🌿 Energy Guard 500M GeoBubble Solar Cover – 18ft x 36ft | Stop Algae Growth & Save £800+ Annually
The UK’s Most Advanced Algae-Fighting Pool Cover with Proven Chemical Savings of Up to 70%
Pool constantly turning green? Spending £60+ monthly on chemicals? The Energy Guard 500M GeoBubble Solar Cover solves your algae problems while slashing your running costs by over £800 per year.*
This isn’t just another pool cover – it’s a scientifically proven algae inhibitor that blocks the specific light wavelengths algae needs to grow, while still allowing solar energy to heat your pool. University-tested results show pools stayed algae-free for 10+ weeks with zero chemicals.
💰 Your Annual Savings Breakdown (18ft x 36ft Pool)
| Cost Category | Annual Saving | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Costs | £420-550 | Up to 70% reduction (11kg chlorine saved) |
| Electricity (Filtration) | £180-240 | 50% less pump running time needed |
| Heating Costs | £200-280 | 50%+ energy reduction via heat retention |
| Water Bills | £95-130 | 32,000 litres saved (98% evaporation eliminated) |
| TOTAL SAVINGS | £895-1,200/year | Pays for itself in 6-9 months |
Based on a 4m x 8m (13ft x 26ft) outdoor pool in UK climate with modern heat pump. Your 18ft x 36ft pool will see proportionally higher savings. Assumptions detailed in disclaimers.
🔬 Why Energy Guard Outperforms Standard Solar Covers
The Algae Problem (And Why Most Covers Don’t Help)
Standard clear or blue solar covers let light penetrate into your pool water. While this provides some solar heating, it also feeds algae growth – the same photosynthesis that turns your pool green despite regular chemical treatment.
The result? You’re fighting a losing battle:
- Constantly shocking the pool with extra chlorine
- Running your filter 8-12 hours daily just to keep water clear
- Re-testing and rebalancing chemicals weekly
- Dealing with cloudy water and slippery surfaces
The Energy Guard Solution: Selective Transmission Technology
Energy Guard uses a dual-layer design that’s revolutionary:
Dark Grey Top Surface → Absorbs solar energy efficiently (similar to black’s heat absorption properties)
Black Underside → Blocks algae-feeding light wavelengths from entering the water
This means you get:
- ✅ Solar heating (up to 4°C temperature increase)
- ✅ Algae prevention (blocks photosynthesis completely)
- ✅ Heat retention (98% evaporation elimination)
- ❌ NO green water (even without chemical treatment)
📊 The University-Backed Algae Test That Proves It Works
10-Week Trial: Energy Guard vs. Standard Solar Cover
Test Conditions:
- Two identical outdoor pools
- Regular simulated use (no chemicals, no filtration)
- UK climate conditions
Results:
| Timeline | Standard Solar Cover | Energy Guard Cover |
|---|---|---|
| Day 3 | Water starting to cloud | Crystal clear |
| Day 7 | Visible green tint | Crystal clear |
| Day 10 | Fully green, algae bloom | Crystal clear |
| Week 10 | Test abandoned (unusable) | Still algae-free |
The Energy Guard pool remained completely algae-free for the entire 10-week period – without a single chemical treatment or minute of filtration.
What This Means for You
You won’t eliminate chemicals entirely (we recommend maintaining safe minimum levels), but you’ll dramatically reduce consumption:
- Before Energy Guard: 15-16kg chlorine annually (£50-60/month)
- After Energy Guard: 4-5kg chlorine annually (£15-20/month)
- Your Savings: £420-550 per year on chemicals alone
🏊 Complete Financial Breakdown: How Energy Guard Pays for Itself in Under 7 Months
Initial Investment
- Cover Cost: £595 (18ft x 36ft with GeoBubble technology)
- Optional Roller System: £150-250 (makes daily use effortless)
Monthly Cost Reductions
1. Chemical Savings: £35-45/month
- 70% reduction in chlorine consumption (11kg saved annually)
- 60% reduction in pH adjusters (less algae = more stable pH)
- Fewer shock treatments needed (algae prevented, not treated)
2. Filtration Savings: £15-20/month
- Cut pump running time by 50% (4-6 hours vs. 8-12 hours daily)
- Reduced filter cleaning (less algae debris)
- Extended equipment lifespan (less strain)
3. Heating Savings: £17-23/month (April-September)
- 50%+ energy reduction through heat retention
- Eliminate evaporative cooling (the biggest heat loss)
- Pool heats faster and maintains temperature longer
4. Water Savings: £8-11/month
- 32,000 litres conserved annually (400 baths worth)
- Reduced water treatment chemicals (less topping up)
ROI Timeline
- Monthly Savings: £75-100
- Payback Period: 6-9 months
- 5-Year Net Savings: £3,880-5,405 (after cover cost)
🛡️ GeoBubble Technology: 25% Longer Lifespan = Better Value
Why Standard Bubble Covers Fail Early
Traditional bubble wrap-style covers were never designed for pool environments. They have:
- Thin stress points where bubbles connect
- Sharp corners that concentrate UV damage
- Limited air expansion space causing bubble rupture
Result? Most standard covers deteriorate within 2-3 years.
GeoBubble’s Patented Design Advantage
✅ No Thin Points – Uniform thickness throughout (50% thicker than traditional designs)
✅ No Sharp Corners – Smooth waistline connection between bubbles
✅ UV Stabilized Material – Advanced additive package resists sun damage
✅ Room for Expansion – Air bubbles accommodate heat expansion without rupturing
Proven Result: GeoBubble covers last 25% longer than standard bubble covers – meaning 4+ years of reliable performance with proper care.
500M Thickness Sweet Spot
At 500 microns (0.5mm), Energy Guard offers the ideal balance:
- Thick enough for excellent heat retention and durability
- Light enough for easy handling (one person can deploy/remove)
- Compatible with standard roller systems
- Proven performance in UK climate conditions
🌡️ Performance Specifications: What You Can Expect
Heat Retention & Solar Gain
| Metric | Performance | Real-World Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Evaporation Prevention | 98%+ | Eliminates cooling effect of evaporation |
| Heat Loss Reduction | 50-60% | Pool stays warmer overnight |
| Solar Temperature Gain | Up to 4°C | Extends swimming season weeks earlier/later |
| Energy Savings | 50-70% | Reduced heating system runtime |
Chemical & Maintenance Benefits
| Benefit | Reduction | Annual Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Chlorine Usage | Up to 70% | 11kg saved (£420-550) |
| pH Adjusters | Up to 60% | Fewer chemicals, more stable water |
| Filtration Time | Up to 50% | £180-240 electricity savings |
| Filter Cleaning | Significant | Less labor, longer equipment life |
Environmental Conservation
- Water Saved: 32,000 litres annually (400 baths)
- Carbon Reduction: Lower energy = smaller carbon footprint
- Recyclable: 100% Grade 4 LDPE at end-of-life
🆚 Energy Guard vs. Other Cover Types: The Comparison
Energy Guard 500M vs. Sol+Guard 500M (Clear Cover)
| Feature | Energy Guard | Sol+Guard |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Algae-prone pools | Maximum solar heating |
| Light Transmission | Selective (blocks algae wavelengths) | Full (allows all UV) |
| Algae Prevention | ✅ Excellent | ❌ None |
| Solar Heating | ✅ Good (4°C gain) | ✅ Excellent (6-8°C gain) |
| Chemical Savings | ✅ 70% reduction | Standard reduction |
| Ideal Climate | UK (moderate sun) | Hot climates (strong sun) |
Choose Energy Guard if: Your pool turns green easily, you’re tired of chemical battles, or you have partial shade.
Choose Sol+Guard if: Algae isn’t a problem, you prioritize maximum water temperature, and you have full sun exposure.
Energy Guard 500M vs. Gold 600M (Premium Heat Retention)
| Feature | Energy Guard 500M | Gold 600M |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 500 microns | 600 microns |
| Primary Benefit | Algae prevention | Maximum heat retention |
| Backing | Black (selective transmission) | Aluminum (heat reflection) |
| Heat Retention | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Superior |
| Algae Fighting | ✅ Best-in-class | Standard |
| Weight | Light | Heavier |
| Price Point | Mid-range | Premium |
Choose Energy Guard if: Algae is your main concern and you want lighter handling.
Choose Gold 600M if: Maximum heat retention is the priority and algae isn’t an issue.
🎯 Is Energy Guard Right for Your Pool?
✅ Perfect For:
Algae-Prone Pools
- Your pool has turned green in the past
- You have trees/landscaping providing partial shade
- You’ve struggled with persistent algae despite regular chlorination
Chemical-Conscious Owners
- You want to reduce exposure to pool chemicals
- You’re environmentally aware about chemical runoff
- You’re tired of constant water testing and rebalancing
Cost-Conscious Operators
- You’re spending £50+ monthly on chemicals
- Your energy bills are high from long filtration times
- You want measurable ROI on your pool accessories
Water Conservation Focused
- You’re on a water meter
- You live in a water-stressed area
- You value environmental stewardship
❌ Consider Alternatives If:
Maximum Solar Heating is Priority
- If your main goal is getting the hottest possible water temperature (not algae prevention), consider Sol+Guard 500M instead
- Energy Guard provides good solar gain (4°C) but Sol+Guard offers maximum gain (6-8°C)
You Have Indoor Pool
- Energy Guard is designed for outdoor pools where algae is a concern
- Indoor pools benefit more from foam covers
You Need Safety Coverage
- Solar covers don’t support weight of children/animals
- If safety is primary concern, consider tracked safety covers instead
📐 Perfect Fit for Your 18ft x 36ft Pool
Custom-Made Dimensions
Your Energy Guard cover is made to order specifically for 18ft x 36ft pools:
- Exact dimensions: 5.49m x 10.97m
- Coverage: Complete surface coverage edge-to-edge
- Overlap: Designed for secure fit without excess material
Installation Guidance
Bubble Side Down ✅
The air bubbles face the water for direct heat transfer and optimal performance.
Roller System Recommended 🎡
For an 18ft x 36ft cover, a roller system makes deployment and removal effortless:
- One person can handle cover in under 2 minutes
- Extends cover lifespan (reduces dragging/folding damage)
- Encourages daily use (the key to maximizing savings)
Seasonal Use Strategy
April – October: Daily use
- Deploy cover every evening after swimming
- Remove during daytime swimming hours
- Expect 6-9 months payback during first season
November – March: Winter storage
- Clean and dry thoroughly
- Store in cool, dark, dry location
- Switch to winter cover for cold months (Energy Guard not designed for harsh winter conditions)
🔧 Maintenance & Care for Maximum Lifespan
Daily Use
- Remove debris before folding (prevents grinding dirt into material)
- Use roller system to avoid dragging on pool deck
- Rinse occasionally with fresh water to remove chemical buildup
Monthly Care
- Check water chemistry – maintain SPATA standards (pH 7.2-7.6, chlorine 1-3 ppm)
- Keep water temperature below 29°C – excessive heat voids warranty
- Inspect for damage – repair small tears immediately to prevent expansion
Seasonal Storage
- Clean thoroughly with mild soap and water
- Dry completely before folding (prevents mildew)
- Store flat or loosely rolled in cool, dark, dry area
- Avoid sharp objects and pest access in storage area
Expected Lifespan
- With proper care: 4-5+ years
- With GeoBubble technology: 25% longer than standard covers
- Warranty: 6-year pro-rata coverage (UK & Ireland)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
General Performance
Q: Will I still need to add chlorine to my pool?
A: Yes, but dramatically less. Energy Guard prevents algae growth physically, but you still need minimum chlorine levels for sanitation (killing bacteria). Expect to use 70% less chlorine – about 4-5kg annually instead of 15-16kg.
Q: Can I heat my pool with the cover on?
A: Yes! In fact, it’s recommended. Heating with the cover on dramatically improves efficiency because you’re not losing heat to evaporation simultaneously. Your heat pump or heater will reach target temperature faster and maintain it longer.
Q: How much warmer will my pool be?
A: Energy Guard typically raises pool temperature by 3-4°C through solar gain and heat retention. This means you can start swimming 2-3 weeks earlier in spring and continue 2-3 weeks later in autumn compared to an uncovered pool.
Q: Does it work on cloudy days?
A: Yes. Even on overcast days, Energy Guard provides heat retention benefits by preventing evaporation (your biggest heat loss). The selective transmission design absorbs and transfers even diffused solar energy efficiently.
Algae Prevention
Q: My pool has severe algae problems. Will this really stop green water?
A: Yes, when used properly. The university test showed zero algae growth for 10+ weeks with no chemicals or filtration. However, you should start with a clear pool. If your pool is currently green, shock treat it first, then use Energy Guard to keep it clear while dramatically reducing ongoing chemical needs.
Q: What if I don’t cover the pool every day?
A: Consistency is key for algae prevention. Even 1-2 uncovered days per week can allow algae spores to begin photosynthesis. The more consistently you cover, the better the algae prevention. This is why a roller system (quick 2-minute deployment) is so valuable.
Q: Will my water look darker under the cover?
A: The water underneath appears darker because the opaque cover blocks light – that’s exactly how it prevents algae. Once you remove the cover for swimming, your water will look sparkling clear (often clearer than before because there’s no algae cloudiness).
Chemical & Cost Savings
Q: Can I really save 70% on chemicals?
A: Up to 70% is achievable with consistent daily use. The savings come from three sources: (1) algae prevention reduces chlorine demand, (2) reduced photolysis (sun breaking down chlorine), and (3) eliminated evaporation keeps chemicals in the water. Your actual savings depend on usage consistency and starting chemical consumption.
Q: How do I reduce filtration time by 50%?
A: When algae growth is prevented, your filter isn’t working to remove algae particles and debris. You’ll still need to filter for water circulation and removing other impurities, but 4-6 hours daily is typically sufficient instead of 8-12 hours. Monitor water clarity and adjust accordingly.
Q: What if energy prices increase?
A: Rising energy costs actually increase your savings. If electricity prices rise 20%, your 50% energy reduction becomes even more valuable financially. Energy Guard acts as a hedge against future utility rate increases.
Installation & Use
Q: Can one person handle this size cover (18ft x 36ft)?
A: Yes, but a roller system is highly recommended for this size. The 500M Energy Guard is lightweight enough for one person to manage, but a roller makes daily use effortless and prevents strain. Budget £150-250 for a quality roller system.
Q: Do the bubbles go up or down?
A: Bubbles face down toward the water. The air trapped in bubbles is heated by the sun, and facing down allows direct heat transfer into the pool water.
Q: Can I run my pool pump with the cover on?
A: Absolutely. The cover should be secured properly but won’t interfere with water circulation underneath. In fact, running your pump with the cover on improves heating efficiency.
Q: What if it rains – does water collect on top?
A: Some water collection is normal. For light rain, it usually drains off the edges naturally. For heavy rainfall, you may need to pump off standing water to prevent excess weight. A cover pump (£30-50) makes this easy.
Durability & Warranty
Q: How long will this cover last?
A: With proper care, expect 4-5+ years. GeoBubble technology extends lifespan 25% beyond standard bubble covers. Key factors: maintain proper water chemistry (pH 7.2-7.6), keep water below 29°C, use a roller system, and store properly during winter.
Q: What voids the warranty?
A: Three main factors: (1) water temperature exceeding 29°C, (2) chemical levels outside SPATA standards, and (3) excessive TDS (total dissolved solids). Maintaining proper water chemistry is essential for both warranty coverage and cover longevity.
Q: Is Energy Guard suitable for saltwater pools?
A: Yes, Energy Guard works excellently with saltwater chlorination systems. The UV-stabilized material resists salt-related degradation. You’ll see similar chemical savings percentages since algae prevention reduces the chlorine output required from your salt cell.
Q: What happens at the end of its life?
A: Energy Guard is 100% recyclable (Grade 4 LDPE). Check with your local recycling center for proper disposal. The material can be recycled into new plastic products, reducing landfill waste.
Climate & Conditions
Q: I live in Scotland/Northern England with limited sun – will this still work?
A: Yes, Energy Guard is ideal for UK climates with variable sunshine. The selective transmission design captures even diffused solar energy efficiently. More importantly, the heat retention benefits (98% evaporation prevention) work regardless of sun intensity. Your savings may be slightly lower than southern UK, but you’ll still see significant chemical and filtration cost reductions.
Q: What about windy locations?
A: Wind accelerates evaporation dramatically, so Energy Guard’s 98% evaporation prevention becomes even more valuable in exposed locations. Ensure the cover is properly secured (tucked under coping or weighted) to prevent wind getting underneath and lifting the cover.
Q: Can I use this cover in winter?
A: No, Energy Guard is designed for swimming season (April-October in UK). For winter, switch to a purpose-made winter cover designed for debris protection and harsh weather. Store Energy Guard properly during cold months to maximize its lifespan.
🛡️ What’s Included: Your Complete Package
Your Energy Guard Cover Includes:
- ✅ Custom 18ft x 36ft (5.49m x 10.97m) Energy Guard 500M GeoBubble cover
- ✅ Selective transmission technology (dark grey/black dual-layer design)
- ✅ GeoBubble patented bubble design (25% longer lifespan)
- ✅ UV-stabilized material with advanced additive package
- ✅ 6-year pro-rata manufacturer warranty (UK & Ireland)
- ✅ 100% recyclable Grade 4 LDPE material
- ✅ Made-to-order quality assurance
Optional Accessories (Recommended):
- 🎡 Roller System (£150-250) – Makes daily deployment effortless
- 🌡️ Floating Thermometer (£15-25) – Monitor your temperature gains
- 💧 Cover Pump (£30-50) – Remove rainwater quickly when needed
- 🧪 Water Test Kit (£20-35) – Maintain optimal chemistry for warranty
📋 Important Disclaimers & Assumptions
Savings Calculations Methodology
Chemical Savings (£420-550/year) Based on 4m x 8m UK outdoor pool, current chlorine costs £30-35 per 10kg, typical consumption 15-16kg annually without cover, 70% reduction achievable with consistent Energy Guard use. Your 18ft x 36ft pool has larger surface area (approximately 1.8x) so proportional savings may be higher. Actual savings vary with usage patterns, bather load, and starting chemical consumption.
Electricity Savings – Filtration (£180-240/year) Assumes pool pump rated 0.75-1.5kW running 8-12 hours daily without cover, reduced to 4-6 hours with Energy Guard (50% reduction), UK electricity rates £0.24-0.28 per kWh, swimming season April-October (7 months). Savings increase with higher pump wattage and extended season.
Heating Cost Savings (£200-280/year) Based on modern air source heat pump (COP 5.0-6.0) heating 4m x 8m pool, 50-60% energy reduction through evaporation prevention and heat retention, UK electricity rates, 5-month peak swimming season. Savings vary significantly with heater type (heat pump vs. gas vs. electric), target temperature, and climate. Gas/electric heaters will show higher absolute savings.
Water Savings (£95-130/year) Based on 32,000 litres annual evaporation (verified by UK university research) for 4m x 8m pool, 98% reduction with cover, UK water rates £1.50-2.00 per 1,000 litres including sewerage. Larger pools lose proportionally more water. Figure is conservative; windy/hot locations see higher evaporation.
Performance Variables
Factors That Increase Savings:
- Larger pool surface area (more evaporation/heat loss to prevent)
- Windy or exposed locations (accelerated evaporation without cover)
- Higher target water temperatures (more heating energy required)
- Extended swimming season (more months of use)
- Higher utility rates (energy, water, chemicals)
- Consistent daily cover deployment
Factors That May Reduce Savings:
- Inconsistent cover use (algae prevention requires daily deployment)
- Indoor or sheltered pools (less evaporation baseline)
- Cooler target temperatures (less heating required)
- Very high starting water quality (less room for chemical reduction)
- Areas with free/cheap water (lower water cost savings)
Warranty Conditions
6-year pro-rata warranty valid in UK & Ireland only. Warranty void if:
- Pool water temperature exceeds 29°C
- Chemical levels outside SPATA standards (pH 7.2-7.6, chlorine 1-3ppm, alkalinity 80-120ppm)
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) exceed recommended limits
- Cover damaged by improper use, storage, or maintenance
Product Lead Time
Energy Guard covers are made-to-order items manufactured to your exact specifications. Please allow:
- Production time: 2-3 weeks from order confirmation
- Delivery: Ships directly from manufacturer
- Planning: Order 3-4 weeks before desired use date
Health & Safety Notice
Solar covers are NOT safety covers. They cannot support the weight of children, adults, or animals. If someone walks on a solar cover, they can fall through into the pool and become trapped underneath, causing serious injury or death.
If child/animal safety is a concern:
- Install a perimeter fence around pool area
- Consider a tracked safety cover instead of solar cover
- Never leave pool area unsupervised when cover is deployed
- Educate family members about cover dangers
🚀 Start Saving Today: Your Next Steps
1️⃣ Confirm Your Size
This page is for 18ft x 36ft covers. Need a different size?
- We offer made-to-measure covers for any pool shape/size
- Custom sizing available for irregular pool shapes
2️⃣ Consider a Roller System
For an 18ft x 36ft cover, we strongly recommend adding a roller system:
- Makes daily deployment/removal take just 2 minutes
- One person can handle the cover easily
- Extends cover lifespan (less dragging and folding damage)
- Encourages consistent use (key to maximizing savings)
3️⃣ Order With Confidence
- ✅ Made-to-order quality for your exact pool dimensions
- ✅ 6-year pro-rata warranty (UK & Ireland)
- ✅ GeoBubble technology lasts 25% longer than standard covers
- ✅ Ships direct from manufacturer in 2-3 weeks
- ✅ Expert support available for sizing and installation questions
4️⃣ Plan for Success
Before your cover arrives:
- Clear any existing algae (shock treat if needed – start with clean slate)
- Test and balance water chemistry to SPATA standards
- Measure your pool to confirm dimensions
- Consider roller system installation
When your cover arrives:
- Deploy immediately to start seeing savings
- Install bubble-side down for optimal heat transfer
- Cover pool every evening after swimming
- Monitor your reduced chemical consumption with satisfaction
💚 Why Choose Parts4Tubs for Your Energy Guard Cover?
Expert Knowledge
We specialize in pool covers and understand UK pool owners’ unique challenges. Our team can help you select the right cover and optimize your setup for maximum savings.
Made-to-Measure Quality
Every Energy Guard cover is manufactured to exact specifications. No compromise on fit, no wasted material, no gaps for heat loss.
Unbeatable Value
£895-1,200 annual savings for a cover that pays for itself in 6-9 months. This isn’t an expense – it’s one of the best ROI investments you’ll make for your pool.
Genuine GeoBubble Technology
We supply authentic GeoBubble covers with patented bubble design, UV stabilization, and proven 25% longer lifespan. Accept no substitutes.
UK-Focused Solutions
Unlike generic international suppliers, we understand UK climate conditions, water chemistry standards, and seasonal use patterns. Our recommendations work for British pool owners.
🌿 Transform Your Pool Maintenance: Order Energy Guard Today
Stop fighting algae. Stop overspending on chemicals. Stop wasting energy.
The Energy Guard 500M GeoBubble Solar Cover offers:
- ✅ Zero algae growth (university-proven for 10+ weeks with no chemicals)
- ✅ 70% chemical savings (£420-550/year on chlorine alone)
- ✅ 50% filtration savings (£180-240/year on electricity)
- ✅ 50%+ heating savings (£200-280/year on pool heating)
- ✅ 98% evaporation prevention (32,000 litres saved = 400 baths)
- ✅ 4-5 year lifespan (25% longer than standard covers)
- ✅ 6-9 month payback (then pure profit every month after)
Made-to-Order for Your 18ft x 36ft Pool | Ships in 2-3 Weeks | 6-Year Pro-Rata Warranty


