Green Your Pool -- Plant a Windbreak

Splashing around in a backyard swimming pool can be a guilty pleasure this time of year. Sure, there's a drought, but it's hot! Maybe a cool dip will even keep you from burning up extra energy with A/C working overtime. We've gathered five tips to help you minimize poolside waste this week. If you don't have a pool at home, share the eco-pool love with someone who does.

Fast fact: An average outdoor pool loses nearly 90 percent of its heat from the water surface, most of it through evaporation.

Solution: Trees and shrubs planted near the perimeter of your pool can help block wind and minimize evaporation. The trick is to have them high enough and close enough to the pool that they don't end up increasing the amount of air sweeping over the pool, thereby increasing evaporation. Ready to start planting? Check out the Consumer's Guide to Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy from the Department of Energy for more details.

Tomorrow: How to maximize savings by choosing the right pool cover for your climate.

Share your tips and ideas for keeping an eco-friendly pool or throwing a green pool party.