Assessment of treated rainwater suitability for filter backwashing in swimming pool systems

The growing need for sustainable water management in recreational facilities has led to increased interest in alternative water sources, particularly in alignment with the European Green Deal and sustainable development goals. This study evaluates the effectiveness of using treated rainwater—processed through a sequential treatment system—for backwashing filters in public swimming pool installations. The research was conducted at a selected swimming pool facility immediately following summer season, allowing for performance evaluation during routine maintenance operations without disrupting active pool use.

The sequential rainwater treatment system implemented consisted of sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection stages, designed to produce water of sufficient quality for technical reuse. The treated rainwater was then employed exclusively for filter backwashing over an extended observation period.

Key performance indicators included the quality of swimming pool water post-backwashing and the operational efficiency of the filters. No deterioration in either was observed, suggesting that the treated rainwater did not negatively impact water quality or filtration performance. These findings support the technical feasibility and environmental benefit of substituting potable water with reclaimed rainwater for backwashing purposes.

This innovative approach not only significantly reduces freshwater consumption—a notable concern given the high water demand for filter cleaning—but also aligns with principles of integrated water resource management and circular economy. The use of rainwater in this context contributes to reducing the environmental footprint of pool facilities and offers a replicable model for sustainable operation in similar contexts.

The results confirm that the application of a sequentially treated rainwater system is an effective and environmentally sound alternative for technical uses in swimming pool operations. The study encourages broader implementation as part of sustainable facility management strategies.