A swimming pool is often a great investment for a homeowner. After all, it can provide hours of outdoor enjoyment and it is a great option for exercise. A swimming pool adds value to a home as well if selling is ever something you may consider. However, there is another side to owning a pool that you may already be aware of: it costs money. Constructing the pool is only the first expense. Upkeep costs and repairs can add up quickly over the years. That’s not to say you shouldn’t own a pool. Here are six money-saving ideas to help you with the cost of owning a pool so that it’s a source of enjoyment, not stress.
1. Conserve Water
One big money drain when it comes to owning a pool is water usage. Over time, the cost can add up quickly. There are steps you can take, though, to actually conserve water and save money. One option is to plant shrubs and hedges or use fencing around the pool to block the wind. Minimizing play by splashing is important too. If you have kids, you likely know splashing is going to happen, but setting a rule that water needs to stay in the pool is a good idea.
2. Keep the Chemicals in Balance
Keeping the chemicals in balance is a must and it should be done on a regular schedule. If you routinely let them get out of balance, the extra chemicals needed to right the situation can cost a great deal of money. Staying up to date on this saves both money and time in the long run.
3. Ensure You Have Insurance Coverage
Insurance is a must with a pool for two different reasons. First of all, damage repairs to a pool can get expensive if inclement weather causes harm. Additionally, if someone gets hurt in your pool, liability insurance could take big lawsuit costs off of you.
4. Be Energy Efficient with the Pump
A variable-speed pump can save a lot of money in a few ways. The old standard single-speed pump meant the device was working full time all the time even when not needed and that wasted a lot of electricity. A variable speed pump will adjust as needed to the task and save electricity. Additionally, you may even be able to look into tax rebates offered in some states and areas for installing a variable-speed model.
5. Use a Pool Cover
A pool cover is a must because it keeps the water in the pool and lowers the cost and time needed to keep the pool clean.
6. Consider Solar
If you want a heated pool, then consider a solar heater. It won’t have the energy drain of a standard electrical model. The energy efficiency can add up very quickly especially if you routinely keep the water heated.
While a pool can be expensive, there are things you can do to save money. These six simple tips can help a great deal, and that means you can spend less time worrying about cost and more time enjoying your home.
