Energy Savings: Ways to Save Operating Pool Equipment
With the ever increasing cost of electricity, there can be several different ways to save money on operating pool equipment.
An over-sized pump will cost more to operate than a properly sized one. Until a few years ago, it was not uncommon to have a pool built that had an over-sized pump installed. However, there has been a paradigm shift within the Pool industry.
That is more horse-power is not always better, and most of the time it cost the consumer more in electricity and future repairs on the pool pump. This can be corrected by simply down-sizing the impeller and other miscellaneous parts.
Sometimes, this can improve the water circulation by eliminating back pressure. Variable and 2 speed pumps can save 50 percent or more in energy costs. They can be programmed to operate on a higher speed for a few hours, and at a lower speed the remaining time. In some utility districts, it can pay for itself in 1-2 years.
Besides , the direct savings in electricity, this can provide better filtration since the water is not always traveling at high speeds. Also, this will prolong the life of the filter system and pump motor. A properly sized filter or even a over-sized filter can save money.
Having the proper size filter will slow down the pressure rise, so the motor will not to work as hard as an under-sized filter. An over-sized filter will allow the filter to go longer between cleaning cycles.
Cartridge filter systems are rated to hold x amount of dirt and debris per size of the square footage and pleat count. The bigger filter system, the longer it will take for the pressure to go up. As a result, the motor will not work as hard.
Having the proper circulating time for the pool pump and booster pump [ if applicable ] will save money on electricity and extra repairs on equipment. This depends on pool size, filter, pump, plumbing, bather load, landscaping, etc.
Typically a 20,000 gallon pool only needs 4-6 hours running time if everything is properly sized. Most booster pumps that operate the pool cleaner only need 2-3 hours running time otherwise extra costs. It can be worth hiring a professional to evaluate your pool’s specific needs.
Thank you for taking the time to read this far and I hope this article will help you conserve energy.
Glen Nelson is the owner of Nelson & Nelson Pool Care & Repair, a pool maintenance company based in Sacramento, California.