How much does it cost to run a pool per month?

The short answer?

In Australia, the average swimming pool will use somewhere between 2,000 and 3,000 kilowatt hours of electricity every year - which will cost the homeowner between $55 to $100 each month. That's an average of $660 to $1200 each year.

The exact amount of electricity a pool uses can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the pool, the type of equipment used, the local climate, and how often the pool and its associated systems are operated.

Here are some key factors that contribute to a pool's electricity consumption:

1. Pool Pump: The pool pump is one of the primary energy consumers. It circulates water through the filtration system, which helps keep the water clean and properly balanced. The energy consumption of the pump depends on its horsepower (HP), how long it runs each day, and its efficiency. Older pumps tend to be less efficient than newer, energy-efficient models.

2. Filtration System: The filtration system includes not only the pump but also the filter. The type of filter (sand, cartridge, or diatomaceous earth) can influence energy usage. Different types of filters require different amounts of energy to maintain proper filtration.

3. Heating and Cooling: If you have a heated pool, the energy consumption can increase significantly. Electric heaters, heat pumps, or gas heaters all consume electricity to maintain the desired water temperature. In warmer climates, cooling systems might be used instead.

4. Pool Lighting: If your pool has underwater or perimeter lighting, this can contribute to electricity consumption. LED lights are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent or halogen lights.

5. Water Features: Waterfalls, fountains, and other water features can also consume electricity, especially if they run for extended periods.

6. Automatic Cleaners: Robotic or automatic pool cleaners help keep the pool clean. While they can be energy-efficient compared to manual cleaning, they still consume electricity.

7. Cover Usage: Using a pool cover when the pool is not in use can help reduce heat loss and water evaporation, which could indirectly impact electricity usage if you're using a heater or pump to maintain water temperature.

8. Location and Climate: The local climate affects how often you need to run the pool equipment. In colder climates, you might not use your pool equipment as much during the winter months.

9. Pool Size: Larger pools require more water circulation and heating, resulting in higher electricity usage.

It's challenging to provide an exact figure for how much electricity a pool uses since it varies so much based on these factors. However, to give you a rough idea, a medium-sized pool with average usage could consume anywhere from 2,000 to 3,000 kWh (kilowatt-hours) of electricity per year. This is just an estimate, and actual consumption could be significantly lower or higher.

To get a more accurate understanding of your specific pool's energy usage, you can:

• Check the specifications of your pool equipment for energy consumption ratings.
• Monitor your electricity meter before and after running your pool equipment for a certain period to calculate usage.
• Consult with a professional pool technician who can assess your equipment and provide more precise estimates.

Investing in energy-efficient pool equipment and practicing smart pool management, such as optimizing pump run times and using a pool cover, can help you reduce your pool's electricity consumption.

Have you considered getting your entire home onto solar power?

We receive several enquiries each week from homeowners with pools looking to reduce costs on electricity consumption - why not check out our Reposit 'No Bill' solar and battery systems, to find out if our residential solar solution could work for you? 

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