Owning a swimming pool is a luxury, but it also comes with ongoing costs. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the water clean, safe, and chemically balanced. The cost of pool maintenance depends on several factors, including the type of pool, size, location, and whether you handle the cleaning yourself or hire a professional service. In this guide, we’ll break down pool maintenance costs so you know what to expect and how to save money.
What Affects Pool Maintenance Costs?
Several factors influence how much you’ll spend on maintaining your pool. These include:
- Pool Type & Size – Larger pools require more chemicals, water, and time to clean, increasing maintenance costs.
- Cleaning Frequency – Pools that are cleaned more often stay in better condition but also cost more to maintain.
- Location & Climate – Pools in warmer climates require more frequent maintenance due to faster algae growth and evaporation.
- Type of Filtration System – Sand, cartridge, and DE (diatomaceous earth) filters have different maintenance needs and costs.
- DIY vs. Professional Service – Handling pool cleaning yourself can save money but requires time, effort, and the right tools.
- Saltwater vs. Chlorine Pool – Saltwater pools have higher upfront costs but may require less maintenance in the long run.
- Repairs & Unexpected Costs – Pool equipment can break down, and repairs can add up over time.
Average Monthly and Yearly Pool Maintenance Costs
Pool maintenance costs vary based on how often you clean your pool and whether you hire a professional. Below is a general estimate of what you can expect to pay:
- Monthly Cost: $80 – $150 for DIY; $150 – $400 for professional service
- Yearly Cost: $960 – $1,800 for DIY; $1,800 – $4,800 for professional service
These costs include basic pool cleaning, water testing, chemicals, and routine maintenance. However, unexpected repairs and additional services can increase overall expenses.
How Much for Weekly Pool Maintenance?
If you want your pool cleaned every week, here’s what you’ll typically pay:
- DIY Weekly Maintenance: $20 – $50 (for chemicals and supplies)
- Professional Weekly Service: $80 – $120 per visit
While hiring a professional service is more expensive, it saves time and ensures your pool stays in top condition.
Monthly Pool Cleaning Costs Explained
Monthly maintenance includes tasks such as vacuuming, skimming, checking chemical levels, and cleaning the pool filter. DIY cleaning can cost between $80 and $150 per month, while professional services range from $150 to $400 per month.
Yearly Pool Maintenance—Is It Worth It?
Over a year, pool maintenance costs can add up. Many pool owners spend between $1,000 and $4,800 per year on maintenance. While it may seem expensive, regular upkeep prevents bigger issues that could lead to even costlier repairs.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pool Cleaning Service—Which One Saves More?
- DIY Cleaning – Saves money but requires time and effort. Expect to spend around $960 – $1,800 per year on supplies.
- Professional Service – More expensive but convenient. Annual costs range from $1,800 – $4,800.
If you enjoy maintaining your pool and have time, DIY cleaning can save money. However, a professional service ensures thorough cleaning and chemical balance.
Cost of Pool Chemicals & Supplies
Maintaining the correct chemical balance is crucial for keeping your pool water clean and safe. Here are some common pool chemicals and their estimated costs:
- Chlorine – $8 – $70 per month
- pH Balancers (pH Increaser & Decreaser) – $10 – $50 per month
- Algaecides – $15 – $50 per month
- Shock Treatment – $10 – $40 per treatment
- Salt (for saltwater pools) – $20 – $40 per bag (needed every few weeks)
On average, expect to spend $300 – $1,000 per year on pool chemicals alone.
Chlorine vs. Saltwater—Which One Costs Less?
- Chlorine Pools – More affordable upfront, but ongoing chemical costs can be high (around $300 – $800 per year).
- Saltwater Pools – Higher initial installation cost, but lower annual chemical costs ($70 – $400 per year).
If you’re looking for long-term savings, a saltwater pool may be the better option. However, chlorine pools are easier to maintain and don’t require specialized equipment.
Must-Have Pool Cleaning Tools and Their Prices
Keeping your pool clean requires the right tools. Here are some essentials and their costs:
- Pool Skimmer – $20 – $50
- Pool Vacuum – $200 – $1,000 (manual and robotic options)
- Pool Brush – $15 – $40
- Water Testing Kit – $10 – $80
- Filter Cleaner – $10 – $30
- Telescopic Pole – $20 – $80
Investing in high-quality tools can make pool maintenance easier and more effective.
Pool Repairs & Extra Costs to Expect
Even with regular maintenance, pools may need repairs. Here are common repair costs:
- Pump Replacement – $500 – $1,500
- Filter Replacement – $200 – $1,000
- Heater Repair/Replacement – $300 – $3,500
- Tile Repairs – $800 – $3,000
- Leak Detection & Repair – $100 – $2,500
Planning for unexpected repairs can help prevent financial surprises.
How to Save Money on Pool Maintenance
If you want to reduce pool maintenance costs, try these tips:
- Do It Yourself – Learn basic pool maintenance to save on professional fees.
- Buy Chemicals in Bulk – Purchasing pool chemicals in bulk can lower costs.
- Invest in a Pool Cover – Reduces evaporation and debris, lowering chemical and cleaning costs.
- Regularly Clean the Filter – A clean filter extends the life of your pool equipment.
- Use Energy-Efficient Equipment – Variable-speed pumps and LED pool lights help reduce electricity costs.
How Much for Weekly Pool Maintenance?
If you opt for weekly maintenance, expect to pay:
- $20 – $50 per week if you do it yourself
- $80 – $120 per visit for professional cleaning
DIY vs. Hiring a Pool Cleaning Service—Which One Saves More?
DIY cleaning can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars per year, but it requires time and effort. Hiring a professional service is convenient but more expensive. If you’re comfortable handling pool maintenance yourself, DIY is the more budget-friendly option.
The Bottom Line
Pool maintenance costs vary depending on factors like pool size, location, and cleaning frequency. On average, expect to spend between $1,000 and $4,800 per year on pool maintenance. While DIY cleaning can save money, hiring a professional ensures thorough and consistent upkeep.
To keep costs low, invest in the right cleaning tools, maintain proper chemical balance, and perform regular inspections. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, maintaining your pool properly will extend its lifespan and keep your swimming experience enjoyable.
