Get matched with top pool table assembly pros in Cape Elizabeth, ME

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.

High alkalinity, which is above seven on the pH scale, is the result of improper chemical levels in the pool. Each chemical you use to keep your pool clean has a different pH, so a ratio that isn't optimized for your pool size may cause the number to go above 7.8, the high end for a good pH range in most swimming pools.

You should add chlorine within 48 hours of filling your pool with water. In just 24 hours, bacteria and algae will begin to grow and contaminate your water. After that point, you’ll need to shock the water with high levels of chlorine, and you’ll likely need to do additional vacuuming to get the pool clean. It’s important to check your chlorine levels two to three times a week and add more chlorine as needed to maintain a healthy level.

You should avoid filling your pool overnight—just as a precaution. You’ll want someone around to check on the progress. If your hose springs a leak or you overfill your pool, you could end up with some costly water damage. At worst, you could flood your home’s foundation. For this reason, ensure someone is home and awake, even if your pool takes a couple of days to fill.