Every child grows up with the dream of having a swimming pool in the backyard. It’s as much a part of the American Dream as apple pie, baseball, and family vacations. It gives the instant ability to have incredible summer barbecues, invite anyone over for a swim, or practice strain-free exercise. Unfortunately, in these trying economic times, people often view owning a pool as too much of a luxury.

It is thought of as too much of an indulgence for the average family, let alone the average individual. While it is true that owning a pool can sometimes double your energy consumption for the month, there are many steps you can take to avoid extra costs. In this list, we’ll show you some ways you can minimize your pool costs while maximizing your pool enjoyment.

Invest in a pool cover!

You might think of a pool cover as a sign that summer is over, but nowadays it’s quite the opposite. Much of your energy consumption comes from pool water evaporating when not in use, similar to heat escaping your home in the dead of winter. Like in winter, a method of insulation is required, in order to keep your pool water at a consistently pleasant temperature.

Pool covers can also prevent unnecessary exposure to sunlight, too much of which can trigger algae bloom. Besides that nasty stuff, covering your pool also helps keep out all the other unpleasant things you might find floating at the surface, like bugs, branches, and sometimes even wild animals. You might like the idea of a family of raccoons enjoying your swimming pool, but just wait until you want to go swimming yourself!

Consider renewable energy options

Renewable energy is the key to groundbreaking technology that doesn’t require any grounds being broken. One can install a solar or even wind-powered pool heater, which in the long run will cut down on the energy you previously spent on keeping your pool water at comfortable temperatures.

Provided you live in an area with access to sunshine and wind, the sun will be both forcing you into the water and preparing it for you. The sun can also help power other nearby appliances, such as the world’s largest above ground pool vacuums, mini-fridges to keep cool beverages close hand, or whatever other electrical tools you might have in your yard.

Keep track of your pool pump usage

When one is running their pool pump, there is an unfortunate logical fallacy that seems to be occurring among pool owners. Many people run their pump at night, in order to make their daytime swimming experience as pleasant as possible. This, however, can lead to pump overuse, which doesn’t help your energy bill out at all. Consider running your pump during the day, when you’ll always remember to turn it off or not. It being on in no way will infringe on your enjoyment, and the extra money at the end of the month won’t hurt either.

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