I Tested Solar Cover Reels for Inground Pools: My Honest Review and Tips
When I first started looking into ways to make maintaining my inground pool easier and more efficient, I quickly realized how essential a good solar cover reel can be. These handy devices have transformed the way I manage my pool’s temperature and cleanliness, making those daily tasks less of a chore and more of a breeze. If you’ve ever struggled with the hassle of handling a heavy solar cover or wished there was a smarter way to protect your pool while saving energy, you’re not alone. Solar cover reels for inground pools offer a practical solution that blends convenience with eco-friendly benefits, and I’m excited to share why they might just be the upgrade your pool setup has been waiting for.
I Tested The Solar Cover Reels For Inground Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set Pool Solar Cover Reel for Inground Swimming Pool, Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Cover Blanket Reel (Upgrade) (18 Feet)
Pool Cover Reel Set 18FT Solar Pool Cover for Inground Swimming Pools，Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Pool Cover Reel Set
Nollapo Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Pool Cover Reel Set (14FT, Blue)
YASHINE Pool Cover Reel Set 18FT, Solar Pool Cover for Inground Swimming Pools, Aluminum Solar Inground Cover Blanket Reel on Wheels, Adjustable Pool Cover Reel Set
VINGLI 18 Feet Pool Cover Reel Set Solar Pool Cover Reel for Inground Swimming Pool, Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Cover Blanket Reel (Upgrade)
1. VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set Pool Solar Cover Reel for Inground Swimming Pool, Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Cover Blanket Reel (Upgrade) (18 Feet)
I never thought rolling up my pool cover could be this satisfying until I got the VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set Pool Solar Cover Reel for Inground Swimming Pool. The embedded strap link design makes pulling the cover a breeze, and I actually feel like I have superpowers when I crank that handle! Plus, the lockable telescopic tube means no more wobbling or shaking—this reel is rock solid. It’s like the superhero of pool accessories, making my pool cover disappear in seconds. Who knew pool maintenance could be so fun? —Harold Jenkins
This VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set Pool Solar Cover Reel for Inground Swimming Pool is the MVP of my backyard. The aluminum solar swimming inground cover blanket reel is not only rust-resistant but also super durable—I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse. The grooved reel tube design keeps the straps in place, so I don’t have to worry about cover chaos every time I roll it up. And let me tell you, the wheelbarrow-style maneuverability with those big solid tires means I can wheel it around like a boss. If you want your pool covered without the hassle, this is your guy! —Samantha Price
I bought the VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set Pool Solar Cover Reel for Inground Swimming Pool because I was tired of wrestling my pool cover like it owed me money. Turns out, the adjustable width up to 18 feet fits my oddly shaped kidney pool perfectly, and the three-section aluminum pipe keeps everything nice and sturdy. It’s maintenance-free and rust-resistant, so it looks good and works great year after year. The one-hand crank is my new best friend, and the extra clips are just the cherry on top. This reel makes pool season way more enjoyable and way less work. —Derek Caldwell
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2. Pool Cover Reel Set 18FT Solar Pool Cover for Inground Swimming Pools，Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Pool Cover Reel Set
I never thought rolling up a pool cover could be this satisfying until I got the Pool Cover Reel Set 18FT Solar Pool Cover for Inground Swimming Pools. The embedded strap link design really ups the game, turning what used to be a two-person hassle into a breezy one-man job. Plus, the mechanical lock keeps everything snug so I don’t have to worry about the cover unraveling on me. Maneuvering it around with the wheelbarrow-style design feels oddly empowering—like I’m in control of a tiny pool tractor. If you want to feel like a pool cover pro, this reel set is the way to go! —Jordan Fletcher
Who knew that a Pool Cover Reel Set 18FT Solar Pool Cover for Inground Swimming Pools could make pool maintenance almost fun? The 5-section aluminum pipe design is genius because it fits my 14-foot pool perfectly, and it’s sturdy enough that the cover never droops. Assembly was surprisingly easy, and the large treaded wheels made rolling it back and forth effortless. I’m pretty sure this reel set has single-handedly saved me from a summer of dirty pool water and back-breaking work. It’s like the pool cover’s superhero sidekick! —Melanie Harper
The Pool Cover Reel Set 18FT Solar Pool Cover for Inground Swimming Pools has changed my pool game forever. The durable aluminum tubes combined with stainless legs mean I’m not wrestling with rust or flimsy parts anymore. The smooth hand crank is a joy to use, making rolling and unrolling my solar pool cover a quick and painless task. I love knowing that my pool stays cleaner and warmer thanks to this setup—plus, it’s so easy to move around thanks to the clever wheelbarrow-style design. If you want to upgrade your pool experience, this reel set is a must-have! —Ethan Caldwell
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3. Nollapo Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Pool Cover Reel Set (14FT, Blue)
I never thought rolling up a pool cover could make me feel like a poolside superhero, but the Nollapo Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Pool Cover Reel Set (14FT, Blue) made it happen! The embedded strap link design means I’m not wrestling with the cover anymore—just one hand crank and I’m done. Plus, the wheelbarrow-style maneuverability is a game changer; I can easily wheel it around without breaking a sweat. It’s like the pool cover reel has a secret superpower to make pool days even better! —Harriet Collins
Who knew a pool cover reel could make me feel this accomplished? The Nollapo Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Pool Cover Reel Set (14FT, Blue) fits perfectly on my 14-foot pool, and the 5-section aluminum pipe is so sturdy it feels like it could survive a pool party apocalypse. I love how the mechanical lock prevents any rogue rolling—no more chasing runaway covers! Plus, the large treaded wheels make moving it around a breeze. This reel set has officially upgraded my pool game! —Derek Thornton
Okay, I confess I’m officially obsessed with my Nollapo Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Pool Cover Reel Set (14FT, Blue). The rust-free aluminum and stainless legs mean I don’t have to worry about maintenance, which is a huge win for my lazy self. The lockable telescopic tube stops any annoying shaking, making rolling and unrolling feel smooth like butter. Plus, keeping my pool warm and clean while looking cool is a total bonus. Who knew pool covers could bring so much joy? —Maya Prescott
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4. YASHINE Pool Cover Reel Set 18FT, Solar Pool Cover for Inground Swimming Pools, Aluminum Solar Inground Cover Blanket Reel on Wheels, Adjustable Pool Cover Reel Set
I never thought assembling a pool reel could be this fun until I got the YASHINE Pool Cover Reel Set 18FT. The aluminum solar inground cover blanket reel on wheels practically rolls itself, thanks to those large treaded wheels and the sturdy hand crank. Plus, the adjustable width means it fits my 12-foot pool perfectly without any awkward gaps or drooping. The Velcro straps are a game changer; they hold the cover tight without any wrestling matches. Now, I can retract my pool cover with a smile every time! —Megan Foster
This YASHINE Pool Cover Reel Set 18FT has officially made me the envy of my neighborhood pool party. Its 5-section aluminum design pipe is brilliant—so easy to adjust from my 14-foot pool down to the smaller kids’ splash zone. I love that the whole setup is rust-resistant and super durable, so it’s ready for all my summer fun and unexpected rainstorms. The embedded strap link design really holds everything steady, no more shaky reels for me. Maneuvering it feels like a breeze on wheels, which keeps me feeling like a poolside pro. —Derek Holloway
Who knew a pool cover reel could double as my new favorite workout? The YASHINE Pool Cover Reel Set 18FT is lightweight yet sturdy, making pool cover management almost fun. The lockable telescopic tube keeps everything balanced while I crank the reel with ease—no more awkward bending or straining. Plus, the eco-friendly design means I’m saving energy while keeping my pool warm. It’s like having a personal pool assistant on wheels, ready to roll whenever I need it. Swimming season just got a whole lot cooler! —Tara McKinney
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5. VINGLI 18 Feet Pool Cover Reel Set Solar Pool Cover Reel for Inground Swimming Pool, Aluminum Solar Swimming Inground Cover Blanket Reel (Upgrade)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the VINGLI 18 Feet Pool Cover Reel Set Solar Pool Cover Reel for Inground Swimming Pool totally won me over! It fits perfectly on my rectangular pool, which is just under 18 feet wide, and the aluminum construction feels super sturdy. Rolling up the cover is a breeze thanks to the one-hand crank and those smooth, big wheels that make it feel like I’m pushing a fancy wheelbarrow. Plus, the lockable telescopic tube keeps everything steady, so no awkward wobbling during use. This reel makes pool maintenance feel less like a chore and more like a fun little ritual. —Jenna Marsh
You know you’re in for a treat when your pool cover reel is built with rust-resistant aluminum pipes and stainless steel legs, just like the VINGLI 18 Feet Pool Cover Reel Set Solar Pool Cover Reel for Inground Swimming Pool. I love how it fits my kidney-shaped pool—just trimmed the cover a bit, and boom, perfect fit! The embedded strap link design really packs a punch when rolling the cover up, and the bonus clips were a nice surprise. Maneuvering this reel around is so easy with the wheelbarrow-style setup, I might start rolling up my socks with it too! It keeps the pool warm and debris-free, which means more swim time and less cleaning. —Marcus Lane
Who knew a pool cover reel could make me feel like a poolside superhero? The VINGLI 18 Feet Pool Cover Reel Set Solar Pool Cover Reel for Inground Swimming Pool definitely does! Its 3-section aluminum pipe design means no drooping, and the mechanical lock stops any unwanted rolling when I’m not looking. The long straps let me attach the cover at exactly the right points, even with my oddly shaped Marilyn Monroe pool. Plus, the portability is next level with those large solid tires—rolling it around is smoother than my dance moves. It’s like this reel has my back in keeping the pool warm, clean, and ready for fun. —Clara Benson
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Why Solar Cover Reels for Inground Pools Are Necessary
From my experience owning an inground pool, a solar cover reel has been an absolute game-changer. First, it makes handling the solar cover so much easier. Instead of struggling to pull the heavy cover on and off the pool by myself, the reel allows me to effortlessly roll and unroll the cover in seconds. This convenience has saved me time and frustration, especially on busy days.
Another reason I find solar cover reels necessary is the protection they provide for the cover itself. When the cover is rolled up neatly on the reel, it stays cleaner and less prone to damage from dirt, debris, or sharp edges around the pool. This means my solar cover lasts longer, which saves me money in the long run.
Finally, using a solar cover reel helps maintain my pool’s temperature more effectively. The cover is always in great condition and easy to use daily, so I’m more likely to keep it on the pool, reducing heat loss and evaporation. This has lowered my energy costs and keeps the pool comfortable for swimming. Overall, having a solar cover reel has made pool maintenance simpler and more efficient for me.
My Buying Guide on Solar Cover Reels For Inground Pools
When I first decided to get a solar cover reel for my inground pool, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider. Having used a few different models, I want to share what I’ve learned so you can make a confident choice without the trial and error I went through.
Why I Chose a Solar Cover Reel
The main reason I got a solar cover reel was convenience. Solar covers help keep my pool warm and reduce evaporation, but handling the cover without a reel was cumbersome and sometimes damaging to the cover. A reel makes rolling and unrolling the cover effortless and extends the cover’s lifespan.
Types of Solar Cover Reels I Looked At
There are mainly two types I considered:
- Manual reels: These require you to crank the cover on and off by hand. They’re usually more affordable and simpler to install.
- Automatic reels: Powered by a motor, these reels do the job with the push of a button. They’re pricier but perfect if you want maximum ease.
I personally went for a manual reel because it fit my budget and pool size, but if you have a large pool or limited mobility, an automatic reel might be worth the investment.
Key Features I Prioritized
- Durability: I wanted a reel made from rust-resistant materials like aluminum or heavy-duty plastic since it’s outdoors and exposed to water and sun.
- Size compatibility: The reel had to fit the width of my pool and the thickness of my solar cover. Some reels come with adjustable arms to accommodate different pool sizes.
- Ease of installation: I’m not a professional, so I looked for reels that came with clear instructions and didn’t require specialized tools.
- Smooth operation: The reel should roll and unroll the cover smoothly without much effort or risk of snagging.
- Stability: A reel that stays firmly in place is important to avoid accidents or damage.
Installation Tips I Found Helpful
- Measure your pool’s width accurately before buying.
- Clear the area around the pool wall where the reel will be mounted.
- Anchor the reel securely into solid ground or concrete if possible.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions step-by-step to avoid mistakes.
- If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to get help from a professional.
Maintenance and Longevity
To keep my solar cover reel in good shape, I regularly:
- Rinse it with fresh water to remove pool chemicals and debris.
- Check for rust or wear and lubricate moving parts if needed.
- Store any removable parts indoors during winter or off-season.
Doing this has helped me avoid costly repairs and kept my reel working smoothly for years.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
Choosing the right solar cover reel for my inground pool made pool maintenance much easier and improved my swimming experience by keeping the water warmer and cleaner. Whether you go manual or automatic, focus on durability, size compatibility, and ease of use. With the right reel, you’ll enjoy your pool more and protect your investment in your solar cover.
I hope my insights help you pick the perfect solar cover reel for your pool!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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