Energy for pools specialist launches 24-hour helpline

Powermaster call centre

Energy saving specialist Powermaster has launched a 24/7 helpline to make life easier for leisure centre managers, pool managers and public sector organisations who are experiencing technical problems in their facilities.

Those calling the 24/7 helpline can benefit from independent advice on how to reach their environmental targets by cutting emissions in pool and spa applications. Powermaster is also offering a free of charge, no-obligation survey which will reveal areas of the facility in which energy can be saved.

There are a number of technologies Powermaster can employ to help save money on overall maintenance and pool energy bills. One of the most popular methods that has been tried and tested in a variety of pools is fitting a Variable Speed Drive (VSD) to the motor that powers the pool pump. VSDs regulate energy use in accordance with what the pool needs to function at any one time or by using a pre-set plan, which might, for instance, turn the motor down at night-time.

As most swimming pool motors are over-specified, they use far more energy than needed. VSDs do not reduce the efficiency of the motor; instead they help it respond to the actual need to move water around the pool.  

Furthermore, the company’s technicians can advise callers on safe and efficient chemicals management. For instance Powermaster’s Integrated Water and Energy Management System (IWEMS) has been proven to save up to 70% of electrical energy. The system also reduces the chemical costs by 30%. A typical application will see 50% savings in power alone on the overall facility, in addition to the resultant carbon emission reductions.

“The 24 hour helpline is a huge step forward for Powermaster and the industry as a whole”, explains Geoff Renshaw, Powermaster director. “It allows us to respond quicker and more effectively to queries from existing and potential customers. Think of it as an emergency service for pools, that aims to help facilities managers and leisure centre staff with their energy saving efforts, as well as with any unexpected problems,” concluded Renshaw.  

Powermaster was responsible for reducing overall UK carbon emissions by 15,136 tons in 2011. This is the result of an electricity consumption reduction of 8,115,000 kWh units, which is the equivalent of £2,389,775 based on an average cost of 8.5 pence per kWh unit.