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How Much Does Pool Maintenance Cost? [2025 Data]
Normal Range: $116 - $355
Pool maintenance costs average $235, with most homeowners spending between $116 and $355. Main cost factors include pool size, type, frequency of service, and materials.
How we get this data
Photo: Trinette Reed / Stocksy / Adobe Stock
Photo: Trinette Reed / Stocksy / Adobe Stock
Cost Insights
Regular pool maintenance prevents costly repairs and extends pool life.
Pool size, type, and frequency of service all contribute to total pool maintenance costs.
Material choices and regional labor rates impact your total expenses, with pros charging $75 to $150 per hour.
Professional maintenance ensures safe, clean water and equipment longevity.
Routine cleanings cost $80 to $150 per visit, while salt cell replacement can run up to $700.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.
Pool maintenance costs are a key consideration for homeowners, with an average of $235 per visit and a standard range from $55 to $775. Costs vary by pool size, type, and frequency of service. Some pros charge per visit, while others offer monthly or seasonal packages. Understanding these costs helps you plan for a clean, safe pool all year.
Many service providers charge by the square foot or gallon for large pools, and labor costs for professional maintenance often range from $75 to $150 per hour, depending on location and service complexity.
Pool Maintenance Cost Factors
Understanding what drives pool maintenance costs can help you make smart choices and set a realistic budget. Let’s look at the main factors that shape your total expenses.
Type of Pool Maintenance
There are several types of pool maintenance, each with a unique impact on your overall pool maintenance cost:
Routine cleaning (skimming, brushing, vacuuming) is the most frequent and affordable, while chemical balancing ensures safe water and prevents damage.
Seasonal opening and closing services are crucial for outdoor pools, often costing more due to the labor involved.
Equipment checks and deep cleaning, such as filter backwashing or acid washing, add to the cost—especially for neglected or specialty pools.
In-ground pools are more expensive to maintain than above-ground or indoor pools, and saltwater pools need specialized care like salt cell replacement and system checks. Automated systems and custom features can also increase your costs.
| Type of Pool Maintenance | Description | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Routine cleaning | Skimming, vacuuming, brushing, and emptying baskets | $80–$150 per visit |
| Chemical balancing | Testing and adjusting pH, chlorine, and alkalinity | $15–$35 per visit |
| Seasonal opening/closing | Preparing pool for use or winterization | $200–$400 per service |
| Equipment checks | Inspecting pumps, filters, heaters, automation | $75–$150 per visit |
| Deep cleaning/acid wash | Removing stains, algae, scale buildup | $250–$500 per service |
| Salt cell replacement | Replacing saltwater cell (as needed) | $200–$700 per replacement |
| Automation system servicing | Calibrating and maintaining automated controls | $100–$250 per visit |
Size
Pool size directly influences your pool maintenance cost. Larger pools require more chemicals, longer cleaning times, and can increase equipment wear.
Pools are often categorized as small (under 10,000 gallons), medium (10,000 to 20,000 gallons), or large (over 20,000 gallons). Maintenance costs rise with each size step, affecting both routine visits and annual expenses. Some services estimate cost per square foot ($1.50 to $2.50 per square foot annually) or per 1,000 gallons.
| Pool Size | Description | Average Maintenance Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 10,000 gallons) | Compact pools, less surface area | $800–$1,200 per year |
| Medium (10,000–20,000 gallons) | Standard backyard pools | $1,200–$1,800 per year |
| Large (over 20,000 gallons) | Larger, custom, or commercial pools | $1,800–$3,000 per year |
Frequency
How often you maintain your pool impacts both short- and long-term maintenance costs:
Weekly service is common for active pools, ensuring water stays clean and balanced.
Monthly or biweekly service is less expensive but may allow more buildup or issues.
Seasonal or one-time services, such as opening or closing, add to your annual costs but are necessary for pool longevity.
Ongoing contracts tend to lower the per-visit price compared to one-time calls.
| Frequency | Description | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly | Best for heavy use or warm climates | $80–$150 per week |
| Biweekly | Moderate use, less debris | $120–$200 per month |
| Monthly | Light use, indoor pools | $150–$300 per month |
| Seasonal (open/close) | Start-up or winterization | $200–$400 per visit |
| One-time deep clean | Addressing specific issues | $250–$500 per visit |
Materials
Pool material affects your pool maintenance cost in both the short and long term:
Concrete pools require more frequent brushing and occasional resurfacing, raising annual costs.
Fiberglass pools are easier and less expensive to maintain, with fewer chemical needs.
Vinyl liner pools fall between the two options, but liner replacements can be a significant future expense.
The type of chemicals and replacement parts needed also varies by material, influencing your overall budget.
| Material Type | Description | Average Maintenance Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete | Durable, needs more cleaning and chemicals | $1,200–$1,800 per year |
| Fiberglass | Smooth, resists algae, less maintenance | $800–$1,200 per year |
| Vinyl liner | Softer, liner may need replacement | $1,000–$1,500 per year |
Labor
Pool service technicians or specialized contractors often perform pool maintenance. Labor rates range from $75 to $150 per hour, depending on your region and the complexity of the pool.
Standard labor charges include cleaning, chemical balancing, and a quick check of the main equipment. If your pool has custom features or automation, expect higher labor fees for specialized expertise. In some areas, labor costs are higher due to local demand or a longer pool season.
Location
Where you live has a real impact on your pool maintenance cost. Warmer regions with longer swimming seasons can expect higher annual costs due to more frequent service.
Urban areas often see higher labor rates compared to rural regions. Pool location on your property also matters—hard-to-access pools may cost more to maintain, and indoor pools often need less frequent service.
Tipping
Tipping pool maintenance professionals is not mandatory, but it’s a thoughtful gesture for exceptional service, especially for one-time deep cleaning or seasonal opening or closing. If you choose to tip, $10 to $20 per visit or 10% of the service fee is common.
For ongoing contracts, a holiday tip or end-of-season bonus is appreciated. Positive reviews and referrals are also valuable ways to recognize good service.
How Often Should You Maintain Your Pool?
A consistent maintenance schedule is the best way to control your pool maintenance costs and keep your water sparkling:
Daily tasks like skimming debris and checking water levels help prevent common pool problems.
Weekly jobs include tasks such as brushing, vacuuming, and testing chemicals.
Monthly and seasonal tasks—such as filter cleaning and equipment inspection—ensure everything runs smoothly.
Weather, pool usage, and even heavy rain can mean your pool needs more frequent attention. If you notice cloudy water, algae growth, or equipment noise, it’s time to step up your maintenance. Neglecting regular service can lead to costly repairs, safety hazards, and even damage to your pool’s structure.
Cost of Common Pool Maintenance Add-Ons
Add-on services can increase your total pool maintenance cost, but may be worthwhile for convenience or preventative care. Popular extras include pool cover installation to reduce debris, heater maintenance for efficient performance, and lighting upgrades for nighttime safety.
Advanced cleaning services, such as acid washing or algae removal, target stubborn stains and bacteria. Upgrades or pool repair costs, such as filter replacement or leak detection, are not included in basic packages and can significantly increase your annual expenses.
| Add-On Service | Description | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Pool cover install | Keeps debris out, conserves water | $500–$1,200 |
| Heater maintenance | Tune-up and clean heating systems | $100–$350 per visit |
| Lighting upgrades | Install or replace pool lights | $300–$700 per light |
| Automation system check | Maintain controls, timers, sensors | $100–$250 per visit |
| Acid wash | Deep clean for severe stains or algae | $250–$500 per service |
| Algae removal | Remove algae blooms, shock treatment | $150–$400 per visit |
| Stain treatment | Targeted spot cleaning | $75–$200 per treatment |
| Filter replacement | New cartridge or sand media | $150–$600 per filter |
| Pump repair | Fix or replace the faulty pump | $250–$800 per repair |
| Leak detection | Locate and assess water loss | $200–$500 per visit |
DIY Pool Maintenance vs. Hiring a Pro
Some homeowners tackle their own pool maintenance to keep costs down. DIY pool maintenance costs include the purchase of chemicals, test kits, cleaning tools, and the investment of your own time.
You’ll spend $30 to $50 per month for chemicals and $100 to $300 upfront for tools like a skimmer, vacuum, and brushes. While DIY can save money, it requires regular effort and knowledge of proper chemical handling and safety.
Hiring a local pool service pro means higher pool maintenance costs per visit, but offers expert care, convenience, and peace of mind. It’s best to hire a professional for complicated tasks, like equipment repairs, deep cleaning, or working with automation systems, to avoid costly mistakes and ensure everything meets safety standards.
Tips to Reduce Pool Maintenance Costs
Here are some helpful ways to keep pool maintenance costs within budget:
Regularly skim and clean to prevent buildup.
Maintain proper chemical balance to avoid costly repairs.
Invest in energy-efficient equipment to reduce utility costs.
Schedule routine inspections to catch issues early.
Bundle services or sign up for maintenance contracts for discounts.
Learn basic maintenance tasks to handle minor upkeep yourself.
Use a pool cover to minimize debris and evaporation.
Shop around for competitive service quotes.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
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