Seven ways to make owning a pool so much cheaper

Building and maintaining a swimming pool in your back yard doesn't have to be costly or time-consuming. With a few simple tricks, you can create your dream pool on a budget — and make management seriously simple, too.

We asked Lindsay McGrath, CEO of the Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Australia (SPASA) to share her cost-cutting secrets...

1. Use a pool cover

Simple but so effective! A cover is basically a blanket for your pool. Look for one that meets Australian standards — this will save you money on heating, water, electricity and chemical costs. You'll be able to use your pool out of season too.

2. Buy a variable speed pump

Just buying the right pump will cut costs. Not sure where to look? SPASA sell the only nine-star rated energy efficient variable variable speed pump in Australia. Run it for long enough to turn over the volume of the pool at least twice a day. And remember, the more people using the pool — or the warmer the weather — the more you'll need to switch it on.

3. Make friends with an expert

Whatever your budget, there is no substitute for professional advice. The pool industry has trade-qualified professionals in water chemistry and hydraulics who can help with every aspect of maintenance. You can find one at your local SPASA pool shop.

4. Test your water levels

Twice-weekly tests for pool sanitiser and PH levels are so important. Chemical tests like these not only keep costs down and ensure everything is running correctly, but keep your family safe in the water too. 

5. Remember this golden rule

If it smells like chlorine, it's not chlorine — it's chloramines. Turn up your salt chlorinator — or add more sanitiser — and shock the pool to get rid of the smell before it costs you money.

6. Keep the maintenance up over winter

No-one wants a green or cloudy pool come spring. By coming up with a simple chemical maintenance plan for the winter months, you'll avoid costly clean-ups. Find out what you'll need at your local SPASA pool shop.

7. Prepare for all eventualities

A pool party or bad weather means lots of nitrogen in the water. The solution? Shock or oxidise your pool to prevent cloudy water or green algae forming.

Photography Out From The Blue