The summer temperatures are finally here, providing you the opportunity to get out and enjoy your pool. With your first couple weeks of interrupted swimming in the books, you probably aren’t thinking about ways you can modify your pool environment. From a cost-savings and environmental perspective, however, maybe you should be.
Today we’re going to take at how through some simple additions you can do to make your pool more environmentally friendly, while also potentially cutting down costs.
Check Your Equipment Energy Ratings
Is your pool equipment ENERGY STAR certified? This is a good, simple guide for whether or not you’re employing energy-efficient equipment. From pool pumps to lighting and additional equipment, this certification should be something you keep your eyes open for.
If you find you don’t currently have an ENERGY STAR pool pump in place, consider replacing your current pump. While you might not be thrilled about the upfront cost, consider that these pumps use up to 70% less energy and save you on average $350 a year off your energy bill. As a bonus, many utility companies offer incentives for using ENERGY STAR-certified products, which can further reduce your operating costs.
Reduce Chlorine — But Be Smart
There are a lot of articles out there talking about the benefits of “natural pools” which rely on plants to sanitize your pool’s water. We’re not going to go that far.
Instead, take a closer look at the amount of chlorine and other chemicals you introduce into your pool and the frequency with which you’re having your pool cleaned. Regular maintenance will cut back on the number of chemicals you need to use, reducing costs and keep you from having to introduce potentially environmentally harmful chemicals into your pool to fix neglected water.
Use Energy-Efficient Lighting
This is a simple step that you can do right now. If you haven’t already, replace your lighting with energy efficient bulbs. Along with using less energy, these bulbs last longer, reducing the need for you to consistently shell out your cash to replace your burnt-out bulbs.
Put Your Pool on a Timer
If your pool is on an automated timer (and if not, you should look into this function) then schedule your pool only for hours you use it. Lights, your heater and any other accessories should only be running when the pool is in use. Most of these systems have corresponding smart phone apps these days, letting you control your pool without much hassle.
Putting an automated system in place will make monitoring your energy usage easy and allow you to cut down on unnecessary operating costs.
Check Your Pool Cover!
Finally, use your pool cover and be sure it’s in proper working order — no tears or rips. Covering your pool (especially when on vacation or when you know you won’t be using it for an extended period) prevents water from evaporating, cuts down on the heating you’ll have to do later and keeps your pool water clean.
Remember, making your pool more environmentally friendly isn’t only the right thing to do for your backyard, it’s also the financially smart decision. If you’d like to discuss any of these pool enhancements, feel free to contact us at any time.
