Waterfall pump upgrade
A single-speed waterfall pump was also replaced with a variable-speed pump. The old waterfall pump was so loud it was difficult to talk over, and as there was no way to change the waterfall’s volume of water or sound, it was rarely used. Further, it cost almost $1 per hour to run.
With a variable-speed pump running the waterfall, its look and sound are now adjustable. Even at higher speeds the pump is exceptionally quiet—resulting in a more pleasurable experience at a far lower energy cost. Best of all, it uses approximately 900 watts on its high setting, and less than 200 watts on its lower setting, in comparison to more than 2,400 watts when using the single-speed pump.
Waterfall pump operating cost comparison |
|
|---|---|
| Old single-speed pump | New variable-speed pump |
| · 2,418 watts / $0.97 per hour | · 905 watts (high flow / $0.36 per hour) |
| · 351 watts (medium flow / $0.14 per hour) | |
| · 187 watts (low flow / $0.07 per hour) | |
The pool’s lighting was also upgraded from halogen to LED, yielding additional savings. The net savings from changing the pumps and lights is about $125 US per month. The annual cost to run the pool is now $430, representing a savings of $1,670 per year. In addition, the filter is performing better and more efficiently due to slower flow. As a result, the pool water is cleaner, the water clarity has improved and the appropriate sanitizer levels are maintained.
