Queensland rebate good news for pool owners and environment

Queensland rebate good news for pool owners and the environment, says Waterco

A leading Australian manufacturer of swimming pool products has applauded the introduction of the Pool Pump Incentive Program, a rebate which is being offered to Queensland pool owners to install energy efficient pumps or connect to an off peak tariff.

Developed by the Swimming Pool and Spa Association (SPASA) Queensland in conjunction with the state's two electricity providers, Ergon Energy and ENERGEX, the Pool Pump Incentive Program aims to reduce power consumption during peak periods. Pool owners will receive a $250 rebate for either installing an energy efficient pump or connecting to an off peak tariff.

"Queensland should be applauded for encouraging residential pool owners to live more sustainably," says Bryan Goh, group marketing director of Waterco, which produces a range of energy efficient and eco-friendly pool equipment.

A rise in electricity bills, the high cost of living, and a greater awareness of environmental issues has prompted homeowners to invest in energy efficient products.

One of the pool pumps approved under the new rebate is Waterco's new Hydrostorm Eco 3-speed. Unlike conventional pumps which are limited to one set high flow rate speed, the 6 star energy-rated, multi-speed design allows pool owners to set the pump at a lower, energy-saving flow rate for every day filtration.

The new pump is also ultra-quiet – one of the quietest on the market at 60 decibels – enabling it to be operated at night during cost-effective, off peak electricity tariff periods, without upsetting the neighbours.

"It's not an exaggeration to say that the Hydrostorm Eco can save homeowners hundreds of dollars when it comes to their annual electricity bill," Goh says.  "When set to a low flow rate, the pump uses almost 70% less energy than when operating at a standard high flow rate speed.

"Not only that, running a pump at a low flow rate also reduces water flow resistance in pool equipment and plumbing, and even enhances the clarity of the swimming pool water."

To claim the rebate from either Ergon Energy or ENERGEX, pool owners will need to return a reimbursement form (available from either company) accompanied by a tax invoice. Ergon Energy commences its rebate program on 1 September 2011 until at least 31 March 2012, and ENERGEX commences its program in late October 2011 in its Energy Conservation Communities and will continue until at least 30 June 2012.