The cost to maintain a 200-square-foot pool ranges between $102 and $175 for a one-time maintenance service. This includes cleaning your pool, balancing chemicals, testing pH levels, and making your pool safe to swim in.
If you opt for a maintenance contract, the average cost is between $43 and $190 per month, depending on the services required and the pool’s condition. If you need any service beyond regular pool maintenance, you will pay more than the average cost.
Our pricing guide is based on averages obtained from our survey on different pool maintenance costs across the U.S., including rural areas and metropolitan cities. Your specific cost will depend on the type of pool, the maintenance you need, and the pool material.
Cost by Location
The place where you live affects the cost of pool maintenance.In general, pool maintenance is often cheaper in rural areas because labor costs are lower.
The following table shows the maintenance costs in various places across the U.S.:
| Location | One-time Pool Maintenance Cost (including material and labor) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Pawtucket, RI | $128 – $135 |
| New York, NY | $168 – $175 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Dothan, AL | $102 – $109 |
| Fayetteville, NC | $111 – $119 |
| Orlando, FL | $112 – $119 |
| Atlanta, GA | $117 – $124 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| Duluth, MN | $137 – $144 |
| Chicago, IL | $137 – $144 |
| South Bend, IN | $141 – $149 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Corvallis, OR | $130 – $137 |
| Seattle, WA | $145 – $153 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Houston, TX | $118 – $126 |
| Roswell, NM | $120 – $128 |
| Manteca, CA | $127 – $134 |
| Las Vegas, NV | $129 – $136 |
Depending on the type of service your pool needs, you may pay more or less than the average maintenance cost. See the factors below for more information.
Cost by Pool Material
Pools made of fiberglass have the lowest maintenance costs. Fiberglass naturally prevents algae growth, so they don’t need as much cleaning.
Concrete pools are more prone to algae and generally require more specialized maintenance, which further raises costs. Vinyl liner pools sit right in the middle of fiberglass and concrete.
The following table shows how different materials affect annual pool maintenance costs.
| Pool Material | Average Annual Maintenance Cost (including material and labor) |
| Fiberglass | $300 – $550 |
| Vinyl | $350 – $800 |
| Concrete | $450 – $1,200 |
Cost by Maintenance Frequency
The cost of maintaining your swimming pool will vary depending on the frequency at which you hire pros to perform the necessary tune-ups.
Weekly maintenance programs are not popular among pool companies, as not every type of pool service is required on a weekly basis. Monthly maintenance plans are more common and may include up to four sessions if your pool desperately needs it.
Annual pool maintenance plans are just as popular as seasonal plans, especially if you live in regions with long pool seasons. States like California and Arizona are among the sunniest in the U.S., which makes an annual maintenance plan the right way to go.
The table below shows the different price ranges for each maintenance frequency.
| Maintenance Frequency | Average Pool Maintenance Cost |
| Weekly | $20 – $50 |
| Monthly | $43 – $190 |
| Annual | $808 – $2,000 |
Some pool companies offer seasonal maintenance plans in areas that enjoy three or four distinct seasons, helping you set a different budget for each period. For example, you’re likely to spend more on regular upkeep during the summer swimming season.
Once you close your pool for the winter, you won’t have to worry about maintenance costs until the spring. Spending will restart when you reopen the pool and have to balance the chemicals.
Labor Cost
Some pool professionals set maintenance costs based on the number of hours needed to complete the tasks. On average, the cost of professional pool maintenance ranges from $70 to $98 per hour. This usually applies when the customer already has the necessary materials or chemicals but needs a professional to apply them to the pool.
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
Assuming you do not own all the necessary equipment, buying all the tools and materials to maintain your own pool will set you back about $550. If you already have the tools and need to purchase chemicals, you are likely to spend about $115.
The cost may go higher or lower depending on the size of your pool and the chemicals you need. We calculated approximate pricing info for each tool based on average prices from Amazon, Lowe’s, and Home Depot.
Most pool maintenance tasks are not DIY-friendly, including draining the pool and inspecting water pumps. Water pumps, heaters, and salt chlorine generators are complex electrical components that should be inspected by experts. Also, balancing the water with different chemicals can be quite draining or even give you a headache.
Cost by Pool Type
Maintaining in-ground pools requires more time than above-ground pools, mainly because they’re a permanent installation and tend to be larger. So, the overall labor charges will be more for in-ground pools.
Even among in-ground pools, a saltwater system may require less maintenance because it needs fewer chemicals. However, fixing a faulty salt chlorine generator will significantly increase the total service cost.
The following table shows the different labor costs for each type of pool.
| Pool Type | Maintenance Cost (per Hour) |
| Indoor | $37 – $58 |
| In-ground | $58 – $95 |
| Above-ground | $58 – $95 |
| Chlorine | $60 – $98 |
| Salt Water | $73 – $92 |
Cost by Maintenance Type
Maintenance tasks require different tools and time commitments, so the cost for each varies. Here is what you’re likely to pay for each.
| Maintenance Type | Maintenance Cost |
| Brushing | $60 – $275 |
| Opening Pool | $150 – $300 |
| Closing Pool | $250 – $475 |
| Chlorine Wash | $300 – $488 |
| Acid Wash | $363 – $525 |
Opening your pool includes removing the cover, cleaning debris, inspecting equipment, and testing water quality.
As winter approaches, you’ll need a pro to close your pool. Closing a pool includes lowering the water level, cleaning, vacuuming, backwashing, and adding winterizing chemicals.
Acid washing is not included in the pool maintenance category since it’s unique for concrete or gunite pools every 3 to 5 years. Ask your pro if it’s necessary, or opt for a brushing service to remove any built-up dirt. For deeper cleaning, choose chlorine washing to disinfect and remove algae, bacteria, and contaminants.
Chemical Costs
Different chemicals are needed for various scenarios. These chemicals prevent bacteria and algae growth and protect the pool by adjusting pH levels.
See the table below for the costs of different chemicals.
| Chemical | Chemical Cost (Materials Only) |
| Oil-absorbing sponge | $10 – $30 |
| Algaecide | $14 – $60 |
| Metal remover | $15 – $30 |
| Stain remover | $15 – $40 |
| Chlorine | $15 – $80 |
| Pool clarifier | $20 – $30 |
| Pool water stabilizer | $20 – $30 |
| Pool shock | $25 – $50 |
| Bromine | $30 – $50 |
Additional Cost Factors
Pool parts wear out and need to be replaced from time to time. See the services below and add to your estimate as necessary:
Pool Pump Replacement
If your pool pump starts to make unusual noises like grinding, squealing, or knocking, it might be time to replace it. You may also notice decreased water flow or visible damage such as cracks or rust.
Average pool pump replacement cost (including labor): $712 to $859
Pool Filter Replacement
On average, a pool filter lasts between 5 and 10 years. If you notice visible damage, such as broken endcaps or damaged pleats, it’s time to replace the filter.
Average pool filter replacement cost (including labor): $2,087 to $2,413
Pool Heater Replacement
A pool heater generally lasts between 15 and 25 years. If you notice a reduction in heating efficiency or frequent breakdowns, get it inspected by a licensed HVAC contractor.
Average pool heater replacement (including filter and labor): $2,594 and $4,265
Keep Your Pool Clean All Year Long
Pools are meant to help you relax, not pile up stress, so it’s best to trust professionals to maintain your pool. Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Book reliable, skilled pool maintenance services and leave the rest to us.
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