Quick Answer
A Summer Waves 16×48 pool holds approximately 5,696 gallons of water when filled to the appropriate level. This is based on the dimensions of 16 ft x 48 ft x 3.5 ft average depth. The exact amount can vary slightly depending on the specific model.
Calculating the Volume
To calculate the number of gallons a pool holds, you need to know the dimensions of the pool. For a Summer Waves 16×48 pool, the dimensions are:
- Length: 16 feet
- Width: 48 feet
- Average Depth: 3.5 feet
Using these dimensions, we can calculate the volume in cubic feet:
- Volume = Length x Width x Average Depth
- Volume = 16 ft x 48 ft x 3.5 ft
- Volume = 2,688 cubic ft
Now that we know the volume in cubic feet, we need to convert this to gallons.
Converting Cubic Feet to Gallons
To convert cubic feet to gallons, we use the following conversion:
- 1 cubic foot = 7.48 gallons
So to find the number of gallons, we multiple the cubic foot volume by 7.48:
- 2,688 cubic ft x 7.48 gallons/cubic ft = 20,096 gallons
Therefore, the total capacity of a Summer Waves 16×48 pool is approximately 20,096 gallons when completely filled.
Typical Fill Volume
However, pools are not usually filled completely to the top. A standard fill level is around 90% capacity.
At 90% fill, the volume would be:
- 20,096 gallons x 0.9 = 18,086 gallons
For simplicity, we can round this to 18,000 gallons for a typical fill.
Accounting for Pool Features
The above calculation assumes a simple rectangular pool shape. But real pools often have additional features that displace water and reduce overall capacity.
Common features that reduce water volume include:
- Steps
- Benches
- Swim outs
- Water features
As a rough estimate, these features may reduce overall capacity by 10-15%.
Accounting for a 15% reduction gives us:
- 18,000 gallons x 0.85 = 15,300 gallons
So for a Summer Waves 16×48 pool with typical features, the expected fill volume would be around 15,300 gallons.
Final Estimate
To provide a final estimate, we can round to the nearest hundred:
15,300 gallons rounded to the nearest hundred is 15,000 gallons.
Therefore, the estimated volume of water in a typical Summer Waves 16×48 pool installation is approximately 15,000 gallons when filled to the proper level.
Variation Between Models
It’s important to note that the actual volume can vary for different models of Summer Waves 16×48 pools. Some factors that can affect water capacity include:
- Actual dimensions – Even pools from the same manufacturer may have slight size differences.
- Wall height – Taller walls increase capacity.
- Shape – Non-rectangular designs can increase or decrease volume.
- Pool features – Types and number of steps, jets, etc impact capacity.
Due to manufacturing variability and other factors, the water volume for a given model of 16×48 pool could be 10-20% more or less than our calculated estimate.
Always check the specifications for your actual pool to get the most accurate volume. Our estimate of 15,000 gallons provides a reasonable approximation for budgeting and planning purposes.
Volume Comparison by Pool Size
Here is a table comparing the estimated water volumes across different standard pool sizes:
| Pool Size | Estimated Volume (gallons) |
|---|---|
| 12×24 | 3,000 |
| 16×32 | 6,000 |
| 16×48 | 15,000 |
| 20×40 | 12,000 |
| 24×54 | 20,000 |
As shown, the 16×48 size represents a mid-range pool in terms of water capacity. Smaller pools can hold 3,000-6,000 gallons, while larger designs exceed 20,000 gallons.
Refilling the Pool
Now that we know a typical Summer Waves 16×48 pool contains around 15,000 gallons when full, we can estimate how much it costs to refill the pool.
The cost to refill a pool depends on:
- Local water rates – Usually charged per 1,000 gallons used.
- Sewer rates – Some municipalities charge for sewer based on water used.
- Water source – Using a well instead of municipal water may have energy costs for pumping.
As an example, with a water rate of $5 per 1,000 gallons and a sewer rate of $7 per 1,000 gallons:
- 15,000 gallons / 1,000 = 15 units
- Water cost = 15 * $5 = $75
- Sewer cost = 15 * $7 = $105
- Total refill cost = $75 + $105 = $180
So in this scenario, it would cost about $180 to completely refill the pool. Actual costs can be higher or lower depending on local utility rates.
Some tips to save on refilling costs:
- Cover the pool when not in use to reduce evaporation losses.
- Check for leaks and repair them promptly.
- Consider reusing water if draining for maintenance.
- Schedule refills in spring/fall when sewer rates are lower.
Proper pool maintenance and leak prevention will help conserve water and minimize refill frequency and expense.
Heating Costs
Heating an outdoor pool also adds significant annual costs.
To estimate heating costs:
- Determine the pool’s BTU heating requirement based on size.
- Factor in your climate and pool use season.
- Choose an appropriate pool heater based on BTU rating.
- Estimate seasonal gas usage based on heater runtime.
- Multiple gas usage by current energy prices.
As an example:
- A 16×48 pool needs approximately 200,000 BTUs for adequate heating.
- Running a 200,000 BTU heater 4 hours/day for 90 days = 360 hours.
- If the heater consumes 20 gallons of propane per hour, total usage is 7,200 gallons.
- At $3 per gallon for propane, seasonal heating cost is $21,600.
Actual heating costs can vary significantly. But for a pool this size, $10,000 per year or more for heating is common.
Operational Cost Considerations
Beyond just filling and heating, an in-ground pool has many ongoing operational costs:
- Chemicals – For sanitizing, pH control, algae prevention, etc. Can easily cost $500+ annually.
- Electricity – For pumps, filters, lights and other equipment. Adds several hundred dollars per year.
- Maintenance – Regular cleaning and upkeep to keep the pool functioning properly.
- Repairs – Pumps, filters and other items wear out over time and need replacement.
- Season Opening/Closing – Preparing in spring and closing down in fall, often hired out.
- Insurance – Additional premiums to cover liability for a pool, especially with children.
When purchasing an in-ground pool, you should factor in these ongoing expenses which can total $5,000 or more per year. Proper maintenance is required to maximize the pool’s lifespan and get the most value from your investment.
Environmental Considerations
Installing a pool also comes with some environmental impacts that should be considered:
- Major water usage, especially in drier climates or regions prone to drought.
- Energy consumption for heating and operation.
- Chemicals that must be handled and disposed of properly.
- Tree/land removal to accommodate the pool.
Steps can be taken to minimize the ecological footprint:
- Use a pool cover and efficient heater and pumps.
- Look for more natural and eco-friendly chemicals and cleaning options.
- Reuse water for irrigation instead of draining.
- Incorporate landscaping around the pool.
While pools can provide enjoyment, weighing the ongoing costs and potential environmental impacts is important.
Pool Safety
Safety should also be top priority with any residential pool:
- Install proper fencing and locks to prevent unsupervised access.
- Post clear safety rules and warnings for users.
- Ensure sufficient depth markings and “no diving” signs.
- Keep rescue equipment poolside and train users on basics like CPR.
- Designate a responsible adult to actively supervise when in use.
Take steps to make your pool as safe as possible, especially with children. Be aware of local codes that may apply. Sadly, accidental drowning is a leading cause of death for young children in pools. But this risk can be minimized with proper precautions and active supervision.
Conclusion
Based on typical dimensions and average fill levels, a Summer Waves 16×48 in-ground pool holds approximately 15,000 gallons of water. This represents a mid-sized residential pool suitable for family recreation. When planning for installation and ownership costs, you should factor in expenses for filling, heating, maintenance, repairs, and regular safety measures. While pools provide fun and relaxation during summer months, they also come with significant financial and environmental considerations to weigh.
