Today’s homeowner is more environmentally responsible than ever and wants every inch of their home to be greener-even their swimming pool. By using products designed for performance that are environmentally responsible and deliver value, consumers can enjoy their pool knowing they are doing their part for sustainability.
A consumer who is interested in reducing their environmental impact can enjoy a smaller, shallower pool using less materials, less water, less chemicals. A design to suit a backyard can offer beauty, family fun and deliver savings by using energy efficient innovations.
Educating the consumer on features such as high performance chlorine and bromine products, alternative salt generated sanitation systems, solar heat technology, alternative filtration systems, and high performance variable speed pumps is part of our mandate. Educating on products that provide savings is important. Most eco-friendly innovations face the challenge of proving their real value and cost savings.
New products on the market decrease the amount of time and money spent on maintaining your pool; it is better to spend time enjoying your pool.
Salt water systems have been on the market for almost a decade. With these systems, you don’t have to buy or handle chlorine pucks and the water is easy on the eyes and the skin. But don’t kid yourself. Salt water pools are still full of chlorine - only the delivery system is different. Saline systems use sodium chloride. A generator converts the salt to chlorine using a process called electrolysis. Routine maintenance will help keep your liner and equipment in good working order. New by-laws restrict home owners from flushing salt, chlorine or metals into storm drains or drainage courses. Water discharge from a pool must remain on the property. Read further to find out how to minimize water discharge through the swimming season.
New technologies help reduce the use of chlorine or bromine to clean pools. UV technology and ozonization to sanitize pools offer a safe and eco friendly way to reduce the use of chemicals. With UV the water flows over an ultra violet light which kills bacteria in the water. Ozone is a gas injected into the pool circulation oxidizing bacteria and killing micro-organisms. Many of these systems can be retrofitted onto existing pools.
Slower pump speeds equal reduced energy costs. Permanent magnet posi pumps use as little as 2 cents per hour compared to standard single speed pumps which use 18 cents per hour. Pool owners can program and adjust the pump speed to meet peak enjoyment periods. Variable speed pumps are quieter and many come with built-in diagnostics that detect varying requirements of the pool systems such as pool cleaners, pool heaters and water features. These pumps can translate into energy savings of up to 90 per cent meaning a savings of $500 to $700 per season.
Solar energy is free and it’s good for the environment.
According to Natural Resources Canada, over a 15-year period, you could spend five times or more on heating with gas what you would spend on installing a solar heater today. Once your solar heating system is installed, there are no more heating bills to pay. A solar system will also extend the season for outdoor swimmers. Although a solar blanket will help, a solar heating system is ideal. Solar equipment, including the panels, lasts longer than conventional systems, is more durable and requires less maintenance.
Pollock Pools have installed custom designed Paramount automatic in-floor pool cleaning and circulation systems. The filter cleans body oils, suntan lotions, pollen, and bacteria with less effort and waste.
“Pools typically circulate water near the surface where chemicals and heat quickly evaporate.” Another method to save money is to install automatic controls for the pool pump, pool cleaner and electronic gas heater. Cartridge filters and diatamatious earth (D.E.) do not require large amounts of water for back washing. Sand filters must be back -washed frequently for efficiency - this wastes water. When you are not back- washing you are not losing heated or treated water from your pool.
Use local, natural elements around your pool. Use natural stone to create your outdoor environment Another great way to create an eco-friendly atmosphere in your yard is to buy locally grown, indigenous plants for your gardens.
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