Many customers and new pool owners ask us how much water will having a swimming pool consume annually. The problem with answering this question accurately is that there are many variables from how often you will be using the pool to how often you backwash the pool. In a general situation a pool should not consume much water every year and should not amount to much on your annual water bill however if you are concerned about the amount of water you use then read below for some tips to conserve your water usage.
- Have your pool tested for leaks
If you are concerned that your pool is emptying quicker than evaporation and sanitation should show then it is always best to look into a leak test. One way to test if your water is reducing more than evaporation is to do a bucket test. Fill a bucket half way of water and mark where the water line is in the bucket. Now mark a level of the pool water and leave the bucket and pool alone for 2-3 days. After the time has passed check the new level of the bucket and the pool. If the reduction of the bucket is less that that of the pool, it signifies you have a leak. - Keep your pool covered when not in use
To minimize evaporation especially during the day, make sure your pool is covered when not in use. - Do not leave water running unattended
Leaving a hose in the pool for “a few hours” is almost an invitation for overfilling your pool. Try to be present when filling your pool, even better? Get an automatic top up system fitted to your pool so your level will always be correct. - Stop Splashing
Okay we know this is probably a lot more difficult to ask your children to stop splashing so much but water can be lost by too much splashing around. Limit the dive bombing perhaps? - Use Chemicals sparingly
Always try to use as little chemicals as possible to achieve the correct balance. Over dosing some chemicals required dilution (wasting water from your pool and refilling with fresh water). - Switch off the fountain / water feature
A water fountain or feature aerates the water running through it and allows evaporation to happen more readily. Only use the fountain when people will be around to appreciate it! - Don’t over backwash
Backwashing is a necessary procedure you should be doing at least on a weekly basis to remove the debris caught by your sand filter. Most people recommend backwashing for 3 minutes. If you look carefully you will see a clear sight glass on the waste pipe. Take a look at this next time you backwash and stop the procedure when you see the sight glass go clear. - Save the backwash water
The backwash water wasted may not be drinking grade to say the least but it is good for watering your plants. Consider buying a water butt and saving that water for watering your plants.
