Pool light replacements are often more expensive compared to other pool parts, like pump motors, or standard light bulbs for indoor use. The reason for the higher cost is that pool lights are specially designed and made with parts meant to keep swimmers safe. The light fixture and surrounding parts protecting the bulb must be waterproof, tightly sealed, and resistant to extreme temperatures.

Yes, pool pumps use a significant amount of electricity, making them one of the biggest energy consumers in a home. A pool pump can use up to three times as much electricity as a refrigerator. Typically, a residential pool pump consumes about 1 kilowatt-hour (kWh) for every hour it runs. Because pumps often need to run for about eight hours a day to properly filter the water, this can add up to an annual consumption of 3,000 to 5,000 kWh, which can cost between $480 and $800 per year based on average electricity rates.

The amount of electricity your pump uses depends on its size, energy efficiency, and daily run time. To lower your energy consumption, you can choose an energy-efficient or variable-speed pump, ensure it is correctly sized for your pool, and run it only for the minimum time required to keep the water clean.

A 24-foot diameter pool is the most popular size for a round above ground model, while 15 by 30 feet is a common choice for oval-shaped pools. However, you'll find round sizes everywhere between 8 and 33 feet. Oval pools range up to 21 by 41 feet but can be customized to stretch much longer. Choosing the right size will come down to where you can level your yard and how many swimmers plan to use the pool at a given time.

It is a good idea to brush a pool before shocking. Brushing the sides and floor loosen up anything that is growing on the surface, such as algae. It is then easier for the pool shock to kill the contaminants because more of it will come in contact with the chemicals.