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Keep Your Pool Cool
Summer is definitely here and pool water is rapidly becoming more bath like. So much so, I hear people say it is too hot to even swim. There are ways to decrease that pool water temperature and make it more enjoyable.
#1 – Increase Water Evaporation
I know increasing evaporation is not something that you normally want to do, but you lose most of your heat through evaporation. The more water you lose, the cooler the rest of the water stays. The best way to do this is by running a waterfall or fountain at night. If you don’t have a fountain there are ones that can be easily added to any pool. These are relatively inexpensive and the operating cost is no more than just running the pump and the extra water you may have to add to the pool. Most pools should see about a 5 degree temperature decrease.
#2 – Chillers
Chillers are like air conditioners for your pool. They use a compressor remove heat from the pool water. They are expensive (Usually between $1500 and $5000 depending on the size and functionality), but they can really cool off the water. Most pools can easily see a 10-15 degree temperature decrease. Do keep in mind they are about the size of an outdoor air conditioner compressor, so they do take up space. They also can use a lot of electricity, so you also need to be aware of the installation and operating cost. Some units are a combination chiller and heat pump. That way you can cool your pool in the summer and warm the pool at the beginning and ending of the swim season.
#3 – Solar Systems
Typically solar systems are used to efficiently heat pool water but they can also decrease the temperature. Solar systems work by passing your pool water through mats that collect radiant heat from the sun and increase the temperature. If you use the solar system at night you can achieve the opposite effect. The cooler night air can decrease the temperature of the pool. However, don’t expect a big decrease. You achieve a drop of about 5 degrees, but on the plus side you won’t increase your evaporation. Solar systems can be expensive (usually starting around $2000), but they are extremely efficient at heating the pool. If heating the pool during other parts of the year appeals to you, then solar may be a good option.
#4 – Evaporative Coolers
Evaporative Coolers are becoming more and more popular. They are a very energy efficient way to cool your pool. The cost for the unit is marginal (between $1000 and $2500 depending on the size of the pool) and they are very cost effective to operate. For a small electricity and water cost you can expect a 5-10 degree water temperature drop. However, they do take up a lot of room. They are larger than most air conditioners.
#5 – On the Rocks
You can always use good ‘ol fashioned ice to offer some temporary relief. Reddy Ice in Pilot Point, Texas sells 10 lbs. blocks of ice for $1.50 (delivery is additional). A bunch of those can add some much needed relief on those 104 degree summer days. However the temperature decrease is only short-term.