Dive into Energy Savings this Summer
If you own a pool, you’re probably dishing out hundreds of dollars each year to operate it. According to ENERGY STAR, your pool pump could be your home’s second largest energy user. What fun is having a pool if you’re worried about the cost to run it? These tips can help you save on your electric bill while splashing in the sun.
Maximize Your Pool Pump’s Performance
Your pool pump could be costing you almost $300 in energy costs each year. The bigger the pump, the bigger the cost. To save money, utilize the smallest size pump possible for your pool. To save even more, switch to an ENERGY STAR certified pool pump. Certified in-ground pumps use 18% less energy and will pay for themselves in less than two years while certified above-ground pumps use 11% less energy and can save you $80 over their lifetime.
You may also be running your pool pump longer than necessary. ENERGY STAR certified pumps operate with variable speed and multi-speed options, which can help cut energy costs and provide a provide a more efficient filtration process. Reducing your filtration to only six hours each day could help reduce your energy use by 75%. You can also schedule your pool’s pumping schedule by installing a timer.
Manage Your Pool’s Temperature
It’s a myth that it takes more energy to heat a pool back up than it does to the temperature or turning off the heater when it’s not in use. Most pools are kept between 78°F and 82°F, according to the Department of Energy. Depending on where you live, increasing the pool temperature by even one degree could cost 10%-30% more in energy use. If the pool won’t be used for a few days, turn down the temperature or turn the heater off to save on energy costs.
Use a Pool Cover
Speaking of pool temperature, you can reduce your heating costs by investing in a pool cover. Pools lose heat in many ways, but evaporation is one of the biggest reasons. Using a pool cover is the single most effective way of reducing pool heating costs and could save you 50%-70%.
Conduct Regular Pool Maintenance
It’s important to keep your pool clean. Sometimes leaves and other debris clog your pool’s filter, drains and pump. When that happens, it causes your pump to work harder, using more energy to do its job. Keep your pool running efficiently by taking the time to clear debris by using a net or vacuum.
For more tips and resources to save energy and money all year, visit www.firstenergycorp.com/saveenergy.
CONTACT: Brooke Conlan, 330-807-7564