Water-Neutral Pools – Although the dams are fuller and restrictions are slowly lifting, the Western Cape has developed a conscious for water conservation. Water is the most precious resource in our world and having a water wise attitude should be universal. For residents of the Western Cape, the looming possibility of taps running dry meant that many people changed their lifestyle for the better, implementing good practises that can carry on even when dams are filled. One such practice is water neutral pools. Water neutral pools don’t just save water, but they save money as well. Keep on reading for more insight into how water neutral pools work and how you can achieve one at your own home.
What are Water-Neutral Pools?
Water neutral pools aim to minimise the amount of water used to maintain a swimming pool. They use both water saving and water harvesting devices. Water neutral pools are cost efficient, cutting maintenance costs thanks to lower chemical use and less energy use to keep the pool going. Other benefits of a water neutral pool include a water collection at the site. Recycling water has proved to be extremely impactful in the Western Cape’s recent drought. With a water neutral pool set up, you can divert stored water towards laundry, cleaning, toilets and garden use. The presence of a water neutral pool displays the homeowner’s owner’s sense of responsibility towards conserving water. This, in turn, can add value to a home as buyers are more attracted to a home that already has a system in place for water saving.
What is required?
Setting up a water neutral pool requires a few key features. The most basic water neutral pool will have the following features:
- A pool cover
- A water tank
- A backwash minimisation system
These essential systems all play a huge role in the water neutralisation of your swimming pool. A pool cover helps to prevent high levels of evaporation, conserving around 90% of water usually lost this way. The water tank helps to collect rainfall which can then be used to fill the pool when necessary. The last feature, the backwash minimisation system, helps to prevent an excess of backwashing. In addition to these minimum things, there are a number of other possible actions to maintain a water neutral pool. These include installation of wind covers or shade sails to prevent evaporation, being cautious not to over-fill a pool, keeping an eye on pipes and drains for leaks and having adequate decking to minimise splash-out.
A water neutral fibreglass swimming pool does require investment in the necessary equipment but the benefits over time are irrefutable. Thousands of litres can be saved and you may never need to use main water to fill your pool again.
For more information, you can contact us at info@poolsforafrica.co.za