💙 Blue 400M GeoBubble Solar Cover (10ft x 20ft) – Budget-Friendly Pool Protection That Pays for Itself
Save £500+ Per Year on Pool Running Costs* – The Smart Investment for UK Pool Owners
Stop wasting money heating water that evaporates overnight. For pool owners with a 10ft x 20ft swimming pool, the hidden costs of running an uncovered pool add up fast: £700-900 annually in unnecessary heating bills, 32,000 litres of evaporated water (that’s 400 baths!), and constant chemical rebalancing.*
The Blue 400M GeoBubble Solar Cover transforms these costly problems into savings. This budget-friendly cover delivers professional-grade heat retention at an accessible price point, typically paying for itself in just 6-8 months through reduced energy consumption alone.*
What makes this cover different? At 400 microns thick with patented GeoBubble technology, it provides the essential protection your pool needs without the premium price tag. Perfect for above-ground pools or as an economical outdoor pool solution, it offers the ideal balance of performance and value.
💰 The Real Cost of Running an Uncovered Pool
Let’s look at what UK pool owners actually spend when their pool sits uncovered:
Annual Costs Without a Cover (10ft x 20ft Pool):*
| Cost Category | Annual Amount | What You’re Losing |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Bills | £700-900 | Up to 75% heat loss to evaporation |
| Water Replacement | £80-120 | 32,000 litres evaporated (£0.25-0.38/100L) |
| Extra Chemicals | £120-180 | 30% higher consumption due to evaporation |
| Filter & Pump Time | £60-90 | Additional cleaning for debris |
| TOTAL ANNUAL WASTE | £960-1,290 | Money literally evaporating away |
Calculations based on: 10ft x 20ft (approx. 3m x 6m, 18m²) outdoor pool, heated to 28°C, 6-month swimming season (April-September), UK average energy rate £0.24/kWh, water rate £0.30/100L, gas heating or heat pump usage 8 hours/day during season. Individual results vary based on location, weather, usage patterns, and heating system efficiency.
With the Blue 400M GeoBubble Cover:
✅ Reduce heating costs by 60-70% – Save £420-630 annually*
✅ Stop 90-95% of water evaporation – Save £72-114 annually*
✅ Cut chemical consumption by 25-30% – Save £30-54 annually*
✅ Less debris cleaning – Save time and £40-70 in maintenance*
Total Annual Savings: £562-868*
Investment Recovery: 6-8 months based on typical UK pool running costs*
Performance estimates based on manufacturer specifications and typical UK conditions. Actual savings depend on pool location, weather exposure, heating system type, and usage patterns. See detailed assumptions in disclaimers section.
🏊 Why the 400M Thickness Is Perfect for Budget-Conscious Pool Owners
Not everyone needs the thickest cover on the market. The 400M Blue GeoBubble offers exceptional value by delivering the core benefits that matter most:
Key Performance Features:
Heat Retention Technology
- 400-micron thickness provides substantial insulation layer
- Air bubble structure traps warm air and reduces heat transfer
- 60-70% reduction in heating costs compared to uncovered pools*
- Maintains water temperature overnight, reducing morning warm-up time
Evaporation Control
- 90-95% reduction in water loss – keeps your pool full
- Saves 28,800-30,400 litres annually (360-380 baths worth of water)*
- Reduces frequency of water top-ups and chemical rebalancing
- Protects against hot, windy UK summer days when evaporation peaks
Blue Tinted Material Benefits
- UV protection helps preserve pool chemicals longer
- Slightly better algae resistance than clear covers (though not as strong as dark covers)
- Good visibility – you can see through to check water clarity
- Budget-friendly without sacrificing essential performance
GeoBubble Patented Technology
- 25% longer lifespan than traditional bubble covers
- Rounded bubble design distributes stress evenly, reducing tears
- Thicker bubble walls resist UV degradation and chemical damage
- 4-year material warranty – proof of quality construction
🔥 How Solar Covers Actually Work (And Why Thickness Matters)
Understanding the science helps you appreciate what you’re buying:
The Heat Retention Process:
- During the Day:
- The blue tinted material allows UV rays to penetrate
- Rays warm the water directly (up to 8°C increase in optimal conditions)*
- The bubble layer traps heat like a greenhouse
- Heat is transferred into the water rather than escaping to air
- At Night:
- The air-filled bubbles act as an insulating barrier
- Heat in the water is prevented from radiating into cooler night air
- The cover reduces evaporation (evaporation = rapid heat loss)
- Your pool stays warmer, ready for swimming the next day
400M vs. Thinner Covers:
| Feature | 400M (This Cover) | 200-300M (Basic Covers) |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Retention | Good – 60-70% savings* | Fair – 40-50% savings* |
| Durability | 4+ years with care | 2-3 years typical |
| Bubble Integrity | GeoBubble – lasts 25% longer | Traditional – tears more easily |
| UV Resistance | High | Moderate |
| Value Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best budget option | ⭐⭐⭐ Requires frequent replacement |
Why not go thicker? The 500M and 600M covers offer marginally better heat retention (5-10% improvement) but cost significantly more. For many pool owners, the 400M hits the “sweet spot” of performance per pound spent.
📊 Detailed Savings Breakdown: What This Cover Does for Your Wallet
Let’s get specific about where your money goes back in your pocket:
Energy Savings (Primary Benefit):
Scenario: Gas-Heated Pool
- Uncovered heating cost: £800/season (6 months, 8 hrs/day at £0.24/kWh)*
- With 400M cover (65% reduction): £280/season*
- Annual Savings: £520
Scenario: Heat Pump System
- Uncovered heating cost: £600/season (more efficient than gas)*
- With 400M cover (65% reduction): £210/season*
- Annual Savings: £390
Water Savings:
Evaporation Without Cover:
- 18m² pool surface loses ~6mm per day in UK summer*
- Daily loss: ~108 litres × 180 days = 19,440 litres/season*
- Add splashing, filter backwash: ~32,000 litres/year total*
- Cost at £0.30/100L: £96/year
With 400M Cover (95% reduction):
- Evaporation loss: ~1,600 litres/year*
- Cost: £5/year
- Water Savings: £91/year
Chemical Savings:
Why Uncovered Pools Use More Chemicals:
- Evaporation removes water but leaves chemicals behind (concentrated)
- Then you add fresh water (diluting chemicals below effective levels)
- Sun degrades chlorine faster when exposed directly
- Debris introduces contaminants requiring extra sanitizer
With Cover Protection:
- 25-30% reduction in chlorine needed (~5kg saved annually)*
- Less pH fluctuation = fewer balancing chemicals
- Typical savings: £30-50/year
Time Savings (Your Most Valuable Resource):
Hours Saved Per Season:
- Skimming debris: 30 hours → 5 hours (save 25 hours)
- Water testing & balancing: 20 hours → 14 hours (save 6 hours)
- Filter cleaning: 12 hours → 8 hours (save 4 hours)
- Total: 35 hours saved = nearly a full work week!
If your time is worth £15/hour, that’s an additional £525 value beyond the direct cost savings.
✅ Who Should Buy the Blue 400M GeoBubble Cover?
This cover is the ideal choice if you:
✓ Want proven savings without premium pricing
The 400M delivers 60-70% heating cost reduction at the most accessible price point in the GeoBubble range.
✓ Have an above-ground pool
Lightweight and easy to handle, perfect for pools without roller systems. The 10ft x 20ft size fits many popular above-ground rectangular pool models.
✓ Are new to solar covers
Start with excellent value and proven performance. You can always upgrade to 500M or 600M later if you want marginal gains.
✓ Have a seasonal outdoor pool
Use from April-September, then swap for a winter cover. The 4-year warranty means multiple seasons of reliable service.
✓ Have good sun exposure
The blue tinted material lets UV through to warm water while providing moderate algae protection. Best for pools that get 5+ hours of direct sunlight daily.
✓ Value proven technology
GeoBubble’s patented design lasts 25% longer than generic bubble covers, making this a smart long-term investment.
❌ When You Might Need a Different Cover
Consider the 500M or 600M Gold if:
- Your pool has heavy shade and needs maximum heat retention
- You want the absolute best insulation regardless of budget
- You run your pool year-round in a heated enclosure
- Your heating costs are extremely high (£1,200+/season)
Consider the 500M Energy Guard if:
- Your pool has persistent algae problems
- You need selective transmission (blocks light, allows UV heat)
- You want darker coverage for better algae control
Consider a Safety Cover if:
- You have young children or pets
- Safety is your absolute top priority
- You need a cover that can support weight
Consider a Winter Cover if:
- You’re looking for off-season protection
- You need to close the pool for 4-6 months
- Weather resistance is more important than heat retention
🔧 Technical Specifications & Installation
Product Details:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 10ft x 20ft (approx. 3.05m x 6.10m) |
| Material | Blue UV-resistant polyethylene with GeoBubble technology |
| Thickness | 400 microns (0.4mm) |
| Bubble Design | Patented GeoBubble shape for longevity |
| UV Protection | High – resists degradation from sunlight |
| Heat Retention | 60-70% reduction in heat loss* |
| Evaporation Control | 90-95% reduction* |
| Warranty | 4-year solar cover material warranty |
| Lifespan | 4-6 years with proper care and storage |
| Weight | Lightweight – easy to handle manually |
| Made to Order | Custom-cut for your dimensions |
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent – withstands chlorine, salt, pH fluctuations |
Installation Instructions:
1. Correct Orientation:
- Bubbles face DOWN into the water (this is critical!)
- The smooth side faces up toward the sun
- The air trapped in bubbles must contact water to transfer heat
2. Fitting Your Cover:
- The cover should float on the water surface
- Trim edges if needed for a precise fit around pool contours
- Leave small gaps near skimmers and returns for water circulation
- Can be used with manual roller systems for easy deployment
3. Daily Use:
- Remove cover before swimming
- Rinse debris off the top surface before rolling/folding
- Store in shaded area when not on pool to extend lifespan
- Can remain on pool while pump/filter runs (does not affect circulation)
4. Seasonal Storage:
- Clean cover thoroughly before storing
- Dry completely to prevent mildew
- Fold or roll loosely (avoid tight compression)
- Store in cool, dry location away from direct sunlight
- Replace with winter cover when pool closes (September/October)
🌡️ Performance Optimization: Get the Most from Your Cover
Maximizing Heating Efficiency:
Best Practices:
- Cover the pool every night – Even one uncovered night loses significant heat
- Keep cover on during cloudy days – Retention is more valuable than minimal solar gain
- Use with a heat pump or solar heater – Covers make heating systems 2-3x more efficient
- Remove only when swimming – The more hours covered, the better the savings
- Clean regularly – Debris on top blocks UV rays from reaching water
Understanding Your Climate:
UK Weather Considerations:
- Spring (April-May): Cover helps pools reach comfortable temps faster
- Summer (June-August): Maximum solar gain + evaporation protection
- Autumn (September): Extends swimming season by maintaining warmth
- Winter: Switch to winter cover; solar covers aren’t designed for harsh weather
Wind Impact: Wind accelerates evaporation dramatically. On windy days, an uncovered pool can lose 10-15mm of water depth, costing you heat and money. The cover eliminates this entirely.
Measuring Your Success:
Track these metrics to see your savings:
- Water temperature in morning vs. evening (should stay within 2-3°C overnight with cover)
- Weekly water top-up amounts (should drop by 90%+)
- Monthly energy bills during swim season (compare year-over-year)
- Chlorine consumption (track kg purchased per season)
Most pool owners notice reduced heating costs within the first month of use.
🛠️ Maintenance & Care Tips
Extending Your Cover’s Lifespan:
Weekly Maintenance:
- Hose off leaves, dirt, pollen from top surface
- Check for any tears or weak spots in bubbles
- Ensure even placement across pool surface
- Remove standing water from top (use pool cover pump if needed)
Monthly Checks:
- Inspect GeoBubble integrity (look for deflated or damaged bubbles)
- Clean any algae growth on underside (rare, but can happen)
- Verify chemical levels aren’t too high (extreme pH can damage material)
End-of-Season Care:
- Remove cover before pool temperature drops below 15°C
- Clean thoroughly with mild soap and water
- Dry completely before storage
- Apply UV protectant spray if storing outdoors (optional)
- Store flat or loosely rolled in garage/shed
Common Mistakes to Avoid: ❌ Leaving cover on pool during winter (use winter cover instead)
❌ Storing cover while still wet (causes mildew and degradation)
❌ Walking on cover (not a safety cover – will tear)
❌ Dragging cover across rough pool deck (causes abrasion damage)
❌ Exposing stored cover to direct sunlight (UV degrades material)
With proper care, expect 4-6 years of reliable service from your 400M GeoBubble cover.
💭 Frequently Asked Questions
About This Cover:
Q: How much weight can the Blue 400M cover support?
A: None. This is NOT a safety cover. It cannot support the weight of children, pets, or adults. If safety is a concern, consider a dedicated safety cover or install perimeter fencing.
Q: Will this cover heat my pool on its own?
A: It will help warm the water (up to 8°C increase in optimal conditions), but should not be your sole heating method. Best used WITH a heat pump or solar heater to maximize efficiency and maintain consistent comfortable temperatures.
Q: Can I use this cover in winter?
A: No. Solar covers are designed for the swimming season (April-September in the UK). Switch to a winter cover when closing your pool to protect against harsh weather and heavy debris.
Q: Do I need a roller system?
A: Not required, but recommended for pools larger than 12ft x 24ft. For this 10ft x 20ft size, manual handling is perfectly manageable for most people. Rollers make daily use more convenient and reduce wear from folding.
Q: How long does it take to see savings?
A: Most pool owners notice reduced heating costs within the first month. Water savings are immediate (less frequent top-ups). Chemical savings become apparent over 2-3 months as you rebalance less often.
Installation & Use:
Q: Which side goes up – bubbles or smooth side?
A: Bubbles face DOWN into the water. The smooth blue side faces up toward the sun. This allows the heated air in the bubbles to transfer warmth directly to the water.
Q: Can I leave the cover on while the pump runs?
A: Yes. As long as the cover is properly positioned and doesn’t obstruct skimmers or returns, your circulation system works normally underneath.
Q: What if my pool isn’t exactly 10ft x 20ft?
A: This is a standard size, but Parts4Tubs offers made-to-order custom sizing. Contact them with your exact dimensions for a perfectly fitted cover. Slight oversizing (1-2 inches) is better than undersizing.
Q: How do I clean the cover?
A: Hose off debris from the top surface weekly. For deeper cleaning, remove cover and wash with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and dry before storing or replacing on pool.
Q: Can I repair tears or holes?
A: Small punctures can be patched with vinyl repair kits designed for pool covers. Larger tears (>2 inches) are difficult to repair effectively. Proper handling and storage prevent most damage.
Performance & Savings:
Q: How much will I actually save with this cover?
A: Based on typical UK pools of this size: £560-870 annually in combined energy, water, and chemical savings.* Payback period is typically 6-8 months. See detailed calculations in the savings section above.
Q: Is the 400M thick enough, or should I upgrade to 500M/600M?
A: The 400M provides excellent value for most pool owners (60-70% heat retention). The 500M offers ~5% better retention; the 600M offers ~10% better retention. Unless you have extreme heating costs or minimal sun exposure, the 400M is the smarter investment based on price-to-performance ratio.
Q: Will this stop algae growth?
A: It helps by reducing debris and maintaining chemical levels, but the blue tinted material doesn’t block all light. If you have persistent algae problems, consider the 500M Energy Guard (dark, selective transmission cover) instead.
Q: Does the 4-year warranty cover everything?
A: The warranty covers manufacturing defects in materials. It does not cover damage from improper use, storage, chemical imbalance, or normal wear and tear. Read the full warranty terms at time of purchase.
Comparison Questions:
Q: How does this compare to cheap covers from big-box stores?
A: Generic bubble covers (£50-100) typically last 1-2 seasons and have 30-40% heat retention. The GeoBubble technology in this cover lasts 25% longer (4-6 years) and provides 60-70% retention. Over 5 years, this cover costs less per season and saves you significantly more money.
Q: What’s the difference between blue and clear covers?
A: Clear covers allow maximum UV penetration for solar heating but offer less chemical protection. Blue covers (like this one) provide a balance: good UV transmission for warming + moderate UV protection for chemicals. Clear is better if heating is your only priority; blue is better for overall pool health.
Q: Why choose this over a slatted automatic cover?
A: Cost. Slatted covers cost £3,000-8,000+ installed. This cover delivers similar heat retention and evaporation control for a fraction of the price. Slatted covers offer convenience (automatic) and some safety features, but for pure ROI, solar covers win decisively.
📋 Complete Specifications Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Blue 400M GeoBubble Solar Cover |
| Size | 10ft x 20ft (3.05m x 6.10m) |
| Thickness | 400 microns (0.4mm) |
| Material | UV-resistant polyethylene |
| Bubble Design | Patented GeoBubble (25% longer life) |
| Color | Blue (moderate UV transmission + protection) |
| Heat Retention | 60-70% reduction in heat loss* |
| Evaporation Reduction | 90-95%* |
| Chemical Savings | 25-30%* |
| Energy Savings | Up to 7,000 kWh/year (with heat pump)* |
| Temperature Gain | Up to 8°C in optimal conditions* |
| Warranty | 4-year material warranty |
| Expected Lifespan | 4-6 years with proper care |
| UV Resistance | High |
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent (chlorine, salt, pH fluctuations) |
| Weight | Lightweight – manual handling suitable |
| Installation | Bubbles face down, smooth side up |
| Roller Compatible | Yes (optional, not required for this size) |
| Safety Rating | Not a safety cover – cannot support weight |
| Seasonal Use | April-September (swimming season) |
| Winter Use | No – switch to winter cover |
| Made to Order | Yes – custom sizes available |
| Best For | Budget-conscious owners, above-ground pools, seasonal use |
🎯 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs?
✓ GeoBubble Authorized Dealer
Genuine patented technology with full manufacturer warranty
✓ Made-to-Order Precision
Custom-cut to your exact pool dimensions for perfect fit
✓ Expert Pool Knowledge
UK-specific advice on sizing, installation, and seasonal use
✓ 4-Year Material Warranty
Confidence in quality and durability
✓ Competitive Pricing
Professional-grade covers at accessible prices
✓ Custom Sizing Available
Don’t see your exact size? Request a bespoke quote
⚠️ Important Disclaimers & Assumptions
Cost Savings Calculations:
All savings figures marked with (*) are estimates based on the following typical scenarios and assumptions:
Pool Specifications:
- Size: 10ft x 20ft (18m² surface area, ~25,000-30,000L volume)
- Type: Outdoor, above-ground or in-ground
- Location: UK (Midlands/South), moderate sun exposure
- Season: 6 months (April-September), 180 days per year
- Usage: Recreational family pool, heated to 28°C target temperature
Energy Assumptions:
- Heating method: Gas boiler or air-source heat pump
- Heating duration: 8 hours per day to maintain temperature
- UK average energy rate: £0.24/kWh (2024-2025 typical rate)
- Heat loss rate: Based on UK ambient temperatures 15-22°C during season
- Cover efficiency: 60-70% heat retention based on 400M thickness and GeoBubble specifications
Water & Chemical Assumptions:
- UK water rates: £0.30 per 100 litres (combined water + sewerage)
- Evaporation rate: 6mm per day uncovered (UK summer average)
- Evaporation reduction: 90-95% with cover properly installed
- Pool chlorine consumption: 15-20kg per season uncovered
- Chemical reduction: 25-30% with cover (reduced evaporation + debris)
Performance Variables:
Your actual savings will vary based on:
- Weather conditions: More sun = more solar gain; wind increases evaporation
- Pool location: Shade, wind exposure, elevation affect heat loss
- Heating system efficiency: Older systems cost more to run
- Cover usage consistency: More hours covered = better savings
- Water chemistry: Higher chlorine levels can degrade cover faster
- Installation quality: Proper fit and bubble-down orientation maximize performance
- Energy prices: Rates vary by region and supplier
- Swimming frequency: More use = more time uncovered = less savings
- Pool condition: Older pools may lose more heat through structure
Warranty & Lifespan:
- 4-year warranty covers manufacturing defects, not damage from misuse
- Expected lifespan of 4-6 years assumes proper seasonal storage and care
- GeoBubble 25% longer life claim is manufacturer specification vs. traditional bubble covers
- UV and chemical resistance ratings based on standard UK pool conditions
Safety Disclaimer:
This is NOT a safety cover. It cannot support the weight of people or animals. Supervise children around pools at all times. Consider perimeter fencing or a dedicated safety cover if child/pet safety is a concern.
No Guarantee of Results:
While this cover is engineered to deliver the performance specifications listed, Parts4Tubs and the manufacturer cannot guarantee specific savings amounts for individual installations. The figures provided are typical examples for illustration purposes.
Product Availability:
All covers are made-to-order special items. Lead times vary. Confirm availability and delivery timeframe before purchase.
🛒 Ready to Start Saving? Here’s What to Do Next
Step 1: Verify Your Pool Size
This cover is sized for 10ft x 20ft pools. If your dimensions vary by more than 2-3 inches, consider custom sizing for the perfect fit.
Need custom sizing? Use the Parts4Tubs solar cover calculator or contact their team with your exact measurements.
Step 2: Understand Your Investment
- Upfront cost: [Product price – check current listing]
- Expected savings: £560-870 per year*
- Payback period: 6-8 months typical*
- Lifespan value: £2,240-3,480 total savings over 4 years*
Step 3: Consider Add-Ons
- Pool cover roller: Makes daily use easier (optional for this size)
- Cover repair kit: For minor puncture repairs
- Winter cover: For off-season protection (September-March)
Step 4: Order With Confidence
- ✅ 4-year material warranty
- ✅ Made-to-order precision
- ✅ GeoBubble patented technology
- ✅ UK-based expert support
Questions before you buy? Contact Parts4Tubs for personalized advice on sizing, installation, or performance expectations for your specific pool setup.
💙 The Bottom Line: Value You Can Count On
The Blue 400M GeoBubble Solar Cover isn’t the most expensive cover on the market – and that’s exactly the point.
For pool owners who want proven savings, reliable performance, and excellent value, this cover delivers where it matters most: cutting your heating bills by 60-70%, eliminating water waste, and reducing chemical consumption.* It does all this while lasting 4-6 years thanks to GeoBubble’s patented design.
You don’t need the thickest cover to save serious money. You need the right balance of performance and price – and this is it.
Start saving £500+ annually. Order your Blue 400M GeoBubble Solar Cover today.


