Electricity cost 14.3% more in 2022 than in 2021, much higher than overall inflation, according to Consumer Price Increase data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you operate an aquatic facility, you likely felt the impact, as your pool and its equipment consume a great deal of energy. With budgets strained, you may be considering ways to reduce your energy consumption and its associated costs. The good news is that pool equipment manufacturers have been highly innovative when it comes to developing energy-efficient technologies. Upgrading your pool’s equipment can dramatically reduce your energy consumption and your facility’s operating costs.
Q. What kinds of upgrades should we consider to improve our pool’s energy efficiency?
A. There are many innovative new technologies specifically designed to help save energy in your aquatic facility. By simply installing variable frequency drives (VFDs) and LED lighting, for example, you can reduce your electricity use by 80%.
Pool heating is another area that can generate impressive energy savings. By replacing your existing heaters with new, high-efficiency heaters, you will save energy and reduce your operating costs, while also reducing maintenance requirements. Solar technologies and panels that capture the sun’s energy and use to it heat your pool are another way to reduce your energy consumption.
Thermal pool covers are another way to reduce the cost of heating your pool. Covering your pool when it’s not in use will reduce water loss due to evaporation by as much as 90%. This will not only save water, but energy and chemicals as well, as you won’t need to heat and treat the new water that replaces what has been lost to evaporation.
Pool automation is another way to save energy. A custom controller can monitor your pool, controlling variable frequency drives, pumps, solar panels, valves and other components of the system, helping you achieve the highest possible level of efficiency. Controllers also help monitor your pool’s temperature, flow meters, chemistry, water tank and more. Look for a pool controller that can be monitored from any internet-enabled device, such as a smartphone or computer.
Q. We’re looking for ways to improve our pool’s energy efficiency, but we’re concerned about the cost. What should we know?
A. With generous rebates and incentives available from government agencies and local utilities, you won’t have to shoulder the entire burden of your upgrade costs. By working with a knowledgeable supplier, you’ll gain all the benefits of their expertise in this area. They can work with you to help you through the complex process of finding out what programs and rebates are available, and provide the documentation on energy savings, payback data and more to help you apply successfully, helping reduce the cost of the products and maximize your return on investment.
Q. What else should we consider?
A. When you’re upgrading your aquatic facility’s equipment, it’s important to work with an experienced team of professionals who have a comprehensive understanding of the design and installation requirements in order to gain the maximum benefits of such technologies.
It’s also crucial to ensure you are performing regular maintenance tasks, such as keeping your pool clean and maintaining your pool filter. A dirty filter requires backwashing, which uses a lot of water, that is heated and treated with chemicals. Consider investing in a regenerative media filter to reduce the need for backwashing and improve overall water quality.
For More Information
Lincoln Aquatics
800-223-5450
www.lincolnaquatics.com