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Pool Water Conservation
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Victoria’s continuing drought has placed severe restrictions on swimming pool owners, particularly those who have recently installed a pool. Stage 3 water restrictions in many parts of the state prohibit the filling of new pools with mains water.
In accord with these restrictions the swimming pool industry has taken positive steps to obtain access to groundwater. This water is from a safe, naturally renewable source and can be transported to fill new swimming pools and top-up water tanks. The groundwater is not suitable for drinking, but it meets all industry standards for use in a swimming pool.
Unfortunately, these measures will add slightly to the overall cost of a pool. Transport is the major factor, with water itself being relatively low in cost. An average size pool will cost between $1000 and $3000 to fill, depending on the amount of water needed and the distance the water is to travel. Smaller swim spas and water tanks can be filled for around $650.
Aloha Pools believe that using ground water really is the best solution for those considering a pool. It ensures that backyard swimming pools remain part of our iconic Australian lifestyle, without placing any further burden on dwindling water supplies.
For more advice on saving water around the home, or for further information on current water restrictions please contact your local water retailer:
 South East Water
Yarra Valley Water
City West Water
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Introducing the Water Neutral Pool
A Water Neutral Pool is one that creates a new standard for swimming pools in Melbourne, utilising both water saving and water harvesting devices to ensure that it is ‘water-wise’. Analysis shows that a Water Neutral Pool can save thousands of litres of water each year by minimising mains water use.
A Water Neutral Pool can be achieved in three easy steps:
1. A water tank - to collect rain for topping-up the pool as needed.
2. A pool cover – to conserve water lost through evaporation.
3. A backwash minimisation system – to prevent excessive backwashing (e.g. cartridge filter, oversized sand filter, centrifugal / pre-filter device, backwash recycle system etc).
The Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Victoria (SPASA) is committed to promoting good water management practices via the Water Neutral Pool program. Please visit the SPASA website for more information on the advantages of a Water Neutral Pool.
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| TOP TIPS TO MINIMISE YOUR POOL WATER CONSUMPTION |
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Install a pool dedicated top-up water tank connected to your guttering to harvest rainwater.
Rainwater harvesting involves the collection, storage and distribution of rainwater from the roof. This rainwater can be used inside and outside the home to reduce dependence on mains water supplies. |
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Regular manual cleaning of the pool, skimmer box and other collection points will reduce the load on the filter which will reduce the need to backwash (flush dirt out). |
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If you have a cartridge filter, clean it with a chemical cartridge cleaner instead of using the hose. |
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Have all your pool equipment and plumbing checked for leaks. In just one year a steady dribble can waste the entire volume of water in an average pool. |
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Discourage rough play. Bombing and splashing water onto the pool deck increases evaporation and wastes water. |
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When not in use, a pool cover is the best way to reduce water loss through evaporation. Thin ‘evaporation’ covers are available – as are bubble, thermal and slat covers. |
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