7 Best Intex Swimming Pool Solar Covers That Keep Water Warm Without the High Bills
You don’t need sky high energy bills just to keep your pool warm. Intex solar covers trap heat through embedded air bubbles and cut evaporation by up to 95%. But picking the right size and shape for your specific pool matters more than you’d think. Let’s walk through the seven best options that actually deliver on warmth without the cost.
| INTEX Solar Pool Cover for 12ft Round Pools |  | Best for 12ft Pools | Pool Shape Compatibility: Round (12ft) | Evaporation Reduction: Up to 95% | Material: Water-resistant plastic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Intex 10′ Solar Pool Cover |  | Budget-Friendly Pick | Pool Shape Compatibility: Round (10ft) | Evaporation Reduction: Up to 95% | Material: Vinyl | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| INTEX Solar Pool Cover for 16ft Round Pools |  | Best for Large Pools | Pool Shape Compatibility: Round (16ft) | Evaporation Reduction: Up to 95% | Material: Water-resistant plastic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| INTEX Solar Pool Cover for 10ft Round Pools |  | Lightweight Pick | Pool Shape Compatibility: Round (10ft) | Evaporation Reduction: 95% | Material: Durable plastic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| INTEX Solar Pool Cover for 18ft x 9ft Rectangular Frame Swimming Pools |  | Best for Rectangular Pools | Pool Shape Compatibility: Rectangular (18ft x 9ft) | Evaporation Reduction: Up to 95% | Material: Durable plastic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Intex Solar Pool Cover for 12FT Round Swimming Pools |  | Most Popular | Pool Shape Compatibility: Round (12ft) | Evaporation Reduction: Up to 95% | Material: Polyethylene/PVC | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| INTEX Solar Pool Cover for 9ft x 18ft Rectangular Frame Pools 2-Pack |  | Best Value | Pool Shape Compatibility: Rectangular (9ft x 18ft) | Evaporation Reduction: Yes (acts as water evaporation barrier) | Material: Lightweight durable floating material | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
INTEX Solar Pool Cover for 12ft Round Pools
If you’ve got a 12 foot round pool, this Intex cover is a perfect match. It’s built for Easy Set and Metal Frame pools, covering about 113 square feet. Just lay it flat on the water; those air bubbles absorb the sun’s heat to warm your pool. You’ll cut water evaporation by up to 95%, saving on chemicals and refills. It also blocks leaves and dirt. The blue cover comes with a carry bag and weighs just 2.6 pounds. For cleaning, hand wash it. No complex setup required. It’s a simple, effective way to keep your water warm.
- Pool Shape Compatibility:Round (12ft)
- Evaporation Reduction:Up to 95%
- Material:Water-resistant plastic
- Closure Type:Drawstring closure
- Weight:2.6 pounds
- Carry Bag Included:Yes
- Additional Feature:113.1 square feet coverage
- Additional Feature:Water-resistant plastic material
- Additional Feature:Hand wash recommended
Intex 10′ Solar Pool Cover
The Intex 10′ Solar Pool Cover is our budget-friendly pick for owners of 10-foot round pools who want to cut costs without cutting comfort. It slashes water evaporation by up to 95%, so you’re not constantly topping off your pool. The vinyl material traps heat to extend your swim season, and the pre-cut breath holes prevent water buildup on top. You get a drawstring closure for a secure fit, plus a reusable carry bag for easy storage. It weighs just 2.4 pounds, making it a breeze to handle. Just rinse it with clean water when it’s dirty. And with a 4.3-star rating from over 1,300 buyers, you’re getting solid value.
- Pool Shape Compatibility:Round (10ft)
- Evaporation Reduction:Up to 95%
- Material:Vinyl
- Closure Type:Drawstring closure
- Weight:2.4 pounds
- Carry Bag Included:Yes (reusable carry bag)
- Additional Feature:Pre-cut breath holes
- Additional Feature:Prevents water buildup
- Additional Feature:Reusable carry bag
INTEX Solar Pool Cover for 16ft Round Pools
You have a 16 foot round above ground pool, and the Intex 28014E Solar Cover fits it perfectly at 192 inches across. You’ll love how its blue, bubble lined surface absorbs sunlight and transfers heat directly into the water, reducing your energy bills. Plus, it slashes evaporation by up to 95%, so you refill less and save on chemicals. A simple drawstring closure secures it in place, keeping leaves and trash out.
- Heat retention: Traps warmth overnight.
- Cleaner water: Blocks debris effectively.
- Easy care: Hand wash only, it’s durable plastic.
It’s a straightforward, money saving solution for your pool. No warranty, but built to last outdoors.
- Pool Shape Compatibility:Round (16ft)
- Evaporation Reduction:Up to 95%
- Material:Water-resistant plastic
- Closure Type:Drawstring closure
- Weight:16 ounces (1 pound)
- Carry Bag Included:Not specified
- Additional Feature:192 inches diameter
- Additional Feature:Plain cover theme
- Additional Feature:16 ounces weight
INTEX Solar Pool Cover for 10ft Round Pools
Want a budget friendly way to warm up your 10 foot round pool without cranking the heater? The Intex 28011E solar cover is your answer. This 96-inch round blue blanket fits Easy Set and Metal Frame pools perfectly, and it’s light at just 1.8 pounds.
You’ll slash evaporation by 95% while the air bubbles soak up sun and transfer heat straight into the water. Plus, it blocks leaves and debris, so you’ll use fewer chemicals.
Here’s how to get the most out of it:
- Lay it flat, bubble side down, directly on the water.
- Hand wash it with mild soap; skip the machine.
- Use the included carry bag for easy storage.
For roughly twenty bucks, you’ll extend your swim season and protect your pump from extra wear. That’s a smart, low-maintenance win for any pool owner.
- Pool Shape Compatibility:Round (10ft)
- Evaporation Reduction:95%
- Material:Durable plastic
- Closure Type:Not specified
- Weight:1.8 pounds
- Carry Bag Included:Yes (storage carry bag)
- Additional Feature:96 inches diameter
- Additional Feature:1.8 pounds weight
- Additional Feature:Manufacturer warranty available
INTEX Solar Pool Cover for 18ft x 9ft Rectangular Frame Swimming Pools
Not every pool cover fits an 18-foot-by-9-foot rectangular frame pool, but this Intex solar cover matches that exact footprint. You get durable plastic with air bubbles that capture the sun’s heat, raising your water temperature without spiking your bill. It cuts evaporation by up to 95%, saving you on chemicals and refills. The floating design and drawstring make installation a breeze. Over 4,000 reviewers rate it 4.3 stars. Just remember: no manufacturer warranty, but Amazon’s 30-day return policy has your back.
- Pool Shape Compatibility:Rectangular (18ft x 9ft)
- Evaporation Reduction:Up to 95%
- Material:Durable plastic
- Closure Type:Drawstring closure
- Weight:7.72 pounds
- Carry Bag Included:Not specified
- Additional Feature:216 x 108 inches size
- Additional Feature:7.72 pounds weight
- Additional Feature:Air bubble heat transfer
Intex Solar Pool Cover for 12FT Round Swimming Pools
This is the most popular pick in our roundup for a reason. It’s a perfect fit for your 12ft round pool, whether you’ve got an Easy Set or a round frame. Made from polyethylene with a bubble mesh, it absorbs and transfers sun heat efficiently, bumping up your water temperature by a few degrees during daylight. And the insulation works overnight, reducing heat loss while minimizing evaporation by up to 95%.
- Installation is manual, with a rope tie for a secure fit.
- You’ll protect against debris and cut down on chemical consumption.
- Just hand wash it to keep the material in top shape.
With over 10,600 reviews averaging 4.1 stars, this cover delivers extended swimming season without the high bills.
- Pool Shape Compatibility:Round (12ft)
- Evaporation Reduction:Up to 95%
- Material:Polyethylene/PVC
- Closure Type:Rope tie
- Weight:1.27 kg (2.8 pounds)
- Carry Bag Included:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Bubble mesh with drainage holes
- Additional Feature:Polyethylene material
- Additional Feature:Rope tie for secure fit
INTEX Solar Pool Cover for 9ft x 18ft Rectangular Frame Pools 2-Pack
For owners of Intex 9×18-foot rectangular frame pools, the 28026E solar cover delivers serious value. You get a 2-pack, so one’s always ready when the other wears out. This lightweight, floating material is a breeze to install no tools needed. Just unroll it on the water and you’re done.
It does triple duty: retains heat to slash your energy bills, blocks evaporation saving water, and keeps leaves and debris out. That means less scrubbing and skimming for you. Plus, the included carry bag makes storage simple. Backed by a 30-day return policy, this cover is a smart, low-effort investment.
- Pool Shape Compatibility:Rectangular (9ft x 18ft)
- Evaporation Reduction:Yes (acts as water evaporation barrier)
- Material:Lightweight durable floating material
- Closure Type:Not specified
- Weight:Not specified
- Carry Bag Included:Yes (convenient carry bag)
- Additional Feature:2-pack for replacement options
- Additional Feature:Acts as safety barrier
- Additional Feature:Buoyant floating material
Factors to Consider When Choosing Intex Swimming Pool Solar Covers
Before you buy, you must match the cover to your pool’s exact shape and size; a wrong fit means lost heat and wasted money. You’ll also want to prioritize heat retention efficiency and evaporation reduction rate, since those two factors directly determine how warm your water stays and how often you refill it. Luckily, most Intex covers deliver solid material quality and straightforward installation, so choosing the right one just comes down to these key specs.
Pool Shape & Size
When you’re picking out an Intex solar cover, matching the shape and size to your pool isn’t just a detail. It’s the difference between a warm swim and a lost opportunity. Round covers fit circular pools like your 10ft, 12ft, or 16ft models, offering snug, uniform insulation. For rectangular pools, like an 18ft x 9ft, rectangular covers prevent those annoying gaps that let heat escape.
- Measure your pool’s diameter or length and width accurately. It’s a quick step that saves you from a cover that’s too small.
- Don’t stress if your cover is slightly larger. That’s actually a helper, making placement easier and giving you a more secure fit.
Get the shape and dimensions right, and you’re already ahead on efficiency. Your pool stays warm, your cover stays put, and your energy bills stay low.
Heat Retention Efficiency
Since the thickness and number of air bubbles in a solar cover directly impact its ability to insulate, you’ll want to look for a cover with a dense bubble layer. That trapped air is your heat locker. Darker shades? They absorb more sunlight, so you’ll trap extra warmth without extra energy costs.
You’ll also want a snug fit. Gaps let heat escape, so secure closures matter. And don’t overlook breath holes; they cut moisture buildup, which keeps insulation efficient. Thicker plastic adds insulative punch, plain and simple.
Check the bubble depth: 12 to 16 mils usually performs best. Smaller bubbles pack tighter, holding heat longer overnight. Pair that with a dark color, and you’re golden.
In short, prioritize density, shade, and fit. Those three factors boost retention, cut your heating bills, and keep your swim comfortable well into the evening.
Material & Build Quality
Intex solar covers are built from durable plastic or vinyl that has to hold up against sun, rain, and wind, so material quality really matters here. You’re looking for thick, dense material: it resists tearing and UV degradation across multiple seasons. Check for water resistant and weatherproof construction too moisture won’t ruin it and temperature swings won’t cause cracking. The embedded air bubbles are essential for insulation and heat transfer giving you that energy efficiency edge. Avoid thin flimsy covers they’ll break down fast. Instead choose a cover with a higher material density it boosts both durability and heat retention. Pay attention to seams and edges reinforced stitching or welded seams mean less chance of unraveling. A quality build saves you money long term by lasting longer and performing better.
Evaporation Reduction Rate
Because water evaporation is your pool’s biggest energy thief, tackling it head on with a solar cover can slash losses by up to 95%. That’s huge! But you won’t get that maximum rate with just any cover. Thickness and bubble design matter a lot. Thicker covers, packed with air bubbles, trap heat and block evaporation more effectively. And the fit is non negotiable. Your cover must match your pool’s dimensions exactly, creating a secure seal. Air leaks around the edges? They’ll sabotage your savings. Plus, keep an eye on wear. Old or damaged covers lose their punch, so replacing them maintains that consistent, high reduction rate. You’re conserving water and cash, all season long.
Installation & Ease
Now that you know how a good cover stops evaporation and slashes your bills, let’s talk about actually getting that cover on your pool without a fight. You want a simple, floating installation that demands no tools or complex steps. Just unroll it, and let it settle on the water’s surface. Look for a cover that includes a drawstring or secure fitting mechanism. This prevents shifting when wind picks up, keeping your cover firmly in place. And choose a lightweight option. It’s much easier to handle and position, especially when you’re wrestling it alone.
But don’t forget size. Match the cover exactly to your pool’s dimensions for that snug, even fit that maximizes heat retention. Finally, opt for a cover that comes with a carry bag. This makes removal and storage effortless, so you won’t dread putting it away after use. Simple, right?
Durability & UV Resistance
As tough as your Intex pool cover needs to be, think of it as a shield against the elements. Durability means it withstands sun, wind, and rain without tearing or degrading quickly. You’re looking for UV resistance that prevents the plastic from breaking down under prolonged sun exposure. This isn’t just about preventing discoloration or cracking; high UV resistance extends the cover’s lifespan, keeping its insulating and water saving properties intact. Without it, you’ll see brittleness and lost performance fast. So, check for materials that resist UV degradation from the start. A robust cover stays reliable, saving you money and hassle season after season. That’s the real bargain.
Warranty & Return Policy
Although warranties on Intex solar covers are rare, you still need to check the fine print before you buy. Most don’t come with a manufacturer warranty, so you’re relying on the retailer’s return policy instead. Online sellers like Amazon usually offer a 30 day voluntary return, but only if the cover is unused and in its original packaging. And note that terms vary by store, so review them at checkout.
Intex focuses on safety and durability, but defect coverage is limited or absent. Don’t assume you’re protected. Follow the return policy to the letter, and double check for any hidden warranty language. That way, if the cover arrives damaged or doesn’t perform, you’ve got options. A little fine print reading now saves headaches later!
