Summer is here! Time to make the most of the warm weather, spend time with friends and family and enjoy your swimming pool. However, summertime can also mean increased energy costs. Pool pumps, lighting, heaters and filters can all contribute to higher electricity bills. The good news? With a few simple changes, you can create a more energy-efficient pool while keeping your summer energy bills in check.
We’re here to help with a few easy, energy-saving tips for your pool this summer:
Run Your Pool Pump During Cooler Hours
Your pool pump is one of the biggest energy users in your pool. Running it during cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings and late evenings, can help reduce energy usage, especially during peak heat hours.
Depending on your pool’s size and how often it’s used, running your pump for six to eight hours a day is often enough to keep it clean and circulating properly.
Upgrade to a Variable-Speed Pool Pump
If you have an older single-speed pump, it may be time to consider upgrading to a variable-speed option. Variable-speed pumps operate at lower speeds throughout the day instead of full power all the time, helping you use less electricity. That means more efficient energy use and lower monthly costs.
Use a Pool Cover for a More Energy-Efficient Pool
Pool covers don’t just keep debris out, they also help reduce evaporation and keep your pool more energy efficient. During the hotter months, a pool cover can help your system run more smoothly and use less energy.
Lower Your Pool Heater Usage
Turning off or lowering your pool heater’s temperature by just a few degrees when it’s not needed can help cut energy costs dramatically.
Pro tip: Solar pool covers can help retain heat and reduce the amount of energy needed to keep your pool warm.
Clean Your Pool Filter Regularly
A dirty pool filter can make your pool system work harder than it needs to. Regular filter maintenance helps improve circulation, keeps equipment operating smoothly and can extend the life of your pool.
Switch to Energy-Efficient LED Pool Lights
If you’re still using traditional pool lighting, consider upgrading to LED pool lights. LED lights use less energy and last longer compared to traditional lighting. Making the switch can improve energy efficiency while keeping your pool area bright and ready for nighttime swims.
Inspect and Repair Your Pool Equipment
Leaks or broken equipment can waste both water and energy. Routinely checking your pool helps prevent unnecessary energy usage and keeps everything running the way it should all year-round.
Enjoy a More Energy-Efficient Pool All Summer Long
Creating a more energy-efficient pool doesn’t have to be complicated. A little effort now can go a long way in reducing energy use throughout the season. By making these simple changes, you can enjoy your pool all summer long while using energy more efficiently and keeping your costs down.
Ready to Save on More Than Just Your Pool?
A more energy-efficient pool is a great start, but your savings don’t have to stop there. CleanSky Energy offers 100% renewable electricity and carbon-neutral natural gas plans designed to help you lower your home’s overall energy costs, all summer and year-round. Explore our energy plans and find a clean, affordable option that fits your household.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an energy-efficient pool actually save money?
Yes. Pool pumps, heaters and lighting can account for a significant share of summer electricity use. Simple changes like running your pump during off-peak hours, upgrading to a variable-speed pump and using a pool cover can help lower your monthly energy bill.
How much can a variable-speed pool pump save compared to a single-speed pump?
Variable-speed pool pumps run at lower speeds for most of the day instead of constant full power, which can reduce pump-related energy use compared to older single-speed models. Making the switch is often the biggest efficiency upgrade a pool owner can make.
What time of day is cheapest to run my pool pump?
Running your pump during cooler, off-peak hours reduces strain during high-demand periods and can align with lower time-of-use electricity rates, depending on your plan.
Do pool covers really make a difference in energy costs?
Yes. Pool covers reduce evaporation and heat loss, which means your pump, filter and heater don’t have to work as hard to maintain water temperature and cleanliness.
How often should I clean my pool filter for the best efficiency?
This depends on pool usage and filter type, but a dirty filter forces your entire system to work harder. Checking it every few weeks during heavy summer use helps maintain efficiency and can extend equipment life.
