Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Practice Exam

For energy efficiency, what factor is crucial when installing a new indoor swimming pool heater?

1. Choosing a heater with high BTU output

2. Minimizing heat loss through enclosure

3. Installing timer switches

4. Utilizing renewable energy sources

The correct answer is: Minimizing heat loss through enclosure

The factor that is crucial for energy efficiency when installing a new indoor swimming pool heater is minimizing heat loss through the enclosure. This is important because a significant amount of energy can be wasted if heat escapes from the pool area. By ensuring that the enclosure—such as walls, ceilings, and covers—is properly insulated and designed to retain heat, the overall energy consumption of the heating system can be greatly reduced. Effective insulation and minimizing drafts not only maintain comfortable temperatures but also lower operational costs and energy usage. Ensuring that the pool area is well-sealed and insulated directly impacts the efficiency of the heater, allowing it to operate more effectively and use less energy to maintain the desired water temperature. While high BTU output might seem advantageous for quickly heating water, it doesn’t address the underlying energy efficiency if the heat is escaping. Timer switches can contribute to operational efficiency, but they do not enhance the physical retention of heat in the space. Utilizing renewable energy sources is beneficial for the environment but may not directly address the immediate efficiency of the heater installation in retaining heat within the enclosure. Hence, the most critical aspect for energy efficiency focuses on minimizing heat loss through effective enclosure management.