How much does a pool pump cost to run?

A 1,500-watt unit running 8 hours a day costs about $67.79 a month at 18.83¢ per kWh. Change the inputs for your equipment and local rate.

Updated July 16, 2026EIA residential rate data

Calculate your cost

Start with a representative input, then edit all three numbers.

18.83¢/kWh U.S. average
W
hr
¢/kWh
$67.79/ month
$2.26/ day
$824.75/ year

This setup uses about 360 kWh in a 30-day month.

Runtime comparison
ScheduleHours/dayCost/month
Half runtime4$33.89
Starting point8$67.79
Longer runtime12$101.68

Same 1,500-watt input and 18.83¢/kWh rate; only runtime changes.

The quick formula

1.5 kW × 8 hours × $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 become a large seasonal load because it runs for hours at a time. Variable-speed models change the calculation considerably because reducing pump speed can reduce power draw as well as water flow.

The starting values keep this page useful before you have a label or meter reading. They do not describe every model, climate, operating mode, or household.

What changes the cost?

  1. 01

    Motor size, speed setting, and pump efficiency

  2. 02

    Pool volume, plumbing resistance, and filtration needs

  3. 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.

Rate source U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electricity Retail Sales

EIA calculates average retail revenue per kilowatt-hour from reported residential sales and revenue. It is a statewide monthly average, not a quoted utility tariff, and an individual bill may also include fixed fees, tiers, taxes, riders, or time-of-use pricing.

Source period 2026-04 · retrieved July 16, 2026.