How Much Does Pool Maintenance Cost?

Highlights

• The typical cost to maintain a pool is $80 to $1,050, with a national average pool maintenance cost of $270.
• Maintenance frequency and type, in addition to pool size, type and material, repairs, and labor, can all affect the overall cost of pool maintenance.
• Some reasons for a homeowner to opt for professional pool maintenance are improved water quality, water loss prevention, safety, and aesthetic appeal.
• Many pool owners do their own maintenance; however, hiring a professional can save time and energy. Some homeowners will do day-to-day maintenance themselves but leave more difficult or complex aspects like vacuuming or adding chemicals to the pros.

Before diving into the deep end, it’s important for homeowners to have all the facts about what to expect when maintaining a backyard pool. Maintenance may not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering how much it will cost to build a pool or the cost of an above-ground pool. But whether a homeowner is setting up a vinyl above-ground pool or installing a full inground concrete pool, keeping pool water clean and safe is a necessary step for enjoying a cool dip in the water on a hot afternoon. Daily cleaning routines are the best way to keep an eye on the pool water’s clarity and cleanliness, but it might be preferable for a homeowner to work with a pool service company to coordinate a monthly (or weekly) cleaning routine, too. 

So how much is pool maintenance? The costs can range between $80 and $1,050, with a national average of $270 for a complete pool cleaning service. For busy homeowners or pools that see a lot of use, professional pool cleaning is a great way to alleviate the tedious task of keeping the pool crystal clear.

Key Cost Factors

While the average swimming pool maintenance cost is $270, the frequency of pool maintenance will affect the total cost. Other factors like the size and type of swimming pool will also have a bearing on the price. Homeowners can tally up prices for the most common pool maintenance factors or refer to a pool maintenance cost calculator to get a general idea of pricing.

Maintenance Frequency

Yearly pool service costs are driven by the frequency of maintenance visits that are scheduled. Homeowners can generally expect to pay $20 to $50 per week for maintenance. Weekly pool maintenance typically costs less since the pool cleaners can keep up with the cleaning schedule and avoid water-quality challenges. Monthly pool maintenance costs $30 to $260, and annual pool maintenance costs anywhere between $960 and $1,800.

Maintenance Type

Pool service companies can handle any pool cleaning task, from skimming debris and vacuuming to repairing broken filters or pumps. Opening or closing a pool for the season is an additional cost not included in regular maintenance fees. The most basic cleaning package costs $30 to $95 per month (skimming, water testing, checking filters), and each additional service will increase the price.

Pool Size

Pool size can affect maintenance costs in two ways: the service may charge more for a larger pool, or the service may take longer, which will increase the hourly cost. In general, the rate for pool maintenance is about $75 to $100 per hour. A small 10-foot by 20-foot pool may only take 1 to 3 hours to maintain, whereas a large 20-foot by 40-foot pool can take up to 4 hours.

Pool Type

Different types of pools may have different maintenance needs, which can affect the overall cost. The cost of inground pool, chlorine pool, or above-ground pool maintenance is $50 to $100 per hour. Saltwater pool maintenance is the most expensive since steps must be taken to prevent metal features from becoming corroded.

Pool Material

Most pools are made of concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl. Concrete pools are the most expensive to maintain because they are prone to algae growth and must be vacuumed frequently. It’s not uncommon to find leaks in pools with vinyl liners, so the liner may need to be patched or replaced. Lastly, fiberglass pools are the cheapest and simplest material to maintain, only needing occasional resurfacing.

Chemicals

Maintaining the chemicals in a pool is more complex than occasionally adding chlorine. Algaecides, stabilizers, bromine, and other chemicals may be required for various purposes. Some pool types require different chemicals or amounts of chemicals than others. 

Repairs

Regular maintenance can help prevent most pool parts from breaking down completely. The cost to replace a filter is $13 to $700, depending on the type of filter. Replacing a pool pump motor typically costs $185 to $350. Vinyl pools sometimes spring leaks in their liners, so a pro can help repair swimming pool leaks for between $20 and $200. If a homeowner happens to have one of the best home warranties for pool coverage, such as one from Choice Home Warranty or American Home Shield, they may save on service or swimming pool repairs by filing a claim.

Labor

While chemicals and equipment make up most pool maintenance costs, the remainder of the cost is made up of labor fees. In some cases, a pool inspection may be necessary to determine if the liner is torn or needs to be replaced. A pool inspection costs about $125 to $250. Most pool maintenance companies charge $75 to $100 per hour, but that price varies by location, pool size, and type. Searching for “pool service near me” will bring up local companies who might have posted their fees online.

Types of Pool Maintenance Services

When budgeting for pool servicing, homeowners will want to keep in mind these other factors that influence the total price: opening and closing a pool seasonally, pump or heater maintenance, cleaning filters or drains, and more. Choosing how much pool maintenance to allow the pros to handle will affect the weekly or monthly pool maintenance price.

Acid Wash

For $350 to $550, this acid can be used to lower the pH balance of a pool, reduce mineral buildup, and prevent bacterial blooms. The acid wash will remove a thin layer of plaster to expose a fresh, clean layer that’s free of grime. Overuse of this chemical can be dangerous, so homeowners will want to use it with caution.

Brushing

Brushing a pool helps to get all the scum and grime off of the pool walls or floor. Vinyl or fiberglass pools need a soft brush, but a plaster or concrete pool needs a stiff brush. Brushing before vacuuming weekly is the best method to ensure the pool is free of any dirt or scum and costs approximately $80 to $360.

Chlorine Wash

If a storm, excessive heat, or a pool party disrupts the delicate balance of the pool water, regular chlorine treatments might not be enough to overcome the bacterial bloom. A chlorine wash is more potent than a chlorine shock treatment and costs $300 to $500 on average. It’s carefully applied to all the pool walls to help remove stubborn bacteria, viruses, and scum.

Drain and Clean

Sometimes draining and cleaning a pool is the only way to get it fully back to pristine condition. The best pool cleaning services typically charge $500 to $700 to drain and clean a pool, and the job usually takes several days. This is a relatively pricey service, but stubborn algae stains, significant floor dirt, and unresolved murky water usually indicate the need for a complete drain and clean.

Drain Cleaning 

Homeowners will want to make sure they keep pool drains free from debris like leaves, twigs, or hair so they don’t allow bacteria to grow in the pool, which eventually requires extra chemicals to treat. If the pool is open for use, drains will need to be regularly cleaned. The cost of pool drain cleaning ranges between $60 and $125, depending on how many drains the pool has.

Filter Cleaning

Homeowners will want to clean filters when the pressure gauge measures 8 to 10 psi (pounds per square inch) or when it looks like debris isn’t filtering out of the pool as well. The system may also need to be backwashed to clear the filter and water line. This task can be added to a monthly service if the pool is used frequently, or it can cost $60 to $65 as a stand-alone service.

Opening or Spring Cleaning

Outdoor pools in most regions are only used during the warmer months. Opening the pool for the season costs $375 to $500. If the pool was not appropriately winterized, a homeowner’s first thought upon opening it in the spring may be “Why is my pool green?” Homeowners can expect to pay more to thoroughly scrub and treat a bacteria-laden pool before jumping in.

Vacuuming

Using a pool vacuum weekly will get rid of any debris that isn’t skimmed or filtered out. A manual vacuum attached to long poles is sometimes used to reach the bottom of the pool, but automatic vacuums are also available. Basic vacuums cost only $80, but more powerful or automatic vacuums cost up to $360.

Winterization

Winterizing a pool is also necessary for most outdoor pools and costs $350 to $650 to complete. Over 1 or 2 days, the water will be shocked with chemicals and cleaned. Filters and pumps will be maintained, water lines and drains cleared, the water level lowered, and the pool securely covered.

Benefits of Pool Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to enjoying a safe and healthy swimming pool. It can also prevent issues like water loss, which are costly when unaddressed. Homeowners who don’t have an abundance of time on their hands may find a swimming pool maintenance service worth it.

Improved Water Quality 

Professionally maintained pools usually have the best water quality since professionals are equipped with more time and expertise than DIYers. While a homeowner is busy working or on vacation, a pro can keep an eye on the pool to make sure a sudden algae bloom doesn’t happen on their watch. This means it’s possible to jump into the pool anytime without having to wonder “Why is my pool cloudy?”

Water Loss Prevention

On average, a pool can lose around ¼ inch of water per day. This can become dangerous if the pool has a deep end for diving that gradually becomes shallower than expected. Additionally, if the water level drops below the skimmer basket intake tubes, the pump could be irreparably damaged. Pool service companies will make this concern a thing of the past by keeping levels topped off consistently.

Safety 

When they are poorly maintained, pools are the perfect breeding ground for all manner of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa. Letting professionals stay on top of the cleanliness and clarity of a pool means it will be free of these threats, and homeowners can stick to lounging and party planning.

Aesthetic Appeal 

Part of total inground pool costs include maintaining the pool deck. Less debris on the ground means less debris blowing into the pool. Once a pool is overwhelmed by debris or bacteria, it can be challenging to bring it back to a usable level. With a regular pool maintenance service, there is less time for dirt and debris to build up, meaning the pool area stays tidy and usable.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

Many pool owners choose to DIY pool maintenance on small pools or less permanent above-ground pools that only last a season or two. With less surface area to clean, it’s easier to stay on top of running the filter, testing the water, adding chemicals, and scrubbing the walls. If a pool is installed that uses saltwater-based chemicals to clean the pool, preventing mineral buildup may be challenging and time-consuming. Keeping bacteria levels to a minimum while avoiding an overabundance of chemicals can be a tricky balance to keep regular users safe. And while a homeowner may be willing to handle the daily tasks of skimming dead insects or leaves from the pool, vacuuming a 20-foot pool weekly may be more than they bargained for.

While it isn’t too difficult to learn how to maintain a pool, a common decision for pool owners is to handle the easy skimming and sweeping tasks independently while leaving the weekly or monthly tasks to a pro. Letting a qualified pool technician handle the chemical balance of the pool can bring some peace of mind that regular users can enjoy the pool safely. Pool technicians are also adept at handling those long-handled vacuums that reach the bottom of deep-end pools. With monthly inspections, they’ll also make sure the filters, drains, and pumps work optimally and replace them before they break down and upset the water quality.

How to Save Money

While the average cost to maintain a pool is $270, there are more ways to save on the cost of maintaining a pool than just DIY-ing as much as possible. Implementing any of the ideas below can help save on pool repairs and maintenance.

• Use a pool cover. A pool cover is the best way to keep debris from contaminating your pool. A solar cover can also double as a heater if one isn’t included in the pool. As a bonus, covering the pool when not in use prevents evaporation.
• Run your pump for only 8 hours per day. Though some homeowners prefer to run a pump for 24 hours, running it for 8 hours a day is usually sufficient and will save on energy costs.
• Install a variable speed pump. A variable speed pump can save up to 90 percent on energy costs over time—and may qualify for an energy rebate in some locations.
• Keep equipment and chemicals stored in a shed. Over time, UV rays can damage pool equipment like skimmers and vacuums. Storing equipment and chemicals properly prolongs their lifespan and safety.
• Buy in bulk. If you’re willing to handle your own testing and chemical balancing, buy your chemicals in bulk to save on volume pricing. Keep an eye on expiration dates as liquid chlorine shock lasts only a few months.
• Stay on top of pool cleaning. Regular prevention is the key to avoiding expensive treatments to correct a water quality problem.
• Lower the temperature. If you have a heated pool, running the heater only when in use or at a lower constant temperature can save on electrical costs.

Questions to Ask a Pro

When a homeowner is ready to talk to a pro about pool maintenance costs, asking the following questions of a pool maintenance company can help homeowners avoid miscommunication and understand expectations.

• Are you licensed and insured?
• What are your qualifications?
• Do you belong to any trade organizations?
• How long have you been in business?
• Do you have any outstanding litigation?
• How do you handle customer service?
• What services do you recommend for my pool?
• Do you offer seasonal pool maintenance services?
• How much do you charge for full-service visits compared to basic service visits?
• Do your technicians complete whichever tasks they think need to happen at each visit, or do they follow a specific task list?
• If I book weekly service visits, will you spot clean or do full service on each visit?
• What if I only want a few specific tasks done, as I plan to do the rest?
• Are your technicians qualified to repair broken parts?
• How can we protect my pool if I’m gone for a few weeks and I don’t want the pool serviced while I’m gone?
• Have you ever had any safety complaints due to poorly applied chemicals?
• Can I speak with a few customer referrals?

FAQs

Knowing as much as possible about the complexities of pool maintenance costs will help alleviate concerns and confusion. The following are some frequently asked questions about pool maintenance costs to help guide the budget planning.

Q. Is it expensive to maintain a pool?

There are associated costs with the maintenance of swimming pools that can’t be avoided. For general upkeep and supplies, swimming pool service costs $1,200 to $1,800 per year. On top of that, utility fees and potential repairs could average $3,000 to $5,000 per year. It’s estimated that homeowners spend an extra $300 per month on electricity and another $20 to $60 on water each month. Installing an efficient variable speed pump and lowering the temperature are quick ways to reduce the monthly costs.

Q. Do I need to clean my pool every day?

For outdoor pools, yes—to some degree. Daily skimming and debris removal should become a habit. Running the pump for 8 hours each day will also help to keep the pool cleaner longer. If the pool is used infrequently, then it may not require daily chemical testing and maintenance. Indoor pools require less maintenance overall.

Q. Is it enough to clean my pool once per week?

Most pools only require weekly cleaning unless they are used heavily throughout the week. In that case, brushing and vacuuming twice a week may be the best option to keep the walls of the pool clean. It’s important to also test the water quality more frequently if the pool is used a lot.

Q. What if I put too much chlorine in my pool?

If a pool happens to be over chlorinated, it’s important for homeowners to make sure to keep everyone out of the pool—including pets. Excessive chlorine can cause skin and eye problems and lung irritation, especially for those who have asthma. Beyond the personal health concerns, excess chlorine makes the pool acidic, which can corrode metal or plastic parts in the pool. A chlorine test is the only sure way to know if there is too much chlorine since it may not smell overwhelming. Homeowners can follow these steps to correct excessive chlorine in a pool:

If the test shows only slightly elevated levels, wait at least an hour before getting in the pool if the sun is out and can burn off some of the excess chemicals.
Make sure the pool is uncovered so that UV rays can burn off the chlorine.
Remove a chlorine floater or feeder if you’re using one.
Use a chlorine-neutralizing chemical according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you prefer not to work with additional chemicals or the sun isn’t getting the job done well enough, you can call a pro to correct the problem safely and quickly.

Q. What is the average lifespan of a pool?

Different types of pools have varying lifespans. Vinyl pools have the shortest lifespan of around 20 years, with liners needing replacement more frequently. Fiberglass pools last about 10 years longer, and concrete pools can last for up to 50 years when well maintained. 

Q. What is the easiest pool to maintain?

Fiberglass pools typically require the least maintenance. This is because they are less prone to algae growth than other materials and don’t need to be refinished. 

Sources: HomeAdvisor, Angi, Fixr, HomeGuide

 

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