Smart Strategies for Lowering Pool Costs Without the Stress
Owning a pool is one of life’s great luxuries—especially here in South Carolina, where the summers are long and the sun is always eager to shine. But let’s be honest: the cost of keeping that sparkling blue water clean and comfortable can sneak up on you. Between energy bills, maintenance, and repairs, your backyard oasis might start feeling more like a money pit than a slice of paradise. The good news? It doesn’t have to be that way. At Griffin Pools and Spas, we believe that pool ownership should be more about relaxing and less about stressing over costs. That’s why we’ve put together some tried-and-true pool maintenance tips to help you stretch your dollars while still enjoying every minute in the water.
1. Run Your Pump Smarter, Not Longer
One of the easiest ways to reduce pool costs is to rethink how you run your pool pump. Many pool owners assume the pump has to run all day to keep the water clean, but that’s not true. For most residential pools, 6–8 hours a day is enough. Try running the pump during off-peak hours (usually overnight), when electricity rates are lower.
Want to take it a step further? Consider upgrading to a variable-speed pump. These models use a fraction of the energy that traditional single-speed pumps consume—and that means serious long-term savings.
2. Keep an Eye on Your Water Level
You might not think twice about topping off your pool, but small leaks or overfilling can lead to increased chemical use and higher water bills. Maintaining the proper water level—ideally halfway up the skimmer—is a simple way to avoid unnecessary costs. If you're constantly adding water, it's time to check for leaks.
Even a tiny leak can mean hundreds of gallons lost over time. Not only does that waste water, but it also throws off your pool’s chemical balance, causing you to spend more on chlorine and other treatments.
3. Cover It Up
We can’t stress this enough: a good pool cover pays for itself. It helps prevent evaporation (which saves on water), keeps out debris (which cuts down on cleaning), and holds in heat (which reduces energy costs).
In the South Carolina heat, you might not worry much about keeping your pool warm—but even in our climate, nighttime temperatures can drop enough to make a difference. Covering your pool keeps it comfortable without needing to run the heater as often.
4. Stick to a Consistent Maintenance Routine
Regular care goes a long way when it comes to affordable swimming pool maintenance. Brush the walls, skim the surface, and vacuum the floor at least once a week. Check and balance your chemicals regularly—especially chlorine, pH, and alkalinity. When these levels stay in check, your equipment runs more efficiently, and you’ll avoid costly repairs down the road.
We offer budget-friendly pool upkeep plans here at Griffin Pools and Spas for folks who’d rather leave the chemistry and cleaning to the pros. Whether it’s weekly visits or seasonal service, we’ve got an option that fits your needs and your budget.
5. Switch to Energy-Efficient Equipment
If your pool heater, filter, or lighting system is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Today’s energy-efficient pool solutions are designed to perform better using far less power. LED lights, solar covers, and modern filtration systems can make a big difference in your energy bill over time.
Plus, investing in eco-friendly upgrades can often qualify you for rebates or incentives from your utility company—another win for your wallet.
6. Don’t Ignore Small Problems
It’s tempting to overlook that strange noise your pump started making or the tiny tear in your pool liner, but those small issues can quickly become expensive if left alone. Proactive maintenance saves money. Get in the habit of inspecting your pool equipment weekly. If something doesn’t seem right, reach out before it turns into a major repair.
At Griffin Pools and Spas, we’re always here to help with expert advice and fast service. We’ve seen firsthand how a $50 fix ignored for too long becomes a $500 repair.
Final Thoughts
Pool ownership doesn’t have to come with high monthly costs. With a little know-how and a bit of planning, you can keep your pool clean, efficient, and fun without draining your bank account. From how to save money on pool care to long-term energy solutions, it’s all about making smart choices.
And remember, you don’t have to do it all on your own. Whether you need a quick fix, a new piece of equipment, or a professional maintenance plan, Griffin Pools and Spas is just a phone call away. We've been serving South Carolina families for years, helping them get the most out of their backyard investments.
Ready to simplify your pool care and start saving? Give us a call or stop by today—we’re here to help you swim smarter.