They are suitable for both in-ground and above ground pools. An ideal solar cover reel is easy to use and only need single person to operate. Choosing the best solar reel cover among several options can a difficult task. To make an informed decision, we recommend to consider the below factors.
Material –
Stainless steel and aluminum are two materials used in the construction of solar cover reels. Both are sturdy metals, yet the size of the pool will decide which one you have to choose. A stainless-steel reel can hold the large pool cover and remain sturdy, while an aluminum reel is suitable to deal with small – medium-sized pools.
Wheels –
The solar cover reels have either rubber or plastic wheels to move them around easily. A reel with plastic wheels is cheaper, thinner, and won’t provide essential grip to the deck surface. Also, it may crack and deteriorate after some time. While a reel with rubber wheels is expensive, durable, long-lasting, and offers excellent grip.
Suitable Pool Size –
The shape and size of the pool will play a key role in purchasing a solar cover reel. So, you have to take the pool measurements beforehand to make it fit perfectly. For this, calculate the surface area, and fence size of the pool to pick the reel that can handle the right size solar cover. Also, they are adjustable cover reels available for unique sizes or shape swimming surfaces. Apart from these three factors, there is a lot more to know about these cover reels, which we explained in our detailed “Buying Guide”. Using the same information, we have enlisted some Best Solar Pool Cover Reels. Read on to know how to select your best option as per your requirement.
Best Solar Cover Reel 2023 List
Best Solar Cover Reel Reviews
1. Intex Solar Cover Roller
Intex is quite a popular brand name for a variety of products such as furniture, airbeds, boats, air pumps, and much more. Thus, we are starting off our list with a solar pool cover reel from Intex. In the 1st position, we are presenting the Intex 28051 Solar cover roller. This is the perfect option for rectangular swimming pools up to 488 cm in width. Although, your pool must be wider than 274 cm for this pool cover reel to be suitable. The reel itself is 192.1 x 192.1 x 17.7 inches in size which is particularly larger than most other choices present on our list. The reel features a non-corrosive plastic crank on the side which is safe from environmental problems and allows you to easily collect the pool cover when not in use. Other than that, the reel structure features aluminum connecting shafts, which are heavy-duty and carries the weight of the pool cover with ease. The Intex 28051 Solar cover roller is definitely a great option for the price which makes installation and usage of the pool cover very easy. Best Features
1 x 192.1 x 17.7 inches in size Suitable for 488 cm pool size Non-corrosive plastic crank Aluminum connecting shaft Easy for installation and usage
Pros
Quite a great option for the price Suitable for all weathers Can bear the weight of the solar pool cover
Cons
Not a perfect option for large pools
2. VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set
VINGLI is also a popular brand of choice as it offers a variety of heavy-duty appliances specifically designed for swimming pools. Thus, our next choice is featured by VINGLI. In the 2nd position, we have the VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set that offers the best compatibility with up to 18 feet wide swimming pools. However, the device will ship in a disassembled state and you’ll have to assemble it before you can use it. It is designed with embedded straps so that the pool covers can be easily pulled without needing a lot of force. Also, the tubes are telescopic in shape and prevent shaking while winding and unwinding the pool cover. The VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set is constructed with 3 section aluminum pipes that are completely rust-free and durable in terms of build quality. And as the tubes are grooved, the straps do not fall off easily from the tubes. You will also find heavy-duty wheels on the VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set that makes it pretty easy to move when you are not using the pool cover. VINGLI is offering a 1-year warranty on the pool cover reel. Best Features
Maintenance-free solar cover reel Suitable for 18 feet pool size 1-year warranty Rust free construction 3 section aluminum pipes
Pros
Build quality is very good Grooved reel tube Stainless steel legs
Cons
Not suitable for pools below 14 feet width
3. Best Choice Pool Cover Reel
Best Choice Products, as the name suggests, only deals with the best options for various home appliances such as decorative items and furniture. Even though the pool cover reel from Best Choice Products is slightly on the premium side, it is one of the best options. In the 3rd place, we are putting the Best Choice Products solar cover reel. This reel is specifically suitable for large pools as it offers compatibility with up to 21 feet wide swimming pools. But, the reel itself measures 6.7 x 3.5 x 107 inches which makes it great for storage. The entire body of the Best Choice Products solar cover reel is made up of a combination of stainless steel and aluminum to offer both durability and lightweight design. On the other hand, the crank on the Best Choice Products solar cover reel is made with plastic to offer complete protection against problems like corrosion while offering users a firm grip on the device. There are large plastic wheels provided on the bottom of the reel to offer ease in terms of portability so that it can be moved around by a single person. With the 3 inches diameter tubes used in construction, Best Choice Products is offering 1 year of warranty on the reel. Best Features
7 x 3.5 x 107 inches in size Suitable for 21 feet pool size 1-year warranty Plastic crank for prolonged lifespan Easy to use Stainless steel plus aluminum body
Pros
Durable solar pool cover reel with lightweight construction Easy to assemble due to the simplistic design Self-fastening attachment joints are present
Cons
A bit on the premium side of the market
4. HPI Solar Blanket Reel Cover
If you haven’t found the perfect solar cover reel in your budget so far, worry not. The HPI solar cover reel will be perfect for you as this is the cheapest option on our list today. Coming up next, we have the most affordable solar pool cover reel available in the market right now. The HPI Solar Reel Cover is designed for up to 20 feet wide swimming pools even though it is the cheapest option in the market. It is rather a compact option, but still features a set of wheels and crank to make the application easy as well as portable. The HPI Solar Reel Cover also comes with a dedicated solar blanket cover that prevents your solar pool cover from getting damaged by environmental factors. It prevents the cover from extreme heat and sun rays when it is not in use so that the texture and quality of the cover stay the same. The cover is made up of durable plastic to offer reliable protection against harsh weather. You can easily remove the solar pool cover from the reel and replace it with one of you want. Best Features
Most affordable solar pool cover Suitable for 20 feet pool size Comes with a solar blanket Easy to replace the pool cover Made up of durable plastic
Pros
Lightweight as well as affordable reel Safe from corrosion and rust problems Easy to move around
Cons
The plastic body is not as durable as metal
5. Sun2Solar Cover Deluxe Reel System
Sun2Solar is one of the most reliable options to appear on our options today. The reel from Sun2Solar is a great option for a long-term option within a budget-friendly price range. Next up, we are featuring the solar pool cover reel from Sun2Solar. The Sun2Solar Deluxe Reel System features a high-quality reel with durable stainless steel construction which is perfect for installing near a pool. It can easily cover pools within 20 feet width and works perfectly with 800 and 1200 series options. The aluminum tubes on the Sun2Solar Deluxe Reel System measure 3 ¼ inches in diameter, making it a rigid and heavy-duty option. Along with that, you can also find 2 large tires on the reel right below the crank which makes it possible to move the unit around despite the heavyweight. The effort needed to wind the solar pool cover is minimal with the Sun2Solar Deluxe Reel System as it offers a gear system on the crank. The gear system increases the applied force to offer faster and smoother operation. You will get a 3 years long warranty period on the Sun2Solar Deluxe Reel System. Best Features
Comes with 2 large tires Suitable for 20 feet pool size 3 years warranty Gear system for minimized efforts Easy to move around
Pros
A great option for 20 feet wide swimming pools Fits perfectly with most pool shapes Overall build quality is very reliable
Cons
Heavy in weight
6. ARKSEN Stainless Steel Solar Cover Reel
Now that we are discussing reliable options, you should also check out the solar pool cover reel from ARKSEN. It is also a great choice if you are planning to buy a long-term reel for your home. The ARKSEN Solar Cover Reel is also a great option for those who are looking for a one-time investment for the pool cover reel. This reel is made for 21 feet wide pools and offers great performance for its price. First of all, it has an ergonomically designed crank arm that offers better performance while rolling and unrolling the pool cover. The frame, on the other hand, is made up of stainless steel so that it will last you a very long time. As for maneuverability, the ARKSEN Solar Cover Reel features 2 heavy-duty wheels on the bottom that can be used over any kind of terrain without damaging them. The tube on this reel is also 3 ¼ inches in diameter similar to our last pick. Unlike most other options present in the market right now, the ARKSEN Solar Cover Reel features a 6 year long warranty period which is pretty good in comparison. Best Features
97 x 7 x 3.5 inches in size Suitable for 21 feet pool size 6 years warranty Heavy-duty wheels and tubes 3 ¼ inches tube diameter
Pros
The pool cover reel is suitable for 20 feet wide and 40 feet long pools High-quality reel with durable tubes Stainless steel construction
Cons
The expensive choice for smaller pools
7. CharaVector Solar Cover Reel Set
CharaVector is a known brand that specifically deals with home decoration appliances and accessories. It includes furniture, electric fireplaces, and even solar pool cover reels. We have another premium solar pool cover reel on our list from the house of CharaVector. It is designed for 5 to 18 feet wide in-ground swimming pools. This thick and solid reel cover has stainless steel legs and aluminum tubes that make it rust-proof, durable, and offers long-lasting performance to maintain a clean pool at any time. Its versatile range and adjustable length will make it fit perfectly in all shapes of pools, irrespective of the pool type. It has an eco-friendly design with large treaded wheels and a hand crank that make it easy to carry for proper usage and easy to fold for storage, in which all these can be done by a single person. The anti-slip feet, threaded knob, and flexible grooved reel tube on the cover reel will enhance the stability of the stand. The structure of the reel includes 7 sections of aluminum pipes, an essential accessory offering corrosion resistance. Furthermore, you will get a 6-month warranty on this CharaVector store pool cover reel, which is quite short at this price range. Best Features
75 X 10 X 6.5 inches in size Suitable for 18 feet pool size Versatile pool cover reel 6 months warranty Wheel with handle for smooth and effective usage. Anti-rust aluminum tube for durability, and longevity Easy to move around and use with its 2 moving wheels
Pros
A decent option for small and large sized pools Easy to assemble, use and fold by yourself Flexible grooved design for adjustability Fits for various in-ground pool types & sizes
Cons
A bit shorter warranty period The build quality could have been better.
8. Rocky’s 3A In Ground Pool Solar Reel
If you are still looking for a lifelong option, consider going with the one produced by Rocky’s Reel. Even though it is the most expensive choice in the market, it is designed to last a lifetime. Coming up next, we have the most reliable and heavy-duty option that you can possibly buy right now. The Rocky’s 3A solar cover reel is made specifically for heavy-duty applications and compatible with up to 20 feet pool width. This reel is designed with strong die-cast aluminum which offers better reliability and construction quality than any other option in the market. Still, it is very easy to use and can be moved by a single person. The Rocky’s 3A Ground Pool Solar Reel has a positive anchoring system that enables faster and more stable operation. Thus, it becomes a great choice for commercial and public pools. Even though it is light in weight, it is very strong in construction which is of great quality. As for the reliability of the device, Rocky’s Reel is offering 10 years of warranty, guaranteeing an even longer lifespan. Best Features
Most reliable solar pool cover reel Lightweight as well as a strong option Suitable for 20 feet pool size 10 years warranty Safe from sunlight as well as snow
Pros
A great choice for commercial usage Long-lasting reliability Designed for 20 feet wide swimming pools
Cons
Costs almost double compared to other standard options
9. Nollapo Solar Swimming Pool Cover Reel
If you are looking for trendy and functional solar pool cover reels at a reasonable price, then check this option from Nollapo, a popular seller of swimming pool parts. This pool cover features various great features with extra accessories. This Nollapo solar pool cover reel set is a perfect choice for all types of inground large swimming pools, as it easily covers up to 18 feet wide pools. It comes with excellent build quality with durable and adjustable tubes made of anti-rust aluminum material. However, you can adjust the length of these tubes as per the pool for the best compatibility. The design is pretty much similar to most other options with embedded straps and a hand crank to have a smooth operation. Also, its unique design allows for easy wheel-barrow style maneuverability making it easy to move around and store while not in use. You can roll and unroll the cover effortlessly with its hand crank, while its mechanical lock prevents the rotation of the roller cover. Its 5-section aluminum eco-friendly design pipe is rust-free, or maintenance-free, and the grooved reel tube prevents strap falling. The aluminum reel and stainless steel legs will make it solid, durable, and thick. It offers a perfect balance to the stand, thanks to its sturdy hand crank and large treaded wheels. Furthermore, it offers numerous benefits and customer service yet doesn’t provide any warranty information. Best Features
39 X 8.62 X 7.32 inches in size Suitable for 18.5 feet pool size Adjustable length Durably constructed aluminum tube and stainless steel legs Can easily hold up to 132 lbs of pool cover User-friendly design
Pros
Best suited for large pools Easy to assemble, install and use by yourself Keep the pool clean and warmth Flexible grooved design to adjust the strap
Cons
No information on its warranty Assembly is a bit difficult.
10. CharaHOME Pool Cover Reel Set
In the end, we are bringing yet another value for the money option. The following reel is made by charaHOME which is certainly an underrated brand in the market. Finishing off our picks, we have the charaHOME Pool Cover Reel set. This set is also made up of high-quality material to offer long-lasting performance. Although, it is designed for up to 18 feet pool size so make sure your pool is not larger than that before buying it. Other than that, the device itself measures 54.5 x 10.5 x 7 inches, making it one of the most compact options. It features the standard 5 section assembly that makes the width of the device adjustable and suitable for different shapes and sizes of the pools. If you wish to store the unit, you can adjust the width as low as 4.43 feet. It offers a great balance of performance and reliability with a handle wheel instead of just a crankshaft used in many other reels. You will find detailed instructions provided with the unit on how to assemble it which makes it even easier to do so. Best Features
5 x 10.5 x 7 inches in size Suitable for 18 feet pool size Adjustable width The minimum possible width is 4.43 feet Assembly instructions are provided
Pros
Stainless steel solar pool cover reel Features a handle wheel for better control Faster operation for rolling and unrolling
Cons
Not suitable for pools above 18 feet width
How to Choose the Best Pool Cover Reel:
A solar pool cover reel is used to deploy the cover while the pool is not in use, uncover the pool when you want to use it, and store the cover temporarily till the winter season. To utilize the pool cover reel properly, you have to choose the correct option. So, we are here to guide you on what factors to consider and how to pick your best option. Let’s get started.
1. Material:
Usually, we find pool reels that are made of stainless steel and aluminum in the market. These materials are of good quality, durable, and withstand rust and climatic elements like sun and rain (weather-resistant). Both these materials offer admirable qualities, yet they have some differences. The aluminum reel is more prone to sag while rolling out the pool cover. It is affordable, and lightweight is the best option for a smaller pool size. Stainless-steel reels are expensive, robust, heavier, and won’t sag like aluminum. Thus, it is the best option to cover pools of larger size.
2. Wheels:
A reel with wheels is easy to maneuver and can be positioned anywhere to roll out the cover. These wheels come in either rubber or plastic material. Knowing about them in detail will help you to choose your best option. Plastic Reels – They are prone to degrade over time when exposed to climate elements (like rain and sun). Then it results in the crack and makes its movement a bit difficult. These are cheaper and less durable. So, it is a perfect option for budget-freaks, yet not for those who desire a strong, and long-lasting reel. Rubber Reels – They are expensive, strong, and durable than plastic reels. Alike bike tires, this rubber will last for a long time. They are easy to maneuver, great at rolling, and can withstand harsh weather. So, it is an ideal option for those looking for a strong reel that lasts longer.
3. Straps:
There are two types of straps on reels – one is embedded on the reel, and others are attached to the reel. Embedded Strap – Here the straps connected to the reel through drilling, which hold it firm, and thereby make it more secure compared to other strap types. Thus, it is the best option to use in large pools. Hook and Loop Strap – Tie this strap around the reel to make its installation easy, yet they won’t maintain tight. This means, the hook-and-loop strap is a good option to use for smaller pools, but not for large pools.
4. Thickness:
Mil is the standard measurement used to measure the thickness of the solar cover, in which 1 mil = 0.001 inch. Usually, the thickness of solar pool covers often measures 8 mil, 12 mils, or 16 mils. The higher mil value will make the cover sturdier. A thicker plastic pool cover requires a reel that has to hold this weight and thickness. Remember that all reels won’t provide the same space to accommodate the pool cover’s thickness. So, it is essential to check whether or not the reel can hold the thickness before making its purchase. For instance, if your cover measures 16 mil thickness, then avoid purchasing a solar cover reel that works with 8 or 12 mil covers.
5. Installation Type:
Usually, in-ground pools and above-ground pools are two types of pool cover reels. Most reel models are suitable for a single type of pool. So, it is quite essential to ensure that the reel you choose will fit perfectly for your pool.
6. Pool Size:
The shape and size of the pool are essential to consider while shopping for a cover reel. Ensure that you pick a wider enough reel for the pool. For this, take the pool’s measurement beforehand to avoid happening any mistakes. Calculate the surface area to determine the perfect size reel for your pool cover, and also consider the pool fence size. With the availability of several products available in different sizes, it would be a bit confusing to pick the correct option for your pool. Also, you can find some adjustable cover reels that suit perfectly for a unique shape or sized swimming surface.
7. Operation:
Mostly, cover reel models might operate similarly, as they come with a hand crank that lets you roll in the cover and wrap it around the reel properly. Higher-end reel options come with a wheel having a hand crank to make this reeling process much easier, even the work done by a person. While other reel options offer even more simple and easy operation, mostly having a hand crank without attaching to the wheel.
8. Ease of Use:
Always select the reel model that is easy to install and use. Check out the number of pieces in the box and the ease of attaching them together to get a clear idea of its ease of installation. While well-built wheels will help for an effortless maneuver/transport of the reel. Also, look at the ease of using the mill mechanism.
9. Overall Design:
The reel design will make a lot of difference in their usage and functionality. It includes the size and shape of the reel, and how to wind or unwind the pool cover from the reel. Mostly, these reels offer a dedicated hand crank wheel on its side to close/remove the pool cover. Also, check for the safety lock of the pool cover on the reel to lock the cover safely in its place. Thus, it won’t be affected by surrounding factors. Few reel options offer bearings and gears to make it even easier to rotate the wheel. Even though the reel is placed at the end of the pool at the time. In case, if you want to make your pool look aesthetic, then choose a good-looking and perfectly fit solar cover reel for your pool.
10. Price:
Based on the quality of the construction material and some features, the price of the cover reel will vary a lot. Generally, the cover reel is available with a price range of $100 – $500. Usually, the reel made of the best quality material will price higher due to its longevity and durability. Ensure to select the best option with a proper balance of your budget and requirements.
11. Warranty:
The warranty on any product will provide extra peace of mind. Also, most people think that a product with a longer warranty will assure to be more durable. However, most pool cover reel options come with a minimum warranty of 1-year, while some higher-end models offer up to a 5-year long manufacturer warranty. Pick a model offering a bit longer warranty.
Types of Solar Pool Cover Reels:
There are various types of solar cover reels available in the market. Knowing about them will give a clear idea of how to choose your best type as per your requirement.
1. In-Ground Solar Cover Reel –
The solar cover reels used for the in-ground pool should be a bit durable and strong enough to hold a much larger reel. These inground reels are generally wide and work well for oval or rectangular pools and some kidney shape pools.
2. Above-Ground Solar Cover Reel –
This type of cover reel is attached to the side of the above-ground pool. Generally, these are designed to hold a smaller cover, as mostly above-ground pools are smaller compared to in-ground pools.
3. Manual Solar Pool Cover Reel –
It is an affordable and most popular pool reel type that is operated by hand (simply hand-crank method). All you need is to turn the crank manually by the side to fold or unfold the cover reel. Most of these manual reel options can easily sever both in-ground and above-ground pools.
4. Automatic Solar Pool Cover Reel –
It is a manual reel that is powered by solar or electricity to operate automatically. It provides a hassle-free operation and thereby saves a lot of your time and effort. Simply to say, a hand crank in manual type is substituted by the motor, which automatically turns the reel to unfold and fold the cover over the pool. Though it works slower than a manual reel, yet it let you stay relaxed.
5. Stationary Solar Cover Reel –
As the name implies, this pool cover reel won’t move anywhere and stay stable at its location. So, they are usually installed around the edges of the pool or on the deck of the pool.
6. Portable Solar Cover Reel –
If you want to store the reel away from the pool, then this portable cover reel is the best option. It is especially useful when your solar pool covers and its cover reel may not be the good-looking pool accessory. Ensure to look for a portable reel that has a plastic or aluminum wheels to roll and store the cover easily.
How to Install this Cover Reel for an In-ground Pool?
A proper installation is essential to maintain pool maintenance and effective usage. Here are the step-by-step guidelines that help you to set up the solar cover reel over the pool.
Read the manual thoroughly to get a clear idea of the steps required to install the pool. Ensure that you have all those accessories required to perform its installation. Before starting the process, you have to wear protective eye goggles and hand gloves. Then use a wrench or hammer to press the bearings of the reel’s frame. Install casters on the predrilled hole of the frame. Ensure to put the protective end caps to the frame. Keep the aluminum tube with proper length at one end of the pool. If not have a rectangular-shaped pool, then the area you want to keep the tube will differ a lot. After placing the tube, make sure that both ends of the tube should be 18-inches long than your pool width. If it is over 18-inches, you have to cut it off. Hold the aluminum tube together with the help of a joint Webb and screws. This joint Webb will fit at each end of the aluminum tube that has to be placed between the tube’s center. Then use Tek screws (comes with pack) for attaching the joint Webb to this aluminum tube and install them, as per the manual guidance. Keep the screws 2 – 12 inches, this would be different on each product. So, you have to go through the manual. Measure and mark the screw point with a tape and marker and note. Do the process repeatedly till all-aluminum tubes get fixed properly. Then attach the aluminum tube with a collar, shaft, and crank to the solar reel frame. Tighten the collar with an Allen key to the crank and shaft. Look for a male and female plate on the strap kit. Here you need to keep the first plate 2 inches away from the pool cover’s edge. Continue doing this process for all these plates, yet ensure to evenly space them properly. Puncture 3 identical holes in the pool cover, and after done, the two plates would snap together. Then attach the straps and strap buckle, yet ensure that the clip should be 24-inches away from the strap. Then attach Velcro at the strap’s end to the aluminum tube. After securing it properly, you have to check the Velcro facing downward. After installation of these straps, pull them to align with the reel and attach Velcro to the solar reel. Adjust these straps while pulling the cover, they will evenly spread out. When all these straps get attached to the reel, start rolling the cover with the help of a handle.
Conclusion:
As you may have already found out, a solar pool cover is one of the most important accessories that you should get to maintain your swimming pool water temperature. But, managing the pool cover can be a hassle as it is usually very large and heavy.
Thus, a pool cover reel must also be purchased alongside the pool cover for better results. Today, we offered you some of the best solar pool cover reels that you can find in the market right now. If you cannot decide which one to buy, simply follow our buying guide. Or, you can go with one of our recommendations given here.
If you do not have a large-sized pool, then there is no point in buying a premium and large solar pool cover. Instead, you can buy HPI Swimming Pool Solar Blanket Reel as it costs less than half of what other reels will cost you. It is still suitable for up to 20 feet large pools and features a solar blanket that further protects the cover. The cover itself is made up of durable plastic for a longer lifespan. If a longer lifespan is what you need the most, then Rocky’s 3A In-Ground Pool Solar Reel is going to be the best option for you. Even though it is the most premium option from our picks, it is certainly worth investing in as it comes with a 10 year long warranty period. It also supports 20 feet large pools and you will be able to attach a pool cover of your choice to this handy reel. Lastly, we will suggest yet another highly reliable option which is the ARKSEN Stainless Steel Solar Cover Reel. This solar cover reel is made up of stainless steel so that you get long-lasting durability and performance from it. ARKSEN is also offering a 6 years warranty period on the reel, which further increases the value of your investment.
Comment * Name * Email * Website
Δ
