traps the heat your heater makes. You use less energy to keep the pool warm. It is a great combination. Your heater works less and you stay warmer longer. A win-win situation for your wallet.
Our Verdict
So there you have it. Picking the right cover means thinking about your pool size, your local weather, and how much work you want to put in. A good cover saves you money on heating and keeps your pool cleaner. It really is a simple upgrade that pays for itself fast. Just make sure you measure your pool correctly and get a cover that fits snugly. You will thank yourself every time you see a warm, clear pool ready to go.
While bubble covers are great for heat, liquid blankets can’t beat a solid cover for keeping debris out. For the best balance of temperature gain and less cleaning, a high-quality solar pool covers for inground pools is your best bet. It’s a practical choice that makes owning a pool a little easier and a lot more enjoyable. Take your time, check the details, and you will find the perfect match for your backyard.