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Do Pool Waterfalls Increase Evaporation?

Published in Pool Water Evaporation 3 mins read

Yes, pool waterfalls significantly increase evaporation from your swimming pool. These appealing water features, along with fountains and slides, contribute to a faster rate of water loss due to how they interact with the pool water.

Understanding Water Evaporation in Pools

Evaporation is a natural process where liquid water turns into water vapor and disperses into the atmosphere. Several factors influence this rate, including air temperature, water temperature, humidity, wind, and the water's surface area.

How Waterfalls Accelerate Evaporation

According to a reference from September 30, 2016, waterfalls are described as "water bandits" not only because they expel water during operation but also because "they can also add to the pace at which water is evaporated because they increase the surface area of the swimming pool water."

Here's a breakdown of why this occurs:

  • Increased Surface Area: When water flows over a waterfall, it breaks into countless droplets, sheets, and turbulent currents. This process dramatically increases the total surface area of the water exposed to the air at any given moment, compared to the still surface of the main pool. More exposed surface area means more opportunities for water molecules to escape into the atmosphere as vapor.
  • Aeration and Air Movement: Waterfalls agitate the water, creating splashes and bubbles. This aeration process brings more water in contact with air and often introduces localized air currents around the feature, both of which accelerate the evaporation rate.
  • Temperature Influence: While not directly stated as a primary cause by the reference, the constant movement and aeration can also slightly affect water temperature distribution, further influencing evaporation.

Impact of Increased Evaporation

The accelerated evaporation caused by waterfalls has several implications for pool owners:

  • Higher Water Consumption: You will need to replenish your pool water more frequently, leading to higher water bills and increased strain on local water resources.
  • Chemical Imbalance: As water evaporates, dissolved chemicals (like chlorine and pH adjusters) do not. This means the concentration of these chemicals will increase, requiring more frequent testing and adjustment to maintain proper water chemistry.
  • Energy Costs: While not a direct cause, if you heat your pool, the constant loss of heated water through evaporation means your heater will work harder and run longer to maintain the desired temperature, leading to higher energy bills.

Managing Water Loss from Pool Waterfalls

While waterfalls are aesthetically pleasing and add to the ambiance of a pool, understanding their impact on water loss is crucial. Here are some practical insights for managing evaporation:

  • Strategic Operation: Operate your waterfall only when the pool is in use or when you are present to enjoy it. Turning off the feature during cooler parts of the day or overnight can significantly reduce water loss.
  • Pool Covers: Utilizing a pool cover, especially during off-hours, is one of the most effective ways to combat evaporation, regardless of whether a waterfall is running. This traps evaporated water, allowing it to condense and return to the pool.
  • Water-Saving Landscape Design: Ensure your pool area's landscaping helps, rather than hinders, water conservation. Planting shrubs or creating windbreaks can reduce wind-driven evaporation.

In conclusion, while pool waterfalls enhance the beauty and enjoyment of your swimming area, they are indeed "water bandits" that increase evaporation primarily by expanding the water's exposed surface area.