Spring is here, and it’s time to get your pool ready. While owning a pool brings plenty of fun, it can also be expensive. Fortunately, a few practical changes can help you save money without sacrificing enjoyment.
Simple, consistent maintenance and choosing efficient equipment can trim pool costs by around 20%. This approach avoids big repair bills later and helps keep everything running smoothly.
From using a cover to snapping up spring discounts on chemicals, there are many budget-friendly tricks that seasoned pros rely on. With the right steps, you can keep your backyard haven relaxing, not stressful.
Energy-Efficient Pool Upgrades
Pool equipment can pull a large amount of energy, but making smart upgrades can ease the strain on both your wallet and the environment. From swapping pumps to using solar power, there are several ways to keep your pool efficient without sacrificing comfort or cleanliness.
Key Upgrades at a Glance
| Upgrade | Cost Range | Potential Savings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Variable-Speed Pump | $800–$1,500 | Up to 80% less energy use | Often pays for itself within 2 years |
| Solar Pool Cover | $75–$300 | Cuts evaporation up to 95% | Reduces chemical use, heating costs, and debris |
| Liquid Solar Cover | $20–$100/month | About 40% as effective | Easier handling than a standard cover |
| Heater w/ Timer | Varies by type | 10–15% saved per degree lower | Keep pool at lowest comfy temperature; run only when needed |
| Solar Panels | $3,000–$7,000 | Minimal operating costs | Extends swimming season 2–4 months, lasts 15–20 years, uses free sunlight |
| Smart Filtration | Minimal | Cuts pump energy use | Run filter 8–10 hours daily (less in cooler months), off-peak if possible |
| LED Pool Lights | $400–$800 | Up to 80% less lighting cost | Last far longer than incandescents; color-changing options available |
Investing in a Variable-Speed Pump
Traditional single-speed pumps run at full power constantly, consuming a hefty amount of electricity.
A variable-speed pump, however, self-adjusts to the pool’s needs. By operating at a lower speed for daily circulation and increasing power only when necessary, it can reduce energy costs dramatically—potentially as much as 80%.
While the initial cost is higher, many pool owners see a payback in about two years. Seek out ENERGY STAR models and check for rebates from local utility companies.
The Benefits of Solar Pool Covers
Solar pool covers (also called solar blankets) are simple but powerful tools for saving energy. They trap heat from the sun and prevent evaporation from your pool.
Key benefits include:
- Reducing water evaporation by up to 95%
- Cutting heating costs by 50-70%
- Decreasing chemical use by 35-60%
- Reducing debris in your pool
Solar covers cost between $75-300 depending on size and quality. They’re easy to use and require no electricity. For the best results, use your cover whenever the pool isn’t in use.
Liquid solar covers are also available if you find traditional covers too cumbersome. While not as effective, they still provide about 40% of the benefits of a physical cover.
Read: Do Solar Pool Covers Work? 19 Things to Know Before You Buy
Pool Heaters: When to Use and When to Snooze
Pool heaters can be energy hogs if used improperly.
Keep the temperature at the lowest pleasant range—around 78–82°F—to save an estimated 10–15% for every degree below higher settings.
If you use a timer, schedule heating for times when people will actually swim.
Gas heaters can be economical for occasional heating in cooler climates, while heat pumps excel in regions with milder weather.
Heat Things Up with Solar Panels
Solar heating systems use roof-mounted or ground-mounted panels to warm pool water with sunlight instead of paid energy.
Though installation ranges from $3,000–$7,000, ongoing costs are close to zero.
Solar heating often adds two to four months to your swim season, depending on your climate.
Panels have a long lifespan (commonly 15–20 years), and combining them with a solar pool cover at night improves heat retention.
Read: Best Solar Pool Heater Solutions: Top Picks for 2025
Smart Scheduling for Filtration
Operating your pump 24/7 is rarely necessary. Most pools need 8–10 hours of filtration per day in hot months, and 6–8 hours when it’s cooler.
Running the pump at night is usually cheaper if your electricity provider offers discounted off-peak rates.
If you have a variable-speed pump, you can run it longer at a lower speed, which is often more energy-friendly than short, high-speed bursts.
LED Lights: Bright Idea for Energy Efficiency
If your pool still uses old incandescent bulbs, consider an upgrade to LEDs.
LEDs consume up to 80% less energy and can last 15,000–30,000 hours, cutting replacement costs and hassle.
Many LED lights come with color-changing features that add a festive glow to nighttime swims.
Control them with timers or even remote apps so they only run when needed.
Read: LED Pool Lighting – Are LED Pool Lights Worth Installing?
Money-Saving Habits for Everyday Pool Maintenance
Beyond fancy equipment, day-to-day decisions about chemicals, cleaning, and water handling can have a big impact on your monthly bills.
Adopting the following steps can make a real difference in overall costs.
Bulk Buying and DIY for Pool Chemicals
Pool chemicals can be expensive, so look for off-peak deals or clearance sales to save money on chlorine, shock, and other treatments. Storing enough for the entire season can prevent last-minute, higher-priced purchases.
Also, baking soda can raise alkalinity at a fraction of the cost of name-brand products. For each 10,000 gallons, around 1.5 pounds boosts alkalinity by 10 ppm, which can quickly add up to major savings compared to commercial alternatives.
Keep an inventory spreadsheet or simple checklist so you don’t buy extra or let products expire. Maintaining proper cyanuric acid (30–50 ppm) helps chlorine last longer, which also lowers chemical costs.
Reducing Evaporation: Pool Covers and More
Evaporation is one of the biggest hidden costs, since lost water also means replacing chemicals.
A solar cover is one of the simplest solutions, reducing evaporation by about 95%. Even a modest version can save a considerable amount of water over time, not to mention energy if you heat your pool.
Additionally, dropping the water level slightly cuts splash-out when people enter and exit.
Planting hedges or installing barriers to block wind can further lower evaporation rates on gusty days.
Preventing and Fixing Pool Leaks Promptly
A small leak can waste thousands of gallons monthly, spiking water bills and pulling in extra chemicals.
Detecting leaks early is key. Do the “bucket test”: fill a bucket with pool water, mark the levels inside and outside, then wait 24 hours. If the pool water level drops more than the bucket’s, you likely have a leak.
Examine your equipment pad for leaks or damp spots, and check the liner for tiny tears. Repairing these issues quickly is far cheaper than dealing with big structural problems later.
If you notice your auto-fill running constantly, that’s another warning sign worth investigating.
Leveraging Technology for Pool Cleaning and Maintenance
Technology can lighten the workload by automating essential tasks. While some gadgets may seem like a splurge, they can reduce labor and energy use in the long run.
The Advantages of Robotic Pool Cleaners
Robotic cleaners connect to a standard electrical outlet, running independently from your pool pump.
By sweeping floors, walls, and waterlines, they reduce wear on your main filtration system.
These cleaners can use 60–70% less energy than older automatic systems and often cost just a few cents per hour to run.
Many models come with built-in scheduling and smartphone connectivity, so you can control them remotely or pinpoint areas needing extra attention.
I wouldn’t be without mine now.
Read: Best Robotic Pool Cleaners: Are They Worth It?
Automating Pool Cleaning with Automatic Pool Cleaners
Automatic cleaners that attach to your existing filtration or booster pump system also save time.
- Suction-side units operate much like an underwater vacuum, relying on the pool’s circulation.
- Pressure-side cleaners use water pressure to maneuver around the pool, storing leaves and debris in their own filter bag.
Both varieties reduce the overall load on your main filter, which can mean fewer cartridge replacements, less backwashing, and reduced water consumption over time.
Pairing an automatic cleaner with a basic timer ensures the pool gets cleaned even if you’re out or busy.
I have had hot tubs for over 20 years and a pool for the last 11 years. I had to learn how to clean, maintain and fix them the hard way. Since then I have helped many friends and neighbors with their pools and now I want to share everything I have learned with you. About Me
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