Pool owners can save water with regular maintenance, covers

On a hot Las Vegas summer day, there's nothing as refreshing or relaxing as a cool dip in the pool. But can a pool be water efficient?

"Swimming pools can be an appropriate, functional use of water if they're managed properly," said Doug Bennett, conservation manager for the Southern Nevada Water Authority. "By following a number of simple water-smart pool maintenance tips, pool owners can help conserve water while enjoying their pool."

Some pool-maintenance guidelines to ensure a healthy pool include:

* Properly maintain filters: Wash cartridge filters when your pump operating pressure increases by 10 psi. It's safe to wash cartridges on landscaped areas since chlorinated pool water is diluted with clean water.

* Check water quality: Test pool and spa water frequently and maintain appropriate chemical balances.

* Swim: The biggest waste of water is a rarely used pool. Make the most of your pool by relaxing in the cool water.

* Cover your pool: Covering your pool when not in use can save the average pool owner 14,000 gallons of water each year. In addition to saving water, pool covers limit the amount of wind-blown debris in your pool and can help prevent heat loss.

The SNWA is helping pool owners save water and money by offering money-saving coupons good toward the purchase of a new pool cover. At www.snwa.com you'll find coupons offering a discount of 50 percent (up to $50) off the purchase price of a solar-type cover or 50 percent (up to $200) off the purchase price of a permanent, mechanical cover.

Occasionally, it may be necessary to drain all or some of the water from your pool to restore water quality or make repairs. Before draining the water, be sure to have a chemical analysis from a pool professional to help determine how many gallons of water really need replacing. And remember, it is against the law to drain any pool water into streets, storm drains or a neighboring property.

Here's how to drain your pool or spa the water-smart way:

* Shut off the power to the filtration pump at the circuit breaker and turn off the automatic water fill valve.

* Locate your sewer clean-out port to access the sanitary sewer line. See snwa.com for pictures of various ports.

* Run a drainage hose from the sewer clean-out port to the pool and connect it to a submersible pump.

* Lower the pump into the deepest part of your pool and begin draining.

* Monitor flow into the clean-out port to ensure water doesn't back up.

* After draining your pool, refill it promptly to prevent structural damage. Maintain and monitor the pool's chemical balance.

If your home is on a septic tank, do not drain the pool into the septic system. You must call your water provider, the Clark County Health District and your city or county code enforcement department to discuss your options.