When it comes to owning a pool, one of the greatest challenges is managing water evaporation. Not only does it lead to a loss of water, but it also increases the need for chemical treatments and energy consumption. In this blog post, we will explore some practical and effective ways to reduce pool water evaporation, helping you save both water and money.
In this blog post, we will explore some practical and effective ways to reduce pool water evaporation, helping you save both water and money.
What's the deal with the evaporation of pool water?
The process of evaporation is a natural process in which water turns from a liquid to a gas. There are several factors that can accelerate the process of evaporation in a swimming pool:
Temperature difference between air and water
Evaporation is greater when the temperature of the water is higher than the temperature of the air. A swimming pool is similar to a glass of water left on a table; as it warms, the water turns into steam, which then evaporates.
Humidity in the air
When the humidity level is high, the air is already saturated with moisture, making it difficult for the pool water to evaporate. However, when the humidity level is low, the air has the capacity to absorb more moisture, leading to increased pool water evaporation.
The wind
Wind can accelerate evaporation rates, causing water to escape from your pool faster. In addition to increasing the surface area exposed to the air, wind also creates turbulence on the water’s surface, which disrupts the formation of a protective layer that reduces evaporation. Furthermore, the movement of air molecules caused by wind increases the rate at which water molecules transition from the liquid to the gaseous state, further accelerating evaporation.
Do you think it's a leak?
The evaporation of water from a swimming pool is a natural process. Nonetheless, if there is a significant decline in water level, over 0.4 inches (ca. 1 cm) per day, that cannot be attributed to evaporation or splashing while swimming, your pool may have a leak.
Leaks may be caused by various factors, such as damage to the pool structure, plumbing system issues, or worn seals. If you suspect a leak, you should take a bucket and something to weigh it down (a non-porous material). Fill it with water and place it on the first or second step of your pool. With a permanent pen, mark the levels on the bucket: inside for the bucket and outside for the pool.
Observe the drop in levels after 24/48 hours: they should be similar in both cases. Otherwise, you will be aware of a leak. It is therefore recommended that you contact a professional to inspect and repair your pool. Water leaks can not only cause water loss, but they can also damage your pool and property structurally.
Morana's advice 👇
Cover it up!
One of the simplest and most effective ways to combat pool water evaporation is by using a pool cover. Whether it’s a traditional vinyl cover, a solar cover, or an automatic cover, these protective barriers significantly reduce evaporation by blocking direct contact between the water surface and the surrounding air.
Mindful Landscaping
Strategic landscaping around your pool area can make a notable difference in reducing water evaporation. Consider planting tall, dense shrubs or trees that can act as a windbreak, minimizing the amount of wind reaching the pool surface. This reduces evaporation and adds beauty and privacy to your pool oasis.
Now’s the time to build your dream pool!
Find out how much water a pool loses each day
The calculation of evaporation from your pool can assist you in understanding the extent of the water loss and in taking steps to minimize it. Here’s a simple way to estimate evaporation:
1️⃣ Fill your pool to its normal level first.
2️⃣Mark the water level on the wall, or measure the distance between the water surface and the bottom edge of the coping.
3️⃣ Make sure you don’t use the pool for a certain number of hours, like all night. Don’t add water during this time.
4️⃣Measure the water level again after this period and note the difference.
5️⃣Difference in water level represents evaporation (and possible leaks).
6️⃣If it’s over 0.4 inches (ca. 1 cm), a bucket test should be conducted to confirm leaks.
In the event of rain or use of the pool during the test, the test will have to be repeated. Furthermore, evaporation is affected by climate, water temperature, wind exposure, and humidity.
Evaporation of pool water, what's the problem?
There are several consequences associated with the evaporation of pool water. As a result of evaporation, water consumption increases, which may result in an increase in water bills. Additionally, if your pool water is heated, evaporation may also increase your heating costs since the evaporating water must be replaced and reheated continuously.
Environmentally speaking, evaporation contributes to excessive water consumption, which can be detrimental, especially in regions with limited water supplies.
The best ways to reduce pool water evaporation
Due to all the reasons mentioned above, it is important to minimize the amount of water that evaporates from your swimming pool. Various options are available.
Keep your pool covered
The use of a pool cover is one of the most effective methods for reducing pool water evaporation. By acting as a barrier between the pool water and the air, the cover effectively reduces evaporation. A pool cover can also reduce the cost of heating water by maintaining the water’s temperature.
Various types of covers are available, from solar covers that use the sun’s energy to heat the water to more robust security covers that can also prevent access to the pool.
Among the most common types of swimming pool covers, we find:
- Solar covers : Also known as solar blankets, they are designed to harness the sun’s energy to heat the pool. These covers are made of a special material that traps heat and prevents evaporation. Not only do they extend the swimming season, but they also reduce energy consumption by minimizing the need for auxiliary heating systems.
- Safety Covers : Specifically designed to prevent accidental drownings, particularly for households with children or pets, they also help to prevent evaporation. Crossbars hold them in place, ensuring that they are strong enough to prevent access to the pool.
- Automatic covers : They are designed to effortlessly cover and uncover the pool with just the push of a button. They operate using a motor-driven mechanism that rolls and unrolls the cover over the pool’s surface. They enhance safety by acting as a barrier over the pool’s surface.
- Winter covers : Winter covers are heavy-duty, weather-resistant covers that shield your pool from harsh winter conditions. They prevent the accumulation of snow, ice, and debris, ensuring that your pool remains intact and ready for the next swimming season.
Enclose your pool
It is also possible to minimize evaporation by constructing a pool enclosure. Besides providing protection from the elements, a pool enclosure creates a closed environment that limits evaporation. By maintaining a higher water temperature, swimming pool enclosures can extend the swimming season.
Optimize Water Temperature
Maintaining your pool at a slightly lower temperature can help in reducing evaporation. Warmer water tends to evaporate more quickly, so by adjusting the temperature settings to a comfortable yet conservative level, you can significantly decrease water loss due to evaporation.
Keep wind exposure to a minimum
As previously discussed, wind can accelerate the evaporation of pool water. If you live in a particularly windy area, it may be appropriate to put up wind barriers around your pool. Trees or hedges may be planted, as well as fencing or screens that provide protection from the elements.
conclusion
Minimizing pool water evaporation is both an economical and environmental concern. Understanding the factors that contribute to evaporation and implementing the solutions above can help you keep more water in your pool while saving money and conserving a precious resource.
