LED pool lights reduce lighting energy from 500 watts to 70 watts and provide the same light output.
Since you cut the fl ow in half you now
have to run the pump twice as long to get the same fi ltration, but the net result is you are using ¼ of the energy compared to an outdated pool pump. This is due to the affi nity law, which mathematically explains that power usage goes up at a nonlinear rate as you increase pump speed and fl ow. If you run your pump at a slower
speed for longer periods of time it is more effi cient and less costly to operate. Since variable speed pumps are higher quality motors, they last longer. Manufacturers estimate a 15-year life based on advanced aging tests from the manufacturers.
Rebates and Other Advantages Utility companies have fi gured out that high-effi ciency pool pumps make sense because not only do they reduce energy use, but they also provide signifi cant reductions in peak demand since pool pumps run during the hottest hours of the day in summer. Jeff Farlow from Pentair, a pool pump manufacturer, points out that more than 20 utilities off er rebates from up to $400. Variable pool pumps are quiet com- pared to standard pumps, they put less stress on the pool’s plumbing systems, and they off er better fi ltration. These pumps can also be confi gured to eliminate the booster pump for the pool sweep, which could save an additional 1,000 kWh per year. GB
www.greenbuildermag.com
Hayward’s EcoStar family of pumps offers a variable speed, totally enclosed fan-cooled motor and industry-leading hydraulic design. According to the manufacturer, it can save up to 90% on energy costs compared to a single-speed pump. The EcoStar SVRS offers an itegrated safety vacuum release system that helps prevent suction entrapment without additional devices, plumbing, or wiring.
IntelliFlo Variable Speed pumps combine variable drive technology, onboard digital intelligence, and permanent magnet motors (used in hybrid cars) to reduce pump-related energy costs by up to 90%.
Steve Easley is owner of Steve Easley & Associates, a nationally recognized building science consultant that specializes in green and best practice building. Contact him at
steve@steveeasley.com
October 2010 GreenBuilder 41
Photo courtesy Pentair
Top photo courtesy Hayward
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