Average Weekly Pool Heating Cost
Outdoor Swimming Pools
- Heat lossHeat loss from outdoor swimming pools occurs
mainly from the surface in the form of evaporation, radiation and convection. The colder the outdoor air temperature the higher the heat loss is. Evaporation from the surface of the pool lowers both water temperature and water level in the pool. Radiation causes heat loss in the pool by transferring that heat into the surrounding air.
Heat loss from outdoor swimming pools occurs mainly from the surface in the form of evaporation, radiation and convection. The colder the outdoor air temperature the higher the heat loss is. Evaporation from the surface of the pool lowers both water temperature and water level in the pool. Radiation causes heat loss in the pool by transferring that heat into the surrounding air. - Pool temperatureThe energy consumption of an outdoor pool depends on the water and air temperature. For typical pool activity, set the temperature at 27° ‐28° C.
- Wind exposureThe evaporative heat loss in a swimming pool is greater as wind velocity over the pool surface increases. It is suggested to use glass windbreaker to form a solid fence around the pool to create a sheltered area. This would help to reduce pool energy consumption by 20 percent. Pools with an open exposure would consume about 50 percent more energy than a moderately sheltered one.
- Swimming pool coversUse of a floating thermal pool cover to bring the initial investment down, save energy and maintain the pool temperature when not in use is also recommended. A cover can save up to 50 percent on energy consumption compared with an uncovered pool and is the most significant energy saving measure you can take. This type of cover has special flotation properties, and can, not only save a substantial amount of the energy, but also significantly reduce water loss due to evaporation. A good quality thermal cover is recommended for all winter heating.
- ComparisonA Heat Pump uses electricity to operate. The heat is extracted from the ambient air, upgraded with a compressor, and then transferred to the pool. Therefore, it would be very cost effective to heat the pool continuously for all year round, as the electricity is not to generate heat but just to move the free heat to the Pool, Spa, Domestic Hot Water or Underfloor Heating application no matter what the weather condition is. Due to their high efficiency, heat pumps have a low cost of operation comparing to gas or diesel burners.
» Cost Comparison
Contents
