Swimming pool maintenance is certainly one of the less exciting aspects of owning a pool, but it's an important one nonetheless. Caring for your pool can also be costly, especially when you consider the costs of pool chemicals and expenses related to running your pool equipment. Fortunately, there are some tips to consider that can help you cut back on those pesky pool maintenance costs and possibly save you some time and hassle in the process.
Upgrade Your Pump
If your pool has an older pump, you might want to consider upgrading it for a number of reasons. For starters, older pumps can be inefficient, thus running up your energy bills. They also may not be as effective, which can affect the filtration of your pool water and lead to more problems with chemical imbalances, algae growth, and the like. By spending a little money to upgrade your pool pump now, you could save on your energy costs over time while maintaining a cleaner pool.
Shut off Your Filter
Many pool owners will leave their filters running 24 hours a day, but did you know that you can (and should) shut off the filter overnight — especially when your pool is not being used? By running your pool filter just 12 hours a day instead of 24, you can easily cut your operating costs in half without making a significant difference in the cleanliness of your pool. You might even consider setting your filter up on a timer so it will turn on and off automatically.
Invest in a Pool Cover
A pool cover doesn't cost much to install but it can save you a lot of money over time. Not only does it keep debris out of your pool water (which can save you in pool chemical and cleaning costs), but it can also help to keep your pool a more comfortable temperature. In fact, purchasing a solar pool panel cover could help you avoid the need for a pool heater altogether, saving you even more money.
Consider Professional Services
While it may seem counter-intuitive to spend money on pool cleaning services when you're trying to save money, you may be surprised at what a great value these services can be. Plus, pool cleaning companies have access to wholesale discounts on pool chemicals, which they're able to pass onto you for added savings. And of course, there's also the valuable time savings you'll enjoy by not having to maintain your own pool!
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