How To Evaluate Pool Energy Efficiency

To correctly assess a pool or spa for efficiency, you need to evaluate the entire system to understand the true balance between saving energy versus filtration and circulation efficiency. Fortunately, with modern technology, newer pools can achieve both quite easily.

There are 2 key types of efficiency to measure to calculate the overall efficiency of your system:

1. Energy efficiency, reducing power use
2. Hydraulic circulation efficiency

The following checklist provides basic guidelines to begin a pool energy audit. In any case, we recommend checking product specifications with the equipment manufacturer.

Saving energy:

• Only install 1 THP or lower single-, multiple-, or variable-speed Energy Star-certified pumps for filtration and circulation
• Install certified efficient heaters
• Install solar heating panels
• Utilise multiple or variable speed pump on high usage auxiliary pump applications (spa, water feature, in-floor cleaning, solar, etc.)
• Install LED lighting where possible
• Install pool cover (temporary or permanent)

Hydraulic efficiency:

• Size plumbing at 6 ft/sec. suction and 8 ft/sec. return line velocity
• Utilise long radius sweep elbows in the plumbing network
• Utilise right-sized valves for suction & return lines
• Plumb 4 times the pipe diameter and no airlock on the suction side of the pump
• Target low TDH systems (25-40 ft. hd.)
• Utilise higher efficiency directional outlets and skimmers where possible