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As consumers look for ways to have fun while saving money this summer, improving the energy efficiency of backyard pools can make a big difference.
A standard-sized pool often uses about 15 kilowatts of energy each day, much of that from the pool pump. Pool lights and heaters can also be updated for energy savings because newer models are often significantly more efficient. An added advantage is that LED bulbs last about 10 times as long as typical fluorescent bulbs, so they require changing far less often.
Heating pools with solar panels is another energy efficient trend on the rise. After an initial investment of about $5,000 for pools around 25,000 gallons, in some cases solar panels can provide considerable savings compared to gas or propane heaters. Even traditional heaters made within the past ten years can use up to 40% less energy than older models.
Chemicals are another environmental concern related to pool maintenance. Chlorine is widely used and considered relatively safe, but other pool treatment methods are gaining popularity. Ozone is effective at killing bacteria and can reduce the need for chlorine, and salt-activated systems are also effective and are often touted as less abrasive.
An alternative to pool chemicals popular in Europe is known as "biological filtration" because the process uses plant life to clean the water naturally. Aquatic plants such as lilies and reeds grow in the pool and replace the use of chemicals.
However, the American Chemistry Council says it's important to stress that the suggested alternatives to chlorine should not be used as complete replacements, only as supplemental treatments.
"Ozone treats water as it flows through the system, but can’t disinfect as it comes into contact with germs in the pool," a rep from the council informs us. "Salt treatments produce chlorine from salt and electricity—the chemistry is the same."
Yep, the heat is on and folks are whipping out their barbecue grills to enjoy the warmer months following Memorial Day weekend.
But, there's an ongoing battle waging in backyards across the country. Should barbecue enthusiasts opt for technology or tradition? Charcoal barbecues vs. gas grills?
Contrary to popular belief, taste tests have apparently discredited the myth that food cooked on a charcoal barbecue has a better flavor than hamburgers prepared on gas grills. Word is that the smokey goodness comes doesn't come from the charcoal itself, but from the evaporation juices in the flames which are re-absorbed into the food.
Gas grills, which ignite on command, are easier to clean and have heating controls which can control the intensity of the cooking process. With charcoal grills, it's all or nothing.
In contrast, the traditional charcoal grills are more cost-efficient compared to their pricier gas counterparts. They also allow are less bulky, which allows for grilling on the go, and are a smarter option for those who only barbecue a few days throughout the warmer months.
Bottom line: If cooking out isn't the norm, it's probably wise to go charcoal. However, if backyard cooking is a favorite summer past-time, invest in a gas grill.
As consumers look for ways to have fun while saving money this summer, improving the energy efficiency of backyard pools can make a big difference.
A standard-sized pool often uses about 15 kilowatts of energy each day, much of that from the pool pump. Pool lights and heaters can also be updated for energy savings because newer models are often significantly more efficient. An added advantage is that LED bulbs last about 10 times as long as typical fluorescent bulbs, so they require changing far less often.
Heating pools with solar panels is another energy efficient trend on the rise. After an initial investment of about $5,000 for pools around 25,000 gallons, in some cases solar panels can provide considerable savings compared to gas or propane heaters. Even traditional heaters made within the past ten years can use up to 40% less energy than older models.
Chemicals are another environmental concern related to pool maintenance. Chlorine is widely used and considered relatively safe, but other pool treatment methods are gaining popularity. Ozone is effective at killing bacteria and can reduce the need for chlorine, and salt-activated systems are also effective and are often touted as less abrasive.
An alternative to pool chemicals popular in Europe is known as "biological filtration" because the process uses plant life to clean the water naturally. Aquatic plants such as lilies and reeds grow in the pool and replace the use of chemicals.
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