Have you been dreaming about adding a pool to your backyard this year? Wondering what the cost of ownership really is? We break it down for you in this article.
When asking, "What does it really cost to own a pool," we look at three things:
- Weekly maintenance costs
- Utilities to run your swimming pool (electricity and water)
- Pool chemicals
We also briefly touch on accessories. While there aren't necessary for running your pool, they provide ambiance and of course, seating around your swimming pool.
Weekly Maintenance Costs
When it comes to weekly pool maintenance, there are several variables to consider. First, will you clean your own pool, or will hire someone to do it for you?
Second, weekly maintenance costs may also be dependent on the size of your pool.
If you are doing it on your own, you need to purchase equipment such as pool nets and brushes.
Both do-it-yourselfers and those who hire a cleaning service will need an automatic pool cleaner.
You can expect to pay around $240 and up for weekly maintenance from a professional company who offers a wide array of services. While you can pay someone less for weekly service, you won't receive the wide breadth of services that we offer. For example, at Spartan Pool and Patio, you can expect the following each week including in your quoted price:
- Necessary pool chemicals - Treat water with chemicals needed to maintain proper water chemistry.
- Clean pool and spa.
- Brush water line, steps, ledges, seats.
- Skim/net pool and spa.
- Empty skimmer baskets and pump baskets.
- Empty auto cleaner.
- Backwash filter.
- On-site pool water analysis.
- Emailed report after each visit.
Remember, though, that you won't incur these costs all year long. Generally speaking, these costs run from when you open your pool to when you close it.
Also, do factor in the opening and closing costs associated with your pool. These range from $300-$500+ depending on the size and type of pool you have.
Utilities
Your electricity costs depend on the type of pool equipment you have.
Generally speaking, it costs a homeowner between $65-$100 per month for electricity. During the summer season, expect about a 30%+ increase in your electric bill.
If you heat your pool in the spring and fall to extend your pool season, remember you also have a pool heater that costs you to run.
When it comes to your water bill, the costs again vary. If you have a well, there is no cost. If you are on city water, you can expect minimal costs, under $20 per month.
You will need to periodically add water to your pool because you lose water all the time from evaporation.
Pool Chemicals
When it comes to the pool chemicals needed to keep your pool healthy, clean, clear, and algae free, it depends on the size of your swimming pool. The bigger your pool, the more you will spend.
You can expect to pay anywhere between $500-$3000 a year on pool chemicals. We do recommend you use high quality pool chemicals from companies like BioGuard. As with most things in life, you get what you pay for, and better quality chemicals will take better care of your swimming pool.
Check with your favorite local dealer (like Spartan!) during the start of the pool season as they often have Early Buy Chemical Sales where you can stock up for the summer.
Accessories
While not necessary for the operation of your swimming pool, you may want to budget some extra money for pool accessories such as:
- Pool floats
- Pool toys
- In-pool furniture
- Patio furniture
The Costs of Pool Ownership
When it comes to the overall yearly cost of pool ownership, many pool owners fall between $3,000 and $6,000 a year.
This would include maintenance, repairs, water, and electricity.
Finally, the most important thing you can do is test your water weekly and maintain your pool consistently. Keeping your pool chemistry at the right levels can also lower your overall costs.
If you want more specific budget amounts based on your particular pool, please contact us! We can provide you a quote on weekly pool services as well as repairs and maintenance.
