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Relaxing in a backyard pool or spa doesn’t have to cost a fortune for Australians this summer, with a few simple steps helping reduce electricity use and costs, EnergyAustralia’s Acting General Manager - Energy Services Gavin Lewis said today.
Some easy ways to save money on energy bills include decreasing pool or spa pump running times, and using covers to assist in heating and cut down on cleaning.
“It’s great fun to round up family and friends for a pool or spa party during summer, whether it’s to celebrate Australia Day or just to beat the heat,” Mr Lewis said.
“While maintaining pools and spas can be costly, particularly when pumps are working hard during peak swimming season, there are some ways pool owners can reduce their electricity use and save money.
“To improve the efficiency of running and maintaining a pool, and in turn lowering power bills, experiment with how long pumps need to operate to keep the pool or spa operating well.
“Scoop out debris from a pool or spa with a net or pool vacuum to ease pressure on the filter and reduce the pump’s workload – the less it has to work, the less the pump costs to run.”
Artificially heating pools can contribute to a high power bill as well, so Mr Lewis recommends making the most of the Australian summer sun. “There’s a range of covers available that not only assist in naturally warming water, but also reduce the need for costly heaters and help save even more on electricity bills,” Mr Lewis said.
Tips to maintain pool efficiently:
- To figure out the minimum time needed to run your filter, reduce daily running time by half an hour and if the water quality is fine after a week, reduce it by a further half hour, and so on;
- Use a timer to operate the filter pump and reduce its running time;
- Keep the pool clean. Use a net or a pool vacuum to remove larger debris. Be sure to regularly clean the pool filter and skimmer basket because clogged grates can make the pump work harder, using more energy;
- Rather than running the pump continuously throughout the day, set a timer to filter the pool in a few short cycles so there is less debris for the pump to filter;
- Use a solar blanket to heat a pool, reducing the need for potentially costly power-generated heaters. They also double as covers to keep out debris;
- A thermal blanket not only insulates pools, but also helps reduce evaporation while acting as a cover to reduce debris. Leaf and debris covers are also good options to reduce work for filters, therefore helping to lower energy costs.
For more information about energy efficiency, or for information about cooling, heating and other home services, visit energyaustralia.com.au or call 133 466.
*Information sourced from the CSIRO