Are you concerned about rising energy prices? We can understand if you are. Inflation seems to be showing no end in slowing down. One area where you might think to save money is in your pool. After all, with all of the bells and whistles that a pool has, it’s not unfair to ask, “Is my pool an energy hog?”
Before we answer that, know that a qualified pool electrician will be focused on the safety of your family when they install your above or in-ground pool. However, there are several things to consider that might increase your specific pool’s power usage.
First, be aware of phantom power
Mind you, we’re not talking about true ghosts and goblins. Rather, the analogy might be more apt if we called it “gremlin power” — but we’ll cut to the chase.
Everything that’s plugged in draws power. Period.
If an appliance or fixture is turned on, it’s drawing even more power. Even in a turned off state, some things still draw power. And, as energy commodities are volatile, one way some homeowners look to save money is by eliminating this “phantom power” draw.
Trying to save money
That’s the purpose of unplugging these various appliances when they’re not in use. Take a mental walk through your kitchen. Your stove, your microwave, and probably even your coffee pot all have some kind of LED screen. Most likely, they’re showing the time.
However, they’re also drawing power to do so. Some internet-connected devices draw even more power as their internal software downloads firmware updates.
The role of pool electrician
So is your pool an energy hog? Before we can answer that, let’s talk about the role of a pool electrician. We already stated that they will be focused on the safety of your family. When they ran the power lines from your pool to your home, they ensured that your home had the right kind of electrical panel and sub-panels to properly supply your home.
One thing they may also have discussed with you is how often you should run your home. Although these numbers can vary, a good rule of thumb is that your pool’s pump could run for as little as six hours per day to keep your water clean and clear. If it runs 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, then your pool may very well be an energy hog.
Secondary reasons why your pool could be an energy hog
Of course, your pump isn’t the only thing that keeps your pool going. Underwater LED lights draw power, even if they’re relatively efficient. And while your deck is technically its own fixture, it’s still a part of your pool setup. Anything electrical on it can also draw power.
One way to save money is to only use these when — you guessed it — the pool is in use.
A variable speed pump installed by a pool electrician
Another solution we haven’t mentioned is to install a variable-speed pump. This is one way to stop your pool from becoming an energy hog. It’ll run at various speeds throughout the day, keeping your water clean while reducing your energy usage.
And of course, if you have questions about your pool’s energy efficiency, let us know. As a certified pool electrician serving Columbus, Ohio, we’re here to help. Contact our team via phone at 614-206-5401 or send us a quick note HERE through our contact form.
