In recent years, many homeowners have become much more environmentally conscious. They have done things throughout their homes to alter their energy consumption, ranging from small efforts such as replacing light bulbs and unplugging appliances to large-scale measures such as installing solar energy systems. This idea of limiting one’s carbon footprint is also a concern for homeowners who are considering new pools or are dissatisfied with their current ones.
At Signature Pools of Texas, clients repeatedly inquire about the best ways to ensure a more energy-efficient pool. And these custom swimming pool experts in Houston are pleased to assure pool owners that there are a bevy of options available for making pools more “green.”
In fact, building a more eco-friendly pool is easier than ever before. According to the owners of Signature Pools of Texas, there are products available that will lower your consumption of energy, sanitize the water in swimming pools in a more environmentally friendly manner, and use less water in the maintenance of pools.
The first aspect of your pool that you may want to consider is the pump, which moves water through the filter, heater, water features, and plumbing. Pumps can also be used to power any in-floor cleaning systems or automatic cleaners that you may have. For the best results, your pool pump should circulate and filter all pool water at least once a day. Because this will be used on a daily basis, greater efficiency definitely means lower utility costs.
The most recent improvement in pool pumps today is variable speed technology. Though initially more costly than a standard pool pump, after installation, you stand to gain dramatic energy cost savings.
It’s important to remember that when it comes to pool pumps and water filtration, more horsepower does not necessarily mean better results. The variable speed pump is so great because it runs on a lower, more energy-efficient speed, which promotes savings on your energy bills. A one-speed pump, on the other hand, requires you to run the pump all the time, which ends up wasting lots of energy. With a new variable speed pump, you have the ability to customize the pump’s speed so that you are using the right amount of electricity to perform each specific task, including filtration, operating an in-floor cleaning system, and running a water feature.
Another more recent technological advance in swimming pool maintenance is in-floor cleaning systems that work to enhance the circulation of the water in a pool and clean the floor, steps, benches, walls, and spa. Similar to a pop-up sprinkler system, the cleaning jets are strategically located throughout your pool and only pop up during their cleaning cycle for a couple of hours each day. The mixing action that is created by the cleaning jets also results in a reduction in the amount of chemicals you’ll need to maintain water chemistry.
Water chemistry is a very important aspect of maintaining perfect swimming conditions, and Signature Pools of Texas offers a few solutions for homeowners looking to be more environmentally conscious while keeping their pools clean. For many years, chlorine has been the standard for sanitizing swimming pool water. When you take a minute to consider it though, store-bought chlorine comes from a manufacturing facility, and those facilities use tons of resources and energy to operate and distribute their products. However, there are now more eco-friendly alternatives available.
Many Signature Pools of Texas clients use a salt-chlorine generator that produces its own chlorine. Because this is a natural solution, you will notice that the water in your pool is much softer, makes your hair feel softer, and helps your swimsuits last longer. And, unlike the salt in the ocean, which is 1000 times stronger than what would be in your pool, you won’t burn your eyes. All you have to do to achieve clean, sanitary water is add a salt bag once a month, which will only cost you around $10.
For more information on how you can create an environmentally friendly pool in your backyard, you should set up a consultation with an experienced swimming pool company in your area.