The first step to enjoying significant savings from energy bills is going green. One way homeowners are achieving this is to install solar covers to their in-ground pools. This way, you will enjoy warmer water without spending too much on energy bills.
However, such energy efficiency comes with the headache of deploying and removing the solar cover. The process can be pretty tricky, especially if you lack the strength or have some handicap that limits your ability to handle heavy loads.
Luckily, this should not tense or disturb your peace. You can use the best solar cover reel for an in-ground pool to effortlessly deploy and remove the cover. The gadget dramatically simplifies the process eliminating the effort and the fuss associated with operating the blanket.
Solar Cover Reel Does More
Solar covers are essentially tarp and appear quite strong. However, they are not resistant to wear and tear especially following the tossing and folding associated with pulling them out of the water and storing them.
Frays, rips, fold marks resulting from balling the cover-up like snowball are familiar with frequent and long-term handing of the solar cover without aid. These effects will likely destroy the cover reducing its service life.
Furthermore, solar cover reels keep your pool area well organized, protect your in-ground pool cover, and make storing and positioning the cover hassle-free.
10 Best Solar Cover Reel for Inground Pool
Table of Contents
This post presents a breakdown of the top-quality reels for in-ground pool solar covers, including the most crucial features and specifications.
Stay with us and find the best solar cover reel so that you can limit the time and effort you need to fight with your solar cover rather than enjoying a pleasant and refreshing time at the in-ground pool.
1. VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set
VINGI Pool Cover reel Set has made in-ground pool lovers go nuts over its quality. From our research, it is the most preferred reels currently in the market. Such reputation does not come through marketing but because of its quality and functionality.
The set is easy to assemble and hassle-free to use. The reel features an embedded strap link construction which multiplies the pulling force and stabilizes it. Furthermore, a lockable telescopic tube limits shaking while the reel is in use.
Due to the elevated design, the VINGLI Pool Cover reel Set tends to operate better than models that sit on the ground. This results in good balance and a design that is large and easy enough to allow the pool cover to roll up easily roll-up.
The reel is durable, maintenance-free, and rustproof. It features a 3-section aluminum pipe construction that does not droop with ease. Moreover, the reel tube is grooved to prevent the strap from falling off. Generally, the reel is excellent in quality featuring thick and solid construction with stainless steel legs. On the other hand, Wheels feature full sold tires and add to the durability of the reel.
Another strong selling point is the incredible adjustability and, therefore, the versatility of the VINGLI pool cover reel set. For example, the adjustment for width allows it to fit in-ground pools measuring 14 inches to 18 inches wide.
It works best with rectangular pools. However, you can also use it with kidney-shaped, bean-shaped, or odd-shaped collections. Furthermore, the reels have successfully been used with an Oyster-shaped pool or Marilyn Monroe shape. Finally, the straps are pretty long, allowing the reel to attach to the over at various points.
The reel features an eco-friendly design that consists of wheel barrow-like maneuverability style. Thus you can effortlessly take your solar cover reel to and from the pool. A simple single crank on one end offers a smooth operation that helps in rolling and unrolling the cover. In addition, there are two wheels for portability.
Pros
- Effortless to assemble and use
- Durable, rustproof, and maintenance-free construction
- Highly adjustable and versatile to fit in all pool shapes
- Eco-friendly design with wheelbarrow-style maneuverability
Cons
- Installation instructions and rather vague
2. Best Choice Products 21ft Aluminum Inground Swimming Pool Cover Reel
As the store’s name that sells 21ft Aluminum Inground Swimmingpool cover reel says, this is one of the best options when you are looking for a model to buy. The accessory is constructed with high-quality stainless steel and aluminum to offer you great value for your money.
To be exact, the reel’s body is engineered with high-grade lightweight aluminum, while the legs feature solid and sturdy stainless steel. Such a combination of materials will ensure the durability of the reel and give it the necessary effort to handle the rather heavy solar covers for your in-ground pool.
Although the wheels and the handle are made of plastic, they are equally strong and resistant to rust and corrosion. In addition, you will enjoy the benefits of a single-hand crank. In other words, the reel needs only one person to fold and unfold the cover.
Furthermore, the unit features self-fastening attachment points, which make it effortless to roll for storage. So here, too, you do not need extra hands to help you. Besides, the product is relatively lightweight and folds compactly for storage.
The plastic tires support a wheelbarrow-style movement which boosts maneuverability when taking the reel out for storage or maintenance. Up to 10 straps and screws allow you to attach the reel to the solar pool cover securely.
Pros
- Effortless to assemble and use
- Designed with durable and lightweight aluminum, stainless steel, and ABS plastic
- Plastic tires offer wheelbarrow-style maneuverability
- All components are resistant to rust and corrosion
- It will give you value for your money
Cons
- Instructions do not include how to attach the screw to the pool cover or wheel
3. VINGLI Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Pool Cover Reel Set
Suppose you have a large in-ground pool measuring up to 18-feet wide x 40-feet in length. In that case, you can trust the VINGLI Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Pool Cover Reel Set to help you minimize the stress associated with deploying and removing the cover.
Like all other models from VINGLI, this unit is incredibly balanced, large enough to let the cover effortlessly roll up. Further balance and stability come from the lockable telescopic tube that prevents shaking during use. Elevation of the reel works much better than the models that sit on the ground.
Since you will use this unit outdoors and frequently, it must be made from durable materials resistant to environmental elements. Luckily, the VINGLI Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Pool Cover Reel features a 3-section aluminum pipe that is lightweight and durable.
The grooved reel tube design prevents the strap from falling off. Furthermore, the tube is thick and pretty solid. The stainless steel legs are strong, while the reel is made of lightweight aluminum. Thus no component of the set can rust.
The wheels feature large, whole, solid tires that provide excellent maneuverability. These features make the reel durable, lightweight, rustproof, and maintenance-free. As a result, it will serve you for an extended period saving you lots of money in the long run.
One of the things you will appreciate about this reel is the versatility of this unit. This is because of its exceptional adjustability. It fits any pool shape ranging from rectangular to odd shapes, including oyster and Marylyn Munro-shaped pools.
Pros
- Assembles readily and effortlessly
- Durable, lightweight, rust-free, and maintenance-free design
- Easy wheelbarrow-style maneuverability
- It fits pools of all shapes perfectly
- Has mechanical lock to prevent rotation of the roller when cover is rolled
Cons
- Straps are not as durable as the other parts
4. Nova Microdermabrasion Swimming Pool Cover Reel Set
Nova Microdermabrasion understands that installing a covering pool is the most important way to minimize evaporation and boost your energy efficiency. They have now come up with a cover reel that makes putting your pool cover on/off a breeze and time and energy saving.
The set will save your pool water from debris such as pollen, leaves, dust, and other impurities. The reel, on the other hand, protects the pool cover from damage during handling. As a result, the Microdermabrasion Swimming Pool Cover Reel Set will extend the life of your pool and save you in the long run.
The reel is made of polished aluminum tubes and thus will not rust or droop after long-term use. Besides, length is easily adjustable, making it possible to work with different sizes and shapes of swimming pools.
You will also love the user-friendly design of the set. It features a hand crank on one end of the wheel for smooth operation. Such design help to roll up and down effortlessly. Surprisingly, it comes with a thermometer to help you monitor the pool water temperature.
The Microdermabrasion Swimming Pool Cover Reel Set is equipped with two wheels for easy maneuverability. The wheels are made of complete solid tires that are durable and stable; they won’t fall into the pool easily. Furthermore, anti-slip legs protect the floor and improve stability.
In terms of fitment, you can use this solar cover reel for an in-ground pool measuring 17.5 feet to 21 feet long. The kits come with straps and stakes and are thus effortless to attend. The long straps can attach to the cover at separate points.
Pros
- Made of lightweight and robust polishing aluminum
- User-friendly design that anyone can operate
- Feature two wheels for effortless maneuverability
- Protects your pool cover from damage
Cons
- Set up instructions are not easy to understand
5. HPI Swimming Pool Solar Blanket Reel Cover
HPI offers in-ground pool owners an excellent reel to help them deploy and remove the pool cover. It is well designed and equipped with many features that make it ideal for anyone since it is straightforward to operate.
Its subtle design also makes it maintenance-free and effortless to store. Furthermore, it is equipped with two wheels with whole tires to help with maneuverability. This means you can move it quickly to and from the storage to the pool and vice versa.
Although the HPI Swimming Pool Solar Blanket Reel Cover is made of plastic, it is solid and durable. It will serve you for a decent period before giving in to the elements. ABS plastic material is virtually rustproof and will not corrode given use in the external environment. Moreover, the material is incredibly light.
In terms of use, this solar blanket reel is ideal for pools of all shapes. In other words, it works with both standard forms such as square or rectangular pools and irregularly shaped pools. Ordinary, you will be forced to spend lots of money to buy top-of-the-range models that can work with irregular shapes. It measures 16-28 feet in width.
Pros
- Extends the life of the solar blanket
- Available in multiple sizes to choose from
- Effortless to install and use thanks to user-friendly design
- Lightweight with two wheels for easy maneuverability
- Affordable but versatile for use by all in-ground pool shapes
Cons
- It may not be as durable as metallic models
6. Intex Solar Cover Reel
You can tremendously reduce the energy consumption of your in-ground pool by using a high-quality cover. But the surface must also be protected from damage during day-to-day operation that includes rolling and folding it for storage and deploying it to cover the pool.
The Intex solar cover reel was designed to help pool owners protect their covers from damage always sustained during normal handling. It is robust, durable, and nicely engineered to be user-friendly and offer use long service.
It features heavy-duty construction with interlocking aluminum shafts. As you may already be informed, aluminum is one of the most robust materials. Furthermore, it is lightweight and resistant to rust and corrosion. The low weight means most people can handle it without being weighed down by excessive weight.
Unlike the models we reviewed earlier, the Intex Swimming pool solar blanket reel does not have wheels. Instead, it is installed on either side of the pool. As a result, the process of installation is straightforward. Besides, the reel comes with an easy-to-understand instruction manual.
A high-strength plastic hand-crank is incredibly easy to operate with one hand and features a lock that prevents accidental unwinding. The unit is suitable for installing rectangular frame pools measuring 9 to 12 feet (2.74m to 4.88m) in width.
Pros
- Heavy-duty aluminum construction
- Hassle-free installation without the need for tools
- Extends the service life of your pool cover
- High-strength plastic hand-crank
Cons
- It has a somewhat limited range of applications as it only fits rectangular pool frames
7. Goplus 18FT Pool Cover Reel Set
The Goplus Pool Cover Reel Set is adjustable to be compatible with your in-ground pool in width along with its cover. To add to the adjustability, the reel works with virtually all frame types of swimming pools, from regular shapes to irregular undefined shapes. The pool must measure 16 inches to 18 inches in width.
The elevated design operates much better than standard ones that sit on the ground. In addition, an embedded strap connect does not fall off with ease. This allows the cover to roll up with a more significant and more stable force. Such design features make the reel ideal for your pool cover.
You will also love the heavy-duty wheels and the hand-crank the reel is equipped with. The wheels make it easy to move the reel even when you are operating it alone. Further user-friendliness comes from the ergonomically designed crank, which operates smoothly. To prevent uncalled for rotation, the reel features a locking mechanism consisting of a mechanical knob.
The reel is made from durable material for longevity. Goplus made this reel set with 5-section thick solid aluminum pipes, which can easily support heavy cover but cannot quickly sink in the middle. Furthermore, you can use stainless steel brackets all year round without rusting, giving you long service.
You do not have the services of a professional to install the Goplus Pool Cover Reel Set. This is because each part and the hardware are numbered for easy identification. Furthermore, it comes with instructions to help with installation. Moreover, you can use provided pegs to fix the feet on the ground for better stability.
Pros
- Adjustable reel for all pool frame types and sizes
- The elevated design offers high work efficiency
- Heavy-duty wheels and hand-crank
- Premium material for better durability
Cons
- Works only with covers with prefabricated holes with grommets
8. Aqua Splash In-Ground Swimming Pool Solar Cover Blanket Reel
The Aqua Splash In-Ground Swimming Pool Solar Cover Blanket Reel is one of the best solar cover reels you can depend on to help you operate your in-ground pool. It is a lightweight and easy-to-use gadget that will eliminate the trouble of manually deploying and removing the over.
The handles and reel ends are constructed from polyethylene which is robust, durable and resistant to corrosion and rust from environmental elements. The other tubes are 3-section extruded aluminum which is equally sturdy and lightweight. This eliminates pole sagging.
Furthermore, the wide-track polyethylene bearings are designed to make rolling in your solar cover a hassle-free exercise. The Aqua Splash in-ground Pool Cover Reel can be stationary, in which case it is mounted on the ground beside the pool.
Alternatively, it can be mobile on casters (the castors not included but available from third-party dealers) or mounted on the wall using the pre-drilled installation holes in the reel ends. The three installation options mean you can use the reel in a variety of settings.
Three sizes are available, from 12 inches to 20 inches wide pools up to 40 inches long. The handles and reel end feature and handle a taupe color. An order includes the complete hardware as well as the blanket attachment kit. A 5-year limited manufacturer’s coverage should give you the confidence to try the reel.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Handles and reel ends are made from durable, rust-free polyethylene
- Wide range of fitment ranging from 12 to 20 inches
- The reel, base, and handle feature taupe color
- Backed by 5-year limited manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- Straps need improving to boost durability.
9. Sun2Solar 20-Foot Stainless Steel Solar Cover Deluxe Reel System
The Sun2Solar blanket roller comprises five aluminum reel tubes measuring 3.25 inches diameter, double large treaded solid tires, along a durable stainless-steel frame. This bundled kit, in addition, features the required solar cover attachment equipment.
This unit can help you minimize the effort you need to roll up your solar pool cover. Besides, its Easy Gear system provides for super-smooth operation. In addition, the user-friendly crank handle makes rolling up or removing your attached solar cover a single-person function.
The treaded tires also allow for easy maneuverability away from the water and into an area far away from the fun. The wheels also support you to move the reel and the cover to and from the pool area to the storage room.
Suppose your preference is to install it at the end of the pool, not a problem. All you do is pick the reel up by the handle on the wheel’s opposite side, the wheelbarrow style. An order comes with all hardware necessary for a successful installation. It will work perfectly with 8 and 12 mil solar covers.
The Sun2Solar Stainless Steel Solar Cover Deluxe Reel System will fit pools of all shapes measuring up to 20 inches wide. It will work excellently with roman, kidney, bean, free form, figure 8, Grecian, and rectangular swimming pools. Only a few brands can boast of such versatility.
Pros
- It makes deploying and removing solar cover reel effortless
- Heavy-duty, durable construction
- User-friendly crank for single-hand use
- Incredibly easy to maneuver thanks to wheels
- Compatible with all shaped pools measuring up to 20 inches wide
Cons
- Instructions are somewhat vague, especially for the starters
- Center sleeves tend to lack enough holes for correct installation
10. ARKSEN Solar Cover Reel for In-ground Swimming Pools
This stainless steel solar cover reel for swimming pools from ARKSEN deserves a position in our list of the best solar cover reel for an in-ground pool. It is well constructed, easy to use, and will serve you with excellent care for a relatively long period. It also requires very little maintenance. In addition, it has many great features.
First, it features a highly ergonomic hand-crank that allows you to roll and unroll the pool cover without applying too much effort. Second, the reel will help you remove and deploy your cover several times without denting, scratching, or damaging it in any way.
Secondly, the reel is solid and durable, thanks to stainless steel frame construction. Such material will effectively bear the weight of the cover with no chance of caving in at the middle. The wheels, too, are heavy-duty with large treaded tires and offer excellent maneuverability.
The reel allows the solar cover to roll up safely on a 3.25-inch diameter tubing. According to the manufacturer, this gadget is compatible with in-ground pools measuring 20 feet wide x 40 feet long. In addition, it works with pools of different shapes so long as they fit the width depicted.
The two wheels are oversized and treated, giving the reel a level of stability. In addition, they are located on the side of the Deluxe Reel, which makes rolling it away from the way of the breeze. All pool owners should check this unit out because of its quality.
Pros
- Ergonomically shaped crank arms
- Solid and durable stainless steel frame
- Heavy-duty wheels offer excellent maneuverability
- Protects the solar cover from damaged during operation
Cons
- Operational instructions are difficult to understand
- Plastic clips appear not to be of good quality
How to Choose the Best Solar Cover Reel for Your In-Ground Pool
We have already presented you with what we consider the top-most solar cover reel for your in-ground pool. You are free to check them out. Perhaps you will find one that suits your needs.
However, we also appreciate the differences in tastes and preferences. Therefore, we will look at the most critical features to consider to find your pool cover reel. Read them carefully, and you might succeed in buying a reel that is not only high in quality but also exceptionally performing.
The Type Of Solar Cover Reel
There are up to six or so different types of solar cover reels. These include in-ground, above-ground, manual, automatic, stationary, and portable reels. In this post, we have focused on the in-ground type. They are some of the best when it comes to width, strength, stability, and versatility.
They are ideal for pools of different shapes. Some models claim that their in-ground pool cover models are virtually compatible with all forms of pools currently available, including both regular and irregular shapes. While this may be true, not all claims are legitimate. The other models are pretty limited in versatility and performance.
Design Materials
The material used for the telescopic pole of the reel is an essential determinant of the overall strength and durability of the pool accessory. The commonly used materials are stainless steel and aluminum. Both metals are sturdy and can easily withstand the elements.
However, the determinant of the best design material is the size of the pool. Large-sized pools have large covers, which are, in turn, heavier than smaller ones. In this case, stainless steel will perform much better than aluminum because the former is heavier. In addition, it will hold the cover and still remain sturdy.
Wheels Or Tires
Not all solar cover reels for in-ground pools have wheels or tires. The ones that do must have heavy-duty, high-quality wheels with treaded solid tires. Such tires are made either of plastic or rubber. So which material is best?
Between the two materials, plastic tends to be less resistant to the elements than rubber. After years of exposure to the sun, plastic discolors and begin to crack, limiting their longevity. Rubber is much immune to the elements and will serve you for longer.
Apart from durability, grip, and, therefore, stability is crucial. Again, rubber wheels beat plastic wheels in gripping the deck surface to prevent slipping. Without the perfect grip, the accessory may fall into the pool with annoying consequences.
The thicker and heavier rubber wheels can withstand the external environments much better than plastic. Besides, they last longer, saving you the money and time replace the reel or at least the wheels alone.
Hook And Loop Or Embedded Straps
How the traps are connected to the reel’s metal bar significantly affects how well the accessory pulls the solar cover. Some solar cover reels use a form of hook-and-loop straps. Other models embed the straps in the bar through groves in the metal.
According to our findings, there is no significant difference between the two strap installations. What matters is the quality of the straps. They should be strong enough to hold the cover and pull it. But, again, you can speak to an expert to help you understand better the differences between the two types of strapping.
Size and shape of the cover
The size and the shape of the solar cover for the in-ground pool have a lot of bearing on the reel you will purchase. Therefore, you need to know the dimensions of your pool before venturing out to buy a reel.
Manufacturers usually include the size and shape of the pool that their reels can operate. Therefore, it is vital to be attentive so that you do not buy an accessory that will mismatch your pool cover. You can consult a pro if you are not sure of the dimensions.
User-friendliness
The main reason for installing the best solar cover reel for in-ground swimming pools is to improve convenience in operating the pool cover. The hand crank is perhaps the most crucial part involved in deploying and removing the blanket.
The hand crank should be easy to operate, even using one hand. A few models today feature automatic crank, which eliminates the need for effort. However, you will need electric power to operate the mechanical crank. This does not make economic sense. So stick to the hand crank if you want to make savings.
Besides the crank, the unit should be easy to maneuver out of the way of swimming fun and for storage when not in use. It is therefore essential to ensure it has excellent maneuverability. High-quality models feature handles that allow for wheelbarrow-style movement.
Best Solar Cover Reel FAQs
Is the solar cover reel for the in-ground pool necessary?
Yes, it is. However, it depends on your feelings. The most important reason for installing the reel is removing and deploying the cover as effortlessly as possible. So, it is your prerogative to choose whether you need it or not.
Can I install a solar cover reel for my pool alone?
Yes, you can, provided you have the instructions. Unfortunately, some of the brands do not provide clear instructions on how to do the installation. This leaves you with very few options other than to figure things out yourself.
What’s the best material for solar cover reels?
Many people think the best material for cover reels is metal, preferentially stainless steel and aluminum. Both are strong and sturdy, although they differ a little, especially in tensile strength and weight. If you have a large pool, then you’d do well with stainless steel framed reels.
Where can I buy the best solar cover reel for my swimming pool?
You can buy it from any store that deals in swimming pool accessories. However, the easiest way to go about it is through online shopping. You will get an opportunity to pick from a large variety of options. You can compare in terms of design, quality, performance, and size.
Final Verdict
Hopefully, you now feel confident that you have the necessary information to venture out and find the best solar cover reel for an in-ground pool. With the many options at your disposal, you must settle on one with the features you are looking for. Buying a reel is a reliable way of improving your expenditure and making decent savings while enjoying the eye of operating your pool cover.