Pools can increase electric bills several ways:
- Recirculating water through pool filters and backflushing sand filters
- Pool lights
- Pumping for waterfalls, zero horizon pools, etc.
- Heating pool and/or spa water
- Pumping for solar water heaters
The pool filter pump is typically the biggest energy user, accounting for 90% or more of total electric energy.
Electricity use is a function of pool volume, type of pump (single-speed vs. variable speed), and type of filter media.
RANGE: $415 - $900 per year
Some heated pools use natural gas. Most backyard pools in Pima County are unheated or heated in Spring and Fall to extend the swimming season. Most of those that are heated use solar power.