Calculate your cost
Start with the example below, then replace the wattage, daily runtime, and rate with the numbers for your pool pump.
This setup uses about 360 kWh in a 30-day month.
Please enter valid values within the ranges shown.
| Schedule | Hours/day | Cost/month |
|---|---|---|
| Half runtime | 4 | $33.89 |
| Page example | 8 | $67.79 |
| Longer runtime | 12 | $101.68 |
Same 1,500-watt input and 18.83¢/kWh rate; only runtime changes.
Formula for the page example
1.5 kW × 8 hr × $0.1883 = $2.26 per day
Convert watts to kilowatts, multiply by the active hours used each day, then multiply by the electricity price in dollars per kWh. Multiply the daily result by 30 for the monthly estimate shown above.
How to read this estimate
A single-speed pool pump can be a large seasonal load simply because it runs for hours at a time. If the pump has variable speed, calculate each speed and its runtime separately rather than using one fixed wattage.
Use this as a baseline until you can check the label or measure the pool pump directly. Model, settings, condition, climate, and household routine can all change the result.
What changes the cost?
- 01
Motor size, speed setting, and pump efficiency
- 02
Pool volume, plumbing resistance, and filtration needs
- 03
Daily schedule and length of the swimming season
Ways to spend less
- Test the shortest schedule that keeps the water properly filtered.
- Run during off-peak hours if the utility uses time-of-use pricing.
- Use lower speeds for routine circulation on a variable-speed pump.