If you’re a pool owner, you’re probably aware that your pool can consume a large amount of energy. For most every pool owner, the pool is the second biggest energy user behind home heating and cooling. Here are 3 ways to save pool energy usage.
3 Ways to Save Pool Energy Usage
1) Invest in a smaller, more energy-efficient variable speed pump
For ultimate energy efficiency, invest in a variable-speed pump, which can be programmed to run at the minimum speed it needs for cleaning/heating. Often available with up to eight varying speeds, variable-speed pumps will adjust their energy consumption to your pool’s needs at different times in the maintenance cycle.
Reducing the amount of time you operate your single speed pump will cut down on required energy. Several short cycles of pumping can be more efficient than running the pump all at once because a concentrated blast of pumping leaves the rest of the day open for the pool to collect debris. It also helps to be sure to keep all intake grates free of gunk because clogged drains will make your pump work harder.
2) Turn down the heater
Maintain the most comfortable temperature you can without overheating. The Red Cross advises that the healthiest temperature for swimming is 78 degrees. Keep in mind that raising your pool’s temperature one degree can cost an extra 10 to 30% in heating bills.
You might also consider investing in a high-efficiency heater, which can reach 90% efficiency, resulting in substantial savings on energy bills. Keeping a cover on your pool can also reduce heat loss and save up to 70% on energy. Finally, decide whether solar heating can work for your needs. Heating your pool with solar energy can significantly lower the amount of time your heater has to operate, and obviously lowers your electric bill.
3) Use LED lighting
LED lights use far less energy and have a much longer life span than incandescent bulbs. LED lights require less than 50 watts of power to operate versus the 300 watts required by incandescent bulbs. LED lights have been known to cut energy expenses by up to 90%. When you also consider that LED lights provide up to 50,000 hours of illumination compared to the 4,000 hours offered by incandescent lighting, LED’s energy-efficiency is hard to ignore. Additionally, they can also change colors, giving you ambiance you could only dream about before.
There are many ways to save energy, but these 3 ways to save pool energy usage are the biggest savers.