Keeping the heat in your swimming pool – Greater Sacramento Area
Published: Monday, May 07, 2012
Hey there swimming pool-goers! Happy Hump Day! The rest of the week’s weather forecast for the Sacramento Area: Thursday – Rainy, Friday – Sunday – SUNNY with temps in the mid 80’s! Not Summer weather yet, but we’re gettin’ there. Even though it may not be the warmest weather out there, you still may want to jump into your swimming pool now. So, its time to get your swimming pool’s heater or your solar system going. Here are a couple of tips to optimize your swimming pool’s heat and temperature!
- Reduce heat loss by using a swimming pool cover. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, energy savings of 50% – 70% are possible by not using your swimming pool’s heater as much.
- Fencing, hedges, landscaping, and cabanas that shelter your swimming pool from prevailing winds will further reduce heat loss.
- If your swimming pool heater is more than five years old, chances are a new high efficiency heater or swimming pool control unit could quickly pay for itself in utility bill savings.
- A swimming pool heat pump can save up to 80% in energy usage compared to a gas heater. Call us to see if a heat pump is appropriate for your region.
- If you use your swimming pool only on weekends, reduce your swimming pool heater or heat pump thermostats settings by eight to ten degrees during the week.
- When leaving for vacation for more than a week, turn off the swimming pool heater or heat pump, including the pilot light.
- According to the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals and the American Red Cross, the most healthful swimming pool water temperature is 78 degrees. Reducing your swimming pool heater or heat pump thermostat to maintain a 78 degree or lower temperature will also help conserve energy.
- Install a timer or a control system to automate the hours of operation.
- When reopening your pool, make sure your swimming pool heater or heat pump is working properly.
- To save energy and money, think about installing a solar system to naturally heat your swimming pool.
- Turn your swimming pool’s solar system on a couple of days before you want to jump in your pool. Doing so ensures that your pool gets enough sunlight and your pool water is at a comfortable temperature.
See you out there!
-Chris-