🌞 Sol+Guard 500M 180 GeoBubble Solar Cover – 13ft x 27ft | Ultimate UV Protection for Warmer Climates

Save £500-900+ Annually While Your Pool Stays Perfectly Warm*

Stop watching your heating costs spiral out of control. This premium 500-micron translucent solar cover transforms your pool into a heat-retaining powerhouse while slashing energy bills by up to 70%.

Product Code: AQF-PGS580-1327
Price: £342.98 Inc VAT
Warranty: 6 Years Pro-Rata (UK & Ireland)
Size: 13ft x 27ft (3.96m x 8.23m)

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💰 The Real Cost of Running Your Pool Without This Cover

Every day your pool sits uncovered, you’re literally watching money evaporate into thin air:

• £600-900/year wasted on unnecessary heating costs
• 32,000 litres of water lost annually (equivalent to 400 baths!)
• 5kg of chlorine disappearing through evaporation
• Countless hours spent cleaning debris and rebalancing chemicals
• 7,000 kWh of electricity consumed unnecessarily

Your pool is bleeding money. Here’s how to stop it.

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🔥 What Makes Sol+Guard 500M 180 Different?

Engineered for Intense UV Environments

The Sol+Guard 500M 180 isn’t just another solar cover. It’s specifically formulated with an enhanced UV protective layer designed for areas experiencing up to 180 Kilolangley years (kLys/yrs) of UV exposure—that’s 28% more UV protection than standard formulations.

What does this mean for you?

If you live in a warmer climate or your pool receives intense, prolonged sunlight, standard covers degrade rapidly. The Sol+Guard 180 formulation maintains its integrity and performance for up to 6 years, even under harsh UV conditions that would destroy ordinary covers in 2-3 years.

Maximum Solar Heating Through Translucent Technology

Unlike opaque covers that block beneficial UV rays, Sol+Guard’s translucent material is engineered to:

✅ Transmit UV rays directly into the water for natural solar heating
✅ Raise water temperature by up to 8°C in optimal conditions
✅ Capture and trap heat like a greenhouse through GeoBubble air pockets
✅ Reduce reliance on expensive heating systems by 60-70%

This isn’t just insulation—it’s active solar heating combined with superior heat retention.

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📊 Your Financial Breakdown: What £342.98 Really Buys You

Annual Savings (Typical 13ft x 27ft Pool)

Expense Category	Without Cover	With Sol+Guard 500M	Your Savings
Heating Costs (70% reduction)	£900/year	£270/year	£630/year
Water Loss (98% reduction)	£80/year	£2/year	£78/year
Chemical Consumption (30% reduction)	£120/year	£84/year	£36/year
Cleaning Time	52 hours/year	15 hours/year	37 hours saved
TOTAL ANNUAL SAVINGS			£744/year

ROI Timeline: Your cover pays for itself in approximately 5.5 months

5-Year Value: £3,720 in total savings vs. £342.98 investment = 985% return

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🌡️ How Sol+Guard 500M 180 Works: The Science

Triple-Action Heat Management

1. Solar Gain (Active Heating)
The translucent material allows UV rays to penetrate, warming the water naturally—like a greenhouse effect for your pool. On sunny days, you’ll see temperature increases of 4-8°C without running your heater.

2. GeoBubble Insulation (Heat Retention)
Patented GeoBubble technology creates thousands of interconnected air pockets that trap heat at the water’s surface. This insulating layer prevents heat from escaping overnight, maintaining temperature consistency.

3. Evaporation Elimination (Heat Protection)
Evaporation is the #1 cause of heat loss in uncovered pools. By blocking 98% of evaporation, Sol+Guard stops the primary mechanism of thermal energy waste—keeping your pool warm without constant reheating.

500-Micron Thickness: The Sweet Spot

The 500M (500-micron) thickness strikes the perfect balance:

• Thick enough to provide excellent durability and heat retention
• Thin enough to remain lightweight and easy to handle
• Translucent enough to maximize UV transmission for solar heating
• Strong enough to last 25% longer than standard bubble covers

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⚡ Energy Savings That Make a Real Difference

For Heat Pump Owners

If you’re running a modern heat pump, the Sol+Guard 500M becomes a force multiplier:

• Without cover: Heat pump runs 8-12 hours daily to maintain temperature
• With Sol+Guard: Heat pump runs 2-4 hours daily, saving up to 7,000 kWh annually

At current UK electricity rates (£0.24/kWh): That’s £1,680 saved per year on a heat pump system alone.

For Gas/Oil Heating Systems

Traditional heaters are even more expensive to run:

• Gas heating: Save £800-1,200 annually
• Oil heating: Save £900-1,400 annually
• Electric resistance: Save £1,500-2,000 annually

The cover doesn’t just reduce your heating bill—it transforms your entire pool economics.

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💧 Water Conservation: 32,000 Litres Saved Annually

The Hidden Cost of Evaporation

An uncovered 13ft x 27ft pool loses approximately 32,000 litres of water per year through evaporation. That’s:

• 400 bathtubs worth of water
• £80/year in water costs (based on UK average rates)
• Countless hours spent topping up the pool
• Constant chemical rebalancing as water levels fluctuate

With Sol+Guard 500M: Evaporation drops by 98%, reducing water loss to just 640 litres/year (8 bathtubs).

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🧪 Chemical Savings: Stop Throwing Money Down the Drain

Every time water evaporates, it takes your expensive pool chemicals with it. Research shows uncovered pools lose:

• 5kg of chlorine annually through evaporation
• Stabilizers, algaecides, and pH balancers at proportional rates
• Chemical balance consistency, requiring constant testing and adjustment

Sol+Guard 500M reduces chemical consumption by up to 30%, saving approximately £36-50 annually while maintaining more stable water chemistry.

Better chemistry = Better swimming experience + Lower costs

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🛡️ UV Protection Technology: Built for Harsh Climates

Understanding the Sol+Guard 180 Formulation

The 180 designation indicates this cover is formulated to withstand UV exposure up to 180 kLys/yrs (Kilolangley years).

What areas require Sol+Guard 180?

According to the UV map, the 180 formulation is recommended for:

✅ Southern UK during peak summer months
✅ Mediterranean regions (Spain, Portugal, southern France, Italy, Greece)
✅ Middle East
✅ Australia and New Zealand
✅ Southern United States
✅ Any location with intense, prolonged UV exposure

Why does this matter?

Standard covers (140 formulation) break down rapidly in high-UV environments, developing brittleness, cracking, and losing their heat retention properties within 2-3 years. The Sol+Guard 180’s enhanced UV inhibitors maintain structural integrity and performance for up to 6 years—even under the harshest conditions.

Warranty Protection: 6-year pro-rata warranty (UK & Ireland only)

Note: Warranty void if pool water exceeds 29°C or SPATA chemical/TDS standards aren’t maintained

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🏊 The Sol+Guard Advantage: GeoBubble Technology

Why GeoBubble Outlasts Traditional Bubble Covers by 25%

Standard bubble covers use circular bubbles that create weak points where bubbles connect. GeoBubble’s patented design features:

Interconnected waistline design – Distributes stress evenly across the material
No thin points – Traditional covers fail at bubble connection points
Enhanced material thickness at critical junctions
Superior resistance to UV degradation, chemical attack, and physical stress

Real-world result: GeoBubble covers last 25% longer than comparable traditional bubble covers.

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🎯 Perfect For Pool Owners Who Want Maximum Solar Heating

When Sol+Guard 500M 180 is Your Best Choice:

✅ You want to maximize natural solar heating of your pool water
✅ Your pool receives good daily sunlight exposure (4+ hours)
✅ You live in a warmer climate with intense UV conditions
✅ You prioritize active heating over just heat retention
✅ You want to reduce heat pump/heater runtime significantly
✅ You prefer a lighter, more manageable cover than 600M options
✅ You need enhanced UV protection for longevity

How Sol+Guard Compares to Other GeoBubble Covers:

Feature	Sol+Guard 500M	Energy Guard 500M	Gold 600M
Primary Purpose	Solar heating + retention	Heat retention + algae control	Maximum heat retention
UV Transmission	✅ High (translucent)	⚠️ Selective (blocks visible light)	❌ Low (aluminum backing)
Algae Prevention	Standard	✅ Excellent (dark coating)	Good
Durability	Excellent (180 UV)	Excellent	Superior (600 microns)
Weight	Lightweight	Lightweight	Heavier
Best For	Maximum solar gains	Algae-prone pools	Ultimate insulation

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📏 Technical Specifications

Product Details:

• Dimensions: 13ft x 27ft (3.96m x 8.23m)
• Thickness: 500 microns (0.5mm)
• Material: GeoBubble with UV 180 formulation
• Colour: Translucent (optimized for UV transmission)
• UV Rating: Up to 180 kLys/yrs
• Warranty: 6 years pro-rata (UK & Ireland)
• Manufacturer: 1st Direct Pools
• Made to Order: Custom sizing available

Performance Specifications:

• Heat Loss Reduction: Up to 75%
• Evaporation Prevention: Up to 98%
• Chemical Retention: Up to 30% improvement
• Temperature Increase: Up to 8°C (optimal conditions)
• Lifespan: 25% longer than traditional bubble covers

Installation:

• Bubble Orientation: Bubbles face DOWN (toward water)
• Compatible with: Pool rollers, manual handling
• Weight: Lightweight for easy deployment
• Pool Pump Operation: Can remain in place while pump runs

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much will this cover actually save me on heating?

A: For a typical 13ft x 27ft pool in the UK, expect savings of £600-900 annually on heating costs. The exact amount depends on your current heating system:

• Heat pump: £600-700/year saved
• Gas heater: £800-1,000/year saved
• Electric resistance: £1,200-1,600/year saved

The cover pays for itself in 5-6 months, then continues delivering savings year after year.

Q: Will this cover heat my pool on its own?

A: Sol+Guard provides significant solar heating (up to 8°C temperature increase), but shouldn’t be your sole heat source in the UK climate. Think of it as a powerful heating assistant:

• With good sun exposure: Can maintain comfortable temperatures with minimal heater use
• Cloudy/winter conditions: Provides excellent heat retention, reducing heater runtime by 60-70%
• Best practice: Use with a heat pump or solar heating system for optimal efficiency

Q: What’s the difference between Sol+Guard 180 and the standard Sol+Guard?

A: The 180 formulation contains enhanced UV inhibitors for areas receiving up to 180 kLys/yrs of UV exposure (vs. 140 for standard). If you’re in southern UK, anywhere in the Mediterranean, or other high-UV regions, the 180 formulation will last significantly longer. In moderate UV climates, both perform similarly—but the 180 offers extra protection for longevity.

Q: Can I leave this on while the pool pump runs?

A: Yes! A properly secured Sol+Guard cover doesn’t interfere with pump circulation. Many pool owners leave covers on during pump cycles to maximize heat retention and chemical efficiency.

Q: How do I know if this is the right size for my pool?

A: This 13ft x 27ft cover fits pools of that exact dimension or can be easily trimmed to fit smaller pools. For custom sizes, Parts4Tubs offers bespoke cutting. The cover should overlap your pool slightly for best coverage—you can trim excess material with scissors.

Pro tip: Measure your pool at the waterline, not the deck edge.

Q: Isn’t 500M too thin compared to 600M covers?

A: The 500-micron thickness is specifically optimized for solar heating applications. While 600M covers offer slightly better heat retention, they’re heavier, less manageable, and crucially—they block more UV transmission, reducing solar heating potential.

For maximum solar gains combined with excellent durability, 500M is the sweet spot. You get 95% of the insulation performance at better solar heating capability and easier handling.

Q: How long will this cover actually last?

A: With proper care and maintenance, expect 5-7 years of reliable performance. GeoBubble technology extends lifespan by 25% vs. traditional covers. The 180 UV formulation is especially durable in high-UV environments.

To maximize lifespan:

• Store carefully during winter (off the pool)
• Maintain proper water chemistry (SPATA standards)
• Keep pool temperature below 29°C
• Rinse debris off regularly
• Use a roller system to prevent dragging/folding damage

Q: What happens if my pool water gets hotter than 29°C?

A: Temperatures above 29°C can degrade the material and void the warranty. In practice, this rarely occurs in UK pools, but if you’re in a very warm climate or using aggressive heating:

• Monitor water temperature regularly
• Remove cover during peak heat if temps approach 29°C
• Consider the CoolGuard formulation for very hot climates

Q: Do I need any special equipment to use this cover?

A: Not required, but highly recommended: A pool roller system makes deployment and removal effortless. Without a roller, you’ll need to manually fold/unfold—manageable for a 13×27 cover, but a roller extends cover life by preventing creasing and makes daily use much more convenient.

Parts4Tubs offers compatible roller systems if needed.

Q: Can this cover support the weight of a child or pet?

A: No. Sol+Guard is NOT a safety cover and cannot support weight. Never allow children, pets, or adults to walk on this cover. If safety is a concern, consider adding a perimeter fence or investing in a dedicated safety cover for off-season use.

Solar covers are designed for thermal performance, not load-bearing.

Q: Will this work with my pool heater?

A: Absolutely! Sol+Guard is designed to work in tandem with pool heaters:

• With heat pumps: Reduces runtime by 60-70%, saving up to 7,000 kWh annually
• With gas/oil heaters: Maintains temperature overnight, preventing heat loss
• With solar heating systems: Perfect complement—both harness solar energy
• Heating with cover on: Yes, you can heat while the cover is on for maximum efficiency

The cover makes your heating system dramatically more effective and cost-efficient.

Q: How difficult is it to put on and take off?

A: Solo operation is possible but easier with two people for a 13×27 cover. The material is lightweight (unlike 600M options), making it relatively manageable.

Without roller: 5-10 minutes to deploy/remove
With roller: 1-2 minutes to deploy/remove

Most owners invest in a roller system after the first season when they realize how much easier it makes daily use.

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🌍 UV Protection Map: Is Sol+Guard 180 Right for Your Location?

The Sol+Guard 500M is available in two UV formulations:

Sol+Guard 140: Areas receiving up to 140 kLys/yrs UV exposure
Sol+Guard 180: Areas receiving up to 180 kLys/yrs UV exposure (this product)

You need the 180 formulation if you’re in:

• Southern England during summer months
• Mediterranean countries
• Middle East regions
• Australia/New Zealand
• Southern US states
• Any high-altitude or tropical location

View the complete UV map: UV Protection Map PDF

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⚠️ Important Information & Disclaimers

Warranty Conditions

This cover comes with a 6-year pro-rata warranty valid in the UK & Ireland only. Warranty is void if:

• Pool water temperature exceeds 29°C
• Water chemistry doesn’t meet SPATA standards for chemical and TDS levels
• Cover is used outside of manufacturer’s recommended UV exposure range
• Damage occurs from improper storage, physical abuse, or negligence

Savings Calculations Methodology

All savings figures in this document are estimates based on:

• Pool size: 13ft x 27ft (32.2m²)
• Pool depth: Average 1.5m
• Location: UK climate (southern England)
• Season: April-September swimming season
• Energy rates: £0.24/kWh (electricity), £0.06/kWh (gas)
• Water rates: £2.50/m³ (UK average)
• Usage pattern: Daily pool use, heated to 26°C
• Cover usage: 90% coverage time (removed during swimming)

Individual results will vary based on:

• Your specific location and climate
• Pool size and volume
• Heating system type and efficiency
• Current energy and water rates in your area
• Sun exposure hours per day
• Wind conditions and ambient temperature
• How consistently you use the cover
• Current water temperature and target temperature
• Pool water chemistry and maintenance practices

These calculations represent typical scenarios. Your actual savings may be higher or lower.

Performance Variables

Temperature increase (up to 8°C) depends on:

• Hours of direct sunlight exposure
• Ambient air temperature
• Starting water temperature
• Wind conditions
• Pool location (sheltered vs. exposed)

Evaporation reduction (up to 98%) assumes:

• Cover properly fitted and sealed
• Minimal gaps or damage
• Cover used during non-swimming hours
• Normal UK humidity conditions

Safety Notice

THIS IS NOT A SAFETY COVER. Solar covers cannot support the weight of people or animals. Never walk on this cover. If safety is a concern:

• Install a perimeter fence around your pool
• Use a dedicated safety cover during off-season
• Supervise children around the pool at all times
• Consider automatic pool covers for built-in safety

Made to Order

All solar covers are custom-made to order and cannot be returned unless defective. Please measure your pool carefully before ordering. Custom sizes are available—contact Parts4Tubs for bespoke dimensions.

Proper Use & Maintenance

To maximize cover life and maintain warranty:

• Install bubbles facing DOWN (toward water)
• Store properly during winter (remove from pool, clean, dry, roll/fold carefully)
• Maintain SPATA water chemistry standards
• Keep pool temperature below 29°C
• Rinse debris off regularly
• Avoid dragging on deck—use roller or lift carefully
• Inspect periodically for damage

Winter Storage

Sol+Guard covers are designed for summer use only in UK climates. For winter pool protection:

• Remove cover before closing pool for winter
• Clean thoroughly and allow to dry completely
• Store in a cool, dry location away from UV exposure
• Use a purpose-made winter cover to protect your pool during off-season

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🎁 What’s Included

Your Sol+Guard 500M 180 Package:

✅ Custom-cut 13ft x 27ft GeoBubble solar cover
✅ UV 180 formulation for enhanced durability
✅ 6-year pro-rata warranty (UK & Ireland)
✅ GeoBubble technology (25% longer lifespan)
✅ Made-to-order precision manufacturing
✅ Expert support from Parts4Tubs team

NOT Included (Available Separately):

• Pool roller system (highly recommended)
• Installation service
• Cover storage bag

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💡 Expert Tips for Maximum Savings

1. Use Consistently

The biggest savings come from consistent use. Cover your pool every time you’re not swimming—especially overnight when heat loss is greatest.

2. Combine with Heat Pump

Sol+Guard paired with a modern heat pump creates the most efficient heating system possible. The cover reduces heat pump runtime by 60-70%, maximizing your investment.

3. Invest in a Roller

A roller system pays for itself quickly by:

• Making daily cover use effortless (increasing consistency)
• Preventing damage from dragging/folding
• Extending cover lifespan by 2-3 years

4. Trim for Perfect Fit

Slightly oversized? Trim excess material with sharp scissors for a perfect fit. A snug fit maximizes heat retention and evaporation prevention.

5. Monitor Water Temperature

Keep water below 29°C to maintain warranty and prevent material degradation. In hot climates, remove cover during peak afternoon heat if necessary.

6. Maintain Water Chemistry

Proper chemical balance protects your cover and extends its life. Follow SPATA standards for pH, chlorine, and TDS levels.

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🚀 Ready to Transform Your Pool Economics?

Current Price: £342.98 Inc VAT

Your Investment Delivers:

• ✅ £600-900 annual heating savings
• ✅ £80 annual water savings
• ✅ £36-50 annual chemical savings
• ✅ 37+ hours saved on cleaning annually
• ✅ Up to 8°C natural temperature increase
• ✅ 98% evaporation elimination
• ✅ 6-year warranty protection
• ✅ 25% longer lifespan than standard covers

ROI: 5.5 months | 5-Year Value: £3,720 in savings