Above-ground swimming pools have become increasingly popular in the US in recent years.
Although they are less expensive than in-ground pools, above-ground pools still cost a few thousand bucks to buy and install and there are a few simple steps you can take to prolong their lifespan and prevent damage from happening to your pool.
One of the most effective ways to do that is to invest in an above-ground pool cover.
With so many different options out there, it’s hard to choose which one is best for you.
To help you, I’ve created a guide on the best above-ground pool covers in 2022. These covers not only help keep debris out of your pool but they also help retain heat so that you can enjoy swimming long into the fall and winter months.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Intex 15-Foot Round Easy Set Pool Cover | Best Overall |  |
| In The Swim 24 Foot Round Pool Value Winter Cover | Budget Pick |  |
| Robelle 3524-4 Winter Round Above-Ground Pool Cover | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. Intex 15-Foot Round Easy Set Pool Cover
Pros:
- It is made from heavy duty vinyl
- It is lightweight
- It can fit any 15-foot pool
- It is very easy to use
The Intex 15-foot round above ground swimming pool set is a cost-effective and highly durable above ground swimming pool cover. This fantastic product is easy to install and can be utilized with all above ground swimming pools up to 15 feet. Lastly, despite being soft and flexible, this cover is tough and long-lasting.
2. Robelle 3524-4 Winter Round Above-Ground Pool Cover
Pros:
- Very Strong
- Sun Protective
- Made Of Polypropylene
Strong, Black.
Robelle Winter Covers are designed to last longer and stay more flexible in cold temperature than other pool covers. They are made from a special blend of 100 percent polypropylene, with a unique crossweave design that provides more durability than double-sided mesh or triple-weave covers.
The Robelle Winter Kit cover is specially designed to fit 24-foot diameter inground oval pools. Its double stitched sides and reinforced grommet corners will help to ensure that your cover stays secure throughout the winter. These covers are made from a specially blended material that will help to prevent algae growth and icing.
3. Bestway 58252 Solar Pool Cover
Pros:
- Keeps the pool from getting hot in the sun
- It is easy to use
- It is green
- No-maintenance
- It is a durable material
- It’s a good value for your money
Round, 16-Feet Round.
This above ground solar pool cover is a great choice for pool owners that want to keep their pool protected from the sun. This pool cover is made of a durable polyethylene material that is designed to help keep your pool warm and comfortable. This material can protect your pool for up to five days, depending on the temperature. A tool is included with your purchase. You can lay out the pool cover on your own, or use the included tool to hold it down while burying it.
This difference in the efficiency of this solar cover is connected with the fabric of the product itself which is created based on the technology of layering. The number of layers is two. It also features air barrier system. This system includes breathable polyethylene fabric and also microporous film with a thickness of about 0.7-1.5 mm.
4. In The Swim 24 Foot Round Pool Value Winter Cover
Pros:
- Value for Money
- Great for Above Ground Round Pools
- Cleans Easy
- Resistant to Mold and Mildew
This affordable pool cover is great for above ground pools. It comes in a wide variety of sizes, from 4 feet to 20 feet. The cover meets the industry standards for safety, and will fit securely on any pool. It’s resistant to cold weather, and works really well in all kinds of climates. The materials are designed to protect your pool while making the cover easy to remove later.
5. Intex Solar Cover
Pros:
- Solar cover is extra padding for your poolside furniture
- Very inexpensive
- Easy to put on and take off, unlike some covers
- Very lightweight
- Comes in different sizes
- Can be used with other Intex pools
Cons:
- Covers may rip easily during harsh weather
- Only keeps pool clean, water still needs to be properly filtered
- Some consumers are dissatisfied with the fasteners on the straps
This solar cover from Intex is a great option and inexpensive as well.
This product is quad-stitched, making sure that the cover is able to weather high winds, harsh storms, and snow without losing its structure.
Intex designed this cover to be used with all sizes of Easy Set swimming pools, up to the 18 model.
6. Pool Mate 351833-4PM Heavy-Duty Blue Winter Pool Cover
Pros:
- Easy to put on and take off when you’re ready to use your pool
- Stays put when installed properly
Cons:
- Material tears fairly easily
- You must have your own ground stakes to secure it properly
The Pool Mate is a heavy duty winter pool cover for above ground swimming pools. It is made of polyethylene and features a special draining system. The cover is 30% more UV-resistant than any other pool cover. It will last for a lifetime, even in cold winters.
It is quite thick, at 18 mils, so make certain that you secure your pool cover during cold weather to prevent water leakage and heavy snow. It is quite easy to install with its patented self-adjusting elastic cord. You must secure it properly to avoid water leaks.
If you have a 15-foot deep or 16-foot shallow above ground pool, this pool cover is perfect for your needs. It is much more affordable than any of the other brands on the market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best pool cover for above ground pool?
Everyone wants to save money on all purchases, including the purchase of a pool cover. The more expensive your pool cover is, the more money you’ll spend on it and the more likely it is to break. A cheaper cover is likely to be less durable and is more likely to break while in storage than a more expensive cover. So while you may think that spending more money for a cover is worth it, in reality, it is not.
If you want a pool cover that lasts a long time and is easy to use, you should purchase a cover that is as easy to remove and store as possible. If at all possible, a maintenance free cover is best.
This is because the fewer moving parts on a cover, the less likely it is to break. Having a cover that is self-latching without an air or vacuum pump is also important for not only saving you money, but also saving time and frustration.
Are there hard covers for above ground pools?
Yes, there are hard covers for above ground pools. These covers are designed to provide the same protection for an above ground pool as other pool covers.
While they don’t provide the same kind of security as in-ground pool covers, they are by far the most effective security option available for above ground pools. They are also lightweight and easy to transport.
These covers can be quickly installed in just a few minutes. For this reason, they are very convenient for anyone who is in the habit of going away for a week or two at a time, or who needs to leave town at the last minute.
Should you cover your above ground pool?
When you have a pool that sits above ground, you will want to keep it protected from the elements. A pool cover is a good way to keep your pool clean and covered when it is not in use. Since you can easily catch a cold from entering a pool, you will want to get a cover that prevents this from happening.
A good cover will also prevent your pool from many types of damage such as weather damage and leaves in the pool. If you want to protect your pool from some of the worst weather effects a pool will face, then you will want to invest in a good cover.
What is the best solar cover for an above ground pool?
Solar blankets for pools are an excellent way of heating your pool. It allows heat to soak into the water without any of that pesky evaporation, which is especially nice this time of the year. Solar covers are made from a clear, tough plastic to protect your swim and prevent accidental debris from falling into the pool.
Traditional coverings would need to be removed temporarily in order to add chlorine and remove debris, but with these solar covers, you don’t have to worry about that.
The most important thing to remember is to never leave the solar cover on for more than 24 hours. If you don’t pull it off for a while, the chemicals in the water could get too concentrated.
Conclusion
The best above ground pool cover will not let your kids out without you knowing about it. That it will remain in place while you’re swimming, without you worrying you’ll punch a hole in it or chop it in half by accident. You need a cover that’s also easy to roll out and roll up. We did a detailed review of the best three high-quality covers on the market, to find one that fits all these conditions.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Intex 15-Foot Round Easy Set Pool Cover | Best Overall | |
| In The Swim 24 Foot Round Pool Value Winter Cover | Budget Pick | |
| Robelle 3524-4 Winter Round Above-Ground Pool Cover | Upgrade Pick | |