An energy-efficient pool is as eco-friendly as it is budget beneficial.
From energy efficient inground pool pumps to eco friendly pool covers, here are three ways to have a green pool— no algae in sight.
Can Pools Be Eco-Friendly?
Yes, pools can indeed embrace eco-friendliness, challenging the once common belief that they inherently conflict with environmental sustainability. As the Sierra Club describes, “Traditional pools invoke the trifecta of environmental destruction: high water use, high energy use, and harmful chemicals.”
But times are changing for the better on this front.
Advancements have made eco-friendly pools a reality. The epitome of environmentally conscious pools are natural pools and saltwater pools.
These options significantly reduce or completely eliminate the need for chemicals in pool maintenance, which harm the environment. The strong chlorine smell that traditional pools give off is the result of chloramines. Although these bind to dirt and sweat to keep the pool clean, they also emit gas from the water into the air, according to the CDC and reported by Real Simple Magazine.
However, the transition to a saltwater system or a natural pool might not be within every homeowner's budget. Despite this, there are cost-effective strategies to enhance the energy efficiency of conventional pools.
These three eco-friendly pool upgrades not only lessen your environmental footprint but also promise savings on energy costs over time, making your pool more sustainable and economical to operate.
Energy Efficient Pool Pumps
Pool pumps are notorious energy hogs, ranking alongside heaters and air conditioners as one of the top electricity-consuming household appliances.
They contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, with estimates suggesting they're responsible for emissions equivalent to over a million cars annually.
Traditionally, pool pumps run for long periods daily to cycle water through the filter, but experts suggest that shorter run times may suffice without sacrificing cleanliness, potentially leading to significant energy savings.
Enter variable-speed pumps, hailed as game-changers in energy efficiency. These pumps offer customizable speed settings tailored to a pool's specific needs, resulting in substantial cost savings and reduced energy consumption over their lifespan, particularly if they're Energy Star® certified.
Regulations now mandate their adoption over traditional single-speed models for pools and spas, marking a significant shift toward sustainability. Variable-speed pumps not only optimize energy usage and cut costs by adjusting speed according to demand but they also operate quietly.
Shop Variable Speed Pool Pumps
Eco-Friendly Pool Cover
Using a pool cover is one of the best ways to save water and energy.
Using a pool cover offers several advantages for pool owners. For starters, it helps conserve water by preventing evaporation, which is especially beneficial in hot regions.
This means you'll spend less time and money refilling your pool. Additionally, covering your pool reduces the need for harsh chemicals like chlorine, creating a healthier swimming environment while also minimizing chemical runoff into the environment.
According to The Sierra Club, “Ideally, you should cover your pool whenever it’s not in use. If you can’t commit to covering it every summer night, at least consider extending your pool’s “off season”—keeping it covered for a few extra weeks each year can save hundreds of gallons of water.”
Install LED Pool Lighting
Traditional pool lighting can be a drain on your energy bill, but with LED pool lights, you'll enjoy significant savings while reducing your carbon footprint.
Not only are LED lights more energy-efficient, but they also offer convenient control options through smartphone apps. Plus, you can’t beat the ambiance of customizable lighting in your backyard and patio space.
Models like the Hayward ColorLogic stand out for its range of lighting effects, including smooth color transitions, fading, and even strobe-like effects for a playful party vibe.
Energy-Efficient Pool Accessories That Save Money
Creating an energy-efficient pool using energy-saving pool pumps, eco-friendly pool covers, and LED pool lighting, you can reduce your pool's energy consumption and environmental impact while enjoying long-term cost savings.
Whether you're aiming to save money or reduce your carbon footprint, investing in energy-efficient pool accessories is a win-win solution for a greener, cleaner backyard pool.
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