6 Tips to Reduce Pool Water Evaporation

Evaporation can account for the loss of an average of one-quarter inch of pool water per day, which, depending on the size of your pool, can add up to thousands – or tens of thousands – of gallons of water lost each year. Since we are generally in some state of drought here and are currently in a severe drought, everything we can do to save water is a step in the right direction. 

If you have a swimming pool and would like to save money and conserve water by reducing evaporation, here are six tips to try.

Get a pool cover. 
This one is too obvious to not be first on this list. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), using a pool cover prevents up to 95 percent of evaporation. There is a variety of choices available, including manual and automatic options. Using a cover also keeps your pool cleaner, keeps the water warmer, and, depending on the type of cover you install, a cover can also make your pool safer. 

Try a liquid pool cover. 
Liquid pool covers (aka liquid solar covers, liquid solar blankets) create an invisible barrier on top of the water the reduces evaporation, heat loss, and chemical loss. 

Turn off water features when not in use. 
Waterfalls and fountains are beautiful and relaxing, but they also make the water in your pool evaporate faster. So, when you are not using them as a focal point during a dinner party or to enjoy the look and sound of moving water while lounging by the pool, turn them off. 

Lower the temperature on your pool heater. 
The warmer the water is, the faster it will evaporate. That makes simply lowering your pool temperature by a few degrees an easy way to reduce pool water evaporation this summer. You will also benefit from using less electricity to heat your pool. 

Add shade and windbreaks around your pool. 
Since heat and wind are two of the main causes of evaporation, reducing these elements around your pool can help you save water. Consider privacy fencing, trees and shrubs, or a shade structure to protect your pool from the elements. 

Maintain pool chemicals. 
Test the chemical balance of your pool regularly to ensure that you are maintaining proper pH and alkalinity. When chemical imbalances occur, the water is less stable, which increases evaporation. 

Using a local pool maintenance service is the best way to ensure that your chemicals are regularly tested and balanced. If you need a professional to help with any of these other tips, such as installing a fence or planting trees, make sure to use local contractors and vendors to support the local economy. 

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AimeeJo Davis-Varela is a freelance writer specializing in real estate, sustainable home improvement, eco-friendly landscaping, and green living. She is also the owner of Mind Your Manors, which provides second home management services.