For the Love of Plunging in the Pool

Ley and Suzanne Wertz love their pool, but as the largest electricity-using item in their home, they have struggled with its financial and environmental impact. Now, thanks to CEC’s Solarize program, they are enjoying the pool without the guilt.

The pool was installed in the early 1980s, and even though the couple only heated it in the summer it continued to be an energy drain. Recently, the Wertzs installed solar panels on their garage roof to power the house, and on the back roof of their house to power the pool. Now, the new system completely accounts for any electricity demands from the pool.

The Wertzs became seriously interested in solar after speaking with friends, Fred and Susan Powell, who were CEC's very first Solarize customers back in 2011. The initial installation cost had always been a deterrent, but with CEC's short-term group purchasing program and technology advancements in the field, the decision became simple. “It’s just economically much better. Period. We did it for obvious financial reasons,” Ley explains, “but also knowing it’s environmentally friendly”

Ley and Suzanne worked with Sun Pacific — one of the pre-approved vendors for that particular round with the Solarize program — and reflect positively on the installation process and running system. “It’s seamless once it’s up and running,” says Ley, “No problems.” Furthermore, they love the new convenience of monitoring their electricity. “You can measure your energy efficiency on a daily, monthly and annual basis. And you can do it right on your smart phone or computer.”

Now, Ley and Suzanne are eager to spread the word about solar. In fact, they referred friends who live across the street, who put solar panels on their house as well. “We discussed the advantages of solar over lunch and I also suggested that they talk to other owners to get as much information as possible,” says Ley. “Certainly we were quite happy with the folks that put ours up and I would recommend that company just from our own personal experience.”

For more information on the Solarize program visit SolarizeSB.org.