Calculators · Cost to run
How much does it cost to run a pool pump?
A pool pump is one of the most expensive appliances most people never think about. A single-speed pump draws around 2,000 watts and runs many hours a day all summer — easily 16 kWh a day. That's often the real reason a poolside summer bill balloons. The fix is mostly about speed and hours.
Runs many hours a day — a big summer bill driver. Variable-speed pumps use far less.
per hour
25¢
per day
$1.99
per month
$60.69
per year
$727.72
Running a 2000W pool pump (single-speed) 8 hours a day costs about $1.99/day or $60.69/month at 12.46¢/kWh.
Runs entirely in your browser — nothing you type is sent anywhere. Estimates only; your actual bill depends on your usage and includes delivery charges on top of the supply rate.
What it costs per day, at real rates
Based on a single-speed pump, ~2,000 W for 8 hours (~16 kWh), priced at three of the utilities we track:
| Utility | Rate | Cost per day |
|---|---|---|
| PECO (PA) | 10.789¢/kWh | $1.73 |
| BGE (MD) | 14.609¢/kWh | $2.34 |
| ComEd (IL) | 10.399¢/kWh | $1.66 |
Supply rate only; delivery charges are extra. Use the calculator above for your own utility and usage.
Pool pump type and daily energy
| Pump type | Typical draw | 8-hour energy | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-speed | ~2,000 W | ~16 kWh | The big driver; runs at full power always |
| Two-speed (low) | ~800 W | ~6.4 kWh | Runs filtration on low most of the time |
| Variable-speed | 100–800 W | ~2–5 kWh | Up to ~80% less energy; pays back fast |
Energy depends on pump size and run hours. Variable-speed pumps save the most because power rises steeply with speed.
How to cut the cost
- 1
Upgrade to a variable-speed pump
This is the single biggest saver — running filtration at low speed for longer uses up to 80% less energy than a single-speed pump at full blast. Many utilities even offer rebates.
- 2
Run it fewer hours
Most pools don't need 8+ hours of filtration. Try cutting back an hour at a time; if the water stays clear, keep it there.
- 3
Run during off-peak hours
If you're on a time-of-use rate, schedule the pump for off-peak overnight hours to cut the per-kWh cost.
- 4
Keep the filter and baskets clean
A clogged filter makes the pump work harder for the same circulation. Clean baskets and backwash on schedule.
Common questions
- How much does it cost to run a pool pump per month?
- A single-speed pump running 8 hours a day uses about 480 kWh a month — roughly $60–$80 at typical rates. A variable-speed pump can drop that to $15–$25.
- Why is my electric bill so high in summer with a pool?
- The pump is usually the culprit. A single-speed pump running all summer can add $60–$80 a month on its own — often more than the air conditioning. It's the most overlooked summer load.
- How many hours a day should I run my pool pump?
- Enough to turn the water over once or twice — for many pools that's 6–8 hours, but often less. Start lower and increase only if the water clouds. Fewer hours directly cuts the cost.
- Do variable-speed pool pumps save money?
- A lot. Because power rises steeply with pump speed, running slower for longer uses up to 80% less energy than a single-speed pump. The savings typically pay back the higher purchase price within a couple of seasons.
Hiring out the wiring?
Before you pay anyone to touch your panel or wiring, make sure they're actually licensed. You can check a contractor's license on StateCreds — our sister site.
Verify a contractor's license by state →If the summer bill jumped more than usage explains, your rate may have risen too.