4 Must-Ask Questions Before Owning a Swimming Pool

A swimming pool is a sign of togetherness, luxury, and leisure, but they are also a large investment of time and money. Have you taken everything into account before becoming a private pool owner? Consider these questions to see if a swimming pool is right for you.

Do you know your local regulations?

There are specific regulations concerning liability and safety when owning a private pool. Each state and county have different signage and fencing rules for private swimming pools. San Diego County’s pool and safety regulations can be found here.

When you own a private pool, it impacts your homeowner’s insurance. Call your insurance company to determine if your current policy includes your pool. You may have to purchase a separate policy to cover it. Putting insurance on your pool protects you if someone gets hurt while using your pool or the pool itself is damaged.

Have you calculated the cost of owning a swimming pool?

Above-ground pools are significantly cheaper to maintain than in-ground pools. However, every pool requires ongoing maintenance. To keep your pool clean daily, you must:

• Test the water regularly (chlorine, pH and alkalinity)
• Purchase and add chemicals to balance water chemistry
• Skim the surface of the pool and brush walls and tiles
• Vacuum the pool as needed
• Check and maintain the filtration and pumping systems

Ongoing repairs and utilities also increase the cost of owning a pool. The pool’s pumps, heaters, lights, and other equipment use electricity. New pool owners underestimate the amount of electricity a pool uses. Automatic timers and solar heating panels are often installed to cut some of the electrical costs but come with up-front expenses.

Regardless of whether your pool is indoor or outdoor, above-or in-ground, you will have increased security concerns. You may need to install a fence or cameras to secure the pool area. Overall, the average annual cost of owning a pool is roughly $6,000.

Do you have the time for swimming pool maintenance?

Swimming pools need daily upkeep and cleaning. Skimming the pool’s surface and cleaning the filters must be done daily. You will need to monitor chemical levels and take time to add various water treatments. Performing pool maintenance decreases the chances of having Recreational Water Illnesses. According to the CDC, RWIs are contracted from swallowing, breathing, and having contact with contaminated water.

If a swimmer is sick, germs contaminate the entire pool and risk the health of other swimmers. Proper upkeep and healthy guests help keep your pool sanitary for everyone to use. If you do not have enough time to dedicate to pool maintenance you can hire a professional pool service company to assist you. Doing so will increase your budgeted pool expenses but decrease the likelihood of contamination.  

How will you prevent accidents?

Accidents can happen when owning a pool. If you do not know how to perform CPR, take a local class offered by trained professionals. A pool cover is another feature that can be used to prevent accidents. Depending on the type of pool cover you choose, some covers are able to withstand the weight of a small child or pet. Your pool cover can also protect your pool from damage or debris when it's not in use.

Before owning a pool, you should know the costs and maintenance required to keep a pool clean and running well. If you need help performing pool maintenance, contact PoolSense for a free quote today!