In our previous article, we have already talked about why you should invest in a Variable Speed Pump so there’s no doubt that a variable speed pump is a superior choice and will save you money in the long run. Here we want to take a closer look at how much money a variable speed pump can actually save you and how it is calculated. There is so much discussion nowadays about energy efficiency and one thing you may not realise is just how much of an impact your pool equipment can make on your energy usage. This pie chart from Energy Rating’s E3 study shows that your pool pump can take up 18% of your household electricity consumption.

How does it work?

Single-speed pumps operate at only one fixed rate, even though that speed may not be necessary for a particular task. This means most of the time, you pay for the energy more than you really consume by using a single-speed pump. Variable speed pumps allow you to run filtration at different motor speeds (different flows) during the day. They allow you to run your pool at the optimum speed to get the job done. This creates less friction on your piping, filter, and accessories allowing your pool to run at a much lower energy level, as well as less wear and tear, saving you money and increasing the lifespan of your equipment. You can begin your filtration cycle with a similar speed to that of the single-speed pump, then run it for a longer amount of time at a slower speed to achieve the same turnover result.

How much are you saving?

The amount of electricity used by a pool pump is measured in units of Watt-hours (Wh) or Kilowatt-hours (kWh), where 1 kilowatt = 1,000 watts (W). The amount of electricity a pool pump uses depends on how many hours a day the pump is run and for how many days per year the power consumption of the pump, measured in watts, as well as the size of the pool. Here's how the calculation goes: Step 1: Volts (230 volts in Australia) x Amperage = watts Step 2: Watts/1,000 = kWh used by the pump Step 3: kWh x run time per day =kWh per day Step 4: Electrical rate x kWh per day=electricity running cost of your pump per day Credit: https://www.mrpoolman.com.au/blogs/news/standard-pool-pumps-vs-eco-pool-pumps-by-the-numbers

Check out the table below for a specific comparison:

But we would say the most significant difference might be the time of operation. The operation cost that keeps a variable speed pool pump 24-hours a day for a month will make any single speed pump run only 3-hours a day. Although the upfront cost of a variable-speed pump is higher, the cost savings in long-term care are a lot greater due to the reduction in energy bills. We recommend looking for a variable speed pool pump that has an energy rating of at least 8 stars. To see a list of pool pumps registered in a voluntary energy-rating scheme run by the Australian Government, please click here. This bar chart that illustrates the annual energy consumption of pool pumps by star rating shows you the difference your VS pump can make in energy consumption based on its star rating.

Credit: Decision Regulation Impact Statement: Swimming pool pumps

Always consult your local pool professionals to determine the most suitable pool pump for your needs.

Benefits for the body & mind

Sunscreen and shade aren’t the only ways you’re able to protect your skin when you’re in your swimming pool. In fact, your body can absorb up to 500mls of pool water for every 1 hour of swimming, so when you are swimming in chlorine-concentrated pools and harsh chemicals it can take a toll on your health.

• MagnaPool’s® 100% salt-free, low chlorinated water creates less harsh water on skin, eyes and hair. Potassium also aids in skin hydration.

• Mineral pools don’t produce unappealing odour like chlorine, which can cause dizziness or affect those sensitive to smell.

• Mineral pools have been proven to be gentle on skin conditions like eczema.

• MagnaPool® water is smooth and silky and doesn’t leave you with sticky, salty skin.

• MagnaPool® is rich in magnesium (an important mineral for humans), which we absorb transdermally (through our skin). Magnesium exposure aids in reducing stress, anxiety and bodily aches for swimmers.

• Magnesium also relaxes muscles and reduces muscle fatigue and tearing (fantastic for athletes).

• Magnesium exposure contributes to restorative sleep, which aids in the circulation of blood to the heart, brain and muscles.

Benefits to cleaning & maintenance

• The smooth surface of the filter crystals discourages bacteria from attaching to the glass, making it more sanitary than sand or zeolite filtration.

• Low need for added chemicals reduces maintenance time.

• MagnaPool® minerals and glass media filtration offer exceptional water clarity. Magnesium is great for filtering out micro-particles that cause discoloured, murky water.

• Less chlorine and harsh chemicals allow pool equipment to hold a longer lifespan, without erosion.

Benefits to the environment

• Potassium and magnesium naturally nourish plants and grass (which is why both are used in commercial agriculture). The backwash water from a mineral system can irrigate lawns and gardens (we recommend a dilution of 5 water – 1 backwash water).

• The efficient backwashing of a MagnaPool® can save you up to 65% water, drastically cutting down your carbon footprint (and your energy bill!).

• Zodiac filter crystals are made from 100% recycled clear glass, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to other filtration media.

• MagnaPool® is recognised under SPASA, Australia’s Climate Care Certified program.

Mineral pools not only feel smooth on your skin but can also enhance your health. The minerals can alleviate aches and pains in your body, while the minimal chlorine content means no eye or skin irritation. Talk to our specialists to find out how to get a cleaner, healthier, and clearer swimming pool!

Sources:

1. The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Mineral Pools, Blue Haven

2. The Complete Guide to Pool Mineral Systems, Swim University