Pool Covers

• Using a pool cover regularly reduces evaporation by 90 to 95 percent.
  
• Without a cover, an average pool of 5m x 10m loses about 1 inch of water per week in the peak of summer. This can add up to an annual water loss of 26,500 litres.
  
• One of the most important benefits of using a pool cover can be enhanced safety.
  
• You can cover a pool without being concerned about gaseous exchange, unless you are using chlorine gas. If you are using chlorine gas, you should let it air.

Pumps

• A pump should be able to circulate pool water at least every 24 hours, but every 8 hours is preferred.
  
• Most existing pool pumps are oversized for the size of the pool and plumbing, which reduces filter effectiveness and causes more wear and tear on plumbing.
  
• For the average 50mm plumbing pipes, a pump of only 1/2 horsepower is needed. Many pool owners have bigger pumps, which dramatically increases electrical pumping costs. For example, a 1/2 horsepower pump will cost about $300 per year to run, while a 3/4 horsepower pump will cost $450.

Filters

• Each time you backwash sand and diatomaceous earth filters you could lose up to 2000 litres of water.

Water Quality

• Proper chemical balancing can prevent and cure most water clarity problems.

When is it appropriate to dump your pool water?

Not as often as you may think. Pools can often go 10 or more years without draining and refilling. Here are some guidelines:

• When the total dissolved solids (tds) get too high.
  
• Water quality problems often can be solved by draining only a portion of the water.
  
• If you have to drain your pool, make sure you take steps to prevent the pool shell from popping out of the ground.