Swimming pools and spas have become standard features in many facilities, but they can be large energy users. Thankfully there are several measures that can substantially reduce energy consumption.
The Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) has examined facilities with pools and spas and has categorized primary savings into four groups: pool evaporation, pool water heating, dehumidification and ventilation, and pool filtration pumping. Savings can also be achieved through typical building recommendations, including lighting and building envelope improvements.
This fact sheet examines how pools lose heat, how to reduce that heat loss, how to efficiently heat pool water, and what additional ventilation and mechanical issues facility operators may want to examine for energy conservation.
