Warm your above ground pool efficiently by choosing the right combination of solar covers and heaters. This guide compares seven top Amazon options, showing features, suitability, and practical differences to help homeowners find the best fit for their pool size, climate, and budget.
| Product | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Goplus Solar Pool Heater | Active Solar Heater (coil) | Small to medium pools; modular heating |
| Sun2Solar 24 ft 800 Series | Solar Cover (bubble blanket) | Heat retention and evaporation control |
| BigXwell 18 ft 16-mil Cover | Heavy-Duty Solar Cover | Durability and strong heat capture |
| Sun2Solar 24 ft 1200 Series | Premium Solar Cover | Higher thermal efficiency and longevity |
| YJSDXBSF 5.5KW Electric Heater | Electric Pool Heater | Fast, on-demand heating year-round |
| Intex 28015E Solar Cover | Lightweight Solar Cover | Easy use for standard Intex pools |
| BigXwell 12Mil 18 ft Cover | Mid-Weight Solar Blanket | Balanced cost and heat retention |
Goplus Solar Pool Heater
The Goplus unit is an active solar water heater that connects inline with your pool pump. Its black coil and transparent dome cover increase solar absorption, raising pool temperature by an estimated 5.4–7.2°F under suitable sunlight. The dome also reduces heat loss overnight.
Design features include foldable legs to adjust tilt for optimal sun exposure and 90° rotatable hose connectors for flexible plumbing. The heater can be connected in series (up to three units) to scale heating capacity. It fits 1¼” and 1½” hose joints and recommends pump flow rates up to 16 GPM and 1–2 HP pumps for best performance.
Sun2Solar 24 ft 800 Series Cover
The Sun2Solar 800 Series is a bubble solar pool cover designed to capture and retain solar heat. It claims up to 15°F temperature increase under optimal sun exposure and significantly reduces overnight heat loss by trapping warmth.
Other benefits include reduced evaporation (up to 95%), which decreases chemical consumption and water top-offs. The blanket style is simple to install—lay it directly on the pool surface—and is compatible with both above ground and inground pools. Trim-to-fit installation allows sizing for specific circular pools.
BigXwell 18 ft 16-mil Solar Cover
This BigXwell cover uses 16-mil PE material and thousands of thermal bubbles to trap solar heat. The thicker material is aimed at longer life and stronger insulation compared to thinner blankets, making it suitable for heavy usage and frequent sun exposure.
Key points include the ability to heat under full sunlight and retain warmth on cloudy days, and a trim-to-fit design that allows adaptation to most round above-ground pools. The manufacturer emphasizes durability while noting that PE material can still be cut to size with scissors.
Sun2Solar 24 ft 1200 Series Cover
The 1200 Series from Sun2Solar represents a premium bubble blanket option intended for higher thermal efficiency and improved durability. Like the 800 Series, it leverages solar energy to raise pool temperatures and trap heat overnight.
Benefits include reduced evaporation (up to 95%) and consistent temperature retention, backed by a thicker construction than entry-level covers. Suitable for both above ground and inground pools, this series is recommended when longer service life and stronger thermal performance are priorities.
YJSDXBSF 5.5KW Electric Pool Heater
This 5.5KW electric pool heater provides on-demand heating for pools around 650 gallons, with a touchscreen thermostat that switches between °C and °F. The unit includes 316 stainless steel heater tubes for faster heat transfer and longer life.
Features include automatic flow and temperature monitoring, high-temperature protection, and a recommended pump under 1 HP. The heater requires an electrical supply (220–240V) and plumbing connections (1.5″ NPT inlet/outlet). It offers faster, predictable warming compared to passive solar options but needs appropriate electrical installation and operating costs to be considered.
Intex 28015E Solar Pool Cover
The Intex 28015E is a lightweight bubble-style cover designed specifically for 18-foot round Easy Set and metal frame pools. It is easy to use—simply lay it on the water—and the air bubbles transfer and retain sun heat into the water.
It also minimizes debris and reduces evaporation by about 95%, lowering chemical use and maintenance. As a product tailored to Intex pool models, it provides a straightforward, low-effort solution for heat retention without modifying circulation equipment.
BigXwell 12Mil 18 ft Solar Blanket
The BigXwell 12-mil blanket is a mid-weight solar cover with thermal bubbles that capture sunlight and help maintain swimable temperatures. It balances cost and durability for above-ground owners who want reliable heat retention without premium pricing.
The product is promoted to reduce water and chemical evaporation, extend swimming season, and hold warmth overnight. It is trimmable for fit and is positioned between heavier 16-mil options and thinner budget covers in terms of longevity and insulation.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Heater for Above Ground Pools
Pool Size, Volume, and Heating Goals
Estimate your pool volume to choose a heater that can meaningfully change water temperature. Solar coversactive solar heatersElectric heaters
Above Ground Specific Considerations
Above ground pools often use smaller pumps and hose fittings. Confirm compatibility: check hose sizes (1¼” vs 1½”), pump flow rate, and mounting or placement options. Lightweight bubble coverscoil-based solar heaters
Solar Cover Types: 12-mil, 16-mil, 800 vs 1200 Series
Thickness (mil) and material affect durability and insulation. 12-mil covers16-mil
Active Solar Heaters vs Passive Covers
Passive solar coversActive solar heaters
Pumps, Flow Rates, and Plumbing Compatibility
Active solar units require a pump with adequate flow (e.g., up to 16 GPM recommended for some coils). Verify recommended pump horsepower and flow rate. For electric heaters, confirm pump power limits (many consumer heaters require pumps under 1–2 HP). Ensure hoses and connectors match your pool fittings or that adapters are available.
Energy Costs and Operational Tradeoffs
Solar optionsElectric heaters
Installation, Placement, and Orientation
Solar heaters and covers need proper placement for sun exposure. Position coils or panels where they will receive maximum direct sunlight, avoid shading from trees or buildings, and angle panels if adjustable. Covers should be used whenever the pool is idle to minimize heat loss.
Durability, Material, and Warranty
Materials like thicker PE and reinforced bubbles increase resistance to punctures and UV degradation. Look for UV-stabilized materials and manufacturer guidance on expected lifespan. Warranties and return policies provide additional protection for consumer purchases.
Combining Products for Best Results
Combining a solar coilbubble cover
Maintenance and Safety
Maintain clear water chemistry to avoid scale and corrosion in heaters and coils. Remove covers periodically to clean and inspect for tears. For electric heaters, follow electrical safety codes, ensure proper grounding, and install high-temperature protection features.
Seasonal Use and Storage
Solar covers and coils should be stored in a cool, dry place during the off-season to extend lifespan. Foldable or rollable designs reduce storage space. Disconnect and winterize active heaters according to manufacturer instructions to prevent freeze damage.
Environmental and Cost Perspectives
Solar solutions reduce carbon emissions and operating costs by leaning on renewable energy. Electric heaters increase energy consumption but can extend swim season substantially. Assess local climate, electricity prices, and personal priorities when choosing between renewable heating and electric backup.
