Ahhhh… summertime means warm weather has set in and relaxation at the pool is definitely on the minds of most of us, during these months. Unfortunately, swimming pools consume a lot of energy! Whether it is filtering the water, heating the water, running the pump, and not to mention, keeping it clean requires energy too. Instead of deciding not to have a pool, how about green the ways you take care and maintain your swimming pool? Here are tips on how to keep your energy bill lower, and save the Earth’s precious resources at the same time.
The Pros and Cons of Owning a Swimming Pool Home
Owning a swimming pool should be an enjoyable experience, after all, you deserve to relax and entertain throughout the warm months of the year. Although, owning a pool shouldn’t come at the expense of your wallet, the Earth’s precious resources or your family’s health. Use these helpful tips to green your swimming pool and enjoy all of the benefits of relaxing and playing in the sun.
30 Breathtaking Natural Swimming Pools by Biotop
- Heating your pool: Depending on where you live and how hot it gets during the spring/summer months, you may not need to heat your pool as often as you think. Homes that are in desert and hot climates may only need to heat their pools in the evenings or when you are planning on entertaining. When heating your water, consider having alternate heating methods used to heat the water. Solar power from panels on your home is an excellent way to channel the sun’s energy to heat the water for your pool.
- Cleaning your pool: Many pools use automatic devices that operate in your pool when the pool is unoccupied. While they help to keep the pool clean when you’re not in it, they also are using electricity 24 hours a day. Try to cut down how often your automatic cleaning device is run. Also opt for using less chlorine, and consider using alternative cleaners like ozone cleaners. Keeping a cover over your pool when it isn’t occupied will also help keep it cleaner from airborne debris, leaves and branches.
- Keep plastic and vinyl play toys at bay: While you may only be thinking about the maintenance of your pool, having eco-friendly pool toys around your kids is important too. Many pool toys are made from vinyl or PVC –also referred to as polyvinyl chloride. These type of pool toys release toxins and also off gas dangerous chemicals. Try and choose pool toys that are made from natural organic materials for your children’s safety, and for helping keep your pool a greener place to play in.
- Use alternate sources of water for your pool: In your geographic area, consider using alternate methods for collecting water at your home. Options could include rainwater collection, which can be used for filling your pool, as well as for plumbing in your home to supply showers, tubs, sink and toilets. Taking this measure can help you cut down on your water bill, as well as save the Earth’s water supply. For many geographic municipalities, you could earn added benefits through LEED, or energy saving tax benefits at income tax time. Using grey water for your home is a viable option for many homeowners.
