🌞 Sol+Guard 500M 180 GeoBubble Solar Cover – Maximum Solar Heating for UK Pools
Save £800-£1,200+ Annually While Heating Your Pool Naturally with the Sun
The UK’s Most Advanced Translucent Solar Pool Cover – Engineered for Enhanced UV Protection in Variable British Climate
💰 Bottom Line Up Front: Your Annual Savings Breakdown
For a typical 4m x 8m (13ft x 26ft) UK pool using Sol+Guard 500M 180:
- Heating costs reduced by 60-70%: £600-£850/year saved*
- Water savings (98% evaporation reduction): £140/year saved*
- Chemical savings (30% reduction): £45-£75/year saved*
- Filter strain reduction: Extended equipment life worth £50-£100/year*
Total annual savings: £835-£1,165
Cover investment payback period: 6-9 months
*Based on 6-month swimming season (April-September), average UK pool heating at £0.28/kWh, water at £4.40/m³, standard chemical regiment. Individual results vary based on pool size, location, usage patterns, and climate conditions. Full calculation methodology provided below.
🔥 What Makes Sol+Guard 500M 180 Different? The Solar Heating Specialist
The Science Behind Superior Solar Gains
Sol+Guard 500M 180 isn’t just any pool cover – it’s specifically engineered as a translucent solar transmission cover that prioritizes heating your pool water through natural solar energy.
How It Works:
- Maximum UV Transmission: The translucent material allows beneficial UV rays to penetrate directly through to your pool water
- GeoBubble Heat Capture: Patented bubble design traps solar energy like a greenhouse, creating air pockets that heat up throughout the day
- Direct Heat Transfer: Bubbles positioned against the water surface conduct warmth directly into your pool
- Dual-Action Insulation: The 500-micron thickness prevents heat escape overnight and on cloudy days
Real-World Performance:
- Can raise pool temperature by up to 8°C in optimal UK summer conditions
- Maintains temperature gains through cool British evenings
- Reduces reliance on electric or gas heating by 60-70%
- Particularly effective during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) when free solar heating extends your swimming season
🌍 The “180” Advantage: Enhanced UV Protection for British Weather
What Does the “180” Mean?
The Sol+Guard 500M comes in two UV formulations:
- Sol+Guard 140: Standard UV protection (up to 140 kLys/year)
- Sol+Guard 180: Enhanced UV protection (up to 180 kLys/year) ← This Product
Why 180 Matters for UK Pool Owners:
While the UK typically falls within the 140 kLys/year UV zone, the 180 formulation offers critical advantages:
✅ Extended lifespan – Additional UV inhibitors mean longer cover life (6-year pro-rata warranty)
✅ Variable climate protection – British weather can be unpredictable; 180-rated material handles occasional high-UV days better
✅ Premium durability – Extra protection against degradation from pool chemicals combined with UV exposure
✅ Future-proofing – Climate patterns are changing; enhanced protection provides peace of mind
✅ Export-grade material – Same high-specification material used in Mediterranean and warmer climates
The Investment Logic: The small price difference between 140 and 180 formulations (typically £15-£30 depending on size) delivers significant longevity benefits. Over a 6-year warranty period, that’s less than £5/year for enhanced protection.
📊 Sol+Guard 500M 180 vs. Other Cover Types: Performance Comparison
| Feature | Sol+Guard 500M 180 | Energy Guard 500M | Gold 600M | Blue 400M |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Solar heating + retention | Algae prevention + heating | Maximum heat retention | Budget protection |
| UV Transmission | ✅ High (translucent) | ⚠️ Selective (dark coating) | ❌ Blocked (aluminum) | ⚠️ Moderate |
| Solar Gain Potential | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | ⭐⭐⭐ Good | ⭐⭐ Limited | ⭐⭐⭐ Moderate |
| Heat Retention | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | ⭐⭐⭐ Good |
| Algae Prevention | ⭐⭐ Basic | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good | ⭐ Minimal |
| Thickness | 500 microns | 500 microns | 600 microns | 400 microns |
| Lifespan | 6 years | 6 years | 8+ years | 4-5 years |
| Best For | Maximizing solar heating, extending season | Pools prone to algae | Artificially heated pools | Above-ground pools, tight budgets |
| UV Protection Rating | 180 kLys/year | 180 kLys/year | Standard | Standard |
Choose Sol+Guard 500M 180 If:
- Your pool receives 4+ hours of direct sunlight daily
- You want to minimize reliance on electric/gas heating
- You’re looking to extend your swimming season into spring and autumn
- You value both solar heating AND heat retention
- You have a heat pump and want to maximize its efficiency
- Algae isn’t a significant problem for your pool
Consider Alternatives If:
- Energy Guard 500M: Your pool struggles with algae growth (the selective transmission coating blocks algae-promoting wavelengths while still allowing UV heating)
- Gold 600M: You have an artificially heated pool and solar gains are less important than maximum heat retention
- Blue 400M: You need basic debris protection on a tight budget or for an above-ground pool
🏊 The UK Pool Owner’s Heating Dilemma – Solved
The Problem: British Climate vs. Comfortable Swimming
UK pool owners face a unique challenge:
- Short natural swimming season: Water only reaches comfortable temperatures (24-28°C) for 2-3 months without heating
- High heating costs: Electric pool heaters can cost £1,200-£2,000+ per season
- Heat pump efficiency drops: Lower ambient temperatures in spring/autumn reduce heat pump performance
- Unpredictable weather: Cloudy spells and cool nights can drop pool temperature by 3-5°C overnight
The Sol+Guard Solution: Free Solar Energy
What if you could harness free solar energy to:
- Raise your pool temperature by 5-8°C during sunny periods?
- Maintain that heat overnight instead of losing it to the atmosphere?
- Extend your swimming season from 2-3 months to 5-6 months?
- Cut your heating bills by more than half?
That’s exactly what Sol+Guard 500M 180 does.
Think of it as double-glazing for your pool – but instead of just preventing heat loss, it actively captures solar energy and transfers it into your water.
💡 How Sol+Guard 500M 180 Works: The Technical Details
1. GeoBubble Technology: Patented Design
Unlike traditional circular bubble covers, GeoBubble features a unique shape:
Traditional Bubbles vs. GeoBubble:
- Traditional circular bubbles: Weak points at connection seams, prone to popping under stress
- GeoBubble design: Interconnected “figure-8” bubble shape distributes stress evenly, eliminating weak points
Result: 25% longer lifespan compared to traditional bubble covers
2. 500-Micron Thickness: The Sweet Spot
The 500M thickness represents optimal balance:
- Thinner covers (400M): More flexible but less durable, reduced insulation
- 500M covers ← Sweet spot: Excellent heat retention, durable, manageable weight
- Thicker covers (600M): Maximum insulation but heavier, more expensive, can reduce solar transmission
For solar heating applications, 500M is ideal because it allows strong UV transmission while still providing excellent insulation.
3. Translucent Material: Maximum Solar Transmission
The science is straightforward:
- Clear/translucent materials: Allow 85-90% of UV rays to pass through to water
- Dark materials: Absorb UV but transfer less heat to water (better for algae prevention)
- Reflective materials: Block UV entirely (better for pure heat retention in already-heated pools)
Sol+Guard’s translucent formula prioritizes UV transmission to maximize natural solar heating.
4. Enhanced 180 UV Stabilization
The “180” formulation includes:
- Advanced UV inhibitors: Chemical additives that absorb harmful UV radiation before it degrades the polymer structure
- Increased molecular stability: Enhanced cross-linking in the material structure resists breakdown
- Chemical resistance: Better performance when exposed to chlorine + UV combination
📈 Detailed Savings Calculations: Show Me The Numbers
Scenario 1: Standard Residential Pool (4m x 8m)
Without Sol+Guard (Uncovered Pool):
- Heating season: April to September (6 months)
- Average heating requirement: 180 kWh/week to maintain 25°C
- Electricity cost: £0.28/kWh (UK average 2025)
- Weekly heating cost: 180 kWh × £0.28 = £50.40
- Season total: £1,210
With Sol+Guard 500M 180:
- Solar gains: 5-8°C during sunny periods reduces heating need by 60%
- Heat retention: Minimal overnight heat loss reduces night/cloudy day heating by 75%
- Combined reduction: 65% average
- New heating cost: £1,210 × 0.35 = £424
- Annual heating savings: £786
Water Savings:
- Evaporation without cover: 32,000L/year (4m x 8m pool)
- Evaporation with cover (98% reduction): 640L/year
- Water saved: 31,360L
- Cost at £4.40/m³: £138/year saved
Chemical Savings:
- Chlorine reduction (30%): 5kg/year saved
- Average chlorine cost: £12/kg
- Additional balancing chemicals: £15/year saved
- Total chemical savings: £75/year
Total First-Year Savings: £999
Cover Cost (16ft x 36ft example): £563.48
Payback Period: 6.8 months
Scenario 2: Heat Pump User (5m x 10m Pool)
Without Cover:
- Heat pump electricity usage: 2,500 kWh/season
- Cost at £0.28/kWh: £700
- Water evaporation: 50,000L/year = £220
- Chemicals: £120/year
- Total annual costs: £1,040
With Sol+Guard 500M 180:
- Heat pump usage reduced by 70%: 750 kWh = £210
- Water evaporation reduced by 98%: 1,000L = £4.40
- Chemical usage reduced by 30%: £84
- Total annual costs: £298.40
Annual savings: £741.60
⚙️ Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | UV-stabilized polyethylene (180 kLys/year rating) |
| Bubble Design | GeoBubble patented technology |
| Thickness | 500 microns (0.5mm) |
| Color/Opacity | Translucent (maximum UV transmission) |
| UV Protection | Enhanced 180 formulation for extended durability |
| Heat Retention | Reduces heat loss by up to 75% |
| Evaporation Reduction | Up to 98% |
| Solar Gain Potential | Up to 8°C temperature increase in optimal conditions |
| Warranty | 6-year pro-rata warranty (UK & Ireland only) |
| Weight | Approximately 400-450g/m² (lightweight, easy handling) |
| Orientation | Bubbles face down toward water |
| Compatibility | Works with all pool types; optimal with roller systems |
| Seasonality | Spring through autumn use (April-October); store during winter |
Warranty Conditions:
- Warranty void if pool water temperature exceeds 29°C
- SPATA standards for chemical balance and TDS levels must be maintained
- Pro-rata basis: warranty value decreases proportionally over 6-year period
✅ Key Benefits: Why Pool Owners Choose Sol+Guard 500M 180
Financial Benefits
💰 Cut heating costs by 60-70% – Spend £400-£600 instead of £1,200-£1,800 per season
💰 Save 32,000+ litres of water annually – Worth £140+ at UK water rates
💰 Reduce chemical consumption by 30% – £45-£75 saved on chlorine and balancing products
💰 Extend pool season by 2-3 months – More swimming time without proportional cost increase
💰 ROI in under 7 months – Cover pays for itself in first season
Performance Benefits
🔥 Raise water temperature up to 8°C – Natural solar heating on sunny days
🔥 Retain heat overnight – Wake up to a warm pool, not a cold one
🔥 Maximize heat pump efficiency – Reduce runtime and electricity consumption
🔥 Enable shoulder-season swimming – Comfortable temperatures in April-May and September-October
Maintenance Benefits
🧹 98% reduction in debris – Spend less time skimming and vacuuming
🧹 Slower chemical degradation – UV protection keeps chlorine effective longer
🧹 Reduced filter workload – Less debris means less strain on filtration system
🧹 Minimal algae growth – Covering prevents photosynthesis and organic contamination
Environmental Benefits
🌱 Lower carbon footprint – Reduced electricity consumption
🌱 Water conservation – Save thousands of litres annually
🌱 Reduced chemical discharge – Less frequent draining and refilling
Durability & Longevity
⏱️ 6-year pro-rata warranty – Industry-leading coverage
⏱️ 25% longer life than standard covers – GeoBubble technology proven advantage
⏱️ Enhanced 180 UV protection – Superior resistance to British climate conditions
⏱️ Chemical-resistant formulation – Withstands chlorine, salt, and pH fluctuations
🆚 Common Questions: Sol+Guard 500M 180 vs. Alternatives
“Should I buy Sol+Guard 140 or Sol+Guard 180?”
For UK pools, we recommend the 180 formulation even though the UK typically receives 120-140 kLys/year UV exposure.
Why?
- Marginal cost difference (£15-£30) provides significant longevity insurance
- Variable weather patterns – Occasional high-UV days occur even in UK
- Extended warranty confidence – Enhanced material meets warranty requirements with margin
- Future climate considerations – UV exposure may increase over cover’s 6-year life
When 140 might be sufficient: Indoor pools, heavily shaded outdoor pools, or extremely budget-constrained scenarios.
“Sol+Guard vs. Energy Guard – Which is better?”
Choose Sol+Guard 500M 180 if:
- Solar heating is your priority
- Your pool doesn’t have algae problems
- You want maximum temperature gains from sunlight
- You have a heat pump and want to reduce runtime
Choose Energy Guard 500M if:
- Your pool struggles with algae growth
- You want UV heating BUT also light-blocking for algae prevention
- Your pool is in a shaded area prone to algae due to organic debris
- You prioritize chemical savings over maximum solar gains
The Technical Difference: Energy Guard has a selective transmission coating that blocks visible light (preventing algae photosynthesis) while still allowing UV rays through for heating. Sol+Guard is fully translucent for maximum UV transmission.
“Why not just get the Gold 600M for better heat retention?”
Gold 600M is excellent for heat retention, but:
- Aluminum backing blocks UV – Minimal solar heating gains
- 100 microns thicker – Heavier, harder to handle without a roller
- 20-30% more expensive – Higher upfront cost
- Best for artificially heated pools – When you’re already paying for heat and just want to keep it in
Sol+Guard 500M 180 is better if:
- You want the sun to do the heating work
- You’re trying to minimize reliance on electric/gas heating
- You want a balance of solar gains + heat retention
- You prefer lighter, easier-to-handle covers
Think of it this way:
- Sol+Guard = Active solar panel + insulation blanket
- Gold 600M = Premium insulation blanket only
🛠️ Installation & Usage Guide
Setting Up Your Sol+Guard Cover
Bubble Orientation:
- ALWAYS place bubbles facing DOWN toward the water
- The air-filled bubbles heat up from sunlight exposure
- Positioning them against the water surface maximizes heat transfer
- Smooth side should face upward toward the sky
Sizing:
- Covers should overlap pool edges by 50-100mm for secure fit
- Parts4Tubs offers bespoke sizing if standard dimensions don’t match your pool
Attachment Methods:
- Manual Roller System (recommended): Attaches to one end, makes deployment/removal effortless
- Free-floating: Simply lay over water surface, secure with pool cover clips if windy
- Automatic Roller: Motorized systems available for larger pools
Daily Usage Best Practices
When to Cover: ✅ Overnight – Retains warmth built up during the day
✅ During cloudy/rainy periods – Prevents heat loss
✅ When pool not in use – Maximizes heating and debris protection
✅ During pool heating – Yes! Keep cover on while heat pump runs for maximum efficiency
When to Uncover: ✅ During swimming – Obviously!
✅ Never needed to uncover for pump operation – Your pool filter/pump works fine with cover on
Covering While Pool Pump Runs: Many pool owners ask: “Can I leave the cover on while the pump is running?”
YES – and you should! A properly secured solar cover won’t interfere with water circulation. Your skimmer and returns will continue functioning normally underneath.
Seasonal Storage
End-of-Season Storage (September-November):
- Clean thoroughly – Remove debris, rinse with fresh water
- Allow to dry completely – Prevents mold/mildew during storage
- Fold or roll carefully – Avoid sharp creases that could become weak points
- Store in dry, protected location – Garage, shed, or waterproof storage bag
- Keep away from rodents – They may chew the material
Why Not Use in Winter?
Sol+Guard covers are designed for swimming season use (April-October in UK). For winter:
- Material isn’t designed to support snow/ice weight
- Freezing temperatures can make material brittle
- Winter pool covers provide better debris protection and chemical preservation
- Proper winter storage extends Sol+Guard lifespan
Recommended Winter Solution: Invest in a dedicated winter pool cover (£80-£200) and store your Sol+Guard properly. This dual-cover approach maximizes both products’ lifespans.
Maintenance & Care
Monthly During Season:
- Rinse off accumulated debris with garden hose
- Check for tears or damage, especially along edges
- Ensure roller system (if used) is functioning smoothly
Chemical Balance Matters: While the cover protects chemicals from degradation, chemicals also affect the cover:
Warranty-Compliant Water Chemistry:
- pH: 7.2-7.6
- Chlorine: 1-3 ppm
- TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): Within SPATA standards
- Temperature: Must not exceed 29°C
Exceeding these parameters, especially temperature, will void your 6-year warranty.
🌡️ Real-World Performance: What to Expect
Spring (April-May)
Ambient Conditions: Air temperature 10-16°C, variable sunshine
Without Cover: Pool water 12-16°C (uncomfortably cold)
With Sol+Guard 500M 180:
- Sunny days: Water temperature can reach 18-22°C
- Cloudy days: Maintains temperature rather than dropping
- Result: Swimming becomes possible 4-6 weeks earlier than uncovered pool
Summer (June-August)
Ambient Conditions: Air temperature 18-24°C, longer daylight hours
Without Cover: Pool water 20-24°C, drops to 18-20°C overnight
With Sol+Guard 500M 180:
- Daytime: Water temperature 24-28°C (optimal comfort)
- Overnight: Minimal temperature drop (1-2°C vs. 3-5°C)
- Result: Consistent comfortable swimming, reduced heating costs even in peak season
Autumn (September-October)
Ambient Conditions: Air temperature 12-18°C, decreasing daylight
Without Cover: Pool water 16-20°C (becoming uncomfortable)
With Sol+Guard 500M 180:
- Still achieves 20-24°C on sunny days
- Heat retention crucial as nights get colder
- Result: Swimming season extended 4-6 weeks beyond uncovered pool
Important Realism: These figures assume:
- Pool receives 4-6 hours direct sunlight daily
- Proper covering discipline (cover on when not swimming)
- Well-maintained pool chemistry
- Standard UK residential pool size (30-50m³)
Individual results will vary based on your specific location, pool orientation, shading, and weather patterns.
📋 Frequently Asked Questions
About Sol+Guard 500M 180 Specifically
Q: What’s the difference between Sol+Guard 140 and Sol+Guard 180?
A: The number refers to UV resistance measured in Kilolangley years (kLys/yrs). The 180 formulation includes enhanced UV stabilizers for longer life and better performance in variable conditions. For UK pools, the 180 version offers better longevity and warranty confidence even though UK UV levels typically range 120-140 kLys/year.
Q: Will this cover completely eliminate my heating costs?
A: No. Sol+Guard significantly reduces heating costs (60-70% reduction is typical), but most UK pool owners will still need supplemental heating on cloudy days, overnight, and during shoulder seasons. The cover works best in combination with a heat pump, extending its efficiency and reducing runtime.
Q: Can I use Sol+Guard year-round?
A: No. Sol+Guard is designed for swimming season use (typically April-October in UK). During winter, you should use a dedicated winter pool cover and store your Sol+Guard in a dry, protected location. This extends the solar cover’s lifespan significantly.
Q: How long will the cover last?
A: GeoBubble solar covers typically last 25% longer than traditional bubble covers. With proper care and storage, Sol+Guard 500M 180 should easily meet or exceed the 6-year pro-rata warranty period. Some users report 7-8 years with excellent maintenance.
Installation & Use
Q: Do the bubbles go up or down?
A: Bubbles ALWAYS face down toward the water. The air in the bubbles heats up from sunlight, and positioning them against the water maximizes heat transfer. The smooth side faces upward.
Q: Can I run my pool pump with the cover on?
A: Yes! A properly secured solar cover will not affect your pump’s ability to circulate water. Your skimmers and returns continue functioning normally underneath. In fact, it’s recommended to keep the cover on during filtration and heating for maximum efficiency.
Q: Do I need a roller system?
A: Not required, but highly recommended. Roller systems make cover deployment and removal effortless, especially for pools larger than 4m x 8m. Manual handling is feasible for smaller pools but can be cumbersome. Investment in a roller (£150-£400) pays off in convenience and encourages consistent covering discipline.
Q: Will this cover support a person’s weight?
A: NO. Sol+Guard is NOT a safety cover. It cannot support the weight of a child, adult, or pet. If someone walks on the cover, it may cause injury to them and damage the cover. If safety is a concern, consider a perimeter fence or invest in a dedicated safety pool cover.
Q: Can I heat my pool with the cover on?
A: Yes – in fact, you should! Keeping the Sol+Guard cover on while your heat pump or heater runs significantly improves efficiency by preventing heat loss during the heating process. Just ensure the cover is properly secured and not obstructing equipment.
Performance & Savings
Q: How much will this cover actually heat my pool?
A: In optimal UK summer conditions (sunny day, 4-6 hours direct sunlight), Sol+Guard can raise pool temperature by 5-8°C. Realistically, expect 3-5°C gains on typical British summer days. The cover also prevents overnight heat loss (3-5°C), so the cumulative effect is significant.
Q: Will this work on cloudy days?
A: Cloudy days reduce solar heating potential, but the cover still provides valuable insulation. Even without direct sunlight, Sol+Guard prevents heat loss and evaporation. Think of cloudy days as “heat retention mode” rather than “active heating mode.”
Q: I have a heat pump. Will this cover help?
A: Absolutely – this is one of the best use cases. Sol+Guard works synergistically with heat pumps:
- Reduces heat pump runtime by 60-70%
- Extends heat pump lifespan through reduced wear
- Improves COP (Coefficient of Performance) by maintaining higher water temperatures
- Allows heat pump to “top up” rather than work hard constantly
Combined heat pump + Sol+Guard systems can reduce total heating costs by 70-80% compared to heat pump alone.
Q: How do I maximize my savings?
A: Follow these best practices:
- Cover religiously – Every hour uncovered is wasted heat and increased evaporation
- Use a roller – Makes covering easier, encourages consistent use
- Cover during heating – Keep on while heat pump runs
- Maintain chemistry – Proper pH and chlorine levels protect both cover and extend its life
- Combine with heat pump – Solar cover + heat pump is the most cost-effective heating solution
- Store properly in winter – Extends cover lifespan dramatically
Sizing & Ordering
Q: What size should I order?
A: Your cover should be slightly larger than your pool’s surface area (50-100mm overlap on all sides). Use the Parts4Tubs solar cover calculator to determine precise measurements. Standard sizes available, or bespoke sizing for custom pools.
Q: How long does delivery take?
A: Sol+Guard covers are made-to-order items. Typical delivery time is 7-14 business days from order placement. During peak season (March-May), allow 2-3 weeks.
Q: Can I cut the cover to fit my pool exactly?
A: Yes, you can trim edges with sharp scissors or a utility knife if needed. However, we recommend ordering the closest size match to minimize cutting, as extensive trimming can affect warranty coverage if cuts are made into the bubble structure.
⚠️ Important Disclaimers & Warranty Information
Performance Disclaimers
Savings Calculations:
All savings figures presented in this sales page are estimates based on:
- Standard UK residential pool (4m x 8m / 32m³ volume)
- Swimming season: April-September (6 months)
- Target water temperature: 24-26°C
- UK average electricity rate: £0.28/kWh (2025)
- UK average water rate: £4.40/m³
- 4-6 hours direct sunlight per day during summer months
- Proper cover usage discipline (covered when not in use)
- Well-maintained pool chemistry
Individual results will vary significantly based on:
- Pool size, depth, and volume
- Geographic location within UK
- Pool orientation and sun exposure
- Shading from buildings, trees, fences
- Local climate and weather patterns
- Water temperature preferences
- Usage frequency and duration
- Heat pump/heater efficiency (if used)
- Chemical regiment and water management
- Cover maintenance and storage practices
Temperature Increase Claims:
The stated “up to 8°C” temperature increase represents optimal conditions:
- Continuous sunny weather (6+ hours direct sunlight)
- Starting water temperature below 20°C
- Calm wind conditions
- Covered pool for 24-48 hours
- Late spring/early summer (May-June) timeframe
Typical results in standard UK summer conditions: 3-5°C temperature increase over 24-48 hour period.
Warranty Terms
6-Year Pro-Rata Warranty Coverage:
This warranty applies ONLY to UK & Ireland installations and is void if:
❌ Pool water temperature exceeds 29°C at any time
❌ Chemical levels exceed SPATA standards:
- pH outside 7.2-7.8 range
- Chlorine above 5 ppm
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) above recommended levels ❌ Cover is used during winter months with snow/ice accumulation
❌ Cover is cut or modified extensively from original dimensions
❌ Damage from improper storage (mold, rodent damage, UV exposure during storage)
❌ Normal wear and tear (warranty doesn’t cover expected degradation over time)
Pro-Rata Structure:
Warranty value decreases proportionally each year:
- Year 1: 100% coverage
- Year 2: 83% coverage
- Year 3: 67% coverage
- Year 4: 50% coverage
- Year 5: 33% coverage
- Year 6: 17% coverage
Warranty claims require proof of purchase and documentation of proper water chemistry maintenance.
Safety Disclaimers
CRITICAL SAFETY INFORMATION:
🚨 Sol+Guard is NOT a safety cover
🚨 Cannot support weight of children, adults, or pets
🚨 Risk of drowning if someone walks on cover
🚨 Not a substitute for pool fencing or supervision
If safety is a concern:
- Install proper pool fencing meeting local regulations
- Use a certified safety cover in addition to or instead of Sol+Guard
- Never leave children unattended near pool, covered or uncovered
- Educate family members that cover is NOT walkable
Chemical & Temperature Requirements
Maximum Safe Operating Temperature: 29°C
Exceeding this temperature will:
- Accelerate material degradation
- Void warranty immediately
- Potentially cause bubbles to deform or flatten
- Reduce cover lifespan significantly
If your pool regularly exceeds 29°C (common with solar heating in hot climates), consider:
- Removing cover during peak heating hours
- Installing shade elements to reduce solar gain
- Using alternative cover types designed for higher temperatures
Chemical Balance Requirements:
Maintaining proper chemistry protects your investment:
- pH 7.2-7.6: Prevents material brittleness (high pH) or degradation (low pH)
- Chlorine 1-3 ppm: Higher levels accelerate polymer breakdown
- Proper TDS management: High dissolved solids can affect cover longevity
- Avoid shock treatments with cover on: Remove cover before super-chlorination
Realistic Expectations
This cover is NOT:
- A complete replacement for pool heating systems
- A solution for pools in deep shade (requires 4+ hours sunlight for meaningful solar gains)
- Effective in winter conditions (design limitation, not defect)
- Capable of heating pools to hot tub temperatures (realistic gain: 5-8°C maximum)
This cover IS:
- An excellent complement to heat pumps and solar heaters
- Highly effective at reducing heating costs (60-70% typical)
- The best option for maximizing natural solar heating
- A proven solution for extending swimming seasons
- A smart long-term investment with 6-9 month payback period
🛒 Available Sizes & Pricing
Sol+Guard 500M 180 GeoBubble covers are available in the following standard sizes:
| Size (ft) | Size (m) | Price (Inc VAT) |
|---|---|---|
| 10ft x 20ft | 3.0m x 6.1m | £195.00 |
| 12ft x 24ft | 3.7m x 7.3m | £281.24 |
| 13ft x 27ft | 4.0m x 8.2m | £342.98 |
| 14ft x 28ft | 4.3m x 8.5m | £383.16 |
| 15ft x 30ft | 4.6m x 9.1m | £440.00 |
| 16ft x 36ft | 4.9m x 11.0m | £563.48 |
| 16ft x 38ft | 4.9m x 11.6m | £594.84 |
| 17ft x 33ft | 5.2m x 10.1m | £548.78 |
| 18ft x 36ft | 5.5m x 11.0m | £634.00 |
Don’t see your exact pool size?
Parts4Tubs offers bespoke sizing at no additional cost. Simply provide your pool dimensions, and we’ll manufacture a cover to your exact specifications.
All covers are made-to-order items with typical 7-14 business day production time.
🎯 Who Is Sol+Guard 500M 180 Perfect For?
Ideal Customer Profile
✅ Pool owners who want to maximize solar heating
✅ Heat pump users looking to reduce runtime and costs
✅ Environmentally conscious swimmers seeking sustainable solutions
✅ Budget-conscious pool owners tired of high electricity bills
✅ Anyone wanting to extend swimming season into spring and autumn
✅ Pools receiving 4+ hours direct sunlight daily
✅ Owners who value quality and longevity (6-year warranty)
Less Suitable For
⚠️ Pools with severe algae problems (consider Energy Guard instead)
⚠️ Heavily shaded pools (<3 hours sunlight daily – solar gains will be minimal)
⚠️ Pools regularly exceeding 29°C (warranty void, consider alternatives)
⚠️ Customers needing safety cover functionality (Sol+Guard is not a safety cover)
⚠️ Year-round pool users (winter use will damage cover, need winter-specific solution)
🏆 Why Buy Sol+Guard 500M 180 from Parts4Tubs?
Direct From the Specialist
- No middleman markup – Best prices in UK market
- Expert guidance – Speak with Andi, owner and pool specialist
- Bespoke sizing available – Perfect fit for your pool
- Genuine GeoBubble technology – Authentic manufacturer materials
- 6-year pro-rata warranty – Industry-leading coverage
Made-to-Order Quality
- Custom manufactured to your specifications
- Fresh production ensures optimal UV stabilizer concentration
- No warehouse stock sitting under UV exposure before you receive it
Complete Support
- Sizing assistance via solar cover calculator
- Installation guidance included
- Maintenance and storage recommendations
- Warranty support direct from supplier
🌞 Final Thoughts: Is Sol+Guard 500M 180 Right for You?
If you’re a UK pool owner who:
- ✅ Wants to cut heating costs by £600-£1,000+ annually
- ✅ Receives reasonable sunlight (4+ hours/day during summer)
- ✅ Values both solar heating AND heat retention
- ✅ Plans to use the cover for 5-6 years minimum
- ✅ Wants to extend swimming season beyond natural summer months
- ✅ Appreciates quality materials and proven technology
Then Sol+Guard 500M 180 is an excellent investment.
The Bottom Line
For a typical 4m x 8m pool, this cover will:
- Save you £800-£1,200 in first year alone
- Pay for itself in 6-9 months
- Provide 6+ years of reliable service
- Make your pool swimmable 2-3 months longer per year
- Reduce environmental impact significantly
The question isn’t “Can I afford this cover?”
The real question is: “Can I afford NOT to have this cover?”
📞 Ready to Start Saving?
All Sol+Guard 500M 180 covers are made-to-order.
Next Steps:
- Select your size from the table above or request bespoke sizing
- Place your order – Expect 7-14 business day production time
- Receive expert installation guidance with your cover
- Start enjoying warmer water and lower bills within weeks
Purchase with Confidence
✓ 6-Year Pro-Rata Warranty
✓ Made-to-Order Quality
✓ Expert UK Support
✓ Genuine GeoBubble Technology
✓ Enhanced 180 UV Protection
Start saving today. Your pool – and your wallet – will thank you. 🏊💰


