Dive into pool savings

Most of us would love to have a backyard swimming pool during summer, but did you know pools could add about $600 dollars to your electricity bill each year?

Our energy efficiency expert Dr Robert Simpson said there were a couple of simple steps pool owners could take to manage running costs.

Tips for reducing pool costs

First of all, speak to your electricity retailer. If you’re able to move to time-based-pricing, run the pump during the night when power is cheapest.

Keep in mind that regulations require that pool pumps should not be audible on a neighbouring property between 8pm and 7am on weekdays, and 8pm to 8am on weekends and public holidays.

If you are on a time of use tariff, running your pump during off-peak periods (10pm - 7am every day) instead of during peak hours (2pm - 8pm weekdays) can cut your electricity bill by as much as $500 a year.

If running the pump at night isn’t possible, use it during shoulder periods to save about $300 each year compared to peak periods. If you are not on a time of use tariff you can still save money by installing an energy efficient pool pump or reducing the run time of your pool pump by investing in a timer. Running your pool pump for six hours a day should be all you need to keep your pool clean during summer.

You don’t need to run the pump as long during the non-swimming months, so remember to change the timer at the end of the swimming season. Most pools will stay clean with the pump running for just half the amount of time during winter.

If your pool is heated why not invest in a pool blanket to keep the heat in and cut running costs by up to 50%.