Pool Rewards Program FAQ
+ What is peak demand?
Peak demand on the electricity network is created when large numbers of households use high energy appliances such as pool pumps and hot water systems at the same time as using other everyday appliances. Peak demand occurs between 4pm and 8pm everyday, but is particularly intensive when we experience extreme temperatures (generally a handful of days per year).
+ How does the program help address peak demand?
Pool pumps are one of the most energy-hungry appliances in a home and are a key contributor to peak demand. By installing a minimum 5-Star energy efficient pool pump or switching to off-peak, you’ll be helping to address peak demand.
+ How long will the offer be available?
We’ll honour the installation of a minimum 5-Star energy efficient pool pump, or off-peak pool pump connection made between 1 September 2011 and 31 July 2012.
+ How much will I save by selecting one of the program offers?
The average pool pump accounts for more than 20 per cent of a household’s electricity use, costing more than $550 each year to run.
Minimum 5-star energy efficient pool pumps are up to 80 per cent more efficient than a standard pump, saving the average pool owner around $300 each year.
Similarly, switching a pool pump to an off-peak is up to 40 per cent cheaper, saving approximately $220 each year.
In addition to the year-on-year savings, we’ll give you a $250 EFTPOS gift card. Plus, if you connect your hot water system to off-peak at the same time, you’ll get another $100 EFTPOS gift card.
+ How do I know if my pool pump is eligible?
A list of eligible pool pumps can be downloaded on the pool rewards page. Alternatively, you can complete our Pool Rewards Program Enquiry Form.
+ Can ENERGEX recommend an electrician/installer?
No. You will need to select your own electrician/installer. However, make sure to ask if they can do the relevant type of work for your selected offer(s).
+ Is a smart meter installed as part of the program?
No. the Pool Rewards program doesn’t install smart meters as part of the program.
+ How do minimum 5-Star energy efficient pool pumps work?
Energy efficient pool pumps minimise electricity use by adjusting energy levels depending on the function being performed. Compared to older pool pump models, these are up to 80 per cent more energy efficient which means you’ll spend less on your electricity costs.
+ Which minimum 5-Star energy efficient pool equipment is included in the offer?
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Pool pumps
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After market drives
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Pool filters
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Chlorinators
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Chlorine dispensing units.
+ Is the cost of installing my minimum 5-Star energy efficient pool pump included as part of the offer?
No, you’ll need to arrange and cover the cost for a qualified installer to connect your minimum 5-Star energy efficient pool pump. However, you’ll be eligible for a $250 EFTPOS gift card to help cover the purchase and installation cost.
+ How do I claim my $250 EFTPOS gift card for purchasing a minimum 5-Star energy efficient pool pump?
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Ask your pool professional how much you could save.
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Purchase a minimum 5-Star energy efficient pool pump. Make sure you get a tax receipt that shows the make and model number of the pump.
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Arrange for a qualified installer to connect your new energy efficient pool pump.
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Complete an application form and return it to ENERGEX with your tax receipt. Get a form from your pool professional or complete it online at energex.com.au/poolrewards
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You’ll start saving as soon as your new pool pump is installed. We’ll send your $250 EFTPOS gift card within 6 weeks of receiving your application.
+ What are off-peak tariffs?
Off Peak tariffs provide electricity for up to 18 hours per day at a discounted rate.
There are two off-peak tariffs available:
Tariff 31 - Up to 60 per cent saving, electricity supply is made available a minimum of 8 hours per day
Tariff 33 - Up to 40 per cent saving, electricity supply made available a minimum of 18 hours per day
+ Can I connect my pool pump to off-peak tariff 31?
Yes, it’s at the discretion of each individual to decide which tariff is suitable. We recommended you consult your pool professional before deciding which tariff is right for you.
As Tariff 31 is only available for eight hours per day (generally between 10pm and 6am) it may impose on council noise restrictions. In addition, it may not provide sufficient electricity supply to maintain your pool.
+ Is the cost of connecting my pool pump included as part of the offer?
No, you’ll need to arrange and cover the cost for a qualified installer to connect your pool pump to an off-peak tariff. However, you’ll be eligible for a $250 EFTPOS gift card to help cover the cost.
+ How much does it cost to connect my pool pump to off-peak?
You’ll need to consult your pool professional or electrician to discuss the charges involved for connecting your pool pump to off-peak.
+ What are the off-peak times?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide specific times for off-peak tariff switching. As a guide, off-peak switching generally occurs during peak times. For example, in the morning when people are getting ready for work, and in the afternoon/evening when people are getting home from work, cooking and using various electrical appliances.
+ I already have an off-peak electricity meter installed; will ENERGEX still need to visit my property?
Yes. ENERGEX will need to attend your premises to ensure its safe to perform any necessary upgrades to the meter.
+ How do I switch my pool pump to an off-peak tariff?
- Ask your pool professional how much you could save.
- Contact a licensed electrician to get a quote and arrange the connection. Make sure you get a tax receipt.
- Call your electricity retailer to let them know about the connection. Your electrician will inform ENERGEX.
- Complete an application form and return it to ENERGEX with your tax receipt. Request or complete a form online at energex.com.au/poolrewards
- You’ll start saving as soon as the connection is completed. We’ll send your $250 EFTPOS gift card within six weeks of receiving your application.
+ Is the cost of connecting my hot water system to off-peak included as part of the offer?
No, you’ll need to arrange and cover the cost for a qualified electrician to connect your hot water system to an off-peak tariff. However, you’ll be eligible for a $100 EFTPOS gift card to help cover the cost.
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