Most people don’t want their swimming pools to be ‘green,’ because that usually means you have some algae or other nasty organic matter growing and breeding in there. So in this case, go eco-friendly ‘blue’ with your swimming pool in the style of the May issue of Elle magazine.
Backyard pools, an oasis in the heat of summer, are a big culprit in pollution and suck up staggering amounts of water and energy. But don’t despair. There are ways you can ‘blue’ your pool and keep the cabana boy, too.
Consider replacing your harsh chemicals with natural cleaning products. Without any treatment, your pool will quickly become a playground for all manner of algae and contaminants. But chlorine and other chemicals used to purify your pool are toxic, can irritate your skin and eyes, and have even been known to turn blonde hair green. On hot sunny days, chlorine evaporates even more quickly than water into the air, where it eats away at the ozone layer. From your pool, chlorine can also enter waste and groundwater systems.
Most natural purifying systems still require a small amount of chlorination but can drastically reduce the amount used by as much as 90 percent.
Other options include considering switching to a saltwater pool, installing an ionization or ozone generation system, or using natural alternative cleaners and purifiers.
Swimming pools also waste massive amounts of water while each summer thousands of gallons evaporate and have to be refilled. There are 7 million pools in America alone, and each pool can lose anywhere from four to six feet of water a year through evaporation. Using a solar cover and keeping the pool covered whenever it’s not in use can limit the amount that is lost to evaporation. It will also trap heat and keep the temperature of the pool warmer. If you prefer chillier temperatures, consider a reflective cover that will reflect away the sun’s rays and keep the water cool and refreshing.
Always make sure your filtration system is running at full capacity. Use natural products to clear blockages in your filter and keep it running smoothly. Cut down energy waste by keeping your filter on a timer rather than having it run constantly. If you are installing a new filter, choose one that is energy-efficient and uses less water. The same goes for heaters; there are many new models that can drastically reduce energy consumption.
If you are planning on building a pool, be sure to use concrete instead of vinyl liners. Plastic liners can leach CFCs (chloroflurocarbons) into your pool water, and with cement you’ll have fewer leaks and less upkeep.
You could also consider an alternative pool style. Many people are now building "natural" pools that are built with cement but mimic the look of a natural pond right in your backyard. The water is free of toxins and the pool is as close to nature as you can get.
Do your research and find the best method for your own pool. Make a splash this summer by going blue!
Source: BecauseAction.com
