Summer is Right Around the Corner

Summer is almost upon us! As the weather heats up and pool season approaches, homeowners should start thinking about prepping their pools for the family to enjoy. From cleaning the pool to checking whether the pump is working correctly, spring is the perfect time to start diving into pool fun! Here are some things to consider as you start gearing up for splash season.

Start early

Opening a pool can be a big job with potentially some labor involved. That’s why it’s a good idea to start working on your pool in the spring to ensure you have enough time to make any necessary mechanical improvements, which often require some heavy-lifting. 

Get your supplies

It helps to be prepared with everything you need to open your pool, so you don’t skip any important steps. You’ll want to purchase a Spring Opening Kit or the necessary chemicals that kill off the algae and bacteria in the water. You’ll also want to make sure your skimmer head, vacuum head, vacuum hose and pool brush work properly to keep your pool clean and sparkling.

Make your pool more efficient

While you’re checking your equipment to see if it’s running properly, also be aware of how efficient your pool pump is operating. As you may know, getting your pool ready for the season can also cause a potential spike in energy costs - but you can minimize this with a few improvements.

If you are running a single-speed pool pump or one that is more than seven years old, it’s a good idea to replace it with a more efficient pump. Try an ENERGY STAR® certified variable-speed pool pump and enjoy improved circulation, filtration, and quiet operation. Also, run the pump during warmer months vs. cooler months to lower your bill and use less energy overall. 

Rebates for Energy Efficiency

Everybody likes saving money. This pool season, enjoy the benefits of the Duke Energy Smart Saver Program, which can save customers up to $640 this year when you upgrade to an energy efficient variable-speed pump. Once you’ve installed an ENERGY STAR qualified variable-speed pool pump, you can apply for a $300 rebate and start saving up to $340 in energy cost for the first year.. It’s one of the best ways to start getting your house ready for pool season while keeping costs down!

Adjust the pool temperature

When the pool isn’t being used for several days, remember to turn the pool heater temperature gauge down or off. Energy consumption increases 10% to 30% for each temperature degree rise - which can make for an expensive energy bill. Plus, it’s nice to have a refreshing cold pool to hop into once the weather really gets hot.

Clean your winter cover

Once you have stripped your cover off the pool, it’s a good idea to take it and lay it out next to your pool in order to clean it. You can use any kind of liquid soap and a brush to scrub down the whole cover and then hose it off with a garden hose. Let it dry in the sun and then fold it up and store it. You’ll be glad you did when it comes time to bring it out and cover the pool again. You can purchase a plastic container to store your winter cover in to make sure it stays clean and protect it from bugs.

From cleaning your pool to checking the equipment, getting your pool ready early is always a good idea. So, this season, relax, swim, and save all season long through Duke Energy's Smart Saver Rebate program.