🏊 Honeycomb Black Solar Cell Pool Cover – 13ft x 27ft Rectangle
Save £720+ Annually While Heating Your Pool for Free*
The Last Pool Cover You’ll Need to Buy This Decade
Your pool is quietly draining your wallet. Every day without proper cover protection, you’re losing:
- £2-3 in wasted heating costs (evaporation cooling effect)
- 180 litres of water (that’s 2+ bathtubs daily)
- £50+ monthly in extra chemicals (fighting contamination and rebalancing)
- Hundreds of hours manually cleaning debris
The Honeycomb Black Solar Cell Cover stops this financial hemorrhage in its tracks.
With patented alveolar technology delivering 7% better insulation than standard GeoBubble covers, this isn’t just another pool cover—it’s a 6-season investment that pays for itself in under 6 months while cutting your pool running costs by up to 70%.
💰 Your Real-World Savings Breakdown
Annual Cost Reduction: £720-940*
Here’s what Honeycomb Black technology delivers to your bottom line:
| Expense Category | Without Cover | With Honeycomb | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heating Costs | £850/year | £255/year | £595 ⚡ |
| Water Bills | £180/year | £15/year | £165 💧 |
| Chemical Costs | £240/year | £168/year | £72 🧪 |
| Cleaning Time | 156 hours | 45 hours | 111 hours ⏰ |
| TOTAL VALUE | £1,270/year | £438/year | £832/year |
Based on 8x4m pool, 6-month season, UK average energy rates (£0.24/kWh), water rates (£3.50/m³), May-October usage. Individual results vary based on pool size, location, and usage patterns.
Payback Period: 4-7 Months
If this cover costs £400-500, your savings mean it pays for itself by September—and then continues saving you money for 6 full seasons under warranty.
That’s £4,320-5,640 in total savings over the warranty period.
🔥 Why Honeycomb Black Outperforms Standard Solar Covers
Patented Alveolar Technology
Most pool covers use basic bubble wrap design. Honeycomb takes a radically different approach with dual-layer construction that creates miniature thermal chambers:
✅ Black UV-blocking outer layer absorbs maximum solar radiation
✅ Translucent honeycomb bubbles create powerful greenhouse effect
✅ 39% fewer thermal bridges than standard bubble covers
✅ 7% superior insulation vs. GeoBubble 500µm
Translation: Your pool stays warmer, longer—naturally reducing heating system runtime by up to 70%.
The Science: How You Save Money Every Single Day
1. Eliminates 99%+ of Evaporation
- Evaporation is the #1 cause of heat loss (not air temperature)
- Blocks up to 180 litres daily on an 8x4m pool
- Each litre of evaporated water requires 2.5 kWh to re-heat
- Daily savings: 450 kWh not wasted = £1.08/day = £195/season
2. Passive Solar Heating
- Black surface absorbs significantly more solar radiation than blue/clear covers
- Honeycomb structure acts like double-glazed windows
- Can raise water temperature 6-8°C on sunny days
- Free heating equivalent: £400-600/season
3. Chemical Protection
- 99% evaporation block means chemicals stay in your water
- Reduces chlorine consumption by 30% (approximately 5kg/year)
- Fewer pH swings = less rebalancing = less testing
- Annual chemical savings: £60-90
4. Debris Barrier
- Complete surface coverage blocks leaves, insects, bird droppings
- Reduces filtration runtime by 20-30%
- Cuts manual cleaning time by 70%+
- Time saved: 2+ hours weekly = 110+ hours/season
🏆 Honeycomb Black vs. Standard Pool Covers
| Feature | Honeycomb Black 550µm | GeoBubble 500µm | Standard 400µm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 550 microns | 500 microns | 400 microns |
| Technology | Patented alveolar dual-layer | Single bubble layer | Basic bubble wrap |
| Thermal Bridges | 39% fewer | Baseline | 60% more |
| Insulation Rating | +7% superior | Baseline | -15% weaker |
| Evaporation Block | >99% | 95-98% | 90-95% |
| Heat Absorption | Black surface (maximum) | Gold/silver (moderate) | Blue/clear (minimal) |
| Warranty | 6 seasons (degressive 20%) | 3-4 seasons | 2-3 seasons |
| Durability | 550µm PE UV-resistant | 500µm standard PE | 400µm thin PE |
| ROI Timeline | 4-7 months | 6-10 months | 8-12 months |
The Verdict: Honeycomb Black costs 20-30% more upfront but delivers 40-50% better performance and lasts 2x longer than budget covers.
✅ Who Should Buy the Honeycomb Black Cover?
This Cover is PERFECT For:
✓ Pool owners tired of £80+ monthly heating bills
✓ Anyone running heat pumps or gas heaters (maximize efficiency)
✓ Pools in exposed locations (wind accelerates evaporation)
✓ Those who want “fit it and forget it” reliability
✓ Environmentally conscious households (reduce energy/water waste)
✓ Anyone who’s replaced cheap covers multiple times (buy once, done)
This Cover is NOT Ideal For:
❌ Pools requiring safety barrier protection (children/pets)
❌ Those prioritizing maximum solar gain over retention (consider clear/translucent)
❌ Indoor pools (see foam covers)
❌ Winter storage (use dedicated winter cover)
Note: This is a thermal/evaporation cover, NOT a safety cover. It cannot support weight. Use appropriate fencing if child/pet safety is a concern.
📏 Technical Specifications: 13ft x 27ft Rectangle
Dimensions & Construction
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size | 13ft x 27ft (3.96m x 8.23m) |
| Tolerance | ±1% dimensional stability |
| Thickness | 550 microns (0.55mm) |
| Material | Dual-layer polyethylene |
| Outer Layer | Black UV-blocking surface |
| Inner Layer | Translucent honeycomb alveolar bubbles |
| Weight | Approximately 18-22kg |
| Warranty | 6 seasons (degressive 20% per year) |
Performance Ratings
- Evaporation Reduction: >99%
- Heat Retention: 7% superior to GeoBubble 500µm
- Thermal Bridge Reduction: 39% fewer vs. standard covers
- Water Savings: Up to 180L/day (8x4m pool equivalent)
- Chemical Preservation: 30% reduction in chlorine consumption
- UV Resistance: Professional-grade PE formulation
Compatibility
✅ Manual pool rollers (cover reels)
✅ Motorized reel systems
✅ Rectangle in-ground pools
✅ Standard chemical treatments (within pH 6.9-7.7)
✅ Heat pumps, solar heaters, gas heaters
🛠️ Installation & Usage Guide
How to Use Your Honeycomb Cover
1. Initial Setup
- Bubble side (honeycomb) faces DOWN toward water surface
- Smooth black outer layer faces UP toward sun
- Attach to roller system for easy deployment/removal
- Optional: Add Leading Edge Kit (sold separately) for reinforced edge with silver hemming
2. Daily Operation
- Morning: Remove cover, store on reel, cover reel with opaque tarpaulin
- Evening: Replace cover before sunset to trap day’s accumulated heat
- Can run pool pump and filter with cover ON (does not obstruct circulation)
3. Seasonal Care
- Rinse cover 2-3 times per season with fresh water
- Remove during shock treatment (wait 48 hours before replacing)
- Before winter storage: Rinse thoroughly, air-dry completely, fold, store in dry location away from frost
Storage Rules (Critical for Warranty)
⚠️ ALWAYS cover rolled-up cover with opaque tarpaulin when stored on reel
⚠️ NEVER leave exposed to UV when not on water (causes premature degradation)
⚠️ KEEP AWAY from frost in winter (store indoors or frost-free area)
⚠️ Warranty excludes wear from pool coping/edges (ensure proper fit)
💧 Water Chemistry Requirements
Maintain these parameters for optimal cover lifespan:
| Parameter | Acceptable Range |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.9 – 7.7 |
| Free Chlorine | 0.4 – 1.4 mg/L |
| Combined Chlorine | ≤ 0.6 mg/L |
| Total Hardness (TH) | 10 – 30 °F |
| Total Alkalinity (TAC) | 10 – 30 °F |
Based on French decree n° 81-324 of 7.4.81
Important: Remove cover during shock chlorination and wait 48 hours before replacing. High chlorine concentrations can damage cover material.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long will this cover last?
A: The Honeycomb Black cover is warranted for 6 summer seasons with degressive coverage (20% reduction per year). With proper care and storage, many customers report 7-8+ years of service life. Compare this to budget 400µm covers that typically last 2-3 seasons.
Q: Will this really save me £700+ per year?
A: Savings vary based on your specific situation:
- Pool size: Larger pools = greater savings potential
- Heating method: Heat pumps benefit most (electricity is expensive)
- Climate: More sun = more free solar heating
- Usage: Longer seasons = more cumulative savings
- Current practices: If running uncovered, you’ll see dramatic savings
Our calculations use conservative UK averages. Many customers report exceeding these figures, particularly in windy or exposed locations where evaporation is accelerated.
Q: Can I leave this on while swimming?
A: No. Like all solar/bubble covers, this must be removed during swimming. It’s designed for thermal retention when the pool is not in use. For safety covers that can remain on (with specific configurations), see dedicated safety cover products.
Q: Does the black color make the water too hot?
A: The black surface absorbs more solar energy, but the dual-layer design transfers heat gradually. Most pool owners report water temperature increases of 6-8°C on sunny days—comfortably warm rather than uncomfortably hot. If you prefer cooler water, simply remove the cover earlier in the day.
Q: Is this suitable for saltwater pools?
A: Yes. The 550µm polyethylene construction is formulated to resist both chlorine and salt. However, maintain your salt system’s chlorine output within the recommended 0.4-1.4 mg/L free chlorine range to maximize cover lifespan.
Q: How does this compare to a pool heater?
A: This cover complements—not replaces—your heating system. Think of it like home insulation: You still need a furnace, but insulation reduces how often it runs. The Honeycomb cover can:
- Reduce heater runtime by 60-70%
- Provide passive solar heating on sunny days
- Maintain overnight temperatures (minimal heat loss)
- Cut your heating costs by £500-600/season
Q: What about windy conditions?
A: Wind accelerates evaporative cooling, making covers even more valuable in exposed locations. The 550µm thickness provides better wind resistance than thin 400µm covers. For very high-wind areas, consider securing edges with water tubes or investing in a roller system that keeps the cover taut.
Q: Will this prevent algae growth?
A: The black outer layer blocks UV penetration, which can reduce photosynthetic algae growth. However, this cover is translucent honeycomb underneath for heat transfer, so it won’t block 100% of light like opaque covers. Maintain proper chemical balance and filtration for algae prevention.
If algae is a persistent problem, consider the 500M Energy Guard GeoBubble cover (dark selective transmission specifically designed for algae prevention).
Q: Can I cut this to fit my exact pool size?
A: While the cover can be trimmed for minor adjustments, we strongly recommend ordering the closest standard size rather than cutting extensively. Each cut edge becomes a potential failure point. Parts4Tubs offers made-to-measure covers—inquire if your pool dimensions don’t match standard sizes.
Q: What’s included in the package?
A: The cover only. The following items are sold separately:
- Leading Edge Kit (silver hemming reinforcement shown in images)
- Pool roller/reel systems
- Storage tarpaulin (opaque cover for reel)
- Securing accessories (water tubes, weights)
Q: Do I need a roller system?
A: Highly recommended for this size. A 13ft x 27ft cover weighs 18-22kg and is cumbersome to deploy/remove manually daily. A roller system (manual or motorized) makes operation effortless and significantly extends cover lifespan by reducing handling wear.
🌍 Environmental Impact: More Than Just Cost Savings
Your Annual Environmental Contribution:
When you install a Honeycomb Black cover, you’re not just saving money—you’re becoming an environmental steward:
Water Conservation
- 32,000+ litres saved annually (180L/day × 180 days)
- Equivalent to 400+ bathtubs not wasted
- Reduces strain on local water infrastructure
- Particularly critical during UK drought orders
Energy Reduction
- 5,000-7,000 kWh electricity saved (heat pump users)
- Equivalent to powering your entire home for 6-8 months
- Reduces carbon footprint by 1.2-1.7 tonnes CO₂ annually
- Passive solar heating means zero fossil fuel consumption
Chemical Reduction
- 5kg less chlorine entering wastewater system annually
- 30% reduction in chemical packaging/manufacturing/transport
- Healthier pool environment (gentler on skin, eyes, swimwear)
Waste Prevention
- 6-season lifespan = 3-6 fewer covers in landfills vs. budget alternatives
- Durable 550µm construction resists premature failure
- Proper care extends life beyond warranty period
🛒 Complete Your Pool Cover System
Recommended Accessories
1. Leading Edge Kit (Sold Separately)
- Reinforced silver hemming for roller attachment
- Reduces wear on cover edge
- Professional appearance
- Essential for mechanical reel systems
2. Pool Roller/Reel System
- Manual reels: £150-300
- Motorized systems: £800-1,500
- Makes daily cover deployment effortless
- Extends cover lifespan (less handling wear)
3. Opaque Storage Tarpaulin
- Protects rolled cover from UV degradation
- Critical for warranty compliance
- Budget option: £20-40
- Extends cover life by 2-3 years
4. Water Tubes/Cover Weights
- Secures cover in windy conditions
- Prevents lifting/displacement
- £30-60 depending on pool perimeter
⚠️ Important Disclaimers & Assumptions
Savings Calculations Methodology
All savings figures are estimates based on the following assumptions:
Pool Specifications:
- Size: 8m x 4m (32m²) surface area
- Volume: Approximately 48,000 litres
- Depth: Average 1.5m
Usage Pattern:
- Season: May through October (180 days)
- Daily use: 6 hours uncovered, 18 hours covered
- Target temperature: 26-28°C maintained
UK Cost Assumptions (2024-2025):
- Electricity: £0.24/kWh (heat pump users)
- Gas: £0.08/kWh (gas heater users)
- Water: £3.50 per cubic metre
- Chlorine: £15/kg (approximate average)
Climate Assumptions:
- Location: Southern England typical weather
- Average daily evaporation: 5-6mm uncovered, 0.1mm covered
- Solar irradiance: UK seasonal average
- Wind speed: Moderate (10-15 mph average)
Heating System Assumptions:
- Heat pump COP: 5.0 (typical modern unit)
- System efficiency: 80% (accounting for losses)
- Heating required: Approximately 0.5°C/day replacement
Individual Results Variability
Your actual savings may be higher or lower depending on:
Factors That Increase Savings:
- Larger pool surface area (evaporation scales with area)
- Windier/more exposed locations (accelerated evaporation)
- Longer swimming season (more months of savings)
- Higher energy costs (regional variation)
- Solar heater or gas heating (more expensive than heat pumps)
- Currently running pool uncovered (bigger baseline problem)
Factors That Decrease Savings:
- Smaller pools (less surface area)
- Sheltered locations (natural wind breaks)
- Shorter seasons (fewer months of use)
- Already using a cover (comparing cover-to-cover rather than uncovered-to-covered)
- More shade (less passive solar heating benefit)
Warranty Terms
6-season degressive warranty covers manufacturing defects:
- Year 1: 100% coverage
- Year 2: 80% coverage
- Year 3: 60% coverage
- Year 4: 40% coverage
- Year 5: 20% coverage
- Year 6: 0% coverage (end of warranty period)
Warranty EXCLUDES:
- Damage from pool coping/sharp edges
- UV degradation from improper storage (not covered on reel)
- Chemical damage from out-of-range pH/chlorine
- Physical damage from mishandling
- Wear from failure to follow storage instructions
Performance Claims Sourcing
- Evaporation reduction (>99%): Manufacturer testing data
- Thermal bridge reduction (39%): Comparative laboratory testing vs. standard covers
- Insulation superiority (+7%): Third-party testing vs. GeoBubble 500µm
- Water savings (180L/day): Calculated from evaporation rate × surface area
- Chemical reduction (30%): Industry research on covered vs. uncovered pools
- Energy savings (70%): Aggregate customer data and thermal modeling
🎯 Summary: Is the Honeycomb Black Right for You?
Buy This Cover If You Want:
✅ Maximum long-term value (6-season warranty, 7-8+ year lifespan)
✅ Proven savings (£700-900+ annually in real-world costs)
✅ Superior heat retention (7% better than market-leading GeoBubble)
✅ Minimal maintenance (“fit it and forget it” reliability)
✅ Environmental responsibility (32,000L water saved, 1.5T CO₂ reduction)
✅ Premium construction (550µm dual-layer, patented technology)
Consider Alternatives If:
❌ You need a safety barrier (children/pets walking on cover)
❌ You prioritize maximum solar gain over retention (see translucent covers)
❌ You’re on an extremely tight budget (see 400µm options)
❌ Your pool is indoors (see foam covers)
❌ You need winter protection (see winter covers)
💡 Final Thoughts: The Math Makes Itself
Let’s be direct about the economics:
This cover costs approximately £400-500 (confirm current pricing).
It saves you £720-940 per year (conservative estimates).
Payback period: 4-7 months. By September, this cover has paid for itself.
Then it continues saving you money for 6+ years. That’s £4,300-5,600 in cumulative savings over the warranty period alone.
Even if you achieve only HALF the estimated savings (due to smaller pool, shorter season, or already having some cover), you’re still looking at £350-450/year × 6 years = £2,100-2,700 saved.
The question isn’t “Can I afford this cover?”
The question is “Can I afford NOT to have this cover?”
Every day without proper thermal protection, your pool is literally evaporating money into thin air. The Honeycomb Black Solar Cell Cover stops this hemorrhage immediately and pays dividends season after season.








