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Topic: Inground Pools

What’s the Cheapest Inground Pool Cost?

Posted on by kristin

If spending more time with loved ones (or by yourself) outdoors is climbing on your “should-have” list, and you have the space for an  inground pool, you may have started an online search. Being a conscientious consumer, you could have landed here searching for the cheapest inground pool or even the “cheapest inground pool near me.” While no inground pool is “cheap,” this post gives an honest comparison of costs for vinyl liner, gunite, and fiberglass pools. We know an inground pool is a significant investment, so we hope this post will help you make an informed decision about  inground pool costs.

Inground Pool Cost

Vinyl Liner Inground Pool Costs

Vinyl liner pools are generally the cheapest inground pool type with regard to upfront costs; however, their costs can increase significantly based on several factors. A ballpark figure on the average price of an inground vinyl liner pool is around $25,000 to $65000. Some constraints with vinyl you’ll want to be aware of: 

  • Unique freeform shapes can add to your upfront price, as well as vinyl replacement costs, as manufacturing a custom liner adds time and materials.
  • High-end features such as bench seating or wraparound steps can add to your cost and may lead to further maintenance needs due to vinyl’s tendency to attract algae and become slippery.
  • The lifetime ownership, including the annual maintenance cost will offset some initial cost savings.
  • As previously mentioned, vinyl liner pools can attract algae, so you must clean them more often to keep them at bay. Expect to spend (or pay someone to spend) around four to eight hours per week on vinyl liner pool maintenance. 
  • You could estimate maintenance expenses around  $11,000 to $17,000 over ten years, excluding liner replacement costs.
  • Vinyl liners usually need to be replaced about every seven years (or fewer if the pool hasn’t been properly maintained), costing about  $3,000- $7,500 on average. 

Gunite Inground Pool Costs 

Gunite pools typically cost the most to install, and their prices are the most varied across the country, depending on your location. In some regions, they are the high-volume choice of installers, and installation costs can be competitive. You tend to see more gunite installations in sunbelt states that are not subject to the freeze/thaw cycle. The national average price of a gunite pool is between  $50,000 and $120,000. Here are some of the cost factors for gunite: 

  • Freeforms generally cost more than basic shapes, and depending on how complicated the design is, the complexity may add more cost to the bottom line.
  • Each build is custom. Gunite costs more as you add features and options.
  • The porosity of gunite attracts algae and mineral deposits. It requires significant time and money to keep it clean. Expect to spend (or pay someone to spend) around four to eight hours per week on gunite pool maintenance. 
  • Gunite pools usually require an acid wash to remove algae and mold every three to five years, and due to multiple acid washes, they often require replastering about every ten years.
  • Based on the average costs of regular pool maintenance tasks and requirements (such as acid washing, general cleaning, replastering, electrical/chemical usage, etc.), concrete pool owners can expect to pay $27,000 to $40,000 over 10 years for maintenance.

Fiberglass Inground Pool Costs

Fiberglass pools will usually fall in the middle between vinyl and gunite on the initial installation cost. However, lifetime ownership and annual maintenance costs tend to be lower than vinyl and gunite. HomeGuide’s 2024 inground pool cost guide reports that  the average fiberglass pool price is between  $30,000 and $85,000. However, many pool builders in our network report that their customers choose packages closer to $70,000 and $135,000. Some considerations of fiberglass pools relative to cost include:  

  • Regardless of shape, the pricing is relatively consistent at around $1,800 per linear foot, except for beach entry fiberglass pool designs which tend to cost about 15 percent more.  
  • Built-in features such as wraparound steps and benches, tanning ledges, and swim-outs do not cost extra, but they must already be part of the design, as fiberglass pools are built from pre-existing molds.
  • Easy access is essential to keeping costs down because they are delivered in one piece and not built on-site.
  • They are resistant to algae and require the lowest maintenance compared to the other inground pool types, needing only about an hour or two per week, and their ten-year cost for maintenance is around  $5,000-$15,000.

Factors Affecting Any Inground Pool Cost

Some factors drive up costs, no matter what pool type you choose. 

  • What’s the cheapest inground pool shape? Pool size affects the price of fiberglass pools rather than shape. However, for gunite and vinyl liner pools, the more complex the shape, the higher the cost.
  • What’s the cheapest pool size? Generally speaking, small inground pool costs tend to be less  than larger ones for installation and maintenance.
  • Site conditions factor into pricing. Clay, sand, rock, and groundwater can all pose problems when installing any pool. Average excavation costs range from $2.50 to $15.00 per cubic yard for easier soil conditions, but more challenging conditions can cost $50 to over $200 per cubic yard.
  • Insurance companies and states or local agencies may require pool fencing. Fencing costs average around $15 to $25 per linear foot.
  • Pool cover prices vary. An automatic pool cover costs $8,000 to $20,000 installed and $1,000 to $3,600 for a manual cover.
  • Extra features add to the price. Additional features such as heaters, bubblers, deck jets, cascades, LED lighting, slides, and diving boards will also add to the cost.

Cheapest Fiberglass Pool Designs 

At the end of the day, we are a fiberglass inground pool manufacturer and that is what we know best. So if you decide to look at lifetime costs, want to stay on the cheaper side, and want to check out some less expensive small fiberglass pool designs, one of the following may be the pool for your lifestyle:

Aspen. The smallest available size is 12’ x 25’ with a depth of 5’1”. The Aspen features a wide tanning ledge, full-length steps, and an extended bench. And it has a wide-open swim area and courtesy ledge throughout the deep end. 

Goliath. Like Aspen, this pool comes in multiple sizes, the smallest being 12’ x 25’ with a depth of 5’4”. The Goliath offers a surplus of swim space, along with dual-corner entry steps, and shallow and deep end benches. 

Sea Turtle. This pool comes in one size: 9.5’ x 19.5’. Sea Turtle is a flat-bottom pool with a depth of 4’6”, which is ideal for socializing and water activities. Walk-in steps and long benches make it family and pet-friendly, and it’s perfect for entertaining guests. 

Pearl. Measuring 15’ x 25’ with a 3’9” depth, the Pearl is a shell-shaped pool that is unique. It’s great for socializing and sunning, with room for two ledge loungers and wrap-around benches. 

More Tools for Inground Pool Estimating

If you’re looking for ways to get ballpark prices for pool installation, there are inground pool cost estimator tools out there. Get an estimate on your dream fiberglass pool project with our Pool Cost Calculator. If you are not sure which design is right for you, try our Pool Selector Tool to help you narrow it down. Finally, your best tool for the most accurate estimate and advice is a pool builder. Get connected to a pool builder near you and become one step closer to some of the best memories of your life.

Everything You Need to Know About Inground Pools: Comparing Fiberglass, Vinyl, and Gunite Options

Whether you’re making a mad dash to the end or first dipping your toe into the wading-area waters of inground pool ownership, this guide includes everything you need to know to compare the three inground pool types. From installation processes and long-term maintenance needs to overall costs and exciting design possibilities, you’re in the right place to begin your inground pool conversation and compare fiberglass, vinyl liner, and gunite (concrete) pools.

Pool Specifications

How Much Does an Inground Pool Cost?

How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost in Texas?

Posted on by krista

Everything’s bigger in Texas—including the possibilities for your backyard pool. With long summers and mild shoulder seasons, Texans get more swim days than most—which makes a pool less of a luxury and more of a lifestyle staple. If you’re exploring fiberglass pool cost in Texas, knowing how location, landscape, and lifestyle shape your final investment is essential. From the rocky terrain of the Hill Country to the clay-heavy soils of East Texas, excavation and site prep needs can vary widely across the state. In cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston, tighter lot sizes or overhead obstructions may require specialized equipment, while homeowners in areas like Waco, Midland, or the Gulf Coast often enjoy more open space and layout flexibility.

 

Personalizations like smart automation, deck jets, a spillover spa, or custom premium decking help make the most of homeowners’ outdoor space, but the add-ons also add to the total pool cost. Each Texas municipality may have unique pool permitting rules, fencing laws, or HOA guidelines that can affect your timeline and budget. There is a lot to cost-compare, plan, and think about. Partnering with an experienced local fiberglass pool professional will help you navigate the details and design a pool that brings beauty, functionality, and lasting value to your Texas home.

 

What is the Average Cost of a Texas Fiberglass Pool Installation? Survey Says…

Through a 2025 survey of our independent dealers across Texas, Thursday Pools has gathered valuable data to help you estimate the average cost of installing a fiberglass pool in the Lone Star State. If you’re just starting your research into fiberglass pool costs in your area, you’re in the right place.

AVERAGE TEXAS FIBERGLASS POOL INSTALLATION BY SIZE
Pool Type Small Fiberglass Pools Medium Fiberglass Pools Large Fiberglass Pools
Size Range Up to 26 ft Long or 400 ft² 26 to 34 ft Long or 400 to 600 ft² 35 ft and Longer or 600+ ft²
Average Cost $70,000 $100,000 $120,000

 

While this data provides a great starting point, remember—every backyard is different. Soil conditions, access, layout, and desired pool features each influence your final price. For the most precise picture of what your dream pool might cost, reach out to a trusted Thursday Pools dealer in your area. 

 

Average Cost of Popular Pool Models Installed in Texas

SEA TURTLE (9.5’ x 19.5’)

The Sea Turtle is a compact powerhouse for Texas homeowners with smaller spaces or an eye for efficiency. At just less than 20 feet long, this small fiberglass pool fits perfectly into urban lots in places like Austin or Plano without compromising on style or comfort. It includes wide entry steps and built-in benches inviting conversation and cooling off—ideal for unwinding after a long day or providing younger swimmers a safe space to splash. The Sea Turtle’s flat-bottom design makes it a versatile choice for exercise and fun, proving that good things come in smaller footprints.

 

According to our 2025 survey of Thursday Pools dealers in Texas, the average cost for a standard installation of a Sea Turtle or similar fiberglass pool model under 26 feet long or approximately 400 square feet is $70,000.

 

Sunday pool with Thursday Pools logo

SUN DAY (15’ x 30’)

The Sun Day is tailor-made for laid-back entertaining and seamless integration into suburban backyards from The Woodlands to San Antonio. Its gentle curves, wraparound benches, and swim-out sun shelf create a space that’s equal parts social hub and serene retreat. Whether you’re floating under the stars or gathering with friends for an afternoon barbecue, this mid-size fiberglass pool turns any backyard into a resort-inspired haven. A wide landing pad and deep-end courtesy ledge round out the comfort and safety features, giving swimmers of all ages room to relax and play.

 

Based on dealer survey feedback, the average cost for standard installation of the Sun Day or other medium designs between 26 and 34 feet long or 400 to 600 square feet is $100,000.

 

Thursday Pools California Spirit pool featuring safety handle

SPIRIT (13.5’ x 40’)

The Spirit from Thursday Pools offers something for everyone. The spacious and versatile pool features a fully integrated spa with a spillway, providing a luxurious relaxation space. It also includes a generous tanning ledge, an additional conversation area with entry steps and wraparound benches, and a flat-bottom swim lane, perfect for swimming laps or simply enjoying the water.

 

The Spirit and other larger designs 40 feet or longer are ideal for spacious or rural yards. In Texas, the average cost for a standard installation of these large fiberglass pool models is approximately $120,000.

Assessing Your Texas Property for Pool Installation

Texas’ varied landscape means that soil conditions can differ significantly from one property to another. For example, areas like Hill Country or West Texas may have rocky or caliche-rich soil, requiring specialized equipment and additional labor, increasing excavation costs. Areas with sandy soils, such as parts of South Texas, may need extra reinforcement to prevent the pool from shifting over time.

 

The natural slopes of your yard can also affect the installation process. Homes on hilly terrain may require additional grading or retaining walls to create a stable, level surface for the pool and surrounding deck. In more urban or suburban areas, where space is often more limited, accessibility can pose challenges. Narrow streets, tight driveways, or fenced-in lots may require crane rentals or special accommodations to deliver and install a one-piece fiberglass pool shell. Working with a local pool professional will help you navigate these unique challenges.

 

AVERAGE ADDITIONAL YARD-RELATED EXPENSES IN TEXAS
Excavating Sandy Soil $3,700
Excavating Clay Soil $1,300
Excavating Rocky Soil $4,250
Above-Average Slope Requiring Extra Grading $6,200
Limited Yard Access  $5,800

 

Understanding Pool Barrier Safety Regulations in Texas

When installing a fiberglass pool in Texas, it’s essential to understand the safety regulations and requirements for pool barriers. While the Texas Department of Health and Human Services doesn’t directly regulate private residential pools, homeowners must comply with the state’s building codes and local ordinances regarding pool enclosures.

 

Under Texas law, a barrier at least 48 inches high must enclose all residential pools. The bottom of the barrier should not exceed 2 inches above the ground to prevent small children or pets from slipping underneath.

 

In addition to state regulations, many Texas cities and counties have specific ordinances that may impose stricter rules. For example, in cities like Austin and San Antonio, pool gates must be self-closing and self-latching. The latch must be at least 54 inches above the ground and be on the pool-facing side of the gate for added security.

 

Since pool barrier requirements can differ from one municipality to another, consult with local professionals, city officials, and homeowners associations before beginning your installation.

 

For a 300-linear-foot fence, Texas homeowners can expect to pay an average of $8,950, according to estimates from our area dealers.

 

Enhance Your Fiberglass Pool with Popular Add-Ons in Texas

Upgrading your fiberglass pool with optional features and add-ons can transform your backyard into a paradise, offering a resort-style experience that suits your needs and preferences. While not essential, these enhancements can significantly improve convenience, aesthetics, and overall enjoyment for you and your family. Below, we’ve outlined some of the most sought-after upgrades by Texas homeowners and average pricing information based on our 2025 survey of Thursday Pools’ independent dealers across the state.

 

Pool Heating and Filtration Systems

 

Pool Heater Average Cost in Texas: $5,550

Keep your pool water comfortable, extending your swim season even as the evenings cool.

 

UV Filter System Average Cost in Texas: $4,400

Minimize chemical use and maintain crystal-clear water with a UV filtration system that eliminates bacteria and algae.

 

Automatic Pool Cleaning and Vacuuming System Average Cost in Texas: $5,150

Spend less time skimming and scrubbing with an automatic cleaning system that helps keep your pool clear and inviting.

 

Pool Automation and Smart Control System Average Cost in Texas: $6,200

Take control of your pool’s temperature, filtration, and lighting remotely from your smartphone or tablet, giving you convenience and control.

 

Pool Covers

 

Automatic Pool Cover Average Cost in Texas: $16,000

 Improve pool safety, reduce water evaporation, and maintain a cleaner pool with an automatic cover that opens and closes with the push of a button.

 

Non-Automatic Safety Pool Cover Average Cost in Texas: $12,000

A more affordable safety cover option designed to keep debris out and provide peace of mind for pool owners.

 

Pool Decking and Landscaping

 

Poured-concrete patio (Approx. 1,200 sq. ft.) Average Cost in Texas: $11,650

A durable and cost-effective solution for poolside decking, concrete withstands Texas’ seasonal temperature shifts and provides a stable surface.

 

Paver Patio (Approx. 1,200 sq. ft.) Average Cost in Texas: $14,250

Create an elegant, slip-resistant deck with pavers, available in affordable concrete or premium natural stone like travertine. Brick and concrete pavers are ideal for Texas’ weather.

 

Surrounding Landscaping Average Cost in Texas: $5,000

Elevate the aesthetics of your pool area with decorative landscaping, including trees, shrubs, and vibrant flower beds.

 

Pool Features and Accents

 

Specialty Waterline Tile Average Cost in Texas: $9,300

Add a custom touch to your pool’s look with decorative tiles along the waterline, creating an upscale and polished appearance.

 

LED Pool Lights Average Cost in Texas: $1,819 per light

Enhance your pool’s ambiance at night with energy-efficient LED lights, available in white or multi-color options for dynamic effects.

 

Deck Jets Average Cost in Texas: $8,650 per jet

Add a dramatic flair to your pool with graceful arcs of water shooting from the deck into the pool.

 

Bubblers Average Cost in Texas: $1,100 per bubbler

Bubblers create small fountains in shallow pool areas, a playful and visually appealing addition that adds gentle water movement.

 

Cascading Waterfalls Average Cost in Texas: $6,600

Bring a spa-like ambiance to your pool with a natural-looking waterfall feature, offering a relaxing atmosphere.

 

Add-On Spa Average Cost in Texas: $16,000

Enhance your backyard oasis with an attached spa for a stunning spillover effect, providing a luxurious retreat alongside your pool.

 

Pool Slides and Diving Features

 

Simple Pool Slide Average Cost in Texas: $6,400

A classic, straightforward option brings some playful fun to your poolscape.

 

Deluxe Pool Slide Average Cost in Texas: $9,450

A taller, twistier slide goes above and beyond in adding excitement and flair.

 

Diving Board (Type 1 Diving Pools Only) Average Cost in Texas: $3,250

Diving boards are permitted only with certified Type 1 diving pools that meet the required slope and depth specifications. Use with caution and follow all safety guidelines.

 

*Thursday Pools strongly advises against pool slides and diving boards due to safety concerns. The inclusion of a diving board or slide with any fiberglass pool must be carefully reviewed by a licensed professional to ensure compliance with all local building codes, safety regulations, and manufacturer guidelines. Not all fiberglass pool models are suitable for diving or slide use. It is the responsibility of the homeowner and installer to ensure proper installation and usage. Always prioritize safety and consult a qualified expert before adding any diving or sliding feature to your pool.

 

Transform Your Texas Backyard with a Custom Fiberglass Pool

A fiberglass pool in Texas is more than just an investment—it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories, stay refreshed during the summer heat, and add long-term value to your home, whether you’re in the heart of the city or enjoying the peacefulness of rural Texas, choosing the right pool size, features, and installation plan is essential for making the most of your outdoor space.

 

Each pool installation is unique, so the best way to get an accurate estimate is by consulting with a local independent Thursday Pools dealer. They’ll evaluate your yard’s specific conditions, offer expert advice on excavation, access, and site prep, and guide you in selecting a pool design that aligns with your vision and budget.

Excited to get started? Use the Thursday Pools Pool Cost Calculator for pricing estimates, explore our Pool Selector Tool to find the perfect pool design, and book a consultation with a dealer near you. Your dream backyard is just a step away!

Get Your Personalized Estimate


 

Choosing an Inground Pool Shape for Your Family’s Stage in Life

Posted on by krista

Selecting the right  inground pool shape goes beyond aesthetics. It’s about creating a space that fits your family’s lifestyle and stage in life. Whether you are a couple looking for a serene escape or grandparents seeking a safe and accessible pool design, your pool shape can impact its functionality and appeal. Explore inground pool shapes tailored to different family types, ensuring a cherished spot for relaxation, fun, and a lifetime of memories.

 

Families with Small Children

Families with small children need a pool that prioritizes safety, easy access, and designated shallow areas for play. A well-designed pool for young kids ensures peace of mind for parents and creates a fun and inviting space where children can safely enjoy the water as they grow and gain confidence in their swimming skills.

Key Considerations:

  1. Safety First: Shallow zones, non-slip surfaces, and secure access points are crucial.
  2. Visibility: The pool shape should allow clear sightlines for parents to keep an eye on the kids.
  3. Multi-Level Play Areas: Zones with varying depths cater to toddlers, beginner swimmers, and older children alike.

Thursday Pools Diamond Grace Beach Entry poolRecommended Pool Shapes:

  1. Beach Entry Pool: The gradual, sloping entry mimics the feel of a beach, providing an ideal play area for small children. It allows them to enter the water slowly and safely, perfect for toddlers and young kids just getting comfortable in the water. With a gentle slope into the pool, the beach entry is ideal for wading, splashing, and sunbathing.
  2. Wading Pool: A wading pool features a shallow, uniform depth, making it an excellent space for young children to play and for adults to relax. It provides a perfect environment for toddlers and pets, offering peace of mind with its shallow water (typically around 18 inches deep). Look for a non-slip surface and built-in benches for easy supervision.
  3. Rectangular Pool: The simple rectangular-shaped pool allows for easy oversight, and a built-in tanning ledge is a perfect spot for small children to splash and play. A defined shallow area is great for play or for parents to relax close to the kids.

Families with Teenage Children

Families with teenagers need a pool that matches their active lifestyle and provides ample space for fun and socializing. From swimming laps to playing water games and lounging with friends, the right pool shape can turn your backyard into the ultimate hangout spot for teens and their friends while ensuring safety.

Key Considerations:

  1. Active Lifestyle: Teenagers often enjoy active water activities like swimming, water games, or just lounging in the pool with friends.
  2. Space for Socializing: The pool should comfortably accommodate groups of friends, with areas for swimming and hanging out.
  3. Safety Considerations: Ensure the design includes proper depth transitions for safe enjoyment.

Thursday Pools Monolith in MayaRecommended Pool Shapes:

  1. Rectangular Pool: Rectangular pools offer plenty of space for swimming laps, water sports, and general relaxation. The shape is versatile for various activities and may include tanning ledges for lounging and socializing, as well as built-in steps and swim-outs for easy entry and exit.
  2. Freeform Pool: Freeform pools are natural and playful, perfect for a fun and relaxed environment. The shape features curved edges that create nooks for relaxation while still offering ample swimming space. Tanning ledges, built-in steps, and wraparound benches enhance their aesthetic and functional value.
  3. Spa: Adding a spa to a pool creates a perfect relaxation zone for teenagers and their parents. It’s an ideal space for resting after an active swim or quiet conversation.

Couples

For couples, a pool is often more than just a place to swim—it’s a retreat for peace, romance, and entertaining close friends. The ideal pool shape should prioritize aesthetics, tranquility, and a touch of luxury, creating a serene environment that enhances the atmosphere of your home while catering to intimate gatherings and quiet moments.

Key Considerations:Thursday Pools Pearl in Maya

  1. Relaxation: Couples often prioritize tranquility, aesthetics, and space for quiet, romantic moments.
  2. Entertaining Small Groups: The pool should provide ample space for socializing.
  3. Elegant Design: A focus on style and elegance with mood-enhancing features.

Recommended Pool Shapes:

  1. Roman Pool: The classic Roman pool shape offers a touch of elegance with its symmetrical design and rounded ends. It provides ample swimming space with a refined, sophisticated look. Elevate the experience with a tanning ledge, wraparound benches, and built-in steps.
  2. Freeform Pool: A freeform pool offers a more organic and flowing design, perfect for creating a tranquil and romantic environment. Its natural, curving shape blends seamlessly into the landscape, adding a sense of elegance and serenity. Tanning ledges, wraparound benches, and built-in steps are perfect for conversation and relaxation.
  3. Rectangular Pool: The sleek and straightforward rectangular pool design makes it a versatile and sophisticated option for couples. This shape is perfect for swimming laps or simply enjoying a quiet, reflective swim. Clean lines create a modern aesthetic, and options for swim-outs, tanning ledges, and built-in steps add form and function.
  4. Spa: Spas provide an intimate space for relaxation and hydrotherapy, making them a great addition to any pool area. They offer a perfect spot for couples to unwind, soak in the warm water, and experience the therapeutic benefits of jets, enriching the overall ambiance of the backyard retreat.

Grandparents

Grandparents often seek a safe pool that is easy to access and designed for relaxation and family bonding. With a focus on gentle entry points and versatile spaces, the perfect pool shape allows grandparents to enjoy light exercise, cool off on warm days, and spend quality time with grandchildren in a safe and comfortable environment.

Key Considerations:

  1. Ease of Access: Safety and ease of entry/exit are top priorities, with designs considering limited mobility.
  2. Low Maintenance: Simple designs that are easy to maintain and clean.
  3. Relaxation and Family Time: A focus on relaxation with areas for grandchildren to play safely.

Thursday Pools Wellspring with Round SpaRecommended Pool Shapes:

  1. Freeform Pool: The freeform’s gentle curves are ideal for creating a relaxing environment with designated areas for both lounging and safe play. Beneficial features include non-skid surfaces, easy entry and exit with built-in steps, swim-outs, and enough space for gentle swimming.
  2. Wading Pool: Shallow, versatile pools for relaxing, light exercise, or letting grandchildren splash safely. It’s perfect for older adults who want a low-impact space to enjoy the water. Features often include uniform shallow depth, non-skid surfaces, and benches.
  3. Beach Entry Pool: The gradual, sloping entry makes it exceptionally easy to get in and out, catering to all mobility levels. It’s perfect for grandparents and young grandchildren alike, providing an accessible space. The gentle slope mimics the beach feeling and allows for sunbathing, wading, and safe play.
  4. Spa: A spa’s hydrotherapy benefits often appeal to grandparents. The warm water and soothing jets help relieve joint pain and promote relaxation, making it an ideal spot for unwinding.

Get the Right Shape For Your Family: Consult a Pool Builder

Choosing a pool shape brings you one step to creating your dream pool and enjoying many memories with your loved ones. In no time, you’ll look out your window and won’t even be able to remember what your yard looked like before your fabulous new pool.

If you need help selecting a shape, contact a local pool builder. Their years of experience designing pool projects and insights from countless backyards can offer invaluable guidance. Get a  design consultation today from an independent Thursday Pools dealer.



6 Tips to Reduce Inground Pool Operating Costs

Posted on by Karen

Buyers often only look at upfront costs when pricing and comparing  inground pools. However, ongoing pool operating costs can add up over the lifetime ownership of your pool. While all pool types have some of the same expenses, understanding the differences in operating costs among fiberglass, vinyl liner, and gunite pools can help you make smarter choices to keep the costs in check. From testing your water chemistry to maintaining equipment, check out our tips on reducing your  inground pool costs.

 

Thursday Pools is using a pH and cl kit to test the swimming pool's water quality.Tip 1: Test Your Pool Water Regularly

According to  HomeGuide, annual pool chemical costs average $175 for a fiberglass pool, $400 for a vinyl pool, and $750 for a concrete pool. However, your actual cost will depend on the amount of chemicals you need to maintain balanced water chemistry. Trying to correct problems after you have “lost your pool” can result in extra, unnecessary expense, so test often to help maintain better control. Regularly test your water using a DIY test kit, take a sample to a pool store, or use a professional pool service for a more thorough analysis. In addition to the usual pH and chlorine levels, professionals assess a wider range of factors, such as alkalinity, calcium hardness, and stabilizer levels, ensuring that any imbalance is detected before it becomes a costly problem. 

 

Tip 2: Add Chemicals in the Evening

To get the most out of your pool chemicals, regardless of pool type, add them in the evening or at night when the sun is down. Adding pool chemicals in the evening is ideal for all pool types to help ensure that they work optimally, extending their efficacy and reducing the frequency of reapplication. Chemicals like chlorine degrade quickly under sunlight, so evening application allows them to work overnight without UV interference, ensuring better absorption and balanced water. This timing also improves the overall effectiveness of algaecides, pH adjusters, and other treatments, keeping your pool water clear and properly maintained.

 

TIP 3: Keep Your Pool Clean

Thursday Pools' robot underwater cleaner and pool skimmer

When you regularly backwash, skim, brush, vacuum, and monitor your pressure gauge, you’re less likely to have prematurely expensive repairs. Fiberglass pools are more algae-resistant than other pool types, so you’ll automatically save time and money on cleaning. Maintaining a clean pool improves the efficiency of your pool’s filtration system, reducing wear and tear on equipment. Costs for pump replacements, filter repairs, and other common issues vary depending on the pool type and equipment brand.  Considering all pool types, HomeGuide estimates that replacing a pool pump motor averages $150 to $800, and repairing it costs $50 to $300. A new inground pool filter costs $385 to $1,600. Repairing minor issues in your heater or heating tubes can cost $100 to $300, and replacing your heater averages $1,600 to 5,200. Set reminders or regularly schedule cleaning to save money in the long run. 

 

TIP 4: Save Water by Managing Usage and Covering Your Pool

Water conservation is a critical aspect of reducing inground pool operating costs. During the swim season, pools require refills as they lose water due to evaporation, improper backwashing, and kids splashing. On average, pools lose about two inches of water per week, up to around 2,000 gallons per month. Depending on local water rates, this ongoing cost can range from  $4 to $20 monthly​. Pool covers can dramatically reduce evaporation by up to 90%. They also help maintain your pool’s temperature, lowering heating costs. Monitor splashing and limit it by setting clear rules for pool play. Not only does this save water, but it also reduces the need to add and rebalance your pool’s chemicals. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for filter backwashing to avoid unnecessary water loss.

 

TIP 5: Heat Your Water More Efficiently 

Heating your pool can be one of the most significant ongoing expenses, so it’s important to manage it wisely. Fiberglass pools retain heat better than other pool types due to their insulating properties, making them more energy-efficient and less costly to heat. Electric resistance heaters consume a lot of electricity, with operating costs ranging from $175 to $600 per month. Gas pool heaters quickly warm up the water, but they average between $200 to $500 or more per month to run. On the other hand, heat pumps are much more energy-efficient, costing about $50 to $150 per month, though they take longer to heat the water. Solar pool heaters use electricity only to circulate water, making them the most cost-effective at around $10 to $25 per month. Regardless of your pool heater type, set your pool heater between 78-82 degrees to maintain a comfortable temperature without overworking the heater. 

 

TIP 6: Save Energy 3 Ways

Your pool pump plays a vital role in water circulation and filtration, so efficiently running it can save money. Consider switching to a variable-speed pump, which uses less energy than a single-speed pump and allows you to adjust the flow rate based on your pool’s needs. A timer can automatically control when the pump runs, optimizing usage during off-peak hours to reduce energy consumption. This simple addition can significantly cut down your electric bills. It’s easy to forget to turn off your pool lights, especially after an evening swim. Unfortunately, keeping the lights on when the pool isn’t in use can unnecessarily add to your electricity costs. Make it a habit to check that all lights are off before heading inside for the night. Accidentally leaving the backwash running or overfilling your pool wastes water and incurs additional heating and chemical balancing costs. Set reminders or timers when performing these tasks to avoid costly errors.

 

Get Your Pool Cost Questions Answered

Keeping your inground pool operating costs low is all about regular maintenance, efficient use of equipment, and smart choices. Whether you choose a fiberglass, vinyl, or gunite pool, taking proactive steps can significantly lower your ongoing expenses and keep your pool running smoothly. If you have questions about inground pool costs or are ready to take the plunge and purchase,  consult a pool dealer near you.