Don’t be Frugal on Pool Care: 7 Money-Saving Tips for a Healthy, Sparkling Pool

If you own a pool, you know it’s a luxury that requires a little TLC.

While you might be tempted to cut corners on pool care to save some cash, skipping out on maintenance can lead to costly repairs and a less-than-ideal swimming experience. But don’t worry, keeping your pool in great shape doesn’t mean you have to drain your wallet. Here are 7 money-saving tips to ensure your pool stays in tip-top shape without breaking the bank!

1. Regularly Clean Your Pool (The Right Way)

It’s easy to let debris pile up in your pool, but regular cleaning is key to maintaining water quality and preventing long-term damage. Skim the surface daily to remove leaves and debris, brush the walls twice a week to prevent algae buildup. Vacuum the pool on a weekly basis to remove any debris from the bottom of the pool.  A clean pool means your filter doesn’t have to work overtime, saving you energy costs and preventing the need for expensive chemical treatments down the line.

2. Balance Your Pool’s Chemistry (and Save on Chemicals)

Proper water chemistry is crucial for both the health of your pool and your wallet. When your pool’s pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels are out of balance, you’ll need more chemicals to fix it, which can get pricey. Test your pool water regularly and adjust the chemical levels to keep everything in balance. Investing in a reliable pool test kit will save you money on extra chemicals by ensuring you’re only adding what’s necessary.

3. Use a Pool Cover During the Off-Season

Covering your pool during the winter season not only keeps it free of leaves but can also protect the liner from debris during a winter storm, saving you money on a liner replacement should a twig or branch cause a tear in the liner.  When pool season begins again, you’ll be ready to open it back up without the need for expensive repairs.

4. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Equipment

Energy-efficient pool equipment might cost a little more upfront, but it can save you big on your electricity bills. Consider upgrading your pump or heater to energy-efficient models. Variable-speed pumps, for example, use less power than traditional pumps and can significantly reduce your energy consumption. An efficient pool heater will also help lower those high heating costs during colder months.

5. Maintain Your Pool’s Water Level

Keeping your pool’s water level just right can save you a lot of trouble. If the water level drops too low, it could cause the pump to run dry and burn out, leading to costly repairs. On the other hand, an overfilled pool wastes water and increases your chemical costs. Make sure the water level is around the midpoint of your skimmer to ensure your pool is working as efficiently as possible.

6. Monitor Pool Leaks Early

Leaks can be sneaky, and they can quickly lead to big water waste and increased utility bills. If you notice that you’re constantly refilling your pool, or if you see water pooling around the base, it’s time to check for leaks. Fixing leaks early on is far more affordable than letting them continue and risking costly damage to your pool’s structure or equipment.  To help determine if you have a leak or if it is just evaporation, talk to us about “the bucket test”.

7. DIY Simple Repairs and Maintenance

Certain pool maintenance tasks can be done yourself to save money. For example, if your pool’s skimmer is clogged or the pool waterline needs a little scrub, these are easy fixes that don’t require hiring a professional. However, if you’re ever in doubt about a repair or maintenance task, don’t hesitate to call in a pro for a consultation—it’s better to spend a little on expert advice than to face a larger, more expensive problem down the road.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your pool doesn’t have to break the bank. By following these seven money-saving tips, you can keep your pool in great shape while minimizing the need for expensive repairs and maintenance. Regular cleaning, balancing the water chemistry, and investing in energy-efficient equipment will keep your pool running smoothly and save you money in the long run. So, don’t skimp on pool care—invest in the little things now, and enjoy a sparkling, healthy pool all season long!