Have you been thinking of late that your property is missing something? A final finishing touch is often what many homes need to make them feel complete. How about a swimming pool? Imagine the freedom of being able to cool off whenever you want during the summer, and all the pool parties you could host for your family and friends. Or how about a spa? This is the perfect way to relax at the end of a long week at work, plus keeps you warm during the winter.
We’re sure that, by now, you have a vision of exactly how you want the new addition to look. Your builder has even gone as far as to draw up plans detailing exactly how the shell is going to take shape. But have you spoken with your electrician yet? That’s right – electricians play an important role in the installation of a pool or spa in your backyard. Everyone knows that water and electricity don’t mix, so don’t risk it.
Do I really need an electrician?
It might sound a little counterintuitive and whilst it’s true that you may not need an electrician to look over the pool itself, have you given any thought to the electrical systems, appliances and equipment that are needed? Pools and spas actually utilise a handful of electrical systems, including: pumps, chlorinators, filters and heaters. All of these things are best installed and maintained by a professional electrician rather than a pool builder.
Pool Installation
The dangers of working with electricity are well known and tend to be drilled into us from a young age. This is why it’s generally a good idea to bring an electrician on board for any work that involves power. If your planned pool includes a heater, filter, pump or even mood lighting, you will need to contact a sparkie. Bringing one on board early can help to avoid nasty surprises further down the line, which can be dangerous and costly.
Spa Installation
Whilst you can probably get away with not consulting an electrician for a basic swimming pool that lacks electrical systems, it’s unavoidable when installing a spa. This is because they do require electricity to run. A sparkie can provide advice on the wiring and circuits that will power your spa, as well as take care of the installation and sign-off of the works. It’s recommended that you reach out during the second stage of your installation.
Can this really save you money?
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that consulting an electrician during pool and spa installation can actually save them money.
If your whole pool was a single “appliance”, it would prove to be the most expensive one on your property – in fact, they often account for 2000 to 3000kW of electricity each year! The pump alone can account for 16% of your energy bill. You could be shelling out $1000 a year just on running your pool. Whilst spas are less energy-intensive, their pumps and heaters can also be energy hogs (depending on their size and usage).
Fortunately, electricians can be a valuable resource when it comes to bringing down the running costs of your swimming pool or spa. This is why it is important that you speak to one during the planning stages, as they can steer you in the right direction and ensure you’ve made the most energy efficient choices. So, if you’re planning to add a pool or spa to your backyard, make sure that you let an expert handle the electrical aspect of it.
smillieelectrical
Smillie Electrical Services is a team of local electricians that services Melbourne’s south eastern suburbs.