Using a solar blanket for your pool is an effective way to retain heat, reduce evaporation, and keep debris out. These blankets harness solar energy to naturally warm your pool water while saving on maintenance costs. Below is a summary of top solar blankets, highlighting their size, thickness, and key functionalities to help you choose the best one for your pool type.
| Product | Size | Thickness | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Wave Rectangular Solar Blanket | 16-ft x 32-ft | 12 mil | Retains heat, reduces evaporation, fade-resistant, protects from debris |
| Sun2Solar Blue Round Solar Cover | 24-ft round | Not specified | Raises temp up to 15°F, reduces evaporation by 95%, suitable for all pool types |
| Evoio Solar Pool Cover | 8-ft round (fits 6-24 ft diameter) | 15 mil | Heavy-duty, absorbs solar heat, clear water maintenance, reduces evaporation |
| LO-CHLOR Aqua Blanket (Liquid) | 32 oz bottle | N/A (liquid) | Invisible solar cover, prevents evaporation, safe and non-toxic, simple weekly dosing |
| AllAreN 10Mil Rectangle Blanket | 9-ft x 18-ft | 10 mil | UV-resistant, heat magnifying, reduces evaporation, blocks debris |
Blue Wave 16-ft x 32-ft Rectangular 12-Mil Solar Blanket
This 12-mil thick solar blanket is designed specifically for inground pools to help extend your swimming season by naturally raising the water temperature up to 15°F. Featuring thermal bubbles, it effectively traps solar heat and minimizes evaporation by up to 95%, thereby conserving water and pool chemicals. The cover is also fade-resistant and acts as a protective barrier against leaves, bugs, and debris, helping to keep your pool cleaner with less effort.
Sun2Solar Blue 24 ft Round Pool Solar Cover – 1200 Series
This durable solar cover is suitable for both inground and above-ground pools, harnessing free solar energy to raise pool temperatures by up to 15 degrees. Its thousands of bubble cells trap heat efficiently and maintain warmth long after sunset. Additionally, the cover reduces evaporation by up to 95%, helping to reduce chemical consumption and water refilling frequency, promoting water conservation and pool maintenance savings.
Evoio 15 Mil Solar Pool Cover for Pools & Hot Tubs
With a heavy-duty 15 mil thickness, this solar blanket stands out for its extra durability and heat retention. It efficiently absorbs solar energy to raise your pool or spa water temperature by 6-15°C. The bubbles also reduce evaporation by 95%, keeping water clear and reducing cleaning time. Resistant to warping or fading, it offers long-lasting performance and can double as a pool pad or mat for additional protection.
LO-CHLOR Aqua Blanket Liquid Solar Pool Cover
This innovative liquid solar blanket offers a hassle-free alternative to traditional covers. Just a weekly small dose creates an invisible layer that reduces water evaporation and heat loss. The formula is non-toxic, safe for pool users, and prevents chemical loss, helping pool owners save on heating, water, and chemical costs. It maintains pool warmth during cool weather without any bulky or unsightly covers.
ALLAREN 10Mil Blue Bubble Pool Blanket 9×18 Foot Rectangle
This 10 mil solar cover uses thousands of bubbles as natural magnifying lenses to capture and release solar energy, efficiently warming your pool and extending swim time. It acts as a shield, stopping leaves, bugs, and dirt from entering the water to keep the pool cleaner. With an evaporation reduction of 95%, it saves water and lowers refill costs. The UV-resistant material enhances its durability for long-term use.
Buying Guide for Choosing the Best Solar Blanket for Your Pool
Choosing the right solar blanket depends on several important factors that influence heating efficiency, durability, and pool protection. Here’s what to consider:
Pool Type and Size
Measure your pool accurately to select a solar blanket that fits well without extensive overhang or gaps. Rectangular blankets fit rectangular pools better, while round solar covers suit circular pools. Some covers are versatile for both inground and above-ground pools.
Material Thickness
Higher mil thickness typically means better durability and insulation. Common thickness ranges from 8 to 16 mil. Thicker blankets resist tearing and fading while retaining more heat, but can be heavier to handle.
Heat Retention and Evaporation Reduction
Look for thermal bubbles that trap solar energy efficiently and minimize heat loss overnight or on cloudy days. Most high-quality blankets reduce evaporation around 90-95%, which saves water and chemicals.
Durability and UV Resistance
Solar blankets are exposed to sun and pool chemicals daily. Opt for UV-resistant and chemically stable materials to prevent rapid degradation and maintain functionality over multiple seasons.
Ease of Use and Storage
Consider the blanket’s weight, flexibility, and how easily it can be rolled or folded for storage. Lightweight blankets may be easier to handle, but check that durability is not compromised.
Alternative Options
If conventional covers are inconvenient, liquid solar blankets provide an invisible layer to reduce evaporation and heat loss, ideal for pools where physical covers are difficult to manage.
Environmental and Cost Benefits
A good solar blanket reduces energy costs by supplementing pool heating naturally and conserves water and chemicals, lowering overall maintenance expenses. Opt for energy-efficient covers that align with your budget and environmental goals.