How Much Does Pool Maintenance Cost?

Spending for a swimming pool does not end in installation, the cost to maintain a pool should always be factored in if you want your swimming pool to be a presentable, safe, and sanitary area. Ultimately, proper pool maintenance will save money in repairs and deep cleaning in the long run.

Australians spend around $600 to $1500 in pool maintenance costs every year, this includes labour, cleaning, and replacement of parts such as the pool pump or filtration system if necessary. On labour costs, a pool maintenance company will charge around $100 per hour.

Breakdown of Pool Maintenance Costs

The one-time cost for pool maintenance service in Australia is $65 to $95. The pool service cost depends on what size and type of pool you have – whether fibreglass, concrete or vinyl.

Although the recommendation is to have your pool serviced every 4 weeks, the frequency still largely depends on several factors, like how often the pool is used, weather, and the condition of your pool pumps and filters.

A regular pool maintenance job includes the following tasks:

• Test water PH – $110 to $200
• Check filters and filter cleaning – $110 to $200
• Brushing – $125 to $200
• Empty traps & baskets – $125 to $200
• Check robotic cleaners – $125 to $200
• Vacuum – $125 to $200
• Skim – $200

Maintenance Cost Comparison: Above-Ground vs In-Ground

Above-ground pools are mostly smaller in size, are easier to access and therefore have generally lower pool maintenance costs, especially when it comes to cleaning. The cost for cleaning an above-ground pool is about $80, while in-ground pool cleaning costs about $100.

Replacement parts for both in-ground and above-ground pools are the same, so the cost for these are also the same. Here are some estimates on common pool parts that need to be replaced from time to time:

• Pool pump – up to $100
• Solar pump – up to $500
• LED lights – around $300
• Heater costs:
  • Gas heater – $3000
  • Solar heater – $3800
  • Electric heater – $4500 to $6000

Indoor Pool Maintenance Cost

Maintenance fees for an indoor pool are generally lower than outdoor pools since having an indoor pool eliminates the negative effects of outdoor weather, dirt, and hazards. The average cost is $65 for a one-time pool maintenance service.

Indoor pool maintenance will take less time, effort, and energy. It takes less time to clean because you don’t have to deal with outdoor dirt and debris. And because of this, you won’t have to run your filter for as long as an outdoor pool filter. You also use fewer chemicals because the sunlight won’t interfere with their effectiveness, unlike the usual outdoor pool.

To keep your indoor pool in tiptop shape, we recommend you invest in the following pool accessories:

• Automatic pool cover (to control water evaporation) – $4800 or higher
• Water heater – about $340
• Dehumidifying system – about $20,000

How Much Does Electricity Cost per Month?

An average-sized swimming pool will cost about $70 per month in energy costs. These costs including basic filtering and maintenance, but does not include heating.

Gas heaters cost between $4 to $7 per hour to run, while solar heaters are cheaper at $0.18 per hour.

As a general rule, your backyard swimming pool should account for about 17% of your total electricity bill.

How Much Does Water Bill Cost per Month?

An average-sized swimming pool takes thousands of gallons of water to fill. You should expect an additional $100 to $150 on your water bill for maintaining a swimming pool filled with water.

Summer months will generally result in a higher water bill because of faster water evaporation and more frequent usage of your swimming pool. During summer, expect more than $150 added on top of your regular water charges.

Hiring a Pool Maintenance Service

Consider your residential swimming pool an investment that will keep the value of your home at a competitive rate. This is why hiring a professional pool maintenance service is essential to preserving the beauty of your swimming pool.

When looking for professional pool maintenance, it is best to look at their track record in delivering their service. Are they competent, efficient, and easy to work with? Asking for recommendations from family and friends is a good way to help you find the professional pool maintenance to hire. However, if this is not doable then checking online is your next best bet.

HIREtrades is an excellent resource of professional pool cleaners located all over Australia. The HIREtrades network has a large database with professional and experienced tradies willing to work with you on the job. By posting your pool maintenance requirements on the HIREtrades app, we can connect you with a long list of pool maintenance companies and you can choose the one most conveniently located near you.