Pools

One of the biggest costs associated with swimming pools is the cost of heating the water. If you're preparing to install a pool or want to improve an existing pool, consider an energy-efficient approach such as a heat pump pool heater. Like home heat pumps, these heaters use proven technology to transfer heat from one place to another. While heat pump pool heaters may have a higher cost, their improved efficiency and longer operating life means they'll more than pay for themselves in energy savings. Visit our Home Energy Calculator to learn more

Another option is a solar pool heater. Depending upon the amount of sunlight your pool receives, a solar heater could be your most economical choice. Solar pool heaters generally use a solar collector through which the water circulates and is heated before it is returned to the pool. Keeping your pool covered when not in use can also lower energy costs by reducing heat and evaporation losses.

The other big energy user is the pump that circulates the water. Many pool owners have pumps that are too large, or keep them running more often than needed. Buying a smaller, high-efficiency pump will lower your electricity use. In addition, you can use a timer to run the pump for just a few hours a day. If the water isn't as clean as you want, add another hour of operation.