How Much Does Pool Maintenance Cost

The Complete 2025 Guide To Pool Maintenance Cost

Swimming pools are one of the most convenient ways to stay cool and entertained during Australia’s sunny days. Whether you’re a daily swimmer, a summer pool party host or simply a back-yard lounging enthusiast, there is no doubt a swimming pool is one of the best lifestyle investments.

However, they also come with a big responsibility to maintain. Swimming pool maintenance is a crucial aspect of owning a pool to keep the water clean, equipment in working order and the overall swimming environment safe.

Having a good idea of how much does pool maintenance cost allows you to plan your budget, prevent unexpected breakdowns, maximise your pool system’s lifespan, and minimise hassle. Pool maintenance costs can quickly add up, in some homes they can account for up to 30 percent of the overall power bill. In this guide we take a deep dive into the cost of swimming pool maintenance, discuss the differences between saltwater pool vs chlorine pool costs, DIY pool maintenance vs professionals and share useful tips to help you save.

The Reality of Pool Ownership Costs in Australia

Australia is one of the highest pool ownership nations in the world. With millions of households across Australia enjoying the benefits of owning an inground pool or an above ground pool in their backyards. However, the cost of a pool doesn’t stop at installation, pool maintenance is a cost that is ongoing and needs to be planned for.

Pool maintenance is often one of the most underestimated ongoing expenses by many homeowners. There are several things to take into consideration. It’s not just the cleaning costs you should factor in but the power costs of running your pool pump, pool parts and equipment replacement, balancing chemicals, maintaining heating systems, solar heating, electric or gas heater units, and in some cases, hiring a professional pool cleaner. The monthly cost of cleaning chemicals for maintaining a swimming pool is typically between $30 and $100, depending on how frequently you use it.

Operating a pool pump requires an average of AU$110 per month in the summer and AU$80 per month in the winter, and this is a significant contributor to your electricity bill. An average pool service or pool cleaning service in Australia, costs homeowners between $600 and $1,500 per year, for basic maintenance. This includes cleaning the pool, checking the filter, cleaning the skimmer, and adding chemicals. This price tag can, however, be higher if you have a pool heater, add robotic cleaners, opt for more costly repairs, or engage a specialist acid wash service.

Chemical costs alone can range from $50 to $200 per year depending on pool usage. Chemical balancing such as shocking the pool will set you back about 450 to 700 AUD for adequate treatment.

What Affects Pool Maintenance Costs?

Your annual pool maintenance cost will vary depending on:

• Pool size – Larger pools need more chemicals, more pumping hours, and more cleaning time.

• Type of pool – A saltwater pool typically needs less maintenance than a chlorine pool but requires salt cell replacement every few years.

• Heating choice – Solar heating has low running costs, electric heating is moderate, and gas heaters have higher fuel costs.

• Equipment age and efficiency – An old pump or outdated filter system can increase your electricity bills and lead to more frequent repairs.

• Usage frequency – Daily swimmers stir up more debris and require more filtration than pools used once a week.

• Seasonal climate – Summer in Australia increases evaporation, water top-ups, and cleaning requirements, which can raise your weekly pool maintenance cost.

• DIY vs hiring professionals – Doing it yourself saves money but takes time and knowledge, while hiring a pool service adds labour costs.

Weekly, Monthly and Seasonal Maintenance

Keeping a pool in top condition is not just about a once-a-year clean. Maintenance is an ongoing process.

Weekly Maintenance Tasks

• Skim debris from the water’s surface.

• Brush pool walls to prevent algae growth.

• Vacuum manually or use an automatic cleaner.

• Test and balance chemicals such as chlorine, pH, and alkalinity. Regular testing and balancing of pool water chemistry prevents algae growth and water contamination.

• Empty skimmer and pump baskets for better water flow.

Weekly pool maintenance cost: Around $15–$25 if DIY (chemicals and electricity), or $80–$120 per visit for a pool maintenance company. Regular pool cleaning is essential, with cleaning service costs ranging between $55 and $150 per service.

Monthly Maintenance Tasks

• Filter cleaning or backwashing to remove dirt build-up.

• Inspect pool parts like LED lights, ladders, and rails.

• Check pool cover for wear and tear.

• Monitor heating systems such as solar, electric, or gas.

Detailed Annual Pool Maintenance Cost Breakdown

Here’s what many homeowners can expect for total cost across the year:

These figures can vary depending on pool system type, equipment age, and climate.

Understanding Pool Heating Costs

Heating extends your swimming season but adds to your maintenance cost.

• Solar Pool Heating – The cheapest to run, costing $100–$200 a year. Works best in sunny locations.

• Electric Pool Heating – Mid-range running costs at $250–$750 a year. Heat pumps are energy efficient but slower to heat.

• Gas Pool Heater – Heats quickly but has the highest running cost of $500–$1,500 a year. Lowering the temperature of the pool water can save significantly on heating costs.

Many homeowners reduce energy consumption by combining solar heating with a pool cover to retain warmth.

Pool Repair Costs and Replacement Parts

Over time, even the best maintained pool will require replacement pump units, new filters, or LED lights. Some common costs: Replacing a pool pump can cost around AU$1,000. Draining and repairing a leak in the pool can cost from AU$500-1300, depending on the severity.

Keeping up with maintenance reduces the likelihood of costly repairs.

Saltwater Pool vs Chlorine Pool Costs

Saltwater Pool

• Lower chemical costs

• Requires a salt chlorinator ($1,000–$2,000 installed)

• Less maintenance overall

Chlorine Pool

• Higher chemical costs

• More frequent chemical balancing

• Lower equipment costs upfront

The Role of Pool Equipment in Costs

1. Variable speed pump – Uses less energy than single speed models, saving up to $1,000 a year.
2. Automatic pool cleaners – Reduces manual labour but increases electricity bills if run too often.
3. Robotic pool cleaners – More efficient than suction models but have a higher upfront cost.
4. Pool covers – Keeps debris out and reduces evaporation, cutting water and heating costs.

Seasonal Cost Considerations

Summer

• Increased pool cleaning cost due to frequent use.

• Higher electricity bills as pumps run longer.

• More frequent chemical balancing.

Winter

• Reduced cleaning and heating costs.

• Many homeowners choose fewer pool service visits.

DIY vs Professional Pool Cleaners

DIY

• Lower cost to maintain

• Requires knowledge of pool system and chemical balancing

• Average savings: $500–$1,000 annually. While DIY pool maintenance may seem cost-effective initially, hiring professionals reduces the risk of damage to equipment and pool surfaces.

Professional Pool Maintenance Company

• Consistent service, no time commitment

• Prevents small issues from becoming costly repairs

• Best for busy pool owners or rental properties

Extra Tips to Save Money

1. Use a pool cover when not in use.

2. Optimise pump run times.

3. Install energy efficient LED lights.

4. Turn off water features when unnecessary.

5. Clean filters regularly to avoid pump strain.

6. Choose solar heating where possible.

7. Use testing kits for pool pH balance, which cost around 20 AUD, to maintain pool health.

Final Thoughts

Knowing the answer to ‘how much does pool maintenance cost?’ is vital for any Australian home with a swimming pool. The cost of pool maintenance typically ranges between $600 and $2,000 a year on average but it’s always possible to cut back and make savings while still keeping your swimming pool crystal clear and well maintained.

If you would like a hand maintaining your pool throughout the year, want to keep your total cost down and enjoy safe, crystal clear water, we encourage you to contact 1 Pool Care today. Our team of professionals offer tailored maintenance plans for your individual needs, seasonal pool servicing, and trusted advice for both saltwater and chlorine pools. Let us take care of your swimming pool maintenance so you have more time to enjoy it.