Is It Expensive to Maintain a Pool? Here’s What You Need to Know

TL:DR: Is it expensive to maintain a pool? Yes. However, following proper maintenance guidelines will save you money in the long run, allowing you to enjoy your pool for years to come. 

Unless you’re trying for a swamp aesthetic, owning a pool or spa isn’t a “set it and forget it” kind of deal, as anyone who has one can attest.

While it’s true that having your own pool may be a lot of fun and a fantastic source of entertainment, it also requires significant time, money, and effort.

You should arm yourself with as much information as possible regarding caring for a backyard pool before you dive in headfirst. Maintaining clean and safe pool water is essential for swimming, whether you have an above-ground pool made of vinyl or a concrete pool dug into the ground.

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In addition to keeping a close check on the pool’s water purity and cleanliness daily, you may also wish to plan a monthly (or weekly) cleaning schedule with a pool service business.

The costs of maintaining a swimming pool range on average from $110 to $349, with a full pool cleaning service costing an average of $229 across the country. 

For busy homeowners or pools that receive a great deal of use, specialist pool cleaning is a terrific method to reduce the laborious process of maintaining a crystal-clear pool.

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Can I DIY Pool Maintenance?

It’s possible; some people find it enjoyable, but it can quickly get tedious. You must consider the numerous facets of pool upkeep, such as cleaning, skimming, and chemical testing, if you need help selecting between a do-it-yourself strategy and hiring a professional pool cleaning service. Examine each project to determine which ones you can handle and which are better left to experts.

The first step in pool maintenance is learning about the many components of your pool and how they interact with one another.

Here are 6 things you need to understand about maintaining your pool before you try doing it yourself:

Pool cleaning

To maintain a clean swimming pool, you’ll need a skimmer, a pool brush, and a manual or automated pool cleaner. Leaves and other debris might impede circulation, so use a leaf skimmer to clear it out every couple of days and clear the strainer basket once a week. 

To prevent the accumulation of calcium deposits, algae, and mold, brush the pool’s floor and walls regularly. Try using a manual or motorized pool vacuum to save time and effort. Using chlorine as a sanitizer will kill off any bacteria or other potential contaminants in the water.

Pool circulation

Water is sucked out of the pool, pumped through a filtration system, and then returned to the pool by the pump.

The best technique to maintain clean and healthy water is to run the pump continuously for 8-12 hours daily. Inspecting the pump to ensure it is functioning properly and pumping the water correctly is crucial. 

Pool filtration

Pool filters are useful for removing dirt and debris that would otherwise circulate through the water. Filters, such as sand, DE, and cartridge filters, come in various forms.

Each requires special care and upkeep to function properly. Filters should be cleaned regularly and mustn’t get too filthy in between cleanings.

Pool chemicals

Invest in a high-quality water testing kit to check the pool water’s pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and cyanuric acid. Once a week, take a sample to see if any chemicals need to be added.

The pool water can be kept clean and clear by shocking it as part of your regular maintenance. 

Algaecides, enzymes, and clarifiers are just some of the numerous chemicals that can be used to maintain clean pool water.

Having a pristine pool requires consistent upkeep. Although it might save money to perform routine maintenance on your swimming pool yourself, problems such as leaks, damaged pumps, and cloudy water often necessitate the services of a professional pool cleaning agency. 

They’ve got all the gear and know-how to deal with any problem. If you want to be sure your pool is in good shape, a professional inspection should be scheduled at least once a year.

How expensive is it to maintain a pool?

Regular cleaning and upkeep are essential if you don’t want your pool to resemble a pond instead of a swimming space. On average, $180 is spent monthly on pool maintenance throughout the swimming season. 

The easiest and cheapest ways to take care of a pool are to skim the water and add chemicals. On the flip side, you’ll have to spend more to fix any damage or prepare the pool for the season.

Factors That Affect Pool Maintenance Costs

Your actual expenses may be greater or less depending on various circumstances. The pool’s labor expenses and the length of time it is open for the period can both be influenced by the pool’s location, which is the most influential variable. 

In contrast to outdoor pools, indoor and saltwater ones require far less care. A typical hourly rate for indoor pool maintenance might range from $25 to $50. Also, the price of pool service for a saltwater pool ranges from $25 to $45 an hour.

The ongoing upkeep of an inground and above-ground pool is comparably low-priced. In general, the cost to maintain a pool of either of these types is from $60 to $95 per hour.

The amount of waste that ends up in the pool, the type of materials used to create the pool, and the overall size all affect the maintenance cost. The annual cost of maintaining a fiberglass pool is substantially lower (between $300 and $550) than that of a concrete pool ($450 to $1,200).

How Much Do Pool Cleanings Cost

The most regular chore required of pool owners is cleaning the pool. Every day, a few maintenance tasks must be done, like skimming the water and checking the chemical levels with a test strip. 

Hiring an experienced pool cleaning company to come once a week, twice a month, or once a month will enhance your efforts.

If no other repairs or maintenance are needed, the cost of cleaning the pool could be as low as $50 each month.

How Much Does Pool Maintenance Cost

You can protect the value of your swimming pool investment by keeping it in good condition. A professional hired to help maintain a pool should do more than clean it; they should also inspect filters and pumps, clear traps and baskets, wash the pool walls, and vacuum the floor. 

The typical price for complete pool upkeep is between $150 and $200 per year. Maintaining a pool once a month, twice a month, or once a week will run you about the same amount of money, but more regular care will ensure that the pool always looks its best.

Professionals may check for things like blockages and damaged pumps when they come to perform regular maintenance. By doing this step, you can reduce the likelihood of having to spend a lot of money fixing the problem later.

How Much Do Pool Repairs Cost?

Inevitably, pool owners will have to fix their water feature at some point, hopefully not frequently. The price tag to fix the pool could range from $10 to $20,000, depending on the nature of the damage. The typical price tag for fixing a pool is $900.

The expense of repairing a preexisting pool in a home you’re buying can quickly escalate, so it’s crucial to get a complete inspection of the pool before you buy.

Here are some of the most typical pool issues and how much they typically cost to fix:

• Fixing a leak – The cost of repairing a leak is difficult to generalize, as it is determined by several factors unique to each individual case. A leak repair kit, which you can do yourself, can cost as little as $10. A professional service to drain the pool, fix the leak, and replace the water might cost as much as $3,500.
• Replace pool filters: Filters for swimming pools can run anywhere from $150 to $1,000. Professional filter replacement for a swimming pool will cost between $2,000 and $3,000.
• Fix or replace pump motor: The price to fix a pump motor ranges from $50 to $300, whereas the cost to replace a pump motor is $250 to $650. If the plumbing in the pool needs fixing, that could further drive up the price.
• Fix pool drain: The labor involved in fixing a pool’s drains is the main cost. That’s why it’s usually preferable to replace a broken drain instead of trying to fix it. Price tags for these fixes often run between $600 and $900.
• Repair cracked pool beam: The average price to repair a fractured pool beam is $75 per linear foot. The pool floor needs to be retiled, which is a major repair that should be handled by a professional.

How Can I Save Money on Pool Maintenance?

One of the most expensive additions to a backyard is a swimming pool. It also consumes a big chunk of your yard. If you keep up with routine maintenance, you can safeguard your property’s assets, enhance your garden’s aesthetic, and guarantee that everyone can enjoy the water in perfect health.

Consider these pointers if you’re trying to save money but want to maintain pool quality.

Don’t waste pool water

The cost of maintaining a swimming pool can skyrocket, and doing so might strain the community’s water supply when shortages are common. In most pools, water is lost due to one of the following causes:

• Evaporation
• Splash/overflow
• Leaks
• Filter backwashing

Pool covers help prevent water loss due to evaporation. Protecting your pool from the wind by erecting a wall or planting a hedge is another easy way to reduce water use.

Overflow can be reduced by discouraging children and adults from dropping bombs, diving into the water, and engaging in excessive splashing.

Having a considerable reduction in water level over 24 hours indicates a leak. You might lose a significant amount of water and money with even a tiny leak. Get in touch with an expert to inspect your pool for leaks and fix them immediately.

Maintaining a clean pool and filtration system will not only protect you from having to backwash as frequently or for as long, but it will also save you money.

Tank water can be used to replenish the pool if that becomes necessary. You can quickly recoup the cost of building a tank, so it’s worth thinking about if you don’t already have one.

Turn down the temperature.

A heater is a must-have if you want to maximize your swimming enjoyment and use your pool for a greater portion of the year. Heated pools are quite expensive to maintain, just like heated homes.

Reduce the temperature of the pool when it is not being used. Turn off the heater completely if there is a considerable gap between diving sessions.

Invest in a pool cover

Owning a pool cover is a great way to not only keep dirt and debris out of your pool, but to maintain the temperature of the water.

If you are set on keeping your water at a warmer temperature, try using a cover to conserve heat when you’re not swimming.  

Run the filter and pumps at the correct intervals

Pool and filtration pumps should be run at optimal times. Maintenance costs can be reduced by using the pool in the evening when electricity rates are often lower. Set your timer for the exact amount of hours that you require.

Think about your neighbors if you run your pool equipment late at night; it could be annoying.

Regular filter basket cleaning

Maintenance is required for even the most cutting-edge filtering systems. If you want your pump to last longer and see less wear and tear, it’s important to regularly keep the filter baskets free of dirt and leaf litter.

The longevity of the pump motors is another benefit of keeping your pool clean.

Don’t run your Water Features 24/7

Many people find comfort in the soothing sights and sounds of running water. Unfortunately, water features always use a lot of electricity, resulting in higher expenditures.

Turn off your water features when you’re not outside or when you have company around.

Pool Maintenance FAQ

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about maintaining a pool.

How often do I need to service my pool?

There are varying intervals at which certain pool maintenance duties should be performed. The chemicals in your pool should be checked and balanced at least once a month, and the pool surface should be skimmed every few days.

How often do I need to clean my pool?

Having your pool cleaned a minimum of once a week will ensure that it stays clean and free of contaminants.

Is it a lot of work to maintain a pool?

It’s a myth that taking care of a swimming pool will take up all your free time and be a major burden. However, that is not the case. The truth is that maintaining a steady routine is all that’s required. Maintaining clean and well-organized swimming pools is smooth if you’re consistent and have the right equipment.

More FAQs

What are the pros and cons of owning a pool?

The pros and cons of owning a pool can be summarized as follows: Owning a pool is loved by everyone, but the installation can be costly. On the positive side, pools provide both physical and mental health benefits and can enhance the overall appearance of your property. However, owning a pool may require additional insurance coverage and the maintenance can be never-ending.

What are the disadvantages of having a pool?

The disadvantages of having a pool include the significant cost of constructing it, as well as the ongoing expenses for maintenance and repairs, which can accumulate over time. Additionally, there are added energy bills associated with powering pool cleaning systems. Opting to purchase a home with a pre-existing pool can alleviate the burden and expense of installing one.

What makes a pool more expensive?

A pool becomes more expensive due to various factors. The cost increases as the pool size increases, requiring more labor and materials. Additionally, the choice of pool material also affects the cost, with vinyl being the least expensive, followed by fiberglass and concrete. Furthermore, selecting a simple prefabricated shell in a common style is a more affordable option compared to a customized design.

Is having a pool in Florida worth it?

Having a pool in Florida is definitely worth it due to the year-round heat and sun. The decision to have a pool built in your backyard is often a topic of discussion, but regardless of perspective, owning a pool will undoubtedly enhance the value of your home.

Is a pool a lot of upkeep?

A pool requires significant upkeep, with maintenance costs ranging from $200 to $400 per month. It is important to note that this estimate does not include the expenses associated with opening and closing the pool. Additionally, one must also consider the additional expenditures for water and electricity.

How often should you replace the water in your pool?

The water in your pool should generally be replaced once every five to seven years. It is advisable to carry out this task during mild weather to prevent potential damage to the pool surface caused by intense sunlight and heat. Your pool maintenance company can provide guidance on when it is appropriate to drain your pool.

How do you maintain a pool on a budget?

The question is: How do you maintain a pool on a budget?Rephrased answer: Maintaining a pool on a budget involves implementing various cost-saving measures. These include conserving water, buying pool chemicals in bulk and ahead of time, properly storing chemicals, using a solar cover, regularly monitoring and adjusting pool chemistry, utilizing chlorine stabilizers, and planning ahead.

How much electricity does a pool pump use?

The amount of electricity consumed by a pool pump can vary depending on the type of pump. Traditional single speed swimming pool pumps typically consume between 1,800 to 2,500 watts while in operation. On the other hand, variable speed pumps consume the same amount of energy when running at maximum speed. However, since their speeds fluctuate throughout the day, they often operate at a significantly lower energy level, averaging around 50 to 500 watts.

Is a pool in the backyard worth it?

A pool in the backyard may have its benefits, such as enhancing your social status and potentially increasing the value of your home. However, it is important to note that the increase in value may not be as significant as anticipated. HouseLogic suggests that there is no definite assurance of recouping your investment, as the addition of a swimming pool might only raise your home’s value by approximately 7%.

What is the least expensive type of inground pool?

The least expensive type of inground pool is typically a vinyl liner pool. These pools have the lowest initial costs, making them the most affordable option. On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $35,000 and $65,000 to install a vinyl liner pool. The great advantage of these pools is that they can be customized into different shapes and designs to suit the homeowner’s preferences.

What type of pool is easiest to maintain?

The easiest type of pool to maintain is clearly fiberglass. For a more detailed comparison of vinyl, concrete, and fiberglass pools, you can refer to our inground pool comparisons.