🌞 Sol+Guard 500M 180 GeoBubble Solar Cover – 14ft x 28ft | Maximum Solar Heating for Warmer Climates

Save £600-900+ annually while heating your pool faster with the UK’s most effective translucent solar cover

💰 The Bottom Line: What This Cover Will Save You

Annual Savings for a 14ft x 28ft Pool:

• Energy costs: £650-850/year* – 70% reduction in heating bills
• Water costs: £160/year* – Prevents 32,000 litres evaporation (400 baths worth)
• Chemical costs: £45-75/year* – 30% less chlorine needed (up to 5kg saved)
• Total annual savings: £855-1,085

Payback period: 4-6 months based on typical UK swimming season costs

This isn’t an expense – it’s an investment that pays for itself before summer ends.

🔥 Why Pool Owners in Warmer Regions Choose Sol+Guard 180

The Problem Every Pool Owner Faces:

You’ve invested thousands in your swimming pool. Yet every morning, you test the water and find:

• The temperature has dropped 2-4°C overnight
• Chemical levels need rebalancing again
• The surface is covered in debris
• Your energy bills keep climbing

The hidden cost? Running an uncovered pool in warm climates costs £1,200-1,500 per season in energy, water, and chemicals alone.

The Sol+Guard 180 Solution:

This isn’t just a pool cover – it’s a scientifically-engineered solar heating and retention system designed specifically for regions with intense UV exposure (up to 180 kLys/yrs).

Here’s what happens when you cover your pool:

✅ Solar heating accelerates – Translucent material allows maximum UV penetration, raising water temperature up to 8°C
✅ Heat loss plummets by 75% – GeoBubble insulation keeps warmth in overnight
✅ Evaporation virtually stops – 98% reduction saves 32,000 litres annually
✅ Chemicals last 30% longer – Protected from UV degradation and evaporation
✅ Debris stays out – No more daily skimming and cleaning
✅ Energy consumption drops 70% – Heat pump runs less, saving up to 7,000 kWh/year

🌡️ Real-World Performance: Before vs After

Without Sol+Guard 180:

• Morning water temperature: 22°C (after overnight cooling)
• Heat pump runtime: 8-10 hours daily to maintain 28°C
• Monthly electricity cost: £140-180
• Water top-ups: 3,000 litres monthly (£15-20)
• Chlorine usage: 2kg monthly (£25-30)
• Daily maintenance: 15-20 minutes skimming debris

Monthly running costs: £180-230

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With Sol+Guard 180:

• Morning water temperature: 26-27°C (minimal overnight loss)
• Heat pump runtime: 2-4 hours daily to maintain 28°C
• Monthly electricity cost: £40-55 (70% reduction)
• Water top-ups: 250 litres monthly (£1-2)
• Chlorine usage: 1.4kg monthly (£17-21)
• Daily maintenance: 5 minutes removing cover

Monthly running costs: £58-78 | SAVINGS: £122-152/month

🏆 Why Sol+Guard 180 Outperforms Standard Solar Covers

1. Enhanced UV Protection Layer

Unlike standard Sol+Guard 140, the 180 variant features additional UV stabilizers specifically formulated for:

• Mediterranean climates
• Southern UK regions with high sun exposure
• Warmer countries (up to 180 kLys/yrs UV intensity)
• Extended swimming seasons with more direct sunlight

Result: 25% longer lifespan than conventional bubble covers in harsh UV conditions.

2. Translucent for Maximum Solar Gain

The science behind the design:

• Light transmission technology allows beneficial UV rays through
• Water molecules absorb transmitted solar energy
• Temperature increases by 6-8°C in optimal conditions
• Works synergistically with heat pumps to reduce runtime

Comparison:

• Clear covers: Maximum transmission but less durability
• Sol+Guard 180: Optimal balance of transmission + UV protection
• Dark/opaque covers: Better for algae control but minimal solar heating

3. GeoBubble Technology

The revolutionary bubble design:

• 50% thicker material at stress points than traditional bubbles
• Interconnected bubble structure distributes pressure evenly
• Resists compression and degradation
• Lasts 25% longer than standard bubble wrap designs

Industry testing shows: GeoBubble covers maintain performance for 6+ years vs 3-4 years for traditional designs.

4. 500-Micron Thickness

The “Goldilocks zone” of solar covers:

• Not too thin: 400M covers heat well but retain less
• Not too thick: 600M covers retain more but allow less solar penetration
• Just right: 500M balances heating AND retention

For pools in warmer climates prioritizing solar gain, 500M is the sweet spot.

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💡 How Sol+Guard 180 Works: The Science

Step 1: Solar Energy Capture

The translucent material acts like a greenhouse lens, allowing UV rays to penetrate and warm the water beneath.

Step 2: Heat Retention

Thousands of air-filled GeoBubbles create an insulating barrier, preventing heat from escaping through evaporation and convection.

Step 3: Evaporation Elimination

The physical barrier stops water molecules from escaping – 98% reduction in evaporation means massive water and heat savings.

Step 4: Chemical Protection

UV rays can’t degrade chlorine through the cover, and without evaporation, chemicals stay concentrated at proper levels.

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📊 Technical Specifications: Sol+Guard 500M 180

Specification	Details
Dimensions	14ft x 28ft (4.27m x 8.53m)
Thickness	500 microns (0.5mm)
UV Rating	180 kLys/yrs (enhanced protection)
Material	Translucent GeoBubble polyethylene
Technology	GeoBubble interconnected design
Warranty	6 years pro-rata (UK & Ireland)*
Heat Retention	Up to 75% reduction in heat loss
Evaporation Reduction	Up to 98%
Chemical Savings	Up to 30% (5kg chlorine/year)
Energy Savings	Up to 70% (7,000 kWh/year)
Temperature Gain	Up to 8°C in optimal conditions
Weight	Lightweight – easy handling
Installation	Bubbles face DOWN into water
Made to Order	Custom-cut to specifications

*Warranty void if water temperature exceeds 29°C or SPATA chemical standards not maintained.

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🆚 Cover Comparison: Which Thickness Is Right for You?

Feature	400M Blue	500M Sol+Guard 180	600M Gold
Best For	Budget-conscious, above-ground pools	Solar heating + retention balance	Maximum heat retention
Solar Heating	Good (⭐⭐⭐⭐)	Excellent (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)	Good (⭐⭐⭐)
Heat Retention	Moderate (⭐⭐⭐)	Very Good (⭐⭐⭐⭐)	Excellent (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
UV Protection	Standard	Enhanced (180 kLys/yrs)	Enhanced + aluminum backing
Durability	3-4 years	6+ years	6+ years
Price Point	£	££	£££
Annual Savings	£600-750	£855-1,085	£900-1,100

Bottom line: Sol+Guard 180 offers the best solar heating performance for warm climates while maintaining excellent retention – ideal for pools in southern UK or regions with extended sun exposure.

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🌍 Is Sol+Guard 180 Right for Your Climate?

Use Sol+Guard 180 if:

✅ You’re in southern UK, Mediterranean, or warmer climates
✅ Your region receives UV exposure up to 180 kLys/yrs (see UV map here)
✅ You want maximum solar heating from your cover
✅ Your pool receives 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily
✅ Your swimming season extends May-September or longer
✅ You have a heat pump and want to reduce its runtime

Consider Sol+Guard 140 if:

⚪ You’re in northern UK or cooler climates
⚪ Your region has lower UV exposure (under 140 kLys/yrs)
⚪ Your pool is partially shaded

Consider 600M Gold if:

⚪ Heat retention matters more than solar gain
⚪ Your pool is already warm and you want to keep it that way
⚪ You’re willing to invest more for maximum insulation

Still unsure? Download the UV Map Guide to check your region’s UV intensity.

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💧 The Environmental Impact

Water Conservation

32,000 litres saved annually equals:

• 400 baths worth of water
• 64 washing machine loads
• Enough to keep 4 people hydrated for 5 years
• £160/year in water bills (at average UK rates)

Energy Efficiency

7,000 kWh saved annually equals:

• CO₂ reduction of 1.7 tonnes
• Equivalent to driving 6,500 fewer miles
• Powering an average UK home for 2 months

Your pool can actually become eco-friendly with this single addition.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Installation & Use

Q: Which side faces the water?
A: Bubbles face DOWN toward the water. The air trapped in bubbles is heated by the sun and transfers warmth directly into the pool.

Q: Can I run my pump with the cover on?
A: Absolutely! A properly secured cover won’t affect water circulation. Many pool owners run pumps with covers on to maximize heat retention.

Q: How do I handle a 14ft x 28ft cover?
A: Despite the size, the cover is lightweight. We strongly recommend a roller system for easy deployment and removal. The Helios II Solar Telescopic Reel is perfect for this size.

Q: Can I leave it on while heating the pool?
A: Yes! In fact, it’s more efficient to heat with the cover ON. Your heat pump works less hard, and heat can’t escape.

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Performance & Savings

Q: Will this really heat my pool, or just retain heat?
A: Both! Sol+Guard 180 is specifically designed for active solar heating – the translucent material allows UV to penetrate and warm the water by up to 8°C. It also retains 75% of that heat overnight.

Q: How long until I see savings?
A: Immediately. Your next energy bill will reflect reduced heat pump runtime. Water and chemical savings accumulate throughout the season.

Q: What’s the realistic payback period?
A: For this size pool, 4-6 months based on typical UK swimming season costs. After that, it’s pure savings.

Q: Will it work with my existing heat pump?
A: Yes – it makes your heat pump MORE effective. With 75% less heat loss, your pump reaches target temperature faster and maintains it with minimal runtime.

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Durability & Maintenance

Q: What’s the actual lifespan?
A: With proper care, 6-8 years. The enhanced UV stabilizers in the 180 formulation prevent degradation even in intense sunlight.

Q: How do I clean it?
A: Rinse with fresh water and mild soap occasionally. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes.

Q: Can I use it in winter?
A: No. Solar covers aren’t designed for year-round use in UK weather. Swap for a dedicated winter cover when closing your pool, and store the Sol+Guard in a cool, dry place.

Q: What voids the warranty?
A: Water temperatures exceeding 29°C or failing to maintain SPATA chemical standards. Keep chlorine, pH, and TDS within recommended ranges.

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Comparison Questions

Q: Why not just buy a cheaper 400M cover?
A: You can, but you’ll sacrifice longevity and heat retention. The 500M thickness provides significantly better insulation, and the enhanced UV protection (180 vs standard) means it lasts 2-3 years longer. Total cost of ownership is actually lower with Sol+Guard 180.

Q: Should I upgrade to 600M Gold instead?
A: Only if heat retention is your primary goal. The 600M Gold has aluminum backing for maximum insulation but allows less solar penetration. For active solar heating in warm climates, Sol+Guard 180 is superior.

Q: What’s the difference between 140 and 180 variants?
A: The 180 has enhanced UV stabilizers for regions with intense sunlight (up to 180 kLys/yrs). If you’re in southern UK or warmer climates, the 180 prevents premature degradation and extends lifespan significantly.

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📏 Perfect Fit Guarantee

This cover is made to order specifically for 14ft x 28ft pools.

Available in other sizes:

• 12ft x 24ft
• 13ft x 27ft
• 14ft x 30ft
• 15ft x 30ft
• 16ft x 32ft
• 17ft x 33ft
• 18ft x 36ft
• 20ft x 40ft
• Custom bespoke sizes available

Not sure about sizing? Use the Parts4Tubs solar cover calculator to determine the exact measurements for your pool.

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🎯 Your Complete Pool Heating System

For maximum efficiency and savings, combine your Sol+Guard 180 with:

1. Air Source Heat Pump – The most cost-effective heating method (use the cover to reduce runtime by 70%)
2. Solar Roller System – Makes daily cover handling effortless
3. Water Testing Kit – Maintain optimal chemistry to protect warranty
4. Winter Pool Cover – Swap in autumn for year-round pool protection

Pro tip: Many pool owners recoup the cost of the ENTIRE heating system (pump + cover + roller) within 18-24 months through energy savings alone.

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⚠️ Important Disclaimers & Assumptions

Savings Calculations Based On:

• Average UK energy rates: £0.30/kWh
• Average UK water rates: £0.005/litre
• Pool size: 14ft x 28ft (approximately 37,000 litres)
• Swimming season: May-September (5 months)
• Target temperature: 28°C
• Uncovered pool heat loss: 2-4°C per night
• Heat pump efficiency: COP 5.0
• Initial pool temperature: 22°C without cover
• Typical UK climate conditions
• Proper cover usage (deployed when pool not in use)

Variables That Affect Results:

• Local climate and weather patterns
• Amount of direct sunlight received
• Pool location (shade vs full sun)
• Existing heating system efficiency
• Water chemistry maintenance
• Frequency of pool use
• Local energy and water rates
• Pool shape and depth
• Wind exposure

Performance Specifications:

• Temperature gains up to 8°C are achievable in optimal conditions (full sun, stable weather, proper usage)
• Heat retention of 75%, evaporation reduction of 98%, and energy savings of 70% are manufacturer specifications based on controlled testing
• Actual results will vary based on individual pool conditions

Warranty Requirements:

• 6-year pro-rata warranty valid in UK & Ireland only
• Warranty void if water temperature exceeds 29°C
• Chemical levels must meet SPATA standards
• Proper storage during off-season required
• Cover must be used as directed (bubbles down)

Made to Order:

• All solar covers are custom-manufactured to specifications
• Production time typically 10-14 business days
• Non-returnable unless defective

Individual results will vary. These figures represent typical scenarios based on industry data and Parts4Tubs customer experience. Your actual savings depend on your specific pool conditions, usage patterns, and local rates.

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🛒 Ready to Start Saving?

Sol+Guard 500M 180 GeoBubble Solar Cover – 14ft x 28ft
£383.16 Inc VAT

What you get: ✅ Enhanced UV protection (180 kLys/yrs rating)
✅ GeoBubble technology (25% longer lifespan)
✅ 500-micron thickness for optimal heating + retention
✅ 6-year pro-rata warranty
✅ Made-to-order precision fit
✅ Translucent for maximum solar gain
✅ Expert advice and support from Parts4Tubs

Annual savings: £855-1,085
Payback period: 4-6 months
10-year value: £8,550-10,850 in savings

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Why Buy from Parts4Tubs?

When you buy from Parts4Tubs, you’re buying from Andi – not just “the internet.”

✅ Expert Personal Service – Direct access to knowledgeable advice
✅ Perfect Fit Guarantee – Custom-made to your exact specifications
✅ Competitive Pricing – Best value for premium GeoBubble products
✅ Trusted Supplier – Built on the success of buildahottub.com
✅ UK-Based Support – Real person, real help, real results

Can’t find the size you need? Get in touch for a bespoke quote.

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Additional Resources

📄 Download UV Map Guide – Check your region’s UV intensity
📐 Use the Solar Cover Calculator – Get exact measurements for your pool
📚 Read Our Complete Guide – Everything you need to know about solar covers
💬 Contact Andi – Have questions? Get expert advice

🌞 Transform Your Pool Economics Today

Every day without a solar cover is money literally evaporating into thin air:

• £2-3 daily in wasted energy
• £0.50 daily in lost water
• £0.20 daily in degraded chemicals

That’s £2.70-3.70 per day = £400-555 per season going to waste.

This cover pays for itself in 4-6 months, then delivers pure savings for 6+ years.

The question isn’t whether you can afford a Sol+Guard 180 cover – it’s whether you can afford NOT to have one.

Make your pool work FOR you, not against your wallet.