Install a in-ground pool allows you to enjoy moments of relaxation and conviviality. However, its operation and regular maintenance are a major source of energy consumption. Read on to find out how you can reduce your pool's energy footprint and environmental impact.

Does an in-ground pool consume a lot of electricity?

An in-ground pool uses less electricity than an above-ground pool. This is due to its in-ground structure, which helps reduce water heating time and heat loss. These advantages are even greater for an in-ground fiberglass pool, thanks to the fiber's insulating properties.

5 advantages of owning a fiberglass pool

Which in-ground pool appliances and equipment consume energy?

• The heating system: Electric water heaters and heat pumps are the main heating systems used for swimming pools;
• The filtration system: the filtration system keeps pool water clean and circulating;
• Pool lighting: the floodlights used to light the pool can have a significant impact on the pool's electricity consumption;
• Treatment equipment: pool cleaning equipment such as salt water chlorinators can increase energy costs;
• Jets and waterfalls: if your pool is equipped with jets, waterfalls or other accessories, this can also increase the electricity bill, as these functions often require additional pumps and motors.

How can I calculate my inground pool's electricity consumption?

To determine the electricity consumption of an in-ground pool, you need to calculate the consumption of each item separately, then add them up. In general, all you need to do is multiply the operating time (in h) by the power (in kWh) and by the cost per kWh to obtain the operating cost of an appliance.

Example: consumption of a filtration pump

• Operating time per day: 12 h per day;
• Pool operating time: 4 months (120 days);
• Power: 0.75 kWh;
• Cost kWh (second tranche): 10.041 ¢/kWh.

• Total operating cost of filtration pump:

(12h x 120 d) x 0.75 kWh x 6.509 ¢/kWh = 108.45$

11 ways to reduce your inground pool's energy consumption

Economical design

The size, shape and location of your pool are three factors that can help you save on energy, water and maintenance products:

• Dimensions: Dimensions must be adapted to your needs. The larger the pool, the higher the maintenance costs.
• Shape: a simple shape (rectangular or oval) reduces the filtration pump's power consumption by facilitating water circulation in the pond.
• Exhibition: We recommend installing the pool in a sunny area. A dark-colored liner can help optimize natural heating.

Regular maintenance

Regular pool cleaning, especially of the filters, is essential to reduce the power consumption of the filtration system. The dirtier the filters, the greater the effort required of the filtration pump.

Pool cover

Investing in a pool enclosure or special cover is recommended for:

• Limit water evaporation caused by outside temperature and wind;
• Reduce heat loss;
• Reduce mechanical and chemical treatments;
• Securing the pool.

In fact, 94% of heat loss occurs at the pool surface:

• 60% by evaporation (heat exchange);
• 17% by convection (water movement);
• 17% by radiation.

Filtration time

Filtration time has a major impact on electricity consumption. To optimize it, you need to consider a number of factors:

• Water temperature;
• Water volume;
• Microbiological condition of water (presence of algae, debris, bacteria, etc.)
• Swimming pool attendance;
• The nature of the treatment;
• Etc.

You can use flocculant to reduce filtration time, as it helps to agglomerate particles.

Variable-speed pump

A variable-speed pump allows you to save on power. If the pool pump operates at a flow rate divided by 2, electricity consumption is reduced by a factor of 8!

LED lighting

LED lighting is more durable and economical than conventional lighting. An LED bulb can last over 100,000 hours, compared with only 20,000 hours for an incandescent bulb.

Here are some other advantages of LED lighting:

• Saves up to 80% on power consumption;
• Light output 6 times greater than conventional lighting;
• Good resistance to on/off cycles;
• No risk of burns;
• Aesthetic effect.

Heat pump

We recommend using a heat pump to heat pool water. Its consumption is 4 times lower than that of a traditional electric heater. A heat pump with Full Inverter technology is more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Electric cleaning robot

A robot cleaner is more economical than a filtration system. It helps reduce clogging of sand filters.

Solar water heater

You can take advantage of the sun's rays to heat your pool. This requires the installation of photovoltaic panels, which can be costly but profitable in the long term, especially in summer.

Pool treatment products

To reduce your pool's ecological footprint, it's important to adjust the amount of chemicals used. To do this, you need to use an optimal filtration system and carry out regular water analyses. A correct pH is essential to ensure the effectiveness of disinfectants.

You can use a pH regulator to maintain the water's acid-base balance automatically. A salt water chlorinator is recommended for clear, healthy bathing water.

Avoid annual oil changes

You don't have to empty and refill your pool every year. Winter treatment is sufficient to maintain pool quality. As well as saving on water consumption, a full pool prevents cracking and warping.

Why choose an in-ground spa/nature spa?

Get a quote for in-ground pool installation

Aqua Fibre Innovation specializes in the manufacture and installation of pools and in-ground spas. With over 30 years' experience, we offer you a wide range of ecological swimming pools.

Get a quote