As summer temperatures begin to rise, Save Our Water and Let’s Pool Together – an initiative from the California Pool and Spa Association (CPSA) and the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) – have partnered to promote water-smart tips for California pool and spa owners.
With much of the state in a severe drought, and circumstances looking grim as we enter our hot, dry season, it is important for pool and spa owners to be mindful of water waste.
“For many Californians, most water waste happens in our yards, making it important that we take steps to conserve in our pools and spas as well, like reducing evaporation, checking for leaks and preventing unnecessary water use and spillage,” said Ryan Bailey, Water Use Efficiency Branch Manager with the California Department of Water Resources.
For those with pools or spas, remember these impactful actions that help conserve water:
- Cover up. A properly maintained spa or pool cover can reduce evaporation by as much as 95%.
- Maintain your pool and pool filtration systems. Use an automatic pool cleaner to maintain pool water and correct any leaks or service problems as they occur. Proper maintenance of pool water reduces the frequency of backwashing. Replace your aging sand or DE filtering system with a cartridge filter that does not require backwashing and saves water.
- If it’s clean, don’t drain. Drain hot tubs and pools only when you have a water quality problem. Water only needs to be changed in a spa 2-3 times a year if you maintain your hot tub properly and it incorporates new water cleaning technology. Pools only need to be drained if it requires repairs.
- Recycle & Re-use Water. Use captured rainwater to replace water lost to evaporation in spas and pools or to refill a hot tub. When you drain your hot tub, let it sit open for 48-72 hours with no new chemicals added, and then use the water on garden plants.
- Shut off waterfalls, fountains, and other water features in pools to reduce water loss and evaporation.
“Many people don’t realize that pools and hot tubs use less water than lawns, particularly in the warm months,” said Sabeena Hickman, President and CEO of PHTA. “A few simple, practical changes help pool and spa owners save water while continuing to enjoy their backyard retreats.”
For more information on how Californians can act today to save water, visit SaveOurWater.com.
