Pool Saver Billing Credit is a public benefit incentive program that offers residential swimming pool owners a $5 credit on their monthly electric bill for setting their pool pump's automatic timer to operate during off-peak hours.

Any residential electric customer served by Riverside Public Utilities who has a permanent swimming pool and the appropriate pump, motor, filter and timer equipment is eligible to participate in Pool Saver.

Commercial and public swimming pools are not eligible due to health regulations that require them to run pump motors when pools are in use, including on-peak hours. Other programs to help reduce electric costs for commercial pool owners may be discussed with RPU staff.

• Applicant must be a Riverside Public Utilities residential electric customer. Only one Pool Saver credit per eligible household.
• Swimming pool must be a permanent fixture with a permanently installed pump, motor, filter and automatic timer to control the operation of the pump. The pump's motor must be rated at a minimum of three-quarters horsepower. 
• Note: Above ground, empty pools and stand-alone spas are not eligible for Pool Saver.
• Reset your pool's automatic timers so that the pumps do not operate between noon and 10 p.m. when the demand for electric power peaks.

As a Pool Saver program participant, you agree that Riverside Public Utilities has the right to inspect your pool's automatic timers for the proper settings any weekday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

• Customers must fulfill all program guidelines, program specific and general RPU program guidelines, to be eligible for incentives.
• Incentive is available for the purchase of one qualified pool pump per electric account every two years.
• Pool pump must be installed and in operation within 30 days of purchase on an in-ground swimming pool or in-ground spa at the customer's service address.
• All pumps are subject to RPU's approval. Customers must submit proof of energy efficiency from the manufacturer.
• Pumps that were purchased for resale, used pumps, leased or rented pumps, pumps won as prizes or given as gifts, will not qualify for rebate.
• All General Program Guidelines apply.

Following these conservation tips could reduce your pool's energy consumption by as much as 40 percent and save you money on your utility bill.

• Check the length of time your pool pump is operated so it isn't operating longer than necessary or recommended.
• Clean your pool pump as recommended by the manufacturer. Debris can clog the pump and draw more energy.
• Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the frequency of backwashing. Excessive backwashing wastes energy.
• If your cleaner runs off a separate motor, try to limit operating time to two hours per day and supplement cleaner operations by using a leaf skimmer and wall brush.
• Install a pool cover to help prevent evaporation, decrease cleaning time, and reduce heat loss.
• Inspect and clean the heat exchanger on your pool heater regularly. An encrusted heat exchanger reduces the heater's efficiency.
• Reduce pool and patio lighting, leaving only sufficient lighting for safety needs.