Sun2Solar Blue Oval Pool Solar Cover | 8 Mil | Heat Retainin

The Verdict

If you heat an above-ground oval pool, you already know the pain: every degree costs money, and overnight heat loss eats your budget. The Sun2Solar Blue Oval Pool Solar Cover attacks that directly. At 8 mil thick with a bubble layer designed to trap solar gain, this isn’t the flimsy tarp you find in bargain bins — but it’s not a forever product either. Here’s what 204 Amazon ratings (4.1 stars) actually tell you about living with it.

What you get: A single blue oval cover, sized to match specific pool dimensions (check the size chart carefully — this model is cut for oval above-ground pools, not rectangles or rounds). The 8 mil material is heavier than the 4–5 mil covers that dominate the low end. As shown in the product image, the surface is covered in small air bubbles that create the insulating layer. That’s it in the box — no reel, no straps, no storage bag. Factor that into your total cost.

Heat performance — the real reason you’re here: Multiple buyers report water temperature jumps of 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit when they run the cover consistently. One reviewer noted: “Raised my pool from 72 to 82 degrees in two days of full sun.” That’s the headline feature, and it works because the bubble layer traps both solar radiation during the day and radiant heat at night. If you run a heat pump or gas heater, this cover directly cuts your runtime — the math on payback is usually one season for most pool owners.

Build quality and durability: The 8 mil thickness is the right call for anyone who doesn’t want to replace a cover every single summer. It handles UV exposure, chlorine, and the occasional debris load better than thinner options. But be realistic: the bubble layer is the weak point. Multiple reviewers mention that after two or three seasons, the bubbles start flattening and the cover loses its insulating punch. One long-term owner put it plainly: “Worked great the first two years, now it’s just a tarp keeping leaves out.” That’s normal for this category — no solar cover is a 5-year product, despite what the marketing claims.

Where it falls short: First, the oval shape is specific. If your pool dimensions don’t match the listed sizes closely, you’ll have gaps that let heat escape and debris in. Measure your pool’s actual water surface before ordering. Second, there’s no reel included. Dragging a wet 8 mil cover on and off is a two-person job unless you buy a reel separately — budget another $50–100 for that. Third, the cover floats freely; in high winds, it can bunch up or blow off partially. Some reviewers solved this with pool cover clips, but those aren’t included either.

Who this is for: Above-ground oval pool owners who heat their water and want a solid, mid-priced cover that pays for itself in one season. Also good for anyone replacing a cheap cover that disintegrated after one summer. Skip it if you have a custom-shaped pool, if you’re on a tight budget (cheaper 4 mil covers exist), or if you expect it to last more than 3 seasons without degrading.

FAQ:

Does this actually heat the pool, or just keep heat in? Both. It captures solar energy during the day and slows radiant heat loss at night. Expect the biggest gains in full sun with stable air temperatures.

How do I cut it to fit my pool? Use sharp scissors and cut from the top side, following the outline of your pool edge. Leave a 1–2 inch gap around the perimeter for water circulation. Cutting doesn’t damage the bubble layer’s integrity.

Will it work with a saltwater pool? Yes, the material handles saltwater fine. Rinse it with fresh water periodically and dry it before storing to extend its life.

The Verdict: Buy it if you heat an oval above-ground pool and want a cost-effective way to retain that heat — this cover pays for itself in reduced heater runtime within a season. Skip it if you’re shopping for a rectangle pool, if you don’t heat your water (it won’t magically make an unheated pool swimmable), or if you expect 5-year durability. At 4.2/5, this is a solid middle-tier choice that does its core job well. Pair it with a reel and cover clips to get the most out of it.

Rating: 4.2/5

Where to Buy

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.