Owning a pool in Wisconsin is a treat, but it can also come with some hefty operational costs if you aren’t careful. The good news? By choosing the right equipment and keeping things well maintained, you can keep your pool running efficiently without breaking the bank. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you lower your pool costs with efficient, reliable equipment.
Assessing Your Pool’s Current Equipment and Needs
Before making any changes, take a good look at what you already have. Is your pump over ten years old? Are the filter and heater still working like they should, or are they costing you more in repairs and energy use every season? Walk around your pool equipment area and check for leaks, rust, loud humming, or anything that just doesn’t look right. Sometimes, just tightening a few fittings or cleaning a clogged filter can improve efficiency right away.
It’s also worth considering how you actually use your pool. Maybe you only swim on weekends, or perhaps your pool sits idle during much of the spring and fall. Understanding your habits helps you pick equipment and settings that match your real needs, not just the “maximum” settings. This step prevents you from overspending on oversized pumps or unnecessary features.
Choosing Energy-Efficient Pumps, Heaters, and Filters
When it’s time to replace old equipment, look for Energy Star-rated or variable-speed pumps. These pumps use much less electricity than older single-speed models, and they can be programmed to run slower during off-peak times. For a typical Wisconsin 20,000-gallon pool, swapping out an old single-speed pump for a variable-speed model can save hundreds of dollars per year.
Heaters are another major expense, especially with our chilly spring and fall nights. Modern gas and heat pump heaters offer much higher efficiency—sometimes up to 95% for certain models. If you’re mostly just extending your swim season by a few weeks, consider a solar cover to hold in the heat and reduce run time for your heater. For filters, cartridge systems generally require less energy to circulate and less water for cleaning compared to sand filters, making them a solid choice for savings.
Installing Automation for Smarter Pool Operation
Automation systems aren’t just about convenience—they can actually save you money. By installing a simple pool timer or a smart controller, you ensure your pump, heater, and lights only run when needed. For example, set your pump to run at lower speed overnight or schedule your heater to only kick on before you plan to swim.
There are also systems that monitor water chemistry and automatically dose chemicals. These can prevent overuse of chlorine and reduce the need for corrective treatments, saving both chemicals and cash. Even basic automation cuts down on wasted energy and wear on your equipment, and you don’t need a high-end system to see real benefits.
Maintaining Equipment for Long-Term Cost Savings
Efficient equipment only saves you money if it’s running properly. Make a habit of backwashing your filter when needed, emptying pump baskets, and checking for leaks or odd noises. Cleaning your heat exchanger and lubricating pump parts each season can help expensive components last years longer.
Don’t forget about water chemistry: properly balanced water means less scaling, corrosion, and buildup inside your equipment. That adds up to longer lifespans for heaters and filters and fewer surprises down the line. A little regular attention—like replacing worn O-rings or inspecting electrical connections—prevents small issues from turning into big, costly fixes.
Lowering your pool costs is really about making smart choices and staying on top of maintenance. By upgrading to efficient, reliable equipment and using a bit of modern automation, you’ll keep your pool comfortable and your expenses in check. With these practical steps, you can enjoy all the benefits of pool ownership without sweating the bills.
