Water-Neutral Pools: A Smart Choice for Conservation and Savings
While water restrictions may be easing and dam levels improving, the importance of water conservation remains a priority—especially in the Western Cape, where the threat of running out of water changed lifestyles for the better. By adopting water-wise practices, we can all contribute to preserving this precious resource for future generations. One such practice is creating a water-neutral pool, which not only conserves water but also saves money in the long run.
What Are Water-Neutral Pools?
Water-neutral pools are designed to minimize water usage and rely on innovative water-saving and harvesting technologies. These pools are cost-efficient, reducing maintenance expenses with lower chemical and energy needs while simultaneously conserving water.
Benefits of Water-Neutral Pools:
Water Savings: Collect and recycle water for pool use and other household needs like laundry, cleaning, and gardening.
Cost Efficiency: Reduce the need for expensive chemicals and energy.
Increased Home Value: A water-neutral pool highlights a homeowner’s commitment to sustainability, making the property more attractive to potential buyers.
In regions like the Western Cape, where droughts have demonstrated the importance of water conservation, a water-neutral pool is both a practical and responsible choice.
What’s Needed for a Water-Neutral Pool?
To achieve a water-neutral pool, certain key features are essential:
- A Pool Cover: Prevents up to 90% of evaporation, significantly conserving water.
- A Water Tank: Captures and stores rainwater, which can then be used to refill the pool as needed.
- A Backwash Minimisation System: Reduces water wastage during the backwashing process, ensuring minimal loss.
Additional Water-Saving Measures
- Beyond the basics, there are other steps you can take to enhance your pool’s water neutrality:
- Install Wind Covers or Shade Sails: These reduce evaporation by blocking wind and direct sunlight.
- Monitor Pool Levels: Avoid overfilling the pool to reduce water loss.
- Check Pipes and Drains for Leaks: Fixing leaks promptly prevents unnecessary water loss.
- Use Adequate Decking: This minimizes splash-out, keeping more water in your pool.
Why Choose a Fibreglass Pool for Water Neutrality?
Fibreglass pools are ideal for water-neutral systems due to their low maintenance and durability. When paired with the right water-saving features, they can help save thousands of litres of water annually. Over time, these savings can offset the initial investment in the necessary equipment, and you may never need to rely on municipal water to refill your pool again.
Start Saving Water Today
Investing in a water-neutral pool is not just an environmentally conscious decision—it’s a financially smart one. By reducing your water usage and utility costs, you’ll enjoy the benefits of your pool without worrying about its impact on precious resources.
For more information about how to set up a water-neutral pool, contact us at info@poolsforafrica.co.za.
Pools for Africa – Leading the Way in Sustainable Swimming Solutions.