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Electric Cost Calculator

Estimate pump, SWG, heater or equipment electricity cost.

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Costs vary based on variable-speed settings, duty cycles, and real runtime. This is an estimate based on constant watt draw.
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Tip: Variable-speed pumps running longer at lower RPM often cost less than single-speed pumps.

How the Electric Cost Calculator Works

This calculator estimates the operating cost of pool equipment from its wattage, daily runtime, and your electricity rate. Enter the power draw in watts, the number of hours the equipment runs each day, and the price you pay per kilowatt-hour. You can also enter the number of operating days to estimate seasonal cost.

The result assumes the equipment draws the same amount of power for the entire runtime. Actual costs may vary when equipment cycles on and off or changes speed.

Why Pool Electricity Cost Matters

Pumps, electric heaters, heat pumps, salt chlorine generators, lights, and water features all add to operating expenses. Understanding the cost of each item makes it easier to adjust schedules, compare equipment, and spot unusually expensive operation.

What Changes Actual Energy Use?

Variable-speed pumps use different wattage at different RPM settings. Heaters and heat pumps cycle according to water temperature and weather. Salt systems may turn off when flow is low or the water is cold. These changes mean the label wattage may not equal the average daily draw.

Common Cost-Estimate Mistakes

  • Using horsepower instead of measured watts.
  • Ignoring changing pump speeds.
  • Using the wrong electricity rate.
  • Assuming heaters run continuously.
  • Forgetting seasonal operating days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find equipment wattage?

Check the equipment label, owner’s manual, controller display, or a suitable energy monitor. Amps and voltage can also provide a rough estimate, but measured watts are better.

Why do lower pump speeds usually cost less?

Pump energy demand drops sharply as motor speed decreases. A variable-speed pump can often run longer at lower RPM while using less electricity than a short high-speed cycle.

Does the calculator include utility fees and taxes?

Only if those costs are included in the electricity rate you enter.

Can I compare two pump schedules?

Yes. Run the calculator once for each wattage and runtime combination, then compare the monthly or seasonal totals.

Pool Gal Pro Tip 💦

For a variable-speed pump, calculate each speed schedule separately. Eight hours at one RPM and four hours at another should not be treated as one constant watt draw.