As many of you know, Todd and I specialize in selling homes with pools. We LOVE our pool, and appreciate a home with one. Here is an interesting article that I ran across that we wanted to share. This is from At Home in Edmond magazine Spring 2010 by Justin Neely. (with commentary by Heidi in between on our personal experience)
In Oklahoma, the combination of heat and humidity during the summer is enough to make you want stay inside and wait it out. What better way to cool off than with your own private oasis by adding a pool in your backyard?
While the construction of a pool can be a costly investment, the enjoyment you and your family will receive can be well worth it. Pools can also add value and be a selling poing when it comes time to sell. For current pool owners who are afraid to use it due to high operating costs, energy efficient pumps, filters and lighting provide huge savings!
If you're looking to add a pool, the first decision is whether to use vinyl or concrete. (we chose vinyl) On average, a concrete pool costs $40,000 to build and may take four to six weeks for completion depending on weather. (when talking to people that put these in, plan longer) Concrete allows for a more versatile design and features such as waterfalls that can be easily added. Vinyl pools cost an average of $30,000 and take around three to five weeks to construct. (again we found it to be longer) Some people choose vinyl over concrete not only because it is less expensive but because they prefer the feel and believe the liners to hold up better to chemically treated water. (we chose a salt water pool, and did rock edging versus coping.
A main concern for pool owners is the cost of heating and operating. Today companies such as Pentair offer heat pumps over traditional gas-fired heaters. Heat pumps utilize the heat of the outside air to warm the pool. Geothermal technology is a similiar idea in which the heat from the earth is transferred to warm homes.(we chose the traditional gas fired, it is expensive and i feel unneccessary in this area unless you need it for a hot tub. We barely use ours.)
"Heat pumps can save up to 80 percent in energy costs compared to gas heaters. The pump uses electricity over gas keeping the cost down. They also use a R-410A refrigerant which is enviromentally friendly," said Greg McDougall of Pleasant Pools.
If you're looking to add a little mood lighting at night, color changing LED technology is energy efficient and long lasting. Colored LED pool lights use 75 percent less wattage than tradtional incandescent and halogen lights. (we have two lights and love them!!!) The white light uses 86 percent less energy.
For some, a high water bill might be another concern during the hot, dry summer. Cartridge filters allow the use of smaller pumps or lower speeds to minimize energy. As opposed to backwashing, cartridge filters can be rinsed thus reducing water use by hundreds, if not thousands, of gallons each year. (we did not know of this option and back wash, wish we had known)
Lastly, choosing the right pump such as those with a permanent magnet motor, could cut energy use up to 90 percent, saving you anywhere from $600 to $1300. "Permanent magnet motors are used in hybrid cars. Magnet motors are more energy efficient and owners can save up to 30 percent over a traditional pump, says McDougall.
Choosing the right equipment to operate your pool could save you thousands of dollars. Dont let operating costs be the reason for not building a pool or usings your existing one.
We have a number of beautiful homes for sale with pools. Call or email us or visit www.RoseTeamHomes.com
