Top 5 Solar Cover Reels for Above Ground Pools: Reviews & Guide

Do you dream of a sparkling clean above-ground pool, ready for fun whenever you are? But, wrestling with that heavy solar cover is a total drag, right? It’s like a workout before you even get in the water! Choosing the right solar cover reel can feel just as tough. There are so many different types and brands. You might get confused and frustrated.

Knowing which reel is best for your pool size and budget is important. You don’t want a reel that breaks easily or is hard to use. Plus, a good reel helps your solar cover work better, keeping your pool warmer and cleaner. Choosing the wrong one can be a waste of time and money.

This blog post will help you. We’ll explore the best solar cover reels for above-ground pools. You will learn how to pick the right one for your needs. We’ll also cover features to look for and how to install and use your new reel. Get ready to make pool time easier and more enjoyable!

Our Top 5 Solar Cover Reel For Above Ground Pool Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Solar Cover Reel For Above Ground Pool Detailed Reviews

1. Intex 28051E Solar Cover Reel

Intex 28051E Solar Cover Reel

Rating: 8.6/10

The Intex 28051E Solar Cover Reel helps keep your pool warm. It uses the sun to heat your pool water. This is a simple way to cover your above-ground pool. The reel makes covering and uncovering your pool easy. It is made for rectangular frame pools that are 9 to 16 feet wide. Remember, the solar cover itself is not included.

What We Like:

  • It warms your pool water using the sun. This is good for the environment.
  • It makes covering your pool simple. You don’t have to struggle with the cover.
  • The reel is easy to set up and use.
  • It fits many rectangular above-ground pools.

What Could Be Improved:

  • You need to buy a solar cover separately.
  • It only works for pools with a specific width.

This Intex solar cover reel is a helpful tool for pool owners. It is a great way to keep your pool water warm. It also makes pool maintenance easier.

2. Intex Heavy Duty Solar Above Ground Pool Cover Reel Aluminum Adjustable with Locking Mechanism for Rectangle Frame Pool

Intex Heavy Duty Solar Above Ground Pool Cover Reel Aluminum Adjustable with Locking Mechanism for Rectangle Frame Pool, Cover Not Included

Rating: 9.3/10

Keep your pool clean and warm with the Intex Heavy Duty Solar Above Ground Pool Cover Reel! This handy reel helps you roll out your solar cover easily. It’s designed for rectangular frame pools. This reel makes taking care of your pool a breeze. Please remember, the solar cover itself is not included.

What We Like:

  • The hand crank makes rolling the cover easy.
  • It fits pools that are 9 to 16 feet wide.
  • It attaches right to your pool frame. Easy installation!
  • A lock on the handle keeps the cover from unrolling by accident.
  • The aluminum shaft is strong and will last a long time.
  • The sleek black design looks great.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The solar cover is not included. You have to buy it separately.

This Intex solar cover reel is a smart buy for pool owners. It simplifies pool maintenance. This reel is a great addition to any above-ground pool setup.

3. Sun2Solar Solar Cover White Reel System for Round or Oval Above-Ground Swimming Pools

Sun2Solar Solar Cover White Reel System for Round or Oval Above-Ground Swimming Pools | Fits Pools up to 21-Feet Wide Without Decking | Easy One-Person Operation

Rating: 9.3/10

Tired of wrestling with your solar cover? The Sun2Solar Solar Cover White Reel System is here to help! This reel system makes it easy to roll up and store your solar cover. It’s designed for round above-ground pools up to 21 feet wide. You can operate it easily with just one person. This helps keep your pool heated and ready for swimming. The system includes everything you need to get started (except the solar cover itself!).

What We Like:

  • Easy, one-person operation makes covering and uncovering your pool simple.
  • The reel is built from strong, non-corrosive plastic and aluminum.
  • The lift-and-swing design lets you move the reel out of the way.
  • It fits pools up to 21 feet wide.
  • All the hardware you need is included.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The solar cover is not included, so you need to buy it separately.

This Sun2Solar reel system is a great solution for easier pool maintenance. It helps to keep your pool clean and warm. This is a good product for anyone with an above-ground pool!

4. VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Above Ground Swimming Pool Cover Reel 16 FT Without Decking Solar Blanket Roller Systems with Tube Set for Various Shape Pool

VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Above Ground Swimming Pool Cover Reel 16 FT Without Decking Solar Blanket Roller Systems with Tube Set for Various Shape Pool

Rating: 8.8/10

The VINGLI Pool Cover Reel is designed to make your pool life easier. This above-ground reel helps you take your pool cover on and off quickly. It’s perfect for pools without a full deck. This system includes adjustable tubes and is built to last. It’s designed to work with various pool shapes and sizes. It also comes with straps to secure your pool cover.

What We Like:

  • Easy to use for one person to remove and store the cover.
  • The 7-section aluminum tube is strong and won’t sag.
  • It’s easy to install and saves time.
  • The reel is lightweight but sturdy.
  • It includes straps and tabs to secure the cover.
  • The company offers great customer service and provides extra straps.

What Could Be Improved:

  • This product is only for pools without a full deck.
  • Only works well with covers under 12 mil.

The VINGLI Pool Cover Reel is a good choice for anyone with an above-ground pool. It’s simple to use and helps protect your pool cover.

5. VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set Pool Solar Cover Reel for Inground Swimming Pool

VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set Pool Solar Cover Reel for Inground Swimming Pool, Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Cover Blanket Reel (Upgrade) (14 Feet)

Rating: 9.1/10

The VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set is a great tool for your in-ground swimming pool. This aluminum reel helps you easily roll and unroll your solar cover. It fits pools up to 14 feet wide and comes with strong straps. This upgrade makes it easy to keep your pool clean and warm. It also helps protect your cover from damage.

What We Like:

  • Easy to put together and use.
  • The design is strong and stable. The elevated design works better than reels that sit on the ground.
  • It is built to last. The reel is made of aluminum and the legs are stainless steel.
  • It fits all pool shapes. You can use it with rectangular, bean-shaped, or odd-shaped pools.
  • It’s easy to move around. It has wheels like a wheelbarrow.
  • It helps keep your pool clean and warm.

What Could Be Improved:

  • None.

This VINGLI pool cover reel is a smart buy. It makes covering and uncovering your pool a breeze. It’s a great way to protect your pool and save time.

Solar Cover Reel: Your Above Ground Pool’s Best Friend

Are you tired of wrestling with your solar cover? A solar cover reel makes it easy! This guide helps you pick the right one for your above ground pool. It covers everything you need to know before you buy.

Key Features to Look For

You want a solar cover reel that works well and lasts. Here are some important things to consider:

1. Reel Length and Pool Size

Make sure the reel is long enough. Measure the width of your pool. The reel should be a little bit wider than your pool. This lets the cover lay flat. Check the reel’s maximum width before you buy.

2. Tube Material and Diameter

The tube holds the solar cover. It should be strong. Look for tubes made from aluminum or durable plastic. Aluminum is usually stronger. The diameter of the tube matters, too. A larger diameter tube makes it easier to roll and unroll the cover. This is especially important for larger pools.

3. Crank Handle and Winding Mechanism

The crank handle is how you roll the cover. Make sure it is easy to turn. Some reels have a hand wheel instead of a crank. Choose what feels best for you. The winding mechanism should be smooth. It should not get stuck or break easily.

4. Straps and Attachment System

The straps hold the cover to the reel. Look for strong straps. They should be able to handle the weight of the cover. The attachment system should be easy to use. Some reels use clips, while others use buckles.

5. Portability and Mounting Options

Do you want to move the reel? Some reels have wheels. This makes them easy to move around. Check how the reel attaches to your pool deck. Some reels are freestanding. Others need to be bolted down.

Important Materials

The materials used in a solar cover reel affect its quality.

1. Aluminum

Aluminum is a strong and lightweight metal. Aluminum tubes and frames last a long time. They can handle the weather, too.

2. Durable Plastic

Some reels use strong plastic. It is often cheaper than aluminum. Make sure the plastic is UV-resistant. This helps it last longer in the sun.

3. Straps and Fasteners

The straps should be made of strong, weather-resistant material. Look for straps made from nylon or reinforced plastic. The fasteners (clips, buckles, etc.) should be rust-resistant.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Some features make a solar cover reel better. Other features can make it worse.

1. Good Quality
  • Strong materials (aluminum, UV-resistant plastic)
  • Smooth winding mechanism
  • Durable straps and fasteners
  • Easy-to-use crank handle or hand wheel
  • Wheels for easy portability
2. Poor Quality
  • Weak materials (thin plastic, flimsy metal)
  • Stiff or difficult winding mechanism
  • Weak or easily broken straps and fasteners
  • Hard-to-turn crank handle
  • No wheels or difficult to move

User Experience and Use Cases

A solar cover reel makes using your pool easier.

1. Easy Cover Handling

It lets you easily roll and unroll your solar cover. You don’t have to struggle with it! This saves you time and effort.

2. Pool Cover Protection

The reel keeps your cover clean. It also protects the cover from damage. This helps your cover last longer.

3. Increased Pool Enjoyment

You’ll use your pool more often! Because the cover is easy to handle, you’ll be more likely to use it. The cover keeps the pool warm and clean.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the main job of a solar cover reel?

A: A solar cover reel helps you roll and unroll your solar cover easily.

Q: What is the best material for the tube?

A: Aluminum is often the best choice. It is strong and durable.

Q: How do I measure my pool for a solar cover reel?

A: Measure the width of your pool. The reel should be a little wider.

Q: Are all solar cover reels portable?

A: No, some reels have wheels for easy movement. Others are fixed.

Q: How do I attach the solar cover to the reel?

A: The reel uses straps to hold the cover. The straps attach to the cover.

Q: How can a solar cover reel help me save money?

A: It helps your cover last longer. It also keeps your pool water warm.

Q: What happens if my crank handle breaks?

A: You can usually buy a new crank handle. Some reels have a hand wheel as a backup.

Q: Is it hard to assemble a solar cover reel?

A: Most reels come with instructions. Assembly is usually not too hard.

Q: Can I use a solar cover reel with any type of above ground pool?

A: Most reels work with most above ground pools. Check the reel’s specifications.

Q: How much does a solar cover reel cost?

A: Prices vary. They depend on the size and features. You can find one for a variety of budgets.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

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