In The Swim 18ft x 36ft Premium Blue 12 Mil Solar Pool Cover - Heats

Our review of the In The Swim 18' x 36' Premium Blue 12 Mil Solar Pool Cover finds it best suited for pool owners who want a straightforward way to raise surface water temperature and reduce overnight heat loss. The single biggest reason to buy is its 12 mil thickness, which reliably increases surface water temperature by as much as 15 degrees in good sun, making it a practical option for extending swim season without complicated equipment. Installation is simple, and the light blue color balances heat absorption and retention so pools warm up quickly while still keeping heat overnight.

Key Features

• 12 Mil Thickness: A thicker material increases surface water temperature up to 15 degrees, delivering noticeable warming in direct sun.
• Light Blue Color: The pale blue tint is a compromise between absorbing solar energy and limiting overnight radiative loss, helping maintain comfortable temperatures.
• Evaporation Control: The cover reduces evaporative heat loss during cool nights, so the pool stays warmer and conserves water.
• Chemistry Guidance: Designed to be used only when chlorine is below 2.5 ppm and pH is above 7.2, which protects the cover material and extends its usable life.
• Reel Compatibility: Works well with a solar cover reel, making removal and application easier and reducing wear.

Who It's For

This cover is a good fit for homeowners with above ground or inground pools who want a low-effort way to heat their water and cut evaporation. It suits people who value simple seasonal extension rather than pool owners seeking year-round heating or heavy-duty winter covers.

Those who should look elsewhere include users who keep very high chlorine levels or low pH, since the cover requires chlorine below 2.5 ppm and pH above 7.2. If you need a cover to survive heavy abuse or multi-year UV degradation without replacement, consider heavier commercial-grade alternatives.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Heats pools effectively-customers report rapid warming and sustained comfortable temperatures.
• Easy to put on and take off, and straightforward to trim for a custom fit.
• Good value for money given the 12 mil thickness and heating performance.

Cons

• Longevity varies; some users report the cover lasting more than a season while others experienced deterioration after one year.
• Requires careful water chemistry control to avoid damage, which adds maintenance steps.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The In The Swim 18' x 36' 12 mil solar cover is a practical, cost-effective choice for pool owners who want to raise water temperature and reduce evaporation with minimal fuss. It is especially good when paired with a solar reel for convenient handling; buyers who maintain proper water chemistry will get the best lifespan and value from this cover.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this cover heat my pool enough for comfortable swimming?
Yes - the 12 mil thickness is designed to raise surface water temperature by up to 15 degrees in good sun, which many owners find makes swimming comfortable for a longer season.

Can I leave this cover on year-round?
It is intended for seasonal solar heating and evaporation control; long-term year-round use may shorten its life and it should be managed with correct water chemistry.

Do I need special equipment to use the cover?
No special equipment is required, but a solar cover reel is recommended to make removal and application easier and reduce wear.