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.

Test the stain

Testing is really the only way to determine what the stain is. To test, sprinkle different granular compounds directly on the stain and brush vigorously to find out.

Is it Organic?

• Granular chlorine helps remove organic stains

• Apply a considerable amount of chlorine directly to the stain, and it will come off easily

Is it Metallic?

• Metal stains best react to ascorbic acid or granular Vitamin C

• Apply crushed Vitamin C tablets to the stain and see if it fades or lightens

Is it Rust?

• Rust stains react to dry acid or sodium bisulphate

• Brush the dry acid into the stain and see if it fades away

How to remove pool stains

The good news is once you have figured out the type of stain that you are dealing with, it gets easier from there. Please note that the treatment does depend on the surface type. If the surface is vinyl or fibreglass or painted, then using any chlorines will potentially bleach the surface and cause irreversible damage.

Remove Organic pool stains

Of all pool stains, this is the easiest to remove. With a bit of elbow grease and the following method, you should be able to get rid of organic stains fairly easily:

1. Test the water for pH and alkalinity balances. The pH should be between 7.4 and 7.6 and the alkalinity should be between 100 and 150 ppm.

2. Shock your pool by following the instructions on the product packaging. (Remember to do this in the evening).

3. Thoroughly brush all the stains and let the pool circulate for at least 8 hours.

4. Repeat the process until the stain disappears.

Remove Metal Pool Stains

Metal pool stains are more difficult to remove since they only respond to certain chemicals. You might want to take a water sample to your local pool shop to determine exactly what kind of metals are plaguing your pool. You pool shop will be able to advise the specific chemical you need to remove metal stains.

1. Add the recommended chemical according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Scrub the stains and run your filter for at least 1 hour.

3. Repeat the process until the stain disappears.

Prevent pool stains

Your first goal should be to keep your pool clean and properly treated. The cleaner the pool water is, the less likely you will find a tenacious stain. Check out our complete range of swimming pool and spa chemicals to make your pool sparkle. Here are a few more tips:

• Trim trees and bushes near or around your pool to prevent debris and foliage from finding its way in the water.

• Invest in an automatic pool cleaner to make the job easy and prevent stains from forming.

• Make sure that you are testing the pH of your pool’s water regularly when the pool is in use. Stains can occur when the chemical balance is off.

Remember if you have stubborn stains, it makes sense to reach out to a pool professional for prompt and effective stain removal. Our team of authorised dealers is always here to help!