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www.oakvillebeaver.com · OAKVILLE BEAVER Friday, April 23, 2010 · 36 Spring Home and Garden Energy efficiency for pools Energy efficiency, Eco-friendly, carbonfootprints , these are all terms we have become accustomed to in our daily lives as we strive to protect our environment and cut our energy costs .In recent years there has been an increasing emphasis on reducing energy usage and making our backyard swimming pools more environmentally friendly. Did you know that your pool pump is one of the largest consumers of energy in an average home? In the past the idea that bigger is better was prevalent and pumps were sold on the basis of Horsepower rather than Flow Rates and Hydraulic performance. It is not uncommon to see oversized pumps on pools creating situations where the pump cannot draw adequate water through the piping resulting in cavitations ( or pump starvation ).This would be like trying to drink an extra thick milkshake through a thin straw significantly reducing pump life and increasing energy consumption. Many factors need to be addressed when selecting a pool pump such as the flow rate, pipe size, filter size , water features , and cost. With most residential pools we want all the water to pass through the filter twice in a 24hr period. We also want to maximize the chemical distribution and skimming action in the pool. With most existing pools we are restricted by the pipe size and must work with what we have. This Fan Cooled. This technology is found in Hybrid cars and is 92% efficient as well as not being affected by moisture and excessive heat thus increasing its longevity. These pumps also benefit from Variable speeds thus slowing you to adjust the flow rates to each specific application. The initial cost is high at approximately $1500-$2000 but operate as low as 4cents/hr . By doing some simple calculations you can see the benefits to an energy efficient pump and remember it is the amount of water a pump can move and not the Horsepower rating that counts. Another area where you can lessen your environmental impact and save money is by changing to a Cartridge Filter. These extremely efficient filters do not require backwashing and remove extremely fine particulate matter. Backwashing removes 10002000 Litres of Heated and Chemically treated water from your pool each week which is not only bad for the environment but is also costly. Total Tech Pools is constantly exploring new ways to be more energy efficient and invests considerable resources in this area. Total Tech Pool is having their annual Sale and BBQ this weekend in their showroom at 1380 Speers Road where you are invited to speak with their highly trained staff. For more information please call 905-825-1389. can sometimes be improved by re-configuring the above ground plumbing and increasing the hydraulic efficiency. The type and size of the filter can also be a factor as well as the number and type of water features. For example, waterfalls or fountains may require higher flow rates. Cost is also a factor as the more energy efficient the pump the greater the initial cost. If you are planning on staying in the home for several years there will be a payback in energy savings with an energy efficient pump but this may not be the case if you are planning on moving soon. There are several pumps available from a Conventional pump, an Energy Efficient pump and an Ultra-Efficient Variable Drive pump. A good brand name Conventional pump is 60% efficient, will cost approximately $325-$400 and will operate at close to 18cents/hr. An Energy Efficient pump uses improved Hydraulics (allowing a drop in Horsepower) a 75% efficient motor, costs approximately $650-$750 and operates at close to 10cents/hr. An Ultra Efficient Variable Drive pump uses a Permanent Magnet motor which is Totally Enclosed and Create a patio oasis on a budget Turn your patio into a summer oasis without breaking the bank with these five simple steps from Hilary Farr, designer and host of W Network's Love It or List It. Lighting ­ You can transform your garden into a romantic or festive summer oasis inexpensively and easily. String up outdoor lights: use your soft white LED outdoor Christmas lights or try eco-conscious solar powered or paper lanterns. For a more exotic look, invest in a few standing torches. If you have a permanent shade structure or patio roof, install a chandelier to create an elegant outdoor extension of your home. Outdoor Rug ­ An easy and inexpensive way to bring the warmth and intimacy of an interior room outdoors is with a patio rug. Choose a vibrant or earthy shade to accent the colour palette of your outdoor space. Look for a sturdy stain-resistant material that can withstand weather damage, mildew and direct sunlight. Revive Patio Furniture ­ Instead of replacing your white plastic patio chairs, make them look new again by using Vim Cream to remove dirt and tough stains. Add a finishing touch with new chair covers or colourful throw pillows. Invest in Greenery ­ To create a secluded getaway feel on your patio, add "green" walls with potted outdoor plants. Use large decorative containers or plant flowers and bushes at the edge of the concrete slab or terrace. By adding stones or a pathway from the garden you create depth and the illusion of more space. Bring the Barbeque Back to Life ­ It's not as hard as you think to get your barbeque ready for grilling season by giving it a good cleaning. Use Vim Cream to easily remove tough grime on the grill and grease tray. Apply oil to cast iron cooking grills to protect the coating and to decrease sticking. www.newscanada.com `No renovation required' bathroom updates to try out today You can give your bathroom a fresh update without blowing the budget on renovations. Consider these four simple tips from Hilary Farr, designer and host of W Network's Love It or List It. Paint or Wallpaper ­ A fresh coat of paint will instantly uplift your bathroom and can be the inspiration for designing around a new colour palette. You can also change the ambiance of the room by wallpapering one wall in bright or ornate wallpaper. Accessorize ­ Buy new bathroom accessories in a classic stainless steel and elegant design. Hide toiletries in pretty bottles and storage containers. Complete the new look with scented candles, large wicker baskets and luxurious looking bath products. The Bathtub ­ Help your tub look like new again with Vim Cream, which contains a powerful formula for removing soap scum, lime scale and bathroom grime. An old toothbrush to scrub faucets and grimy grout will make them sparkle like new. Linens ­ Instantly brighten and refresh the bathroom space with a spring-inspired shower curtain. Add new textures to the room with fluffy hand and bath towels in a neutral palette mixed with a few bright colours. Stack them in large baskets with pretty soaps and lotions. www.newscanada.com Sprucing up your house for Spring? We can help with just the thing! Don't stop with just planting flowers. Install new mirrors and glass showers. The H.S.T. will increase your rate by June three-zero Pay and Install and be a hero! Hurry up before it's too late You'll save 8% 550 Bronte Rd., Oakville 905.827.2951