Key Costs to Consider When Buying a Pool

Type of Pool: Fibreglass Inground or Free Standing Above Ground Pool?

There are two types of pool options available if you have chosen a fibreglass pool. You can have the option of having your pool inground, which is the most common option for most people or for those who may have a difficult backyard or sloping block, you can opt for the free standing above-ground option. Due to the engineering aspect of the free standing above-ground options, they will cost more to install.

The Shape and Size Of Your Pool

Narellan Pools are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes. Ultimately, the shape and size you pick will depend on your personal preference and the space available in your backyard. The design may alter the price slightly, but the price will be mainly based on the size. We have talked about the shapes and sizes of pools in a previous blog.

Most people are happy to just have a pool installed, however, others want to create different areas of the pool to suit their needs. You can add a spa to the pool to provide yourself with a place to relax and unwind, add a wading pool to the design for the kids, or even a combo of all three.

Colour Options For Your Pool

The right colour swimming pool can make all the difference. With Narellan Pools you have the choice of three colour ranges; Pastel, Crystal Granite, and our unique Marbleglass™ colour range, which is a superior premium colour finish and will look amazing for decades to come.

Swimming Pool Installation Costs:

Depending on the access available to your backyard/property a crane may be required to deliver your pool. When your local pool builder comes out to quote you, they will check to see if this is required.  Part of the installation cost is excavation and if you hit a rock, there may be additional charges.

By law all pools require fencing, so be sure to get a quote for a fence so you know the overall cost of your pool.

Equipment To Run Your Pool And Keep It Clean:

When you get a quote for your pool, your local pool builder will include the equipment you need to run your pools. You can always upgrade to include mineral sanitation systems, eco pool pumps (which have variable speed so they use less energy and make less noise) in-floor cleaning system or pools covers.

Swimming Pool Running & Maintenance Costs:

It is good to be aware of the running costs and maintenance costs associated with keeping your pool heated and clean.  With various options available you can find solutions that work for you whether it be robotic pool cleaners or scheduled pool cleans by a professional.

Landscaping:

Some pool builders offer landscape as a service, in most cases, you will need to source your own landscaper. There are so many options and designs available to turn your backyard into an oasis where you can enjoy life by the pool.

Accessories and Furniture:

Look for outdoor furniture that compliments the landscape and colours of your backyard. By choosing the right furniture you can create an extension of your home, another space to entertain and relax in. Prices vary for outdoor furniture but because it is outdoor, always choose options that are durable to withstand changing weather conditions.

Don’t forget pool toys! With so many retailers now selling pool toys, you can pick up affordable toys for all ages, keeping your family entertained for hours.

Swimming Pool Heating Costs And Cleaning Options:

The Cost Of Pool Heating:

The addition of heating to your swimming pool can extend your swimming season. Price factors to take into consideration are your location and the size of the pool. If you have roof space, and sunshine, then Solar Heating is the most cost-effective form of heating. For those looking for an alternate, the new models of electric heaters are quite efficient.

The cost of running swimming pool heating equipment, whether it be solar, electric, or gas, has come down a great deal over the last few years as the technology has improved. Below is a table of very broad running costs for different heating equipment for an average 8m x 4m swimming pool based on the average cost of electricity and gas.

* This is an estimated cost, please check with your gas/energy company for a quote

Cost of Pool Covers:

If you are thinking of heating your pool, then you should also think about a good pool cover as it will keep some of the heat in and protect your pool when not in use. You could go with a blanket and roller option, automated roller covers, or top-end hardcovers. This comes down to a personal choice as they all do a good job. Regardless of your choice, remember to take your blanket off at least once a week to let your pool breathe.

A pool cover not only makes your pool safer, especially when children are around, but it will also reduce maintenance costs by keeping the pool free from debris when not in use and preventing water loss.

The Cost of Sanitisation & Chemicals For Your Pool:

There is a wide range of water santisers on the market, with the two main types being; traditional Chlorine and Salt (Sodium or Magnesium). When it comes to value for money Magnesium or Mineral Pools are your best option for killing germs in your pool and they have a high-quality water feel.

The chemical balance of the pool water will directly impact your costs. Chlorine may be cheaper but you will have to use more, the mineral is more expensive but you will use less and it’s gentler on the skin. The trick with keeping the maintenance cost low for chemicals is all about maintaining balance; adding too much of one chemical can break down another chemical, which makes achieving the perfect balance elusive.

Similar to running your equipment the number of chemicals you will use will vary depending on factors such as pool covers and how often the pool is used.

Swimming Pool Filtration Cost:

This is the equipment that keeps your pool clean and safe for swimming. With filtration, you have the choice of upgrading from a standard cartridge filter, which has a lot of cleaning maintenance, to a sand filter or glass media filter. Both sand and glass filters look similar from the outside and are less maintenance than cartridge filters. The glass media filters also last longer and clean a finer grade of suspended particles from the water.

The cost of running your filtration will vary depending on how often you run your equipment, but based on the average energy consumption of a 1 to 1.5 horsepower pump the table below can be used as a guide. Individual results may vary depending on your energy provider and equipment installed.

*This is an estimated cost and will change based on variable factors. Please check with your electrical company for a quote.

How long you should run your pool filtration depends on:

•      The size of the pool
•      The filtering equipment
•      How much the pool is used and by how many people
•      Varying environmental factors, e.g sunlight or wind hitting the pool

As the number of people who swim in the pool increases, the more filtering the pool will need. It is recommended that you run the filter for four to six hours a day in summer, and two to four hours a day during winter. For larger pools, you may need to run the filtration for up to 8 hours.

There are savings available if you are considering using some of the latest energy-efficient pool products on the market. For example, changing over to an economy multi-speed pump may save hundreds of dollars per year. A standard pool pump only runs at one speed and cannot be adjusted. Economy style pumps typically have three speeds which can be adjusted with a simple touch of a button; you can save up to 60% in running costs.

Another idea is to consider running your pool pump in off-peak periods which will cost much less, check with your energy provider for the off-peak times in your area.

Cleaning Your Pool:

Keeping your pool clean ensures it will always be ready to use. While you can remove simple debris such as leaves yourself, you also have the option of robotic cleaners. They are a great solution to ensure your pool is always clean and ready to swim in. These devices come in all sizes and price points, simply ask your local pool builder for the best option available.

You can also set up a cleaning plan for approx. $70/month for your pool to be professionally cleaned.

Should You Hire A Pool Builder Or Build It Yourself?

Hiring a professional pool builder is always the best option as you will know your pool is installed to Australian Standards and covered under warranty. A professional pool builder with years of experience will also likely save money in the long run as they will be better equipped and able to handle any unexpected issues.

Permits For Your Pool:

Before construction can begin you will need a permit from your local council. It’s impossible to give an exact cost for the permits as it will vary from council to council and depend on the type of permit required. You can save some money by submitting the paperwork yourself, however, be wary of mistakes as re-filing fees can be expensive.

Waste Disposal:

As with any construction process, a fair amount of waste will be generated; soil, shipping materials, and cut-offs. Disposal companies generally charge by kilometer from your property to the disposal site. While the builders can locate a site for you, locating your own site nearby could save thousands of dollars.

Rocks and Other Obstacles:

Rocks and other obstacles can add to the cost of excavation. If you are using a local pool builder, they should be knowledgeable of the ground quality in your area and can therefore anticipate any major issues. This allows them to work these costs into the budget before construction begins.