St. Petersburg’s sunny climate makes it a perfect place for pool owners—but with that sunshine comes responsibility. As more homeowners in St. Pete look for ways to reduce their environmental footprint, eco-friendly pool care has become not just a trend, but a smart and sustainable way to maintain a healthy backyard oasis.
At Legion Pools, we believe you can enjoy a crystal-clear pool without compromising the health of our environment. Here are some effective, green-friendly pool care practices designed with St. Pete’s coastal lifestyle in mind.
1. Switch to a Variable-Speed Pump
Traditional single-speed pumps consume a lot of electricity—sometimes more than your refrigerator and washing machine combined. Variable-speed pumps:
- Use up to 80% less energy
- Run more quietly and efficiently
- Qualify for utility rebates in some Florida counties
⚡ Energy savings are especially important in warm climates like St. Pete, where pools run nearly year-round.
2. Use Saltwater or Mineral Systems
Chlorine is effective, but overuse can lead to harsh chemical buildup that’s bad for both swimmers and the environment. Consider switching to:
- Saltwater systems: They generate chlorine naturally and use fewer harsh chemicals.
- Mineral sanitizers: These reduce the amount of chlorine needed by up to 50%, using silver and copper ions to keep your pool clean.
Both systems are gentler on the skin, eyes, and the ecosystem.
3. Install a Solar Pool Heater or Cover
St. Pete averages 361 days of sunshine per year—why not use it to your advantage?
- Solar pool heaters use free energy from the sun to extend your swimming season.
- Solar covers trap heat, reduce evaporation by up to 95%, and keep debris out.
🌱 Reducing water evaporation saves thousands of gallons of water annually.
4. Conserve Water With Backwash Alternatives
Backwashing your filter too often wastes water. To minimize waste:
- Only backwash when pressure gauges indicate it’s needed
- Upgrade to cartridge filters, which require less water to clean
- Install backwash recovery systems that recycle the water for reuse
5. Choose Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
Many standard pool chemicals contain phosphates and surfactants that can harm local waterways if mishandled. At Legion Pools, we use:
- Biodegradable pool cleaners
- Low-phosphate, low-chlorine options
- Non-toxic surface treatments
These products are safe for your family and better for Tampa Bay’s delicate coastal ecosystem.
6. Automate for Efficiency
Smart pool controllers and automation systems reduce waste by:
- Optimizing pump and heater runtimes
- Monitoring chemical levels in real-time
- Reducing unnecessary energy and water usage
With remote control from your smartphone, you can maintain your pool more precisely and sustainably.
Why Eco-Friendly Pool Care Matters in St. Pete
St. Petersburg is known for its beautiful beaches and bay waters. By maintaining your pool responsibly, you help reduce runoff, protect marine life, and contribute to a cleaner environment—all while saving money in the long run.
Partner with Legion Pools for Greener Pool Solutions
At Legion Pools, we’re committed to providing eco-conscious homeowners with sustainable pool care options. Whether you want to upgrade your equipment, reduce your chemical use, or simply save water, our team will help you customize a plan that works for your pool and the planet.
👉 Contact us today to learn more about eco-friendly pool upgrades and maintenance in St. Pete.