Above-ground pools can be great substitutes for typical swimming pools because they’ll cost you much less. Also, modern above ground swimming pools come in a multitude of sizes and materials, which results in a wide variety of prices available on the market.
But, how much does it actually cost to maintain an above-ground pool once youve bought one? Surely, it can’t be as pricey as maintaining an in-ground swimming pool, but it’s a great idea to have an estimation of this cost.
In this article, we’ll answer this question in depth to help you see the whole picture before you invest in an above-ground pool.
Our Guide To The Average Cost of Upkeeping an Above Ground Pool
Before we discuss how much the maintenance of an above-ground pool will cost you, let’s talk about the cost of the pool itself.
Luckily, an above-ground pool can range from $200 to $2,000. Wondering why there’s such a huge price difference?
Well, it all depends on several factors that have an impact on the price. These common above ground swimming pool factors include:
- The size of the pool
- Construction materials
- Pool type
For instance, inflatable pools are the most affordable type of above ground pools because they don’t include expensive structures.
On the other hand, some pools have steel and aluminum construction because they’re meant to be permanent. Naturally, these pools tend to be the most expensive and often the longest-lasting, of all of the above-ground swimming pool types.
Now, what about the maintenance cost of an above-ground pool?
How Much Does It Really Cost Each Year to Maintain an Above-Ground Pool?
When compared to the maintenance costs of a regular swimming pool, maintaining an above-ground pool may seem insignificant.
On average, you might find yourself spending only about $250 a year on maintenance if you don’t hire a professional cleaning service.
Sometimes, it could be a bit more depending on what exactly you’ll be doing. Let’s break that number down for you.
Swimming Pool Chemicals
First, you’ll need to purchase the right chemicals to keep your above ground swimming pool clean.
You’ll probably use chlorine or bromine, which will cost you about $10 to $15 each month. If your pool is on the small side, you might only need from $5 to $10 of chemicals a month.
Therefore, the chemicals you’ll need to get for your pool might cost you from $100 to $150 a year.
Filters
You won’t have to worry about replacing filters if your pool is inflatable.
However, if you’re purchasing a ring pool or a framed pool, you’ll have to change the filters that they come with to dispose of any bacteria in the water. So, how much will you spend on these filters?
Typically, the pool filters might cost you from $15 to $50 on average.
Saltwater
When you first buy a large above-ground pool, you’ll need a saltwater system with a water pump that might cost you from $200 to $400.
To keep that system in perfect shape, you’ll probably have to spend from $5 to $10 per month for its maintenance.
Thus, you can expect to pay from $100 to $120 every year to ensure that your swimming pool pump is keeping your pool free from harmful microorganisms.
If your yearly maintenance is limited to the previous duties, you might end up paying only $200 or $250 annually.
Yet, there might be some additional costs if you choose to hire a cleaning service to take care of the liner and exterior of the pool. This might cost you $100 per hour.
Some pool owners prefer to clean their pools themselves to save some cash. While this is a good plan, it usually means they’ll have to wash their pools every weekend, which may not be an option for a busy person.
What Are Other Costs When Buying an Above-Ground Swimming Pool?
Besides the purchase, installation, and maintenance costs of these pools, you’ll end up paying more for other things. You’ll need to put these costs into account, too, if you’re serious about buying an above-ground pool.
Insurance
Many insurance companies consider an above-ground pool to be an attractive nuisance. Therefore, your insurance premium can go higher by $75 or more each month.
Of course, this depends on where you live. For instance, if you reside in a rather warm state like California, your insurance premium may not grow to an uncomfortable degree.
Yet, if you’re living in a state with a colder climate, most insurance companies there won’t automatically include the pool in your policy.
Getting a Permit
Again, based on where you’re staying, the cost of a permit will vary greatly. Ultimately, some cities may not require you to get a permit for your pool, but the majority of them will.
On average, the cost of a swimming pool’s permit can start from $150 all the way to $300. To know exactly how much you’ll be paying for a permit, your best bet is to contact your local government.
Buying a Pool Cover
If you’re investing in a permanent above-ground pool, you’ll most likely need a cover to protect it against the elements. During the off-season, you’ll have to make sure that no debris will fall into the water.
Also, a cover is an important safety measure to have if your children are small to prevent them from accidentally falling inside the pool.
Depending on the size of the pool, the price of a cover could range from $100 to $300. For those who want a more premium option, you can go for a sun dome or a solar swimming pool cover. These might cost you $1,000, if not more.
The Bottom Line on How Much It Costs To Maintain A Above Ground Swimming Pool
So what’s the quick, to-the-point answer to ‘How much does it cost to maintain an above-ground pool?’ You may ask.
Well, after reading our article, you’ll know that you might end up spending from $200 to $250 per year if you maintain the pool yourself. If you use the help of a professional, that price can go up considerably.
Therefore, it’s all a matter of finding out what works best with your budget. Once you do, you can have a better estimation of how above ground pool maintenance will cost you each year.
Hello, I am a writer and marketing specialist in Kansas City, MO. My love for swimming pools started as a child when I would visit my aunt & uncle’s inground swimming pool on a frequent basis over the summer. Since then I have taught swimming lessons at a Boy Scout Camp, participated in the full setup, installation and maintenance of my father’s inground swimming pool, as well as enjoyed constantly researching everything there is to know about swimming pools for 5+ years. I enjoy all water related sports, being part of the online swimming pool community and always learning new things!
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