Got a pool? Here's when to run the pump to save money

Owning a pool in Australia can be a fantastic luxury, offering a perfect way to cool off during those hot summer months. However, one of the most significant ongoing costs associated with pool ownership is running the pool pump.

This essential piece of equipment circulates water through the pool’s filtration system, ensuring that the water remains clean and safe. While pool pumps are a necessity, they can also be energy-hungry, potentially leading to high energy consumption.

The good news is that, with the right strategies, you can significantly reduce the energy costs associated with running a pool pump.

Please note that the actual costs of running a pool pump depend on several factors, including your energy provider and tariff plan.

Best times to run a pool pump

To make your pool pump run as efficiently as possible, the key is to focus on when and for how long you run it. Here are a few tips to help you save energy while maintaining the quality of your pool water.

Run the pump during off-peak hours

In most parts of Australia, electricity tariffs vary throughout the day. Off-peak rates are typically lower during the evening and night, when overall demand for electricity is lower.

Running your pool pump during these off-peak hours can help you save energy without compromising the cleanliness of your pool.

• Late night to early morning: Most energy providers offer significantly lower rates during the late-night hours and into the early morning, typically from around 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. This is an ideal time to run your pool pump because the electricity grid is under less strain, and the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) is at its lowest.

Consider the weather conditions

The outside temperature also plays a role in determining when you should run your pool pump. During extremely hot days, you may need to run the pump for longer periods to maintain optimal water quality. However, if it's a cooler day or evening, you can run the pump for shorter intervals.

• Hot days: Pools are more likely to get dirty quickly due to increased use, debris from wind, and the breakdown of chemicals in warmer water. This may mean running the pump for longer periods.
• Cooler weather: If the pool isn’t being used as frequently and debris isn’t accumulating as quickly, the pump can be run less often.

Run the pump when the pool is in use

If you're planning to swim or entertain around the pool, consider running the pump before or during these times to ensure the water remains clean while the pool is being used.

You don’t need to run the pump continuously, but strategic timing can ensure the water quality is consistently good.

Use a timer

Most modern pool pumps come with built-in timers, which allow you to automate the operation of your pump.

By using the timer, you can ensure that the pump runs only during the most efficient times, reducing the need for manual intervention and optimising energy usage.

Is it energy-efficient to be a pool owner?

When it comes to energy efficiency, pool ownership does have its costs, but with the right practices, it can still be a reasonable choice. The energy consumption of a pool pump depends on several factors:

• Pool size: Larger pools require more energy to circulate the water through the filtration system.
• Pump efficiency: Newer, more efficient pumps use less energy, while older models can be much more energy-hungry.
• Pool usage: The more often you use your pool, the more energy you’ll need to maintain it.

With careful management, pool ownership can still be energy-efficient, but it’s essential to use the pump wisely, clean your filters regularly, and ensure your pool equipment is well-maintained.

Upgrading to a more energy-efficient pump or investing in variable speed pumps can help reduce energy consumption significantly.

Running pool pumps under electricity vs solar power

Electricity-powered pool pumps

The traditional method of powering pool pumps is through grid electricity, which can be a significant contributor to your household’s energy consumption. However, the cost and environmental impact can vary depending on your energy provider and the rate structure of your electricity plan.

Pros:

• Reliable and consistent energy supply.
• Available in areas where solar energy may be less feasible.

Cons:

• Can be costly over time, especially if you run the pump for extended periods or during peak times.
• Increases your carbon footprint unless you are using green energy.

Solar-powered pool pumps

Switching to solar power to run your pool pump is a growing trend, especially for those who want to reduce their reliance on grid electricity. Solar pool pumps use energy generated from the sun, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective option in the long term.

Pros:

• Cost savings: While the initial installation cost of solar panels and a solar pump may be high, once installed, solar power can significantly reduce or eliminate electricity costs associated with running your pool pump.
• Environmentally friendly: Solar power is a renewable energy source, making it a cleaner option than traditional grid electricity.
• Energy independence: Solar-powered pool pumps help reduce reliance on the electricity grid, making them an attractive option for those living in remote areas or who want to reduce their environmental impact.

Cons:

• Initial installation cost: Setting up solar panels and a solar-powered pool pump requires a significant upfront investment.
• Weather dependence: Solar-powered pumps work best in sunny conditions, and during periods of overcast or rainy weather, they may not generate enough energy to run the pump effectively.

Does it matter which energy provider you use?

The energy provider you choose can impact the overall cost of running your pool pump, particularly in relation to electricity tariffs.

Variable rate plans and time-of-use tariffs are common among Australian energy providers, and these plans can offer significant savings if you are able to adjust your usage patterns accordingly.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing an energy provider:

Time-of-use tariffs

Many providers offer time-of-use pricing, where electricity costs less during off-peak times. If you're running your pool pump during these hours, you can potentially save on energy costs. It's worth checking whether your provider offers off-peak rates and understanding the times when those rates apply.

Green energy options

Some energy providers offer green energy plans, where the electricity supplied is sourced from renewable energy sources like wind and solar.

If you're running your pool pump on grid electricity, this can reduce the environmental impact associated with your pool’s energy consumption.

Solar-friendly providers

If you are running your pool pump with solar power, some providers offer specific solar power plans that cater to households with solar panels.

These plans often include benefits such as feed-in tariffs or credit for surplus energy sent back to the grid.

Specialist pool pump plans

In some cases, energy providers offer tailored plans or advice for pool owners. These plans might include discounts or incentives for efficient appliance usage or even advice on how to reduce energy consumption specifically for pool pumps.

Comparing pool pump use in different Australian states

The type of energy required for pool pumps can vary based on geographical location. In states with warmer climates, such as Queensland, pool pumps may be used more often than in cooler states like Tasmania. Here’s a comparison of how pool pumps are typically used in different parts of Australia:

Owning a pool in Australia can be an enjoyable and relaxing experience, but the associated energy costs of running a pool pump are something that every pool owner must consider.

By choosing the right time to run your pool pump, such as during off-peak hours, and opting for energy-efficient solutions like solar power, you can significantly reduce the energy consumption and environmental impact of maintaining your pool.

Contact Compare Energy

Selecting the right energy provider and tariff plan that suits your usage pattern can help you save on energy costs in the long term. Whether you rely on grid electricity or invest in solar power, there are numerous ways to run your pool pump efficiently while keeping your energy consumption in check.

Looking to save money on running your pool pump and other appliances? Call Compare Energy today at 1300 790 106 to discuss the best energy plans and strategies for your home!