🌞 Sol+Guard 500M GeoBubble Solar Cover: Maximum Solar Heating Performance for UK Pool Owners

Save £800+ Annually While Heating Your Pool Naturally*

The UK’s Leading Translucent Solar Cover for Maximum Temperature Gains

💰 The Bottom Line: What Sol+Guard Delivers

For a typical 4m x 8m UK pool, the Sol+Guard 500M GeoBubble Solar Cover delivers:

• £560-840 in annual heating cost savings* (based on £0.24-0.34/kWh electricity rates)
• Up to 8°C natural temperature increase through solar energy transmission
• £140 saved on water bills* (32,000 litres @ £4.40/m³)
• £30-60 saved on chemicals* (up to 5kg less chlorine needed)
• Total annual savings: £730-1,040+
• Payback period: 2-7 months depending on pool size and cover cost

For a 10ft x 20ft (3m x 6m) pool, this cover costs just £154.00 – representing a potential ROI of 475-675% in the first year alone.

🔥 Why Sol+Guard Outperforms Every Other Solar Cover

The Solar Heating Specialist

While most solar covers focus primarily on heat retention, Sol+Guard is specifically engineered for maximum solar heating gain. Here’s what makes it the UK’s best-performing solar heating cover:

Translucent Dual-Layer Technology

• Clear top surface allows maximum UV penetration
• Translucent tinted underside optimizes heat transfer to water
• University-tested to transmit more solar energy than any competing bubble cover
• Can raise pool temperature by up to 8°C in optimal UK summer conditions

Compare Sol+Guard’s Solar Heating Performance:

Cover Type	Solar Transmission	Temperature Increase	Best For
Sol+Guard 500M	Maximum	Up to 8°C	Maximizing natural solar heating
Energy Guard 500M	Selective (blocks algae spectrum)	5-6°C	Algae-prone pools
RaeGuard 500M	Low (opaque)	2-3°C	Heat retention only
Gold 600M	Medium	4-5°C	Premium heat retention
Standard Blue 400M	Low-Medium	3-4°C	Budget applications

When to Choose Sol+Guard:

• You want to maximize free solar heating gains
• Your pool receives good sun exposure (4+ hours daily)
• You’re using solar panels or want to reduce reliance on electric/gas heating
• Your priority is warming the water, not just keeping it warm
• You don’t have significant algae problems (use Energy Guard if you do)

📊 The Science: University-Verified Performance

Proven Results from UK University Research

Sol+Guard’s performance claims aren’t marketing hype – they’re backed by collaborative research with two UK universities. Here’s what the testing revealed:

Solar Energy Transmission

Finding: Translucent covers allow significantly greater solar energy penetration compared to opaque or heavily tinted covers.

Result: Sol+Guard’s unique two-ply translucent design achieved the highest solar gain of any bubble cover tested, capable of raising pool temperature by up to 8°C in optimal conditions.

Heat Retention

Finding: Even while maximizing solar transmission, Sol+Guard maintained excellent insulation properties through its GeoBubble air pocket design.

Result: Energy consumption reduction of 50-70% compared to uncovered pools, with heat retention comparable to thicker opaque covers.

Water & Chemical Conservation

Finding: Any quality pool cover dramatically reduces evaporation and chemical degradation.

Result:

• 98%+ reduction in evaporation (32,000 litres saved annually on a 4m x 8m pool)
• Up to 30% chemical savings (approximately 5kg less chlorine per year)
• Reduced need to rebalance water chemistry

💡 How Sol+Guard Works: The Technology Explained

GeoBubble Design: 25% Longer Lifespan

Traditional bubble covers were designed for packaging materials, not swimming pools. The circular bubble design had inherent weak points that failed under UV exposure, chemical attack, and thermal stress.

GeoBubble technology solved these problems through intelligent redesign:

Smart Two-Bubble Design

• Two interconnected bubbles joined at a reinforced waistline
• No sharp corners or stress concentration points
• 50% thicker material than traditional bubble covers
• Uniform thickness throughout – no thin weak spots

UV Protection Package

• Advanced UV stabilizers resist sun damage
• Anti-oxidant additives prevent material degradation
• Extends functional lifespan to 6+ years vs 4-5 years for traditional covers
• 25% longer life = better value and fewer replacement costs

The Sol+Guard Advantage: Translucent Transmission

Layer 1: Clear Top Surface

• Maximizes UV ray penetration
• Acts like greenhouse glass, trapping solar energy
• Resistant to surface degradation from sun exposure

Layer 2: Translucent Tinted Underside

• Optimizes heat transfer directly into water
• Tint prevents excessive algae-promoting light while maintaining heat transmission
• Creates ideal balance between heating and algae control

500M Thickness Sweet Spot

• Thick enough for excellent insulation (5mm of air-filled bubbles)
• Thin enough to maintain high solar transmission
• Balances durability with performance
• Lighter weight than 600M covers for easier handling

💷 The Real-World Savings Breakdown

Annual Cost Reductions for a Typical UK Pool (4m x 8m)

1. Heating Cost Savings: £560-840 Annually

Scenario A: Modern Heat Pump (COP 5.0)

• Typical uncovered pool heating: 7,000 kWh/year
• 70% reduction with Sol+Guard: 4,900 kWh saved
• At £0.24/kWh: £1,176 saved (but heat pump efficiency means actual cost saving is ~£560)
• At £0.34/kWh: £1,666 saved (actual saving ~£800)

Scenario B: Electric Heater (100% efficiency)

• Typical uncovered heating: 10,000 kWh/year
• 70% reduction: 7,000 kWh saved
• At £0.24/kWh: £1,680 saved
• At £0.34/kWh: £2,380 saved

Scenario C: Gas Heating

• Typical consumption: 3,500 therms/year
• 70% reduction: 2,450 therms saved
• At £0.06/kWh gas: £432-504 saved

2. Water Cost Savings: £140 Annually

• Evaporation loss uncovered: 32,000 litres/year
• 98% reduction with cover: 31,360 litres saved
• UK average water cost: £4.40/m³ (including sewerage)
• Annual saving: £138-145

3. Chemical Cost Savings: £30-60 Annually

• Chlorine reduction: Up to 5kg/year
• Average chlorine cost: £6-12/kg
• Annual saving: £30-60
• Additional savings on pH balancers, algaecides, and shock treatments

4. Time Savings

• Less frequent cleaning: 2-3 hours saved monthly
• Reduced rebalancing: 1-2 hours saved monthly
• Annual time saving: 36-60 hours

Combined Annual Benefit: £730-1,040+

🎯 Who Should Buy Sol+Guard?

Perfect For:

✅ Solar Heating System Owners

• Dramatically amplifies solar panel performance
• Reduces required panel area by up to 50%
• Maximizes return on solar heating investment

✅ Cost-Conscious Pool Owners

• Lowest running costs of any heating method when combined with solar gain
• Pays for itself in months, not years
• Ideal for pools without expensive heating systems

✅ Environmentally Conscious Swimmers

• Harnesses free solar energy instead of fossil fuels
• Reduces carbon footprint by up to 70%
• 100% recyclable at end of life (Grade 4 LDPE)

✅ Pools with Good Sun Exposure

• 4+ hours direct sunlight daily
• South or southwest facing pools
• Minimal tree shade during peak sun hours

✅ Extended Season Swimmers

• Want comfortable temperatures earlier in spring
• Extend swimming season into September/October
• Maximize use of UK’s limited swimming weather

Consider Alternatives If:

❌ You have severe algae problems → Energy Guard 500M (selective transmission blocks algae light) ❌ Your priority is maximum heat retention over solar gain → RaeGuard 500M or Gold 600M ❌ Your pool receives minimal sun exposure → Opaque heat retention covers perform better ❌ You need safety/weight-bearing capacity → Safety covers or slatted automatic covers

📏 Sizing & Specifications

Available Standard Sizes

Sol+Guard is available in the following ready-to-order sizes:

Size (Imperial)	Size (Metric)	SKU	Price (Inc VAT)
10ft x 20ft	3.0m x 6.1m	AQF-PGS510	£154.00
12ft x 24ft	3.7m x 7.3m	AQF-PGS512	£240.92
13ft x 27ft	4.0m x 8.2m	AQF-PGS513	£293.84
14ft x 30ft	4.3m x 9.1m	AQF-PGS514-30	£351.80
15ft x 30ft	4.6m x 9.1m	AQF-PGS515	£377.00
16ft x 32ft	4.9m x 9.8m	AQF-PGS516	£429.08
16ft x 36ft	4.9m x 11.0m	AQF-PGS516-36	£482.84
17ft x 33ft	5.2m x 10.1m	AQF-PG517	£470.24
20ft x 40ft	6.1m x 12.2m	AQF-PGS520	£671.00

Custom Sizes Available – Don’t see your size? Parts4Tubs offers bespoke sizing for any pool shape or dimension. Use the solar cover calculator on the website to determine exact measurements.

Technical Specifications

Material: GeoBubble LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) Thickness: 500 microns (0.5mm material + air chambers) Bubble Height: Approximately 4-5mm Color: Translucent clear/tinted dual layer Weight: Approximately 400g/m² UV Resistance: Advanced stabilizer package Expected Lifespan: 6+ years with proper care Recyclability: 100% recyclable (Grade 4 LDPE) Temperature Tolerance: -10°C to +60°C Warranty: Manufacturer’s warranty (terms vary by retailer)

Bubble Orientation

IMPORTANT: Always install with bubbles facing DOWN (toward the water).

Why this matters:

• Air trapped in bubbles is heated by solar radiation
• Heat transfers most efficiently when bubbles contact water directly
• Smooth surface faces up for easier handling and cleaning
• Maximum solar transmission through top layer to bubble chambers

---

🛠️ Installation & Usage Guide

Getting Started

1. Measure Your Pool Accurately

• Measure at the widest points (including any stairs or curves)
• Add 15-30cm overlap for easier handling
• Round up to next standard size or order custom cut

2. Initial Placement

• Install with bubbles DOWN
• Spread cover across water surface
• Trim excess material if needed (leave 10-15cm overlap)
• Ensure cover floats freely, not stretched tight

3. Consider a Roller System

• Greatly simplifies daily cover removal/replacement
• Prevents damage from dragging across pool deck
• Extends cover lifespan significantly
• Available in manual and automatic versions

Daily Use Best Practices

When to Cover:

• Every night to retain day’s accumulated heat
• During sunny periods when pool isn’t in use (maximizes solar gain)
• During windy conditions (wind accelerates evaporation and cooling)
• When pool is closed for more than 2-3 hours

When to Uncover:

• During swimming sessions (obvious but important!)
• When shocking pool (some shock treatments require uncovered pool)
• During very cloudy extended periods if algae concerns arise

Pump & Filter Operation:

• Safe to run pool pump with cover in place
• Ensure cover is properly secured to prevent skimmer blockage
• Some automatic dosing systems work better with cover removed

Maintenance & Care

Weekly:

• Remove debris from cover surface with leaf net
• Hose down cover to prevent dirt buildup
• Check for any punctures or damage

Monthly:

• Clean cover with mild soap solution
• Inspect edges for wear or tearing
• Ensure roller mechanism (if used) operates smoothly

Seasonal:

• Store properly during winter months (Sol+Guard is a summer cover)
• Clean thoroughly before storage
• Store in cool, dry location away from direct sunlight
• Consider a winter cover for cold months (November-March)

Storage Tips:

• Clean and dry completely before storing
• Roll loosely, don’t fold (prevents crease damage)
• Store in protective bag or cover
• Keep away from rodents (they love the air bubbles!)
• Avoid placing heavy objects on stored cover

---

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Performance & Heating

Q: Will Sol+Guard really heat my pool up to 8°C?

A: In optimal conditions, yes. However, the actual temperature increase depends on several factors:

• Sun exposure: 6+ hours direct sunlight = best results (6-8°C possible)
• Starting temperature: Cooler water heats faster than warm water
• Pool location: South-facing pools with wind protection perform best
• Time of year: Peak gains in May-August
• Realistic expectations: Most UK pools see 4-6°C increase in summer conditions

Q: How does Sol+Guard compare to Energy Guard or RaeGuard?

A: Each cover has a specific purpose:

• Sol+Guard: Maximum solar heating, best temperature gains, moderate heat retention
• Energy Guard: Selective transmission blocks algae light while allowing heat, best for algae-prone pools
• RaeGuard: Maximum heat retention with minimal light transmission, best for artificially heated pools
• Choose based on your priority: heating (Sol+Guard), algae control (Energy Guard), or retention (RaeGuard)

Q: Can I use Sol+Guard with a heat pump?

A: Absolutely – this is one of the best combinations. Sol+Guard reduces the heat pump’s workload by 50-70%, slashing electricity costs while the translucent design adds free solar gain on top. Many users find they can reduce heat pump run time by half or use smaller, less expensive heat pump models.

Q: Will this work with solar panels?

A: Yes! Sol+Guard is the ideal companion to solar heating panels. The translucent cover amplifies panel efficiency and can reduce required panel area by up to 50%. Together, they create an extremely cost-effective and environmentally friendly heating system.

Durability & Lifespan

Q: How long will Sol+Guard last?

A: With proper care and storage, expect 6+ years of functional use. GeoBubble technology extends lifespan 25% beyond traditional bubble covers. Factors affecting longevity:

• Proper winter storage (essential – don’t leave out November-March)
• UV exposure levels (more sun = faster degradation, but still 6+ years)
• Chemical balance (well-maintained chemistry extends life)
• Physical care (using a roller prevents damage, cleaning prevents buildup)

Q: What’s the warranty?

A: Warranty terms vary by manufacturer and retailer. Check with Parts4Tubs for specific coverage on your purchase. Most GeoBubble covers include protection against manufacturing defects but not wear from improper use or storage.

Q: Can I repair punctures or damage?

A: Small punctures can be repaired with vinyl repair patches designed for pool covers. Larger tears or widespread degradation require replacement. Proper care prevents most damage.

Usage & Compatibility

Q: Can I leave the cover on while running the pool pump?

A: Yes, it’s completely safe to run your pump with the cover on. Just ensure:

• Cover is properly secured to prevent skimmer blockage
• Water level is adequate
• Cover isn’t stretched too tight (should float freely)

Q: Do I need to remove the cover when adding chemicals?

A: Depends on the chemical:

• Regular chlorine/pH adjusters: Can be added with cover on
• Shock treatments: Many require cover off for several hours
• Algaecides: Follow product instructions
• Always add chemicals with pump running for proper distribution

Q: Can I use Sol+Guard in winter?

A: No. Sol+Guard is designed for summer use (April-October in UK). For winter closure:

• Remove and store Sol+Guard properly by late October
• Use a dedicated winter cover (mesh or solid) for cold months
• Reinstall Sol+Guard in April when reopening pool
• Winter use will dramatically reduce lifespan and effectiveness

Q: Will the cover support weight if someone walks on it?

A: Absolutely not. Sol+Guard (like all solar bubble covers) is not a safety cover and cannot support the weight of children, pets, or adults. If safety is a concern:

• Install perimeter fencing around pool
• Consider a dedicated safety cover instead
• Supervise children at all times near covered pools

Cost & Value

Q: How quickly will this pay for itself?

A: For most UK pool owners: 2-7 months depending on:

• Pool size (larger pools = faster payback)
• Current heating method (electric = fastest payback, gas = slower)
• Energy rates (higher rates = faster ROI)
• Usage intensity (frequent use = more savings)

Example: A 4m x 8m pool spending £100/month on heating will save £70/month with Sol+Guard. At £294 for that size cover, payback is just 4 months.

Q: Are there any hidden costs?

A: Minimal. Optional accessories include:

• Roller system: £150-500 (highly recommended, protects your investment)
• Storage bag: £10-20 (recommended)
• Cleaning supplies: £5-10/year (mild soap)
• No ongoing costs – the cover needs no maintenance beyond basic cleaning

Q: What about algae growth under a translucent cover?

A: Sol+Guard’s tinted underside provides moderate light blocking to minimize algae while maximizing heat transmission. For most well-maintained pools, algae is not an issue. However:

• Maintain proper chemical balance (1-3 ppm chlorine)
• Use algaecide if pool is prone to algae
• If you have severe algae problems, consider Energy Guard instead (selective transmission technology)
• Remove cover occasionally during cloudy extended periods if concerned

---

🌍 Environmental Benefits

Reduce Your Pool’s Carbon Footprint by Up to 70%

Swimming pools are notoriously energy-intensive. A typical uncovered UK pool can consume 7,000-10,000 kWh annually just for heating – equivalent to running your entire home for 7-10 months.

Sol+Guard’s Environmental Impact:

Energy Reduction

• 70% less electricity for heat pump operation
• 50% fewer solar panels required when using solar heating
• Reduced fossil fuel consumption for gas/oil heating
• Lower grid demand during peak hours

Water Conservation

• 32,000 litres saved annually for average pool (4m x 8m)
• Equivalent to 400 baths or 213 showers
• Reduces strain on local water supplies
• Particularly valuable during UK summer drought conditions

Chemical Reduction

• 5kg less chlorine annually
• Fewer pH balancers needed
• Reduced algaecide and shock treatments
• Less chemical runoff into environment

Sustainable Design

• 100% recyclable at end of life (Grade 4 LDPE)
• 25% longer lifespan means fewer covers in landfills
• Lower manufacturing impact over product lifetime
• UK-based distribution reduces shipping emissions

Carbon Offset Calculation

For a pool using electric heat pump (7,000 kWh saved annually):

• CO₂ reduction: ~1,750 kg/year (at UK grid average 0.25 kg CO₂/kWh)
• Equivalent to: 7,000 miles not driven in average car
• Or: 87 trees planted and grown for 10 years

---

⚠️ Important Disclaimers & Assumptions

To maintain transparency and set realistic expectations, please note the following:

Savings Calculations

All cost savings figures are estimates based on typical scenarios and should be used as general guidelines only. Your actual savings will vary based on:

Pool-Specific Factors:

• Pool size, shape, and depth
• Pool location and sun exposure (hours of direct sunlight daily)
• Local climate conditions and seasonal temperature variations
• Starting water temperature and target temperature
• Pool construction materials and existing insulation

Usage Factors:

• Swimming frequency and pool cover discipline
• Heating system type, age, and efficiency
• Current energy costs (figures assume £0.24-0.34/kWh for electricity, £0.06/kWh for gas)
• Water rates (figures assume £4.40/m³ including sewerage charges)
• Chemical usage patterns and water chemistry

Seasonal Factors:

• Swimming season length (figures assume April-October use in UK)
• Weather patterns (unusually cloudy or sunny summers)
• Wind exposure (high wind increases evaporation and cooling)

Performance Claims

Temperature Increase (Up to 8°C): This represents the maximum potential under ideal conditions:

• 8+ hours direct summer sunlight
• Low ambient temperatures (cool spring/early summer)
• Minimal wind exposure
• Cover left on for 3-5 consecutive sunny days
• Typical realistic increase: 4-6°C in UK summer conditions

Heat Retention (70% energy savings): Based on university research using:

• 4m x 8m pool in controlled conditions
• Consistent chemical balance and water management
• Cover used religiously (removed only for swimming)
• Modern efficient heating systems
• Individual results typically range from 50-70%

Evaporation Reduction (98%+): Assumes:

• Cover properly fitted and used whenever pool not in use
• No gaps or tears in cover material
• Secure fit preventing wind lift
• Typical real-world reduction: 90-95%

Chemical Savings (30%, ~5kg chlorine): Based on:

• Average 4m x 8m UK pool with conventional chlorination
• Moderate bather load and debris exposure
• Well-maintained water chemistry
• Actual savings vary with usage patterns and water source

Lifespan & Warranty

Expected Lifespan (6+ years): Achievable with:

• Proper winter storage (removed and stored October-March)
• Regular cleaning and maintenance
• Use of roller system to prevent dragging damage
• Balanced pool chemistry (pH 7.2-7.6, chlorine 1-3 ppm)
• Covers exposed to extreme chemical imbalances, improper storage, or physical damage may fail sooner

GeoBubble Longevity (25% longer): This comparison is to traditional circular bubble covers of similar thickness and material quality. Not a warranty or guarantee of specific lifespan.

Safety Disclaimers

CRITICAL SAFETY INFORMATION:

⚠️ Sol+Guard is NOT a safety cover ⚠️ Cannot support weight of children, pets, or adults ⚠️ Does not prevent drowning ⚠️ Pool should be fenced or secured separately ⚠️ Supervise children at all times near pools

If weight-bearing capacity or safety is required, purchase a dedicated safety cover instead.

Product Specifications

• Sol+Guard is a seasonal summer cover (April-October in UK)
• Not suitable for winter use – dedicated winter covers required
• All covers are made to order – allow appropriate lead time
• Custom sizes may have different pricing and lead times
• Actual color/tint may vary slightly from images due to manufacturing processes

Return on Investment

ROI calculations assume:

• Cover purchased at listed retail price
• Average UK domestic energy and water rates
• Typical swimming season and usage patterns
• No major changes in energy pricing
• Proper cover care and maintenance

Individual results will vary. ROI timeframes of 2-7 months represent the typical range for UK pool owners but are not guaranteed.

---

🛒 How to Order Your Sol+Guard Cover

Step 1: Determine Your Size

Measure your pool at the widest points:

• Length: Measure longest distance (including stairs/curves)
• Width: Measure widest distance (including stairs/curves)
• Add 15-30cm to each dimension for easier handling

Choose the next size up from your measurements from the available standard sizes, or request a custom size for perfect fit.

Step 2: Consider These Accessories

Highly Recommended:

• Pool Roller System: Dramatically extends cover life and simplifies daily use (£150-500)
• Storage Bag: Protects cover during winter storage (£10-20)

Optional:

• Winter Cover: For off-season pool protection when Sol+Guard is stored
• Repair Kit: For small puncture repairs

Step 3: Place Your Order

Available through Parts4Tubs:

• Browse available standard sizes on website
• Use solar cover calculator for custom sizing
• All covers are made to order – allow appropriate lead time
• Expert advice available for sizing or product selection

Custom Sizes: Contact Parts4Tubs for bespoke sizing and pricing

---

🏆 Why Choose Parts4Tubs?

Expert Knowledge

• Specialist pool equipment supplier
• Technical support from experienced staff
• Guidance on sizing and product selection

Quality Products

• Genuine GeoBubble technology
• Direct from reputable manufacturers
• Made-to-order precision sizing

Customer Service

• Responsive support team
• Real person to speak with, not just internet ordering
• Family-owned UK business built on buildahottub.com success

Competitive Pricing

• Unbeatable prices on solar covers
• No hidden fees or charges
• Made-to-order quality at ready-made prices

---

🎯 Final Recommendation

For UK pool owners prioritizing solar heating and natural temperature gains, Sol+Guard 500M represents the best value in the market.

Buy Sol+Guard if you:

• Want maximum solar heating performance
• Receive decent sun exposure (4+ hours daily)
• Use or plan to use solar heating panels
• Prioritize cost savings and environmental impact
• Want the best balance of heating and heat retention
• Need a lightweight, easy-to-handle summer cover

Consider alternatives if you:

• Have severe algae problems (→ Energy Guard)
• Prioritize heat retention over solar gain (→ RaeGuard or Gold 600M)
• Receive minimal sun exposure (→ Opaque retention covers)
• Need safety/weight-bearing features (→ Safety covers)

The Investment: Starting at just £154 for a 10ft x 20ft cover, Sol+Guard delivers typical annual savings of £730-1,040, paying for itself in 2-7 months. With a 6+ year lifespan, your total savings could exceed £4,000-6,000+ over the cover’s lifetime.

That’s not just a smart purchase – it’s one of the best investments you can make in your pool.

📞 Ready to Start Saving?

Visit Parts4Tubs.co.uk to:

• Browse available sizes and current pricing
• Use the solar cover calculator for custom sizing
• Speak with knowledgeable staff about your specific needs
• Place your made-to-order Sol+Guard cover

Questions? Contact Parts4Tubs directly for expert guidance on sizing, installation, or product selection.