Swimming is a beloved pastime in Australia, especially during the warmer months. Keeping pools clean and well-maintained can have a noticeable impact on energy bills, particularly when using pool pumps.
How much does it cost to run a pool pump?
The average pool pump will cost between 16c and 51c per hour to run, based on an electricity usage rate of 24.9c/kWh. This means if you run your pool for six hours per day over summer (90 days), it’ll add between $88.65 and $277.34 to your energy bills. Many factors contribute to pool pump running costs, including your usage rate, the size of your pool, how long you run your pool pump for, the filter type and the flow rate (litres per minute).
Pool pump running costs
The table below shows the costs of running a pool pump for six hours a day over a 90-day summer period.
| Pool volume | Flow rate* (litres per minute) | Average hourly usage (watts) | Summer electricity cost (used 6hrs/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34KL to 54KL | 100 to 150L/m | 513 | $69.30 |
| 55KL to 72KL | 150 to 200L/m | 573 | $77.40 |
| 73KL to 90KL | 200 to 250 L/m | 738 | $99.00 |
| 91KL to 108KL | 250 to 300 L/m | 906 | $121.50 |
| Over 109KL | Over 300 L/m | 1,605 | $216.00 |
Source: www.canstarblue.com.au – 25/09/2024. Average electricity usage rate of 32.0c/kWh is based on single-rate, non-solar only plans on Canstar’s database, available for an annual usage of 4,373 kWh. Average energy consumption figures based on a selection of 17 residential pool pumps from four manufacturers. *Based on the flow rate required to pump the applicable pool volume in six hours.
Pool pump hourly power consumption costs
Here are the average hourly running costs for pool pumps. Using the example of a pool size of 34KL to 54KL, running a pool pump for six hours a day will add approximately $357.70 to your annual power bill.
| Pool volume/Flow rate | Flow rate* (Litres per minute) | 1 hour use | 4 hours use | 6 hours use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 34KL to 54KL | 100 to 150L/m | $0.16 | $0.66 | $0.98 |
| 55KL to 72KL | 150 to 200L/m | $0.18 | $0.73 | $1.10 |
| 73KL to 90KL | 200 to 250L/m | $0.24 | $0.94 | $1.42 |
| 91KL to 108KL | 250 to 300L/m | $0.29 | $1.16 | $1.74 |
| Over 109K | Over 300 L/m | $0.51 | $2.06 | $3.08 |
Source: www.canstarblue.com.au – 25/09/2024. Average electricity usage rates based on single-rate, non-solar only plans on Canstar’s database, available for the reference usage rate for each distributor that services the capital cities (per VDO for Vic, and AER for others), with the exception of Hobart, which is based on the median usage from the Office of the Tasmanian Regulator (2022). Average energy consumption figures based on a selection of 17 residential pool pumps from four manufacturers. *Based on the flow rate required to pump the applicable pool volume in six hours.
Pool pump running costs per state and tariff
The following table shows the average summer costs (90 days) of using a pool pump for six hours a day. Figures are calculated across each state and tariff type for a 34-54 KL pool.
| State | Single rate | Controlled load 1 | Controlled load 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | $93.91 | $50.69 | $51.53 |
| Melbourne | $67.59 | $51.25 | N/A* |
| Brisbane | $90.59 | $59.28 | $61.22 |
| Adelaide | $121.89 | $67.59 | $N/A* |
| Tasmania | $77.29 | $50.97 | $52.08 |
| Canberra | $78.95 | $51.53 | $53.19 |
Source: www.canstarblue.com.au – 25/09/2024. Average electricity usage rates based on single-rate, non-solar only plans on Canstar’s database, available for the reference usage rate for each distributor that services the capital cities (per VDO for Vic, and AER for others), with the exception of Hobart, which is based on the median usage from the Office of the Tasmanian Regulator (2022). Average energy consumption figures based on a selection of 17 residential pool pumps from four manufacturers. *Based on the flow rate required to pump the applicable pool volume in six hours.
Compare cheap energy deals
Here are some of the cheapest published deals from the retailers on our database that include a link to the retailer’s website for further details. These are products from referral partners†. These costs are based on the Ausgrid network in Sydney but prices may vary depending on your circumstances. This comparison assumes general energy usage of 3900kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Please use our comparison tool for a specific comparison in your area. Our database may not cover all deals in your area. As always, check all details of any plan directly with the retailer before making a purchase decision.
Here are some of the cheapest published deals from the retailers on our database that include a link to the retailer’s website for further details. These are products from referral partners†. These costs are based on the Citipower network in Melbourne but prices may vary depending on your circumstances. This comparison assumes general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Please use our comparison tool for a specific comparison in your area. Our database may not cover all deals in your area. As always, check all details of any plan directly with the retailer before making a purchase decision.
Here are some of the cheapest published deals from the retailers on our database that include a link to the retailer’s website for further details. These are products from referral partners†. These costs are based on the Energex network in Brisbane but prices may vary depending on your circumstances. This comparison assumes general energy usage of 4600kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Please use our comparison tool for a specific comparison in your area. Our database may not cover all deals in your area. As always, check all details of any plan directly with the retailer before making a purchase decision.
Here are some of the cheapest published deals from the retailers on our database that include a link to the retailer’s website for further details. These are products from referral partners†. These costs are based on the SA Power network in Adelaide but prices may vary depending on your circumstances. This comparison assumes general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Please use our comparison tool for a specific comparison in your area. Our database may not cover all deals in your area. As always, check all details of any plan directly with the retailer before making a purchase decision.
Is it cheaper to run a pool pump at night?
Running a pool pump at night will only be cheaper if you’re connected to a time of use tariff where off-peak rates are usually charged overnight. Most pool pumps will be connected to a controlled load tariff whereby it is metered separately (normally at a lower rate) to the rest of your property.
If your pool pump is on a single rate tariff it will be charged the same rate no matter what time of day it is. Depending on the state, there may be two types of controlled load tariffs. Your electricity distributor is responsible for choosing which hours power is supplied, which is typically around eight to 18 hours a day during non-peak energy demand periods.
Which pool pump is cheapest to run?
Pool pumps come in all different shapes and sizes, so working out which type is cheapest to run can be pretty challenging. Here are the different types of pump pumps to provide a general power consumption guide:
- Single speed: This type of pump is generally the most affordable to buy outright, but the most expensive to run, as it only operates on one speed.
- Dual speed: Two different speeds with varying outputs, meaning lower speeds use less energy but usually take more time to run.
Multiple/variable speed: These pumps allow users to adjust and control the speed as they like, making them more affordable to run.
How much energy does a swimming pool use?
The typical Australian swimming pool holds between 40,000 and 50,000 litres of water. As a result, running and keeping them clean can be a costly exercise.
Heating costs
Heated swimming pools can significantly increase your energy costs. Gas pool heating, for instance, can be quite expensive to operate per hour. In contrast, solar heating offers a more budget-friendly option, running at a more manageable price.
Water evaporation costs
You may have noticed that your pool water level is lower after a hot day. This is due to water evaporation, which requires you to top up your pool to replenish the lost water. While evaporation may seem harmless, every time you top up your pool, you’re adding to your water bill, which ultimately leads to more dollars on your energy bill. Evaporation can also affect your pool heater, making it work harder for poorer results, and therefore adding more to your energy bill. Things that affect evaporation rates are:
- Surface area of the pool: Larger surface equals more evaporation.
- Air temperature and humidity: Hot and dry air can mean more evaporation.
- Wind levels: A windy area will have faster evaporation rates due to the wind creating its own microclimate just above the surface of the water.
- The amount of people using your pool: Bodies in the pool affect the microclimate in the air above the pool.
Chlorinators
Chlorination is more than just placing a bag of chlorine into the pool and calling it a day. Nowadays, there are pumps to cycle around the chlorine, which is necessary to kill bacteria and maintain the water quality in the pool. Chlorination systems require a fairly in-depth process to sanitise the water. While not a major culprit in the power stakes, salt chlorinators can often cost up to 6c an hour to run according to Direct Pool Supplies.
How to reduce swimming pool energy costs
There are number of ways you can reduce your swimming pool energy costs:
- Use an energy-efficient pool pump. You should opt for a model with a high energy rating and should consider pumps with adjustable speeds.
- Adjust your pump’s filtration cycles to run for fewer hours each day.
- Ensure regular maintenance of your pool. Cleaning skimmer baskets and filters should ensure smooth water flow, reducing strain on your pool pump and preventing costly repairs.
- Manage your pool heating. Heated pools often consume significantly more energy, so ensure you only heat the pool when absolutely necessary.
- Consider solar pool heating systems. While this does require a large upfront investment, solar heating systems offer a sustainable solution and reduce your reliance on mains power.
- Use a pool cover. This should prevent evaporation and retain heat in the winter. It can also reduce the need for water top-ups and chemical rebalancing.
How many hours a day should you run your pool pump?
A pool pump will typically run for between six and eight hours a day, but this will depend on how long it takes to circulate, clean and filter the water. The size of the pool and type of pump will also impact how many hours it will take to run.
It’s important to note that pool pumps may take longer to run in summer compared to winter, as seasonal factors come into play, like climate and foliage in the pool. Finally, how much activity your pool gets, and if you have a pool cover can also affect the time it takes to properly clean.
The final word on pool pump power consumption
A pool pump is one of the most energy-draining appliances in the home, so it’s worth knowing how much you’re paying to run your pool efficiently. This guide should give you a rough estimate as to what you can expect to pay on top of your annual power bills. If you’re thinking about upgrading to a more energy-efficient pool pump or buying a property with a pool, make sure you take into account what you’re currently paying for electricity usage. If you’re in the market for a new energy distributor, check out Canstar Blue’s best-rated gas and electricity providers below.
Image credits: dvoevnore/Shutterstock.com, B Ledger/Shutterstock.com
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