Owning a pool is a luxury—but keeping it running shouldn’t drain your bank account. From energy use to water bills and chemical costs, the expenses can add up quickly if you’re not proactive. Fortunately, with the right tools and habits, you can significantly cut back on the cost of maintaining your swimming pool—all while keeping it sparkling clean and swim-ready.
Here are 27 practical ways to reduce the running costs of your pool, organised into helpful categories.
💡 Energy Efficiency Upgrades
1. Upgrade to a Variable-Speed Pool Pump (VSP)
Single-speed pumps are energy hogs. A variable-speed pump can reduce your energy use by up to 80% and usually pays for itself within a couple of years.
2. Use a Pump Timer or Smart Controller
Automating your pump schedule ensures you’re not wasting energy by running it longer than necessary, especially during peak electricity hours.
3. Install an Energy-Efficient Pool Heater
Consider switching to a heat pump or solar heater. These are much more efficient than traditional gas heaters.
4. Swap to LED Pool Lighting
LEDs use a fraction of the energy of halogen or incandescent lights—and they last much longer.
🌞 Solar & Heat Retention Strategies
5. Use a Solar Pool Cover or Blanket
This simple tool can reduce evaporation by up to 90%, helping you save on both water and heating.
6. Try a Liquid Solar Blanket
It’s a chemical you pour into the pool that forms an invisible layer on the surface, helping to trap heat.
7. Install Solar Heating Panels
Let the sun do the work! Solar panels can drastically cut your heating bill without recurring fuel costs.
8. Add Windbreaks or Enclose Your Pool
Wind accelerates evaporation and heat loss. A fence, hedge, or enclosure can keep things warm and efficient.
💧 Water Conservation Tactics
9. Invest in an Automatic Pool Cover
Covers prevent evaporation, block debris, and help you retain heat—all of which reduce maintenance costs.
10. Check for Leaks Regularly
Even a small leak can cost you hundreds over a season. Make leak detection a part of your maintenance routine.
11. Backwash Your Filter Only When Necessary
Avoid over-backwashing, which wastes thousands of gallons of water over time.
12. Collect Rainwater for Top-Offs
Set up a simple collection system to reduce your reliance on municipal water for topping off your pool.
🧪 Chemical Cost Savings
13. Use a Saltwater Chlorinator
Saltwater pools make their own chlorine, reducing the need for constant chemical purchases.
14. Maintain Proper Water Balance
Balanced water requires fewer chemicals and avoids corrosion or scaling, saving on repair costs too.
15. Automate Chemical Dosing
An automatic chemical feeder ensures just the right amount is used, reducing waste and overuse.
16. Use Pool Enzymes and Clarifiers
These reduce the organic load in your pool, meaning your chlorine doesn’t have to work as hard.
🧹 Maintenance That Pays Off
17. Get a Robotic Pool Cleaner
These are far more efficient than traditional suction or pressure-side cleaners—and they use less electricity.
18. Clean Your Filters Regularly
Dirty filters strain your pump, increasing energy use and shortening equipment life.
19. Use Skimmer Socks or Leaf Traps
Preventing debris from entering your filtration system extends its life and improves efficiency.
20. Proper Winterisation Matters
Taking care when closing your pool for the season can prevent costly repairs come spring.
⚙️ Tech & Automation Advantages
21. Invest in a Smart Pool System
These can monitor your pool’s temperature, chemistry, and pump cycles—letting you control it all from your phone.
22. Take Advantage of Off-Peak Electricity
Run energy-heavy equipment like pumps and heaters during off-peak hours if your utility has time-of-use rates.
23. Look for Utility Rebates
Check with your local energy provider—many offer rebates for efficient pumps, heaters, and lighting upgrades.
🛠️ Simple Habits for Long-Term Savings
24. Choose the Right Pool Size & Depth
If you’re planning a new pool, keep it modest. Smaller pools use less energy and chemicals.
25. Cover the Pool When Not in Use
Even a basic cover can drastically cut down on water loss and heating costs.
26. Use Fencing Strategically
A good fence doesn’t just keep things safe—it can also block wind and reduce evaporation.
27. Minimise Splash Out & Draining
Less splashing means less refilling and fewer chemicals needed.
Final Thoughts
Your pool should be a source of joy—not stress over bills. With a few smart investments and a bit of consistent maintenance, you can enjoy your pool while keeping running costs under control.
If you’re ready to start saving, focus on energy efficiency first, followed by water conservation and automation. Even small changes add up fast over the course of a season.
