Time to Read: 4 minutes
Date: March 9, 2023
It’s no surprise that solar power goes so well with things like pool systems. When it comes to running pool systems on solar energy, your pool can keep running no matter what happens with your power. Even if there is another arctic storm or heat wave, you can keep the pool pump running. This is important for several reasons.
Why are Pool Pumps so Important?
Pool pumps keep the water in your pool circulating. Several reasons that this is important are:
- The pump evenly distributes all of the chemicals your pool needs to stay clean and safe to use. Your pool needs different chemicals to stay sanitary so that you can enjoy it without having to worry about dirty or stagnant water.
- It can keep your pool water from freezing during an arctic storm or cold snap. Moving water takes lower temperatures to freeze. Whenever another winter storm rolls through Texas, having a pool pump can keep the water in your pool from freezing. If your pool water freezes, then the damage done to the pool’s system (like burst pipes) can be very expensive to fix.
How Does a Solar Power System Work With my Pool?
A solar power system can keep your pool’s equipment and systems running even if there is a power outage.
For winter: If another winter storm or happens, you can still power your pumps to keep the water moving. You can even enjoy a swim during a power outage (as long as the weather permits of course). This helps you avoid dealing with burst pipes during a freeze.
For summer: When heatwaves occur, you can avoid stagnant water. When power outages aren’t happening, you can power your pool systems with your solar powered system in the same way you do with your home.
What is a Pool Heat Pump and can it Help During a Freeze?
A pool heat pump uses small amounts of power to move heat from one place to another to heat your water. The pump does this by drawing circulating water and passing it through heat pump heater. Many Texans use heat pumps to enjoy warmer pool water when it gets cooler outside. Unfortunately, many don’t help during a freeze or arctic storm. This is because most pool heat pumps shut off after the temperature drops below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
It comes down to the model that you install. Some pool heat pumps can operate at temperatures as low as the 20’s. At that point, however, it’s more important to keep the water circulating. This is especially true during a power outage caused by freezing weather. Your priority for your pool during a freeze or arctic storm is to avoid damage. This means that you need to keep the water from freezing by keeping it moving.
What are my Options for Keeping my Pool Pumps Running During a Texas Power Outage?
While Texas power outages can be a problem for pools, there are a few things you can do.
- Install solar panels. Solar panels can keep your pool systems running during a Texas power outage. Remember though, solar panels are great for power during the day. They can’t power your home after dark without backup batteries.
- Get backup batteries. Pairing your solar panels with backup batteries lets you power your pool system after dark. This is a great way to avoid burst pipes during Texas power outages caused by freezes.
- Install a home standby generator. Few things are as reliable as a home standby generator. You can power everything you need with a properly sized generator. Learn more about them in our article on them here!
Ready to Start Swimming in Savings and Renewable Energy?
When you make the switch to a solar power system, you gain more than just energy independence. You join a community that has stable, long-term sustainability. What’s more, it also helps keep the Texas power grid stable! What are you waiting for? Jump on in! The water (and solar) is great!
We have made it our mission to be a source of truth in renewable energy. Our team believes that accurate solar and backup power education is the foundation for making the best decision when choosing a system that fits your needs.
If you are considering installing a backup generator or switching to solar for your home or business, reach out to us by going to our website, iestxsolar.com, or by giving us a call at (855) 447-6527.
