Swimming Pool Energy-effecient Measures

By Author: Steve Merillat
Total Articles: 14
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Environment and Energy Saving Tips


High Efficiency Heaters. If you plan to purchase a conventional pool heating system, shop around for a high efficiency pool heater. High efficiency gas heating systems are available with steady state efficiencies as high as 97%. Electric heat pump pool heaters are also available with coefficients of performance (COPs) in the 6.0-8.0 range when operated in warm weather. A COP of 6.0 is 600% more efficient than an electric resistance heater.
Efficient Pumps/Motors Using properly sized energy-efficient pumps and motors when replacing older pumps and motors, or when designing new pools, can significantly lower the electrical consumption of pool operating costs. Motors use many times their initial cost in electrical consumption over their life and can often consume several times their cost in the first year alone. The energy savings from an energy efficient motor can pay for itself in a very short time.
Efficient Lighting Replace inefficient incandescent lamps with high efficiency compact fluorescents. They consume 1/2 to 1/3 the amount of electricity and last ...
... 10 times as long as standard incandescent lamps. Replace standard fluorescent ballasts and lamps with electronic ballasts and T-8 lamps. They will reduce consumption by 30%. The initial cost of energy efficient lighting is more, but the combination of the energy savings and labor savings on replacement will far offset that initial cost in most cases where lights are on for several hours per day or night.
Outdoor areas can be lit with high intensity discharge (HID) lamps. They offer high efficiency and high output. Install motion detectors in areas like shower/dressing areas and rest rooms or on security lighting. They will not only save energy, but will startle would-be intruders.

Purchasing Energy Efficient Swimming Pool Products


Depending on the size of your pool, filtration equipment, and heating requirements, your energy driven equipment may operate up to 12 hours per day to properly circulate your water for effective filtration. A small increase in efficiency can yield larger savings later; therefore, the right pool equipment is essential to your power bill. Whether you're building a new pool or replacing existing equipment, your equipment selection can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.

Swimming Pool Cleaners


When selecting an automatic cleaner, choose a suction powered cleaner over a pressure cleaner, and save on the expense and energy requirements of a booster pump.

Swimming Pool Energy Conservation


To conserve energy, run your pool's filtration system only during off-peak hours.
When leaving for vacation for more than a week, turn off the pool heater, including the pilot light.
If you use your pool only on weekends, reduce your heater thermostats settings by eight to ten degrees during the week.
Use fencing, hedges or other landscaping, or cabanas to shelter your pool from prevailing winds.
According to the National Swimming Pool Institute and the American Red Cross, the most healthful swimming temperature is 78 degrees. Reducing your heater thermostat to maintain a 78 degree or lower temperature will also help conserve energy.
When reopening your pool for a new season, make sure your pump and filter are working properly before adding chemicals to the water.
If your pool heater is more than five years old, chances are a new high efficiency gas heater such as the MiniMax could quickly pay for itself in utility bill savings.
To obtain maximum filtration and energy efficiency, backwash or clean your filter regularly, as required.

Swimming Pool Filters


Pool water filtration is the heart of your water care system. Depending on the size and style of the filter selected, you can achieve energy savings and improved water clarity by reducing the time and energy your pump must exert to cycle the entire body of water in your pool during a 12-hour period.

Save energy and time by selecting a larger filter versus a standard filter size:
A larger filter provides more filtration area, thus reducing backpressure buildup over time, and strain on your pump.
A larger filter can extend the periodic maintenance cycle, thus saving the homeowner valuable time.

The three most popular styles of filtration are:
Sand
Value priced filter choice on most pools Good water clarity overall

Cartridge:
Great water clarity overall Easier maintenance, no backwashing required.

Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.):
Sparkling water clarity overall Cleans the entire pool on the first cycle through the filter.

Swimming Pool Heaters


To extend the pool experience, heaters are a popular equipment addition. Selecting a high efficiency heater for your new installation, or replacing an older inefficient model can have a significant impact on your fuel bill.

1800 Pool heaters are among the most efficient in the industry and offer models to meet your heating needs:
H series Electronic Ignition
High efficiency: 80 to 82 percent
No pilot light , Electronic Spark Ignition for reliable and smooth starts.

Swimming Pool Pumps


Energy-efficient pumps can pay for themselves in a short period of time, but it's important to get the right pump for your pool. A two-speed pump offers: A high speed and a low speed working together to maintain your pool. The high speed is utilized for demanding conditions and periodic needs. With the low-speed mode, expect up to 75% energy savings during normal operation.

S.Merillat(r)

To learn more about Energy-Efficient Measures, visit http://www.1800pools.com
Steve Merillat has been in the Pool industry for 35 years. He started early on working for various Swimming Pool supply companies before ventured out in his own business. He pioneered many processes with the installation of pools that are used as industry standards today. He regularly holds seminars and classes on how to properly maintain your Swimming Pool. Visit http://www.1800pools.com