Just about all U.S. homeowners are passing up a huge opportunity to save energy and cut costs without even knowing it. Energy efficiency is not exclusive to the inside of your home and if you haven’t thought twice about energy efficient pool pumps and Energy Star certified pool products, there is a good chance that you are paying more than you have to. Here are some of the top ways to make your pool more efficient:
Invest In A Pool Cover
Investing in a durable pool cover (typically vinyl or polypropylene) can reap many benefits. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, pool covers “conserve water by reducing the amount of make-up water needed by 30 to 50%” and “reduce the pool’s chemical consumption by 35 to 60%.”
Purchase Energy Efficient Pool Pumps
All pool pumps are not created equal — and purchasing one designed for maximum energy efficiency can make all the difference. “An energy efficient pump will use 30-45% less energy than that of a standard pump,” swimmingpool.com writes. Homeowners can also manipulate the speed of two-speed, four-speed, and variable-speed pumps to suit their needs. For example, it is possible to schedule less frequent cleanings during vacations and at other times when the pool may not be in use.
Use Solar Power To Heat Your Pool
Another option is to use solar power — rather than heat or gas — to warm up your swimming pool. While the upfront costs may seem high, the energy savings will typically make up for the purchase and installation in one-and-a-half to seven years. And there’s more good news: solar-powered pool heaters also last considerably longer than heat and gas units.
Your pool can — and should be! — energy efficient, too. Reduce heating and maintenance costs by investing in a reliable pool cover, installing an energy efficient pool pump, and weighing the pros and cons of heating pools with solar power.
