🌊 Energy Guard 500M GeoBubble Solar Cover (16ft x 32ft) – Stop Algae, Save £800+ Annually
The Premium Algae-Fighting Solar Cover That Pays For Itself in Under 12 Months
Your pool’s biggest hidden costs aren’t the electricity or chemicals you see—they’re the constant battle against algae growth eating through your budget.
Every day your pool sits uncovered, you’re essentially throwing money into the water. Between excessive chemical treatments (£150-300/year), extended pump running times (adding £200+ to electricity bills), constant cleaning, and the frustration of dealing with green water… the average UK pool owner spends £600-900 annually fighting problems that could be prevented.
The Energy Guard 500M GeoBubble Solar Cover eliminates these costs at the source.
This isn’t just another pool cover—it’s a scientifically-engineered algae prevention system that simultaneously heats your pool, slashes energy consumption, and dramatically reduces chemical usage. University-tested and proven to inhibit algae growth through selective light transmission technology, this cover delivers measurable savings of £800+ per year while keeping your pool crystal clear.
💰 What This Cover Will Save You (Real Numbers for Average 4m x 8m UK Pool)
| Cost Category | Annual Savings | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Costs | £210-350* | Up to 70% reduction (11kg chlorine saved) through algae inhibition |
| Electricity (Pump) | £180-250* | 50% reduction in filtration time—no algae means less pumping |
| Heating Energy | £250-400* | Over 50% energy savings (5,000 kWh saved with heat pump) |
| Water Bills | £80-120* | 98% evaporation reduction (32,000 litres = 400 baths) |
| Total Annual Savings | £720-1,120* | ROI: 8-12 months |
Based on: average 4m x 8m UK pool, 6-month swimming season, £0.24/kWh electricity, £3.50/m³ water, £20/5L chlorine. Individual results vary based on pool size, usage, climate, and maintenance practices. See detailed assumptions below.
🎯 The Algae Problem (And Why Standard Covers Can’t Solve It)
Here’s what most pool owners don’t realize: Standard clear or blue solar covers actually encourage algae growth.
Why? They let sunlight penetrate into the water while keeping it warm—creating the perfect greenhouse effect for algae to thrive. You end up with a warmer pool… and a green one.
The Energy Guard Difference: Selective Transmission Technology
The Energy Guard uses a revolutionary dual-layer design:
- Dark grey top surface + black underside = blocks the specific UV wavelengths that trigger photosynthesis in algae
- Selective light transmission = allows heat-generating solar energy through while blocking algae-feeding light
- Result: Your pool stays warm AND crystal clear—without the chemical warfare
University Proof: In controlled 10-week testing, pools with standard covers turned green within days. Pools with Energy Guard covers remained completely algae-free—even without chemical treatment or filtration.
✅ 8 Ways This Cover Transforms Your Pool Ownership Experience
1. 🚫 Physically Blocks Algae Growth (60-70% Chemical Reduction)
The Problem: Algae blooms cost UK pool owners £150-300/year in shock treatments, algaecides, and extra chlorine.
The Solution: Energy Guard’s opaque design stops photosynthesis before algae can start. No light = no algae growth = no emergency chemical treatments.
Real Savings:
- Up to 11kg of chlorine saved annually (that’s 2-3 large buckets)
- 60-70% reduction in pH balancers (less algae = more stable pH)
- Eliminate expensive algaecide treatments (£30-50 per bloom)
- Avoid filter cleaning/backwashing from algae buildup
Bottom Line: £210-350 stays in your pocket instead of dissolving in the water.
2. ⚡ Slashes Pump Running Time by 50% (£180-250/Year Electricity Savings)
The Problem: Most pool owners run pumps 8-12 hours daily to combat algae and circulate chemicals. At £0.24/kWh, that’s £3-5 per day.
The Solution: No algae = dramatically reduced filtration requirements. You still circulate water to remove debris and maintain water quality, but you can safely cut runtime in half.
Real Savings:
- Reduce from 10 hours/day to 5 hours/day during season
- Save approximately 900 kWh over 6-month season
- Annual electricity savings: £180-250*
- Bonus: Extended pump lifespan from reduced wear
Based on 1.5HP pump running at 1.1kW. Actual savings vary by pump size and usage patterns.
3. 🔥 Cuts Heating Costs by Over 50% (£250-400/Year)
The Problem: Pool heating is expensive. Heat pumps, gas heaters, and electric heaters can cost £500-800+ per swimming season in the UK.
The Solution: Energy Guard works three ways to slash heating costs:
Heat Absorption: The dark grey surface absorbs solar energy like a black tarmac road on a summer day, then transfers it directly to the water below. Temperature increases of up to 4°C from solar gain alone.
Heat Retention: The 500-micron GeoBubble structure creates thousands of insulating air pockets that trap warmth like a duvet. Heat radiation is dramatically reduced—especially crucial during cool UK nights.
Evaporation Elimination: Evaporation is the #1 cause of pool heat loss (accounting for 70% of total heat loss). Energy Guard eliminates 98% of evaporation, keeping your hard-earned heat in the pool.
Real Savings:
- Modern heat pump users: Save up to 5,000 kWh annually = £1,200 at current rates
- Gas heater users: Reduce consumption by 50%+ = £250-400 savings
- Electric resistance heaters: Cut costs by over 50% = £300-500 savings
- Solar heating systems: Need 50% fewer panels for same results
4. 💧 Eliminates 32,000 Litres of Water Waste (£80-120/Year + Environmental Impact)
The Problem: The average uncovered UK pool loses 32,000 litres annually to evaporation. That’s equivalent to 400 full baths disappearing into thin air.
The Solution: Energy Guard’s complete surface coverage eliminates 98%+ of water evaporation.
Real Savings:
- 32,000 litres retained = £80-120 in water bills saved
- Fewer top-ups = less time spent with the hose
- Stable water chemistry (chemicals don’t concentrate as water evaporates)
- Reduced environmental footprint in water-stressed areas
The Hidden Benefit: Every time you top up your pool, you’re adding cold water that needs heating and fresh water that needs chemical balancing. Preventing evaporation saves on BOTH fronts.
5. 🛡️ 25% Longer Lifespan with GeoBubble Technology
The Problem: Traditional bubble covers fail after 2-3 seasons. The thin points where bubbles meet are vulnerable to UV damage, chemical attack, and thermal stress.
The Solution: GeoBubble’s patented design eliminates weak points entirely.
The GeoBubble Advantage:
- Smart geometry: Two bubbles joined at a thick waistline (no thin weak points)
- 50% thicker material at stress points vs. traditional covers
- UV-stabilized formula resists sun degradation
- Chemical-resistant additives protect against chlorine attack
- Room for air expansion prevents bubble rupture from heat
Real Result: Covers last 4-5 seasons instead of 2-3, reducing replacement costs by 25-40%.
6. 🧹 Keeps Debris Out (Saves Hours of Cleaning)
The Problem: Leaves, insects, pollen, bird droppings, and dirt don’t just look unpleasant—they provide nutrients that feed algae and bacteria growth.
The Solution: Energy Guard’s robust 500-micron material creates a complete barrier.
Time & Money Saved:
- No daily skimming sessions (10-15 minutes saved daily)
- Fewer vacuum cycles needed
- Less filter cleaning/backwashing
- Reduced chlorine consumption (organic debris consumes sanitizer)
- Pool stays swim-ready at a moment’s notice
7. 🌍 Massive Environmental Benefits
Beyond personal savings, Energy Guard delivers meaningful environmental impact:
Carbon Footprint Reduction:
- 5,000 kWh saved = 1,200 kg CO₂ prevented annually (equivalent to driving 4,800 km)
- Reduced pump runtime = additional 900 kWh saved = 220 kg CO₂ prevented
Water Conservation:
- 32,000 litres conserved = vital in increasingly water-stressed UK summers
- Equivalent to 3-4 months of household water use for an average family
Chemical Reduction:
- 11kg less chlorine = reduced manufacturing and transportation impact
- Fewer chemical containers to dispose of
100% Recyclable: At end of life, the entire cover is Grade 4 LDPE recyclable.
8. 🏊 Better Swimming Experience
Crystal Clear Water: No algae means consistently beautiful, inviting water that’s always ready for swimming.
Stable Chemistry: Reduced evaporation and algae growth means pH stays balanced, chlorine levels remain consistent, and you spend less time testing and adjusting.
Warmer Water: Combined solar heating and heat retention can add 4-6°C to your pool temperature, extending your swimming season by weeks on both ends.
Safer Water: Lower bacterial counts and more stable sanitizer levels reduce risk of recreational water illnesses.
🔬 Why the 500M Thickness Matters
Pool covers are measured in microns (M). The Energy Guard’s 500-micron thickness hits the sweet spot for UK conditions:
| Thickness | Heat Retention | Durability | Solar Transmission | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 400M | Good | Moderate | High | Budget-conscious, above-ground pools |
| 500M ✓ | Excellent | High | Balanced | Most UK pools—optimal performance/value |
| 600M | Maximum | Very High | Lower | Premium protection, harsh climates |
Why 500M is ideal for Energy Guard:
- Thick enough for excellent heat retention and durability
- Maintains optimal light-blocking properties for algae prevention
- Easier to handle than 600M covers (lighter weight)
- Perfect balance of performance and longevity for UK conditions
📊 Technical Specifications: Energy Guard 500M GeoBubble
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 16ft x 32ft (4.9m x 9.8m) |
| Thickness | 500 microns (0.5mm) |
| Material | UV-stabilized LDPE with GeoBubble technology |
| Colour | Dark grey top surface / Black underside |
| Technology | Selective transmission (blocks algae-feeding UV, allows heat-generating solar energy) |
| Warranty | 6-year pro-rata (UK & Ireland only) |
| Bubble Design | Patented GeoBubble (twin bubbles with reinforced waistline) |
| Evaporation Reduction | 98%+ |
| Heat Loss Reduction | 50%+ (university tested) |
| Chemical Savings | Up to 70% (university tested) |
| Temperature Increase | Up to 4°C from solar gain |
| Recyclability | 100% (Grade 4 LDPE) |
| Manufacturing | Made to order (2-3 week lead time) |
⚖️ Energy Guard vs. Standard Solar Covers: The Real Comparison
| Feature | Standard Clear/Blue Cover | Energy Guard 500M |
|---|---|---|
| Algae Prevention | ❌ None (may accelerate growth) | ✅ Active inhibition via light blocking |
| Chemical Savings | 20-30% | 60-70% |
| Pump Time Reduction | Minimal | Up to 50% |
| Heat Retention | Good | Excellent (same 500M thickness) |
| Solar Heating | Higher (more UV transmission) | Moderate (selective transmission) |
| Durability | 2-3 years typical | 4-5 years (GeoBubble) |
| Water Clarity | Requires constant maintenance | Stays crystal clear |
| Total Annual Savings | £300-500 | £720-1,120 |
| Best For | Pools with minimal algae issues, maximum solar heating priority | Pools prone to algae, owners wanting lowest maintenance |
Bottom Line: If algae is a recurring issue (and for most UK outdoor pools, it is), Energy Guard saves you 2-3x more money while delivering a dramatically better ownership experience.
🏆 Why the 16ft x 32ft Size?
This 16ft x 32ft (4.9m x 9.8m) cover is specifically sized for:
- Standard rectangular pools: 15ft x 30ft with overhang
- Above-ground pools: 16ft x 32ft exact fit
- Custom pool shapes requiring this footprint
Important: All covers are made-to-order. If this size doesn’t match your pool exactly, Parts4Tubs offers bespoke sizing at no extra cost. Proper fit is critical for maximum effectiveness—use the solar cover calculator to determine your ideal dimensions.
Pro Tip: Your cover should overlap your pool edges by 6-12 inches for optimal seal and easier handling.
💭 Common Questions About Energy Guard Covers
“Will this really stop algae without chemicals?”
The university testing was unambiguous: Energy Guard-covered pools showed zero algae growth even without chemical treatment or filtration for 10 weeks. In real-world use, you’ll still use some chemicals for sanitation and pH balance, but your consumption will drop 60-70% because you’re not fighting algae blooms.
“How does it compare to the Sol+Guard clear cover?”
Sol+Guard (clear) is optimized for maximum solar heating—it transmits more UV rays to warm water faster. Choose it if you live in a cooler area and heating is your #1 priority.
Energy Guard (dark) is optimized for algae prevention and overall cost reduction. It still provides excellent solar gain (up to 4°C temperature increase) but prioritizes blocking algae-feeding wavelengths. Choose it if you’ve ever battled green water or want the lowest total operating costs.
Most UK pool owners save more money with Energy Guard because chemical and pump savings exceed the modest solar heating difference.
“Can I use this year-round in the UK?”
Energy Guard is designed for the swimming season (typically April-October in the UK). For winter, you should switch to a dedicated winter cover designed for harsh weather and debris loads.
Recommended approach:
- April-October: Energy Guard for heating, algae prevention, daily protection
- November-March: Robust winter mesh cover for weather protection
- Store Energy Guard indoors during winter to maximize its 4-5 year lifespan
“Will this fit on my pool roller?”
Yes! Energy Guard 500M works with standard pool roller systems. The 500-micron thickness provides good stiffness for rolling while remaining manageable for one person to operate.
Cover weight: Approximately 14-16 kg for this 16x32ft size when dry (manageable for most adults).
“What about the warranty conditions?”
The 6-year pro-rata warranty is void if:
- Pool water temperature exceeds 29°C (monitor if you have very powerful heating)
- Chemical levels exceed SPATA standards (don’t over-chlorinate)
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) are outside recommended ranges (test annually)
Translation: Maintain your pool properly (which you should anyway), and you’re covered.
“How do I install and remove it?”
Bubbles face DOWN (toward the water). This allows the heated air in the bubbles to transfer warmth directly to the water.
Installation: Simply unroll across the pool surface. For larger pools, consider a roller system for easy daily use.
Daily removal: Takes 2-3 minutes with a roller, 5-7 minutes manually.
Storage: Roll onto the roller or fold and store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.
🎯 Is Energy Guard Right for Your Pool?
Energy Guard 500M is PERFECT for you if:
✅ You’ve ever had algae problems (even minor ones)
✅ You’re frustrated by high chemical costs
✅ You want to reduce time spent on pool maintenance
✅ Your electricity bills are painful during pool season
✅ You want the best overall value and ROI
✅ You’re environmentally conscious about water/energy use
✅ You want a cover that lasts 4-5 seasons
Consider alternatives if:
❌ You live in a very cold/cloudy region and maximum solar heating is critical (→ try Sol+Guard 500M clear cover)
❌ You need a safety cover that supports weight (→ Energy Guard is not a safety cover)
❌ Your pool never has algae issues and you only want basic coverage (→ a 400M budget cover may suffice)
💷 Price vs. Value: The 12-Month ROI Story
Let’s be transparent about the investment:
Cover Cost: This 16ft x 32ft Energy Guard costs approximately £XXX (check current pricing)
Year 1 Return on Investment:
| Month | Cumulative Savings* |
|---|---|
| Month 1-2 | £120-180 (heating + chemicals) |
| Month 3-4 | £240-360 |
| Month 5-6 | £360-540 |
| Month 7-8 | £480-720 |
| Month 9-10 | £600-900 |
| Month 11-12 | £720-1,120 |
Payback Period: Approximately 8-12 months depending on your pool usage, size, and energy costs.
Years 2-5: Pure savings. You could recoup £2,880-4,480 over a typical 4-year lifespan.
Assumes average 4m x 8m pool scaled for cover size, 6-month season. Your actual savings depend on multiple factors detailed in assumptions section.
📋 Detailed Savings Calculation Assumptions & Disclaimers
All financial savings calculations are estimates based on the following assumptions:
Pool Specifications:
- Size: 4m x 8m (32m² surface area) as baseline, scaled proportionally for cover size
- Type: Outdoor in-ground pool in UK climate
- Season: 6 months (April-October)
- Water temperature target: 26-28°C
- Initial condition: Pool operated without cover prior to Energy Guard installation
Energy Costs:
- Electricity: £0.24/kWh (2024 UK average; actual rates vary by supplier and tariff)
- Heat pump efficiency: COP 5.0 (modern efficient unit)
- Pump power consumption: 1.1 kW for circulation pump
- Baseline pump runtime: 10 hours/day reduced to 5 hours/day with Energy Guard
Chemical Costs:
- Chlorine: £20 per 5kg bucket
- Baseline consumption: 15-16 kg/season without cover
- Reduced consumption: 5-6 kg/season with Energy Guard (60-70% reduction)
- pH balancers: £30/season reduced by approximately 50%
Water Costs:
- Water/sewerage: £3.50/m³ (UK average; check your water supplier)
- Evaporation: 32,000L baseline reduced by 98% with cover
Weather/Usage:
- UK climate: Mix of sunny, cloudy, and rainy days
- Pool usage: Moderate recreational use (not heavy commercial use)
- Cover usage: Applied when pool not in use (minimum 12 hours/day)
Performance Metrics:
- Based on university research cited by cover manufacturer
- Individual results vary based on: local climate, pool construction, shading, wind exposure, actual usage patterns, water chemistry maintenance, cover fit quality, and heating system type
Important Notes:
- Savings are cumulative and include chemical, electricity (heating + pump), and water cost reductions
- ROI calculations assume cover is properly maintained and used consistently
- Warranty conditions must be met (water temp <29°C, proper chemical levels)
- Cost figures are estimates and not guarantees
- Energy prices fluctuate—higher rates increase savings potential
- Made-to-order covers require 2-3 week manufacturing time
🚀 Ready to Stop Fighting Algae and Start Saving?
Every day without Energy Guard is another day of:
- ❌ Watching your energy meter spin during heating cycles
- ❌ Pouring chemicals into water that evaporates overnight
- ❌ Battling algae blooms instead of enjoying your pool
- ❌ Running your pump overtime to compensate
- ❌ Literally watching £2-3 disappear daily in operating costs
The Energy Guard 500M GeoBubble Cover ends this cycle.
What you get: ✅ Made-to-order 16ft x 32ft cover (perfect fit for your pool)
✅ Premium 500-micron GeoBubble technology (25% longer life)
✅ Selective transmission technology (scientific algae prevention)
✅ 6-year pro-rata warranty
✅ £720-1,120 annual savings potential
✅ Crystal clear water with 60-70% fewer chemicals
✅ 50% lower heating costs
✅ 50% less pump runtime
✅ 32,000 litres of water conserved annually
✅ Dramatically reduced maintenance time
Manufacturing: All covers are made-to-order to ensure perfect dimensions. Current lead time: 2-3 weeks from order.
Next Steps:
- Review your current costs: Check last year’s chemical and energy bills—your savings may be even higher
- Place your order: Secure your Energy Guard cover before the peak season rush
- Start saving in 2-3 weeks: Install takes minutes, savings begin immediately
🌟 The Bottom Line
The Energy Guard 500M GeoBubble Solar Cover isn’t an expense—it’s an investment that pays for itself in under a year while delivering a dramatically better pool ownership experience.
Stop battling algae. Stop overpaying for chemicals. Stop wasting energy.
Start enjoying crystal-clear water, lower bills, and effortless maintenance.
Your pool deserves the Energy Guard. Your wallet will thank you.
Questions? Our expert team can help you choose the perfect cover for your specific pool and climate conditions.
⚠️ Please Note: All covers are made-to-order items manufactured to your specifications. Lead time: 2-3 weeks. Not suitable as safety covers—do not walk on cover surface.



