If you put the pointers we’ve mentioned in the first four articles in our series into practice (see Part 1, 2, 3 & 4), you’ll be well on your way toward seeing major energy savings. But there are a few more ideas that will take you even further toward reaching your goal of maximum energy savings.
Any consideration of energy efficiency when it comes to the pool ought to take a serious look at the temperature of the water. Heat loss is most likely one of the biggest reasons why your energy bills are higher than you’d like them to be. The biggest culprit in causing heat loss is evaporation.
There are multiple ways to cut down on pool water evaporation. Windy days can cause your pool to lose much heat and water; you could add wind-blocking enclosures around your pool to minimize the effect of wind on your pool’s surface.
A commonly used way to minimize water evaporation is by adding a liquid solar cover which results in a non toxic chemical film spreading across the surface of your pool; this is an inexpensive and hassle-free way to cut down on evaporation and retain pool water heat; however, this option does not work as well as solar rings or a solar pool cover.
You can purchase affordable solar pool rings and scatter them across the surface of your pool when it is not being used; these block exposure of the water surface to the air and help retain pool water heat; however, the cost for solar pool rings can rapidly increase, especially if your pool is quite large.
Swimming pool covers are the most effective route to take, but having a custom solar pool cover made can be quite costly. Based on the overall size and shape of your pool, you may even need to deploy multiple solar pool covers. These will effectively block most water evaporation, and they are wonderful for helping retain and even increase the heat of the pool water.
You will need to decide how much initial and ongoing investment you are willing and able to make in order to help retain your pool water and its heat; however, going with at least one of the above recommended options will be worth it in the long run.
Cartridge Filters Offer Energy Saving Advantages
Not all pool filters are the same when it comes to the amount of energy efficiency they have to offer. The finer the filtration, the more water flow resistance there is going to be. Greater water resistance means more strain on your filter, which could increase your energy consumption and make your energy bills go up.
Of the different types of filters out there on the market, cartridge filters are the least resistant to the flow of water. If your pool currently has a D.E. or sand filter, you should seriously consider switching over to a cartridge filter to enjoy maximum energy savings.
Summarizing the Ways to Save
Listed below is a brief summary of the different tips we’ve offered to help pool owners cut down on energy costs.
1. Keep pool water circulating by checking the condition of your pump and skimmer and cleaning out your filter regularly.
2. Run your filter system for eight hours a day. Running it at night can help you to save even more. There’s generally no need to run your pump longer than that, and doing so could waste energy.
3. Install a variable speed pump. This allows you the option of turning the speed down for your regular nightly pumping sessions.
4. Keep your pool clean to put less strain on your pool equipment.
5. Make sure your pool heater is functioning properly.
6. Select an energy-efficient heater.
7. Set your pool pump and heating system on automatic timers.
8. Get a solar cover to help prevent water evaporation.
9. Use a cartridge filter for maximum energy efficiency.
Owning your own pool is rewarding in all kinds of different ways. You get the physical benefits of at-home exercise, the social benefits of getting to enjoy recreation with friends and family, and the overall relaxation that comes with spending time in or near the pool. One of the only drawbacks to pool ownership is the cost involved in maintaining your pool. Hopefully, this list of smart tips has given you some creative ideas to help cut down on your pool energy costs.
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