12 Money-Saving Swimming Pool Tips for Efficient Pool Maintenance

Owning a pool is a dream come true, but the costs associated with maintenance can add up quickly. Fortunately, there are many ways to save money while ensuring your pool remains clean, safe, and ready for enjoyment. Whether you're looking to reduce chemical use, save on energy costs, or make your pool equipment last longer, these 12 money-saving tips will help you maximize your budget without sacrificing pool quality.

1. Store Your Vacuum Head Correctly

One of the most common reasons pool vacuum heads need to be replaced is because the brushes wear out or detach. To extend the life of your vacuum head, store it upside down and out of direct sunlight when not in use. Avoid exposing it to chlorine, especially during winter. Proper care can double the life of your vacuum, which helps save on costly replacements.

2. Close Your Pool Yourself

Hiring professionals to close your above-ground pool for the winter can be expensive. With a few simple steps, you can do it yourself and save hundreds of dollars. Start by adding winterizing chemicals, draining the pool slightly below the skimmer, and removing hoses and drain plugs. Store your pump and filter in a safe, dry area. Lastly, secure the pool cover using a cable, winch, or winter cover clips.

3. Use a Solar Cover with Your Pool Heater

A solar cover, or solar blanket, can help retain the heat in your pool and reduce the amount of time your heater needs to run. Simply cover the pool at night to keep the warmth in. If you have a pool heater, set it to your desired temperature, then turn it off, allowing the solar cover to preserve the heat. For easier use, consider liquid solar covers that are more affordable and less cumbersome.

4. Use Baking Soda to Raise Alkalinity

Rather than purchasing expensive pool chemicals, you can raise your pool's alkalinity using baking soda. This cost-effective alternative works well for small adjustments. Just be careful not to use too much at once, as baking soda can cause temporary cloudiness in the water. Small amounts are sufficient to make a noticeable difference.

5. Keep Your Pool Cover Clean During Winter

A dirty pool cover can lead to debris entering your pool when you open it in the spring. To prevent this, use a pool cover pump to remove rainwater and snow melt regularly. Also, make sure to remove leaves and other debris from the cover to ensure it lasts longer and remains effective for the following winter.

6. Run Your Pump Less in Mild Climates

In warmer climates, it's not always necessary to run your pool pump for 10-12 hours a day. Running it for about 6 hours a day is often enough to keep the water clean. Additionally, investing in a variable-speed pump can reduce energy consumption and save you money on electricity bills.

7. Buy Pool Chemicals Early and in Bulk

Many pool supply stores offer discounts during the spring, especially on leftover chemicals. By purchasing chlorine, shock, and other chemicals in bulk at the start of the season, you can take advantage of these savings. Stocking up ensures you won’t need to pay full price later in the year.

8. Run Your Pool Pump at Night

Electricity rates are typically lower during off-peak hours, which means running your pool pump at night can significantly cut down on energy costs. Check with your utility company to confirm the best hours for savings and adjust your pool's filtration schedule accordingly.

9. Shock Your Pool Regularly

Shocking your pool weekly is a simple and effective way to maintain clear water. Skipping this task can lead to algae blooms and cloudy water, forcing you to use more chemicals and run your pump for longer to restore balance. Consistent shock treatment helps prevent costly fixes down the road.

10. Invest in a Robotic Pool Cleaner

Robotic pool cleaners are an efficient way to keep your pool clean without running your filtration system. These cleaners use minimal energy while removing debris, and they filter water as they work, saving you money on both electricity and pool chemicals.

11. Keep an Eye on Chlorine Stabilizer Levels

Chlorine stabilizer, or cyanuric acid, helps preserve chlorine levels in your pool by protecting it from being burned off by the sun's UV rays. Maintaining proper stabilizer levels ensures that your pool’s chlorine remains effective for longer, reducing the need to add more chlorine as frequently.

12. Conserve Pool Water

Water conservation is essential, especially in areas prone to droughts. There are several ways to reduce water waste in your pool, such as minimizing evaporation, fixing leaks, and avoiding unnecessary splash. Consider using a pool cover to reduce water loss from evaporation, and be mindful of your pool’s water level to prevent overflow. Additionally, avoid excessive backwashing, as it can waste hundreds of gallons of water each time.

Conclusion

By following these practical tips, you can reduce the costs associated with pool maintenance and enjoy your pool without breaking the bank. From properly storing equipment to using energy-efficient pumps and chemicals, there are many ways to save money while keeping your pool in great condition. Take action now, and your wallet—and your pool—will thank you!