The Three Main Costs of Pool Ownership
For many homeowners, having a pool feels like the ultimate luxury—a place to cool off in the summer, entertain friends, and create lasting memories with family. But before you dive into pool ownership, it's important to consider the true cost of maintaining a pool over time.
Sure, the initial price tag for installing a concrete pool is a significant investment, but the costs don’t stop there. Chemicals, cleaning, equipment maintenance, electricity, and occasional repairs all add up. The last thing you want is to be caught off guard by unexpected expenses.
So, what does it really cost to own a pool? Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense—without the surprises.
Owning a pool comes with three primary expenses:
- Routine Maintenance – The ongoing cost of keeping your pool clean and safe.
- Repairs & Equipment Upkeep – The occasional but unavoidable expenses.
- Energy & Water Usage – The impact on your monthly utility bills.
These costs vary based on pool size, climate, and whether you hire a professional or do the work yourself. Let’s go through each one so you know what to expect.
1. Routine Pool Maintenance
Keeping your pool crystal-clear requires weekly and monthly upkeep. If you’re handling it yourself, expect to spend a few hours per week on skimming, balancing chemicals, and cleaning filters. If that doesn’t sound appealing, you can always hire a professional service.
A. Pool Chemicals & Testing
Pool water needs to be properly balanced to prevent algae and bacteria. That means keeping up with chlorine, pH adjusters, and shock treatments. On average, homeowners spend between $500 - $800 per year on chemicals alone.
💡 Pro Tip: A chlorine feeder or saltwater system can automate some of this work, making maintenance easier—but it comes with an upfront investment.
B. Cleaning: DIY vs. Professional Service
If you clean your pool yourself, you’ll need a skimmer, brushes, and a vacuum (manual or automatic). A good robotic pool cleaner can save you time but may cost $500 - $1,500 upfront.
While some pool companies offer weekly cleaning services, Pool Perfection does not. Instead, we focus on high-quality construction and renovations, ensuring that your pool is built to last with minimal maintenance requirements.
C. Equipment Maintenance & Filter Cleaning
Your pool’s pump and filtration system work nonstop to keep the water clean, but they need regular maintenance:
- Filter cleaning (monthly or quarterly, depending on use)
- Pump maintenance (every few years, depending on type)
- Occasional part replacements (seals, baskets, etc.)
Neglecting your pool’s filtration system can lead to cloudy water, algae growth, and higher chemical costs, so staying on top of maintenance is key.
2. Repairs & Equipment Upkeep
Even the best-maintained pools eventually need repairs. Some issues are small and inexpensive, while others—like resurfacing—are major investments.
A. Pool Equipment: What Needs Replacing & When
Every piece of pool equipment has a lifespan, and when something breaks, it’s not always cheap to fix.
- Pool pump (5-10 years): ~ $2,000
- Heater (8-12 years): ~ $6000
- Pool lights (as needed): $100 - $700
- Filter replacement (varies by type): $50 - $250
💡 Pro Tip: A variable-speed pump is more energy-efficient and can cut your electricity bill by up to 70% compared to a single-speed pump. For a more in-depth breakdown of "why" behind the cost differences, check out Variable Pumps Vs. Single Speed.
B. Resurfacing a Concrete Pool
While concrete pools are the most durable option, they do require resurfacing approximately every 10-15 years, depending on the finish. The cost varies based on materials and labor:
- Standard plaster: $4,000 - $7,000
- Pebble or quartz finish: $6,000 - $15,000
If your pool surface is rough, stained, or has cracks, resurfacing may be needed sooner. Choosing a higher-end finish can extend the time between resurfacings, saving you money in the long run.
3. Energy & Water Costs
lorida pools run year-round, which means continuous energy and water usage.
A. Electricity Usage
Your pool pump, heater, and lights all contribute to your electricity bill.
- Pool pump: $500 - $1,000 per year
- Heater: $300 - $1,000 per year,
- Pool lights: $50 - $200 per year
💡 Energy-Saving Tip: Running your pool pump during off-peak hours can help lower your electricity costs.
B. Water Costs
Between evaporation, splashing, and occasional draining, pools require frequent refilling. Again, the exact cost of the water fill is determined largely by the pools location (in the sun or under shade) as well as climate conditions. The average however, is around $50 - $250 per year.
💡 Water-Saving Tip: A solar pool cover can reduce evaporation, keeping more water (and heat) in your pool.
How Much Will You Actually Spend on Pool Ownership?
Estimated Annual Cost
Chemicals & Testing
$500 - $800
Equipment Repairs
$200 - $2,500
Electricity (Pump & Heater)
$300 - $1,500
Water Refilling
$50 - $250
Resurfacing (Every 10-15 Years)
$15,000
💡 Total estimated annual cost: $1,500 - $5,000+, depending on maintenance and pool size.
While this may seem like a wide range, larger pools with added features (heaters, waterfalls, fire features, etc.) naturally cost more to maintain. On the other hand, a well-built and properly maintained concrete pool can minimize long-term expenses.
Is Owning a Pool Worth It?
There’s no doubt that a well-maintained pool is an investment, both in time and money. But for many homeowners, the benefits far outweigh the costs.
With proper planning and expert construction, you can enjoy your pool for years to come without unexpected surprises. If you’re considering building a new concrete pool or need renovations, Pool Perfection is here to help.
Whether you live in Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills, or anywhere across Pasco County, Pool Perfection builds and renovates concrete pools that are made to last—both structurally and financially.
Thinking of Adding a Pool To Your Backyard?
With over 21 years of experience and 1,700+ pools built, we specialize in high-quality, custom pools with fast, reliable service.
📞 Contact us today at (727) 518-7665 for a free consultation and personalized quote!
