How Much Does It Cost to Maintain a Swimming Pool?

In this guide

Pool Maintenance Cost by Frequency

The average cost for pool maintenance is between $20 and $1,850, depending on the frequency. You can expect to pay a lot less for basic weekly maintenance tasks, such as adding chemicals and cleaning, compared to annual tasks such as replacing parts or opening and closing procedures. While unexpected problems could arise, these costs fluctuate greatly. The table below illustrates the different costs associated with weekly, monthly, and annual cleanings. The subsections discuss what tasks are involved for each different maintenance timeline.

Weekly Pool Maintenance Cost

A pool owner can expect to pay around $20 to $50 for weekly pool service costs, all depending on the maintenance that needs to be done. Weekly maintenance typically involves checking pH levels, cleaning the filters, putting in chemicals to avoid stains and algae, and recognizing any malfunctioning equipment. If the pool is dirty, weekly maintenance can involve removing leaves and debris, emptying the skimmer basket, and brushing down the walls. The water levels are also checked to ensure they are at a good level for smooth functioning.

Monthly Pool Maintenance Cost

Monthly pool service costs range between $30 and $90 for basic pool maintenance care. Basic monthly maintenance tasks include cleaning various pool parts, checking and chemically cleaning the filters, testing the water chemistry, searching for leaks or cracks, lubricating fillings, and checking the equipment. Keeping up on these tasks monthly is important to ensure that any problems are dealt with as soon as possible. If there is any sign of an issue, these tasks could be conducted more regularly as part of the weekly or bi-weekly maintenance schedule.

Annual Pool Maintenance Cost

A yearly pool maintenance cost ranges between $950 and $1,850, with most homeowners spending around $1,450. Annual costs include opening, maintenance, closing costs, chemicals, home insurance, and materials for parts that need occasional replacement. This annual cost will easily fluctuate from year to year and depends on the type of pool. While the cost for chemicals, opening, and closing procedures will remain the same for each year, replacing system parts influences the cost greatly.

Swimming Pool Maintenance Cost by Type of Pool

The type of pool you have directly influences the maintenance costs and averages between $25 and $125 per hour. Indoor and saltwater pools require less daily maintenance and chemicals. They are cheaper to maintain than a chlorine pool with high daily maintenance requirements. The chart below highlights the different types of pools with their respective maintenance cost, followed by subsections explaining the maintenance involved in each type.

Saltwater Pool Maintenance Cost

The maintenance of a saltwater pool is generally lower than that of a chlorine pool due to the fewer chemicals needed. Maintenance costs range around $25 to $40 per hour. The water still needs to be tested to look at ph levels and stabilizer and make any adjustments to the chlorine levels. Saltwater pool maintenance is focused on keeping the proper levels of salt in the water and preventing corrosion. Salt cells need to be cleaned regularly to wash off any calcium build-up. With proper care, salt cells should last four to six years or longer.

Indoor Pool Maintenance Cost

The cost for indoor swimming pool maintenance is considerably lower than for an outdoor pool, averaging between $25 and $50 per hour. Indoor pools are not exposed to outside dust and debris, water evaporation, or outdoor sunlight to alter their chemicals. Although little maintenance such as vacuuming and adding chemicals are required, indoor pools can be much less of a hassle. Investing in a pool cover, water heater, or dehumidifying system makes your pool even cheaper to maintain.

In-Ground Pool Maintenance Cost

The average cost for in-ground pool maintenance is around $60 to $95 per hour, depending on the size of the pool. Inground pool maintenance involves balancing the chemicals, vacuuming, brushing the sides, skimming the debris, and cleaning out the traps and filters. All of these tasks should be completed weekly. Long-term inground pool maintenance involves opening/closing the pool and replacing system parts when required. Inground pool maintenance is essentially the same as an above-ground pool. Inground pools typically increase your home's property value by 7%, leading to increased property taxes.

Above-Ground Pool Maintenance Cost

You can expect to pay around the same price for above-ground pool maintenance as you would for inground pool maintenance. The cost averages $60 to $95 per hour. The process is essentially the same for both types of pools. Pool maintenance for an above-ground pool involves vacuuming, cleaning out the traps and filters, balancing the chemicals, and skimming debris from the surface. Because above-ground pools are smaller, most people tend to do these jobs themselves over hiring a company.

Chlorine Pool Maintenance Cost

A pool owner can expect to pay between $60 and $125 per hour to maintain a chlorine pool. The initial investment in a chlorine pool is quite low. However, the costs to maintain a chlorine pool are quite high. The most important part of chlorine pool maintenance is maintaining a correct balance of chlorine. Chlorine should be tested every other day and maintained at an ideal range of 1-3 ppm. Testing strips or water testers are used to test these levels. In addition to balancing the chlorine levels, other maintenance tasks such as vacuuming, cleaning the filters, and skimming should be carried out regularly. Chlorine pools will have to be shocked much more frequently compared to a saltwater pool.

Swimming Pool Maintenance by Material

Maintenance is a crucial component to pool ownership, ranging anywhere between $300 and $1,200. The cost of pool maintenance varies based on the type of pool material. You can expect to pay less for fiberglass pool maintenance compared to a concrete pool. The chart below highlights the three types of inground swimming pool materials with their respective maintenance costs, followed by a subsection explaining the type of maintenance involved and factors affecting the cost.

Fiberglass Pool Maintenance Cost

Fiberglass pools have the lowest maintenance costs compared to the other types of pools, ranging from $350 to $550 per year. They are very easy to maintain and do not require acid washes, replastering, yearly cleaning, or liner replacement. Their smooth, nonporous surfaces make their water chemistry very manageable and inhibit algae growth, requiring up to 70% fewer chemicals than a concrete pool to maintain. Fiberglass pools can maintain water in them all year-round and only require an annual check on the pumps and pipes during the cold temperatures. Regular pool maintenance such as cleaning out the skimmer, brushing, vacuuming, and chemical balancing is required for fiberglass pools. Additionally, maintenance will include resurfacing the gel coat interior every so often, depending on the quality of the fiberglass. Many fiberglass pool owners opt for their own maintenance because the process is very simple and not very time-consuming.

Vinyl Pool Maintenance

Vinyl pool maintenance costs are average compared to other types of material. In addition to the regular pool maintenance tasks of changing the filters, cleaning, and maintaining chemical balance, vinyl pools also require regular liner checks. Vinyl liners are known to weaken over time due to pool chemicals causing tears in the liner. The liner will need to be replaced approximately every five to nine years. Thinner liners may puncture and rip more quickly than thicker liners. Some rips can be repaired, but eventually, the liner needs to be replaced. Repairing a small hole or tear in the liner costs around $350 to $550. Regular vinyl pool maintenance costs average between $475 and $800 per year.

Concrete Pool Maintenance Cost

The cost of concrete pool maintenance is influenced by the nature of the material, averaging $450 to $1,200 per year. While they are a good option, they require the most maintenance of the three types. Concrete pools require frequent chemical balancing, acid washing, vacuuming, and draining each winter. The rough, porous surface is known to collect and continually grow algae, requiring frequent sweeping with a pool brush. A large chunk of the maintenance cost goes to the chemicals involved in controlling the growth of algae and other levels in the pool.

Pool Maintenance Service Cost

The average pool maintenance service cost ranges between $90 and $270 for three summer months or $60 to $90 per hour. Most professional companies charge a per hour rate or a flat fee weekly, monthly, or annually. This cost is influenced by the size of the pool, type of pool, and material. Materials make up most pool service costs, including the pool parts, chemicals, cleaning equipment, and filters. Labor makes up the remaining percentage.

While pool maintenance is a job that you can do yourself, hiring a professional pool cleaning company has its benefits. Hiring a professional helps save money on long-term repairs and remodeling, gets the work done in less time, and reduces the danger involved with working with chemicals and equipment malfunction.

The type of pool maintenance varies based on a weekly, monthly, or annual basis. Weekly maintenance tasks include checking the chemical levels, cleaning the pool, and emptying the filter basket. Monthly tasks include cleaning pool parts, checking and chemically cleaning the filters, testing the water chemistry of chemicals, looking for leaks or cracks, lubricating fillings, and checking the equipment. Annual tasks include opening and closing procedures and replacing parts.

Pool Pump Maintenance

Pool pumps are an important component of a pool that keeps the water circulating. The pump pushes the water through the filter and spreads chlorine and other chemicals throughout the pool. Generally, pool pumps require very little maintenance. They typically are self-priming systems meaning that they can perform their function on their own. A few simple tasks can be done to keep the pump up and running efficiently, including regularly checking the strainer basket inside and inspecting the condition of the O-ring to ensure it is in good condition. If there are any issues with the O-ring or gasket, it will need to be replaced.

Pool Heater Maintenance

Some maintenance tasks keep a pool heater running efficiently. These tasks include keeping the space around the heater free from leaves, twigs, and debris and watching for rodents. Maintaining the pool chemistry ensures that the heater keeps performing properly. It is a good idea to read the manual that came with the pool heater for any additional maintenance tips. It is recommended to have the unit inspected each year before turning it on for the season. Inspections can be completed for an average cost of $150.

Pool Cleaning Cost

The average pool cleaning service cost ranges between $60 and $700, all depending on the type of pool cleaning. Cleaning is a big part of regular pool maintenance, but the cleaning process isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your pool’s ideal cleaning method depends on the materials that built it. There are several pool cleaning methods. The chart below highlights the different types of pool cleaning with their respective costs, followed by a subsection explaining each.

Cleaning Pool Filters

Regular cleaning of your pool filters keeps them in good condition and gives them a longer lifespan. You will know it is time to clean your filters when the pressure gauge hits 8 to 10 PSI, or you notice any issues with the filtration of your system. The type of cleaning required depends on the type of pool filter you have. You can expect to pay between $60 and $65 for regular filter cleaning.

Clean Pool Drain

Pool drain cleaning is a simple task that should be completed regularly. Pool drains tend to get clogged easily from leaves and debris and require immediate unclogging to ensure they continue functioning. This should be done regularly as long as the pool is open. Most companies include drain cleaning in the total cost of pool maintenance. The cost to clean the pool drain averages between $60 and $125, depending on the number of drains.

Pool Brushing

Brushing the floors and sides of your pool should be done at least once a week using a pool brush. Brushing helps to avoid algae build up and loosens dirt or debris on the walls of the pool. A pool brush is a simple tool designed of wire, stainless steel, or nylon bristles attached to a steel, alloy, or aluminum pole. The type of bristles used will be determined based on the type of pool you have. Professional companies charge between $80 and $90 per hour for pool brushing, with the average project taking one to four hours.

Pool Vacuuming

Pool vacuuming is the process of using a handheld or automatic vacuum to clean the pool. Vacuums connect to the pool skimmer system or dedicated suction line and can be moved manually or automatically around the pool to collect debris. The debris is then transferred to the pool’s filtration system. Vacuuming your pool takes anywhere from one hour or more, depending on the size of the pool. Professional companies charge between $80 and $90 per hour for pool vacuuming, with the average project taking one to four hours.

Chlorine Wash Pool Cost

A pool owner can expect to pay between $300 and $500 for a chlorine pool wash. A chlorine wash is a stronger form of cleaning compared to a regular drain. It is used to kill bacteria growing in the pool that is not restored by regular chemicals. Chlorine wash is applied to the walls of the pool, allowing everything to get disinfected and giving you the opportunity to start over with a fresh pool.

Swimming Pool Acid Wash Cost

Acid washing is the process of using a very strong acid, known as Muriatic Acid, to remove pool stains due to chlorine, algae, minerals, and dirt, costing between $350 and $550, depending on the size of your pool. During the process, the acid washes a thin layer of plaster off the surface of the pool, exposing a fresh, clean layer underneath. If you keep up with the maintenance of your pool, chances are you will only need to acid wash your pool every five to eight years. Acid washing is the strongest form of pool wash using harsh chemicals. If done too frequently, it can be harmful.

Winter Pool Cleaning

The cost of winter pool cleaning averages between $350 and $650, depending on the size of the pool. Winterizing a pool saves a ton of money on maintenance costs over the cold months and prepares the pool for freezing temperatures. During a winter pool cleaning process, the water pH is changed to 7.2 to 7.5, the water is lowered to approximately 18”, dirt and debris are removed, a brush and vacuum are used to remove algae or dirt, and the pool is covered. Pool equipment and features are also winterized during this process by removing all the water in them and plugging them up. Depending on the company, they may also put antifreeze through them to prevent any issues when the temperatures drop to freezing.

Pool Spring Cleaning

A pool spring cleaning involves getting the pool ready for the warmer months. The spring cleaning process involves opening up the pool, bringing the water level back up, and reinstalling plugs, lights, ladder, handrails. During this process, the pump is turned on and the pool is brushed, vacuumed, and shocked. You can expect to pay between $375 and $500 for a pool spring cleaning.

Cost to Drain and Clean Pool

The average cost to drain and clean a pool is between $500 and $700. Pool draining and cleaning is often the last resort, but sometimes it may be required to get your pool back to looking and functioning at its best. Draining and cleaning your pool is a multi-day process and is done if your pool is experiencing long-term algae staining, metal staining, substantial dirt flooring, or murky water. Professionals will usually conduct other cleaning methods before fully draining and cleaning the pool as it is expensive. The average cost to drain and clean a pool is between $500 and $700.

Cost of Pool Chemicals

Many different chemicals are required to maintain your pool and keep it running efficiently, ranging in cost between $10 and $80. These chemicals are used for different purposes and work together to create balanced pool chemistry so you can swim in peace. The type of chemicals required will depend on the type of pool you have, the condition, the size, and the use. The chart below lists the most common type of pool chemicals and their respective costs, followed by a subsection with an explanation of each chemical, its purpose in pool maintenance, and how/when a professional pool expert will use them.

Pool Oil Absorbing Sponge

Oil absorbing sponges range in cost between $10 and $30 and are suitable for use in all pools. An oil absorbing sponge collects contaminants in the pool that cause scum build up, such as suntan lotion, body oils, makeup, cosmetics, pollen, etc. They are used by placing them directly into the pool skimmer basket or letting it freely float around. It can be cleaned with laundry detergent. These pool sponges are very effective and can be used all the time.

Algaecide Price

Algaecide is a pool chemical that can kill algae or prevent it from growing in your pool, ranging in cost between $14 and $60, depending on the brand and type. Algaecide is best used as algae preventative and does not change the pH balance of your pool. A professional will use algaecide in the pool after each shock treatment and when closing it down for the year. Algae grow in dark and humid temperatures. You don’t want any issues upon opening the pool. The amount of algaecide required depends on the number of gallons of water your pool holds.

Pool Metal Remover

Pools that source their water from a well are prone to developing metal stains due to the presence of metals, including silver, copper, iron, and manganese. These stains occur when chlorine is added into the water, oxidising these metals to produce stain colours. These stains may occur in different parts of the pool, including in the water, along the wall or bottom, along the liner or surface, or on the steps or other equipment. An effective way to remove metal stains is through the help of a pool metal remover. This can be added directly into the pool and works by removing metals through the filter, leaving your water clean and free of metals that can cause stains. You can expect to pay anywhere between $15 and $30 for a pool metal remover.

Pool Stain Remover

Even with daily pool maintenance, your pool can still end up with stains. The good news is these stains can be removed with the help of a pool stain remover. Before you purchase a stain remover, you need to determine the cause of the stain. The most common types of pool stains are organic or metal. Organic stains are from debris, leaves, or berries that have been sitting too long on the pool's surface. Metal stains can be from pipes, equipment, or rusted metal accessories. Many stain removers on the market can help remove these stains for $15 to $40.

Pool Chlorine Cost

Chlorine is the most commonly used chemical in treating a swimming pool, ranging between $15 and $80, depending on the brand, size of the bag, and type. Chlorine helps prevent bacteria and mineral buildup by its disinfecting (killing action). It oxidizes other materials such as dirt and chloramines and is used to lower pH levels. Chlorine comes in tablet, liquid, and granular form. Tablets are the easiest form for providing a constant supply of chlorine, whereas liquid and granular chlorine work best as shock treatments. Chlorine can also be generated through a chlorine generator or salt system that holds tablets or sticks and releases them slowly. Chlorine should be added daily or every other day, depending on the levels.

Pool Water Stabilizers

Pool stabilizer also referred to as pool conditioner, chlorine stabilizer, or cyanuric acid, is a chemical additive in either a liquid or granular form. The purpose of a water stabilizer is to stabilize the chlorine in your pool water so that the sanitizer lasts longer. It will help to keep the water cleaner for a longer time. It works by binding to chlorine ions, making them unaffected by the sun’s rays. Without a stabilizer, the sun breaks apart the ions and allows the chlorine to evaporate into the air. If you are using a combination product, there is no need to add extra stabilizer. A stabilizer costs around $20 to $30.

Pool Water Clarifier

Pool clarifier is used to clear cloudy water. This chemical substance can be added to your water and acts to condense tiny particles and bacteria in the pool into larger clumps that the filter can pick up. These tiny particles are so minute that they are too small to be picked up by the filter on their own. A pool clarifier is used by professionals when the pool is showing signs of cloudiness. It may take two to three days to take effect before your pool is completely clear, depending on the severity of the cloudiness. You can expect to pay between $20 and $30 for a pool water clarifier.

Pool Shock Prices

A pool owner will pay approximately $25 to $50 for a pool shock. Shocking involves adding chlorine or non-chlorine chemicals into the pool to raise the “free chlorine level” where algae, chlorine, and bacteria are destroyed. A pool should be shocked when algae begin to grow, the free chlorine level in the pool reaches zero, and when the chloramines or combined chlorine level rises above 0.5 ppm. A pool shock helps to shock the pool back in line to where the chemicals should be.

Bromine Cost

Bromine is a sanitizer often known to be used as an alternative to chlorine, ranging in cost between $30 and $50. Bromine can be found in a tablet, granular, stick, or liquid sanitation product diluted for safe handling and better performance. Compared to chlorine, bromine is more expensive but said to be more effective at killing algae and bacteria. It is considered to be softer on swimmers than chlorine.

Cost To Open and Close a Pool

In addition to regular monthly maintenance costs, you should also consider the cost of opening and closing your pool, which ranges from $100 to $350 for opening and $175 to $300 for closing. When temperatures drop below 65°F, closing your pool protects it from debris and contaminants while you’re not using it. Of course, if you close your pool, you’ll have to open it back up again once the weather gets warm enough for swimming. While your pool is closed, you won’t have to pay for monthly maintenance.

The table below highlights the average cost of opening and closing the pool based on whether the pool has no cover, mesh cover, or solid cover. The opening of a pool involves skimming away the debris, checking the fittings and filters, vacuuming/brushing the pool, and adding chemicals. The closing of a pool includes lubricating the equipment, clearing the plumbing, removing ladders, diving boards and skimmers, adding some chemicals, and installing the cover.

Pool Inspection Cost

The average cost of a pool inspection ranges between $100 and $200 depending on the duration of the visit. Whether you are purchasing a home with a pool or simply wanting a review of your current pool, professional companies offer pool inspections to provide pool owners with a clear picture of the condition of the swimming pool. A pool inspection involves a thorough review of the present condition of the pool, including the presence of any safety issues, testing of the heating and cleaning equipment, and recommended repairs.

Pool Water Testing

Testing your pool water is essential to your pool's health. Testing your pool water informs you what the chemical levels are or if there are any undesirable substances in it. It gives you the information required to decide what chemicals need to be put into the water to create a safe swimming environment. When professionals test the pool water, they also test for calcium and sanitizer levels. The process of testing the water is done using a testing kit. Professionals will use strips or a digital reader to give them accurate readings of the pool levels. The cost of professional pool water testing is between $20 and $40 per test.

Swimming Pool Health Risks

The World Health Organization (WHO) has published a report on recreational swimming pool maintenance. WHO recommends daily and weekly treatment of swimming pools to avoid many different health risks that can be associated with pools. Standing water, such as a swimming pool, can become the breeding ground for several different bacteria, viruses, and pathogens. People with lowered immune systems, children, and the elderly are at particularly high risk of contracting serious illnesses through the use of an unmaintained swimming pool. These pathogens can become introduced to the water through many different sources, including fecal matter, insects, rodents and pests, groundwater runoff, and users who may already be ill. Once introduced into the water, pool heaters encourage the growth of these pathogens along with other organisms such as algae until the pool becomes unsafe to enter. Proper filtering and chemical maintenance can prevent these issues from occurring and keep your pool safe for use.

Swimming Pool Water Levels

Pools tend to lose water at a rate of approximately ¼ per day. A pool can lose water due to evaporation and also from people splashing and getting in and out. Maintaining the water level is critical in that it can ruin the pump if it falls below the skimmer baskets. The water level should be checked every time there is maintenance done on the pool. A simple way to ensure that the water is at the right level is to install a pool lever reader with an auto-open and shut-off valve that can be attached directly to your garden hose. This reader will cost as little as $12. Having a pool can increase your water bill by approximately $3 to $20 per month. This cost can vary based on location, size of the pool, and whether the pool is always covered, the amount of wind, sun, and humidity the pool receives.

Pool Electricity Costs

Pool owners can expect to pay anywhere between $360 and $3,000 annually for pool electricity costs. Most pool owners see around a 30% to 50% increase in their electric bills every season. Pools consume around 2,000 to 3,000 kilowatt hours of electricity every year. The cost of electricity is highly dependent on the type of filter you have, whether there are lights in the pool, and if there is a heater. A newer two-speed pump/filter system operates at a reduced horsepower, lessening the energy consumption to $30 to $50 per month to run. For pools with an older pump/filter system that may still have a one-speed pump, you can expect to pay between $75 and $150 per month due to higher horsepower and more energy costs. To heat your pool, expect to spend even more. The average cost to run a heat pump is between $50 and $250 per month.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Cost of Automatic Pool Cleaner

You can expect to pay around $600 for an automatic pool cleaner. These cleaners are easy to use and operate and can save you time cleaning the pool manually. Automatic cleaners can be set in the pool and turned on for hours without having to monitor them. They do the same job as a manual vacuum, cleaning the debris and dirt from the bottom and sides of the pool.

Winterizing Your Pool

Winterizing your pool at the end of the season involves draining the pool, clearing the pipes, cleaning it, fitting the pump and filter for winter, and putting on a cover. These steps help prepare your pool for freezing temperatures. Depending on the company, they may also put in antifreeze to prevent any issues when the temperatures drop to freezing. The cost to winterize your pool typically ranges between $150 and $300. A professional company will perform this service in two or more visits due to the water being shocked several days before closing. If you live in a climate that experiences freezing temperatures, closing your pool should be done before the first snowfall to avoid any issues due to freezing. Winterizing is different from closing your pool, as winterizing is the finale of the pool season. During winterizing, the pool is prepared to be unused for several months.

Pool Leak Repair Cost

The average cost to repair a pool leak ranges between $500 and $3,500, with most homeowners paying around $900. Pool leaks are a sign of a problem, and many of these problems can become worse over time. Many problems can lead to a leak, including a crack in the concrete, a tear in the liner, or an equipment failure. Due to the many problems that can occur, there is a big difference in leak repair costs.

Cost to Drain Pool

The average cost to drain a pool is around $175. Likely, your pool will never need to be drained, especially for cleaning. There are only a few reasons why a pool will need to be drained: to make a repair that cannot be completed underwater, to wash the pool with chlorine or acid, or to balance the number of dissolved solids in the water. In extreme cases where a chlorine or acid wash is required to restore your pool, a professional will only drain enough water to reach the parts that need to be cleaned.

Cost to Fill a Pool

Depending on your location, you can expect to pay anywhere between $4 and $10 per gallon to fill your swimming pool. The size of your pool determines the number of gallons of water needed. Smaller pools only need a few thousand gallons of water compared to larger pools that can take up 30,000 gallons. Typically pool owners fill a pool after initial installation and when re-opening from the winter season.

Cost to Replace Pool Filter

Replacing a pool filter may cost less than a new installation, ranging between $150 and $1,500, depending on the type of filter and replacement being made. You may only need to replace certain parts of the system, such as the filtration gasket, which will cost a lot less than a full replacement. You may also want to upgrade the filter system to a better or newer system, which can be more expensive. It is critical to keep your pool filter running efficiently to keep your pool in a pristine condition at all times and minimize any problems that could arise.

Pool Cover Cost

You can expect to pay around $50 to $80 for materials for a mesh winter cover or around $150 to $600 for a heavy-duty winter cover. Regardless of whether you choose to close your pool yourself or hire a professional, you must have a pool cover. Pool covers work as a barrier against insects, debris, leaves, and other items from floating in the water. Uncovered pools can quickly fill with debris, becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. A good winter cover prevents this and can make your pool opening a breeze.