District Provides Residents with Simple Tips and Tricks to Avoid Water Waste

The Plainview Water District (PWD) is dedicated to ensuring all residents contribute to Preserving Plainview and conserving water this summer. A significant opportunity for water conservation lies in the responsible filling and maintenance of swimming pools. To support this effort, the District is offering a variety of practical tips to help prevent unnecessary water waste from residents’ pools. 

“Practicing the best pool filling techniques is crucial for our community, especially considering how many homes in Plainview-Old Bethpage have swimming pools,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind. “Collectively, these pools use tens of millions of gallons of water. With such a significant volume at risk of excess waste, we are committed to providing tips that will help residents conserve water and prevent unnecessary surplus”

These easy tips cover areas such as optimal pool filling techniques, regular maintenance practices to minimize evaporation and leaks, and advice on using pool covers to reduce water loss. By following these guidelines, residents can enjoy their pools while also helping to safeguard the community’s water resources.

Recommended Tips for Filling Pools:

• Check for any possible holes or leaks in the liner before filling up.
• Don’t leave the pool unattended when it is being filled. Someone should remain present at all times to avoid overfilling and expedite shut off in case of an emergency.
  • NEVER leave a pool filling overnight.
• Pools should be covered when not in use. Hundreds of gallons of water per month can be lost due to evaporation.
• Only add chemicals to the pool when it is full, and only add what you need according to the pool manual. This will avoid improper levels, which would cause you to empty out and refill the pool.
• As an additional precaution, always use a hose connection vacuum breaker to prevent water flow reversal.
• Always be mindful of children. Ensure your pool is properly fenced and has a pool alarm.

“In a time when costs are rising across the board for many goods, especially for pool chemicals like chlorine, following pool filling tips is crucial,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “Not only do these practices conserve water, but they also help residents keep their pool operations and maintenance expenses down, ensuring a more affordable and sustainable summer season.”

Furthermore, residents should be aware that before contracting for an in-ground pool or investing in an above-ground pool, there are several important considerations. These pools require special permits and specific safety installations to comply with local regulations. All pools must be equipped with a recirculation and filtering system to maintain water quality and a double check valve installed at the meter on the incoming water service to prevent contamination. Taking these steps ensures a clean and compliant pool setup, protecting both your family and your investment.

“We urge residents to remain mindful of all that goes into owning and maintaining a pool in your yard,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “It is important to ensure that your pool is adequately filtered. Proper filtration keeps the water clean and can help avoid unnecessary water waste, making your pool clean and efficient for everyone to enjoy.”

For more information about conserving water or the Preserve Plainview initiative, please call the Plainview Water District at (516) 931-6469, or visit the District’s website, www.plainviewwater.org. Residents are also encouraged to sign up to receive information by submitting their email address through the District’s homepage or following them on Facebook in order to stay up-to-date with District activities and initiatives.

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