Filter balls don’t work as well as sand filters because they’re unable to handle large debris, are prone to clogging, and require frequent cleaning. While they can seem more convenient and less expensive than sand filters, most need to be removed and washed regularly, or they won’t filter well and struggle with algae and dirt. Speak with your pool maintenance pro about the best filtration option for your pool.

Because they are smaller than an average-sized swimming pool, building a plunge pool is less costly than a traditional pool. In-ground swimming pools cost about $67,000, while plunge pools cost around $20,000. You won’t have as much room to swim in, but the smaller size means you spend less on land excavation, materials, and hourly labor rates.

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.

It’s okay to leave a pool pump on 24-7. In fact, running it continuously has big upsides, including consistently distributing chemicals, keeping a steady pool temperature, preventing algae growth, and keeping pool water clean. However, there is a tradeoff—operating a pool pump around the clock increases energy costs and can take a toll on the pump’s longevity. If you want to run your pool pump all the time, invest in energy-saving equipment like a variable-speed pump.