If you own a pool, you may be wondering if it’s wise to run it 24 hours a day. However, this isn’t always the most cost-effective option. Running your pool pump constantly can lead to several problems, including increased energy costs, poor water quality, and algae growth. It can also shorten the life of your equipment.
As much as we love swimming pools, they can be a huge energy hog. The average residential pool consumes 2,000 to 3,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually. The amount of energy used by a pool depends on many factors, including the type and size of the pump. Fortunately, there are now energy-efficient pool pumps that can save you money over time. In addition, it’s important to avoid running your pool pump during peak energy demand hours (3 to 7 p.m.), which can add up to an extra $100 or more on your bill. One of the most cost-effective ways to reduce energy costs is to install a new, efficient variable-speed pool pump. These pumps can save you 50% to 75% over a standard 1.5-horsepower single-speed pump. The quality of the water in your pool can affect how long you need to run it. It depends on the time of year, how efficient your filter system is, and how much debris enters the pool. The first thing to do is take a sample of your water and get it tested. If the test comes back with a good chlorine residual (less than 1 ppm) and well-balanced water, then you have a good chance of solving the problem. If your water is still cloudy despite adding chlorine, the issue is likely with your filtration system. If your sand filter is old or the particles are too fine for the sand to catch, they can cause your water to look cloudy. Algae are microscopic plants that take energy from the sun through the use of photosynthetic pigments. They range from single-celled planktonic organisms that you can only see with a microscope to large ocean kelps that grow over 300 feet long. Algae need nutrients to thrive, and in swimming pools they have a plentiful supply from the dissolved solids and debris that enter the pool. Windblown specks of dust, toys, cleaning equipment, swimsuits, and even the dead cellular remains from previous algae blooms all provide food for pool algae. There are a variety of types of algae, including green algae, yellow algae, mustard algae, and black algae. Green algae is the most common and can be difficult to control. It often forms clumps in the pool water or clings to walls, reducing water clarity. If you’re a pool owner, you know how important it is to keep your pool running as long and as cost-effectively as possible. The good news is that there are a few simple tricks and tips to help make your pool more energy efficient and less expensive to run. The most obvious is to make sure that your pool heater and pump are in prime condition and working as efficiently as possible. Other factors to consider are local electricity rates, water quality, and weather conditions. Lastly, the smartest thing you can do is to get a free estimate from your provider for what your pool will likely cost. This will give you the best chance to budget in advance and save money on your monthly pool bill.
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