Are you thinking of filling up your swimming pool but worried about the cost? Well, wait to jump in! Before you take the plunge, let’s dive into how much does it cost to fill a pool with water.
From renting a water truck to using a garden hose, we’ll explore all the necessary steps and options to help you determine the costs of filling your pool with water.
Average Costs for Filling a Pool with Water
The price of filling a pool with water can vary depending on several elements, including the pool’s size, the filling method, and any other charges that might be required. The typical price to fill a 20,000-gallon pool runs from $80 to $800, according to HomeAdvisor. It is crucial to keep in mind that this is only an estimate and that the actual cost may vary based on several factors.
For instance, consider paying more to fill a larger pool. The price may also increase if you fill the pool with water from a pool provider or add chemicals.
Instead, use a garden hose or rainwater to fill the pool to lower the costs.
Pool Size Chart
The pool size is crucial in estimating the cost of filling a pool with water.
The amount of water needed to fill a pool varies depending on its size.
A small above-ground pool may only require a few hundred gallons of water, while a large in-ground pool can require tens of thousands of gallons. The following chart estimates the amount of water needed to fill pools of different sizes:
| Pool Size | Water Needed |
|---|---|
| Small (up to 5,000 gallons) | 2,500 to 5,000 gallons |
| Medium (5,000 to 15,000 gallons) | 10,000 to 15,000 gallons |
| Large (over 15,000 gallons) | 20,000 to 30,000 gallons |
Factors Affecting the Cost of Filling a Pool
Several factors can impact the cost of filling a pool with water.
1. Size of the Pool
The pool size is one of the most significant factors that can impact the cost of filling it with water. Larger pools require more water to fill, resulting in higher costs.
2. Method of Filling
The method used to fill the pool can also impact the cost. For example, filling the pool with a garden hose may be cheaper than hiring a professional pool service to fill it for you.
3. Local Water Rules
The cost of water can vary depending on where you live. If you live in an area with high water rates, the cost of filling a pool can be significantly higher. It is essential to check with your local water utility company to determine the current rates and how they may impact the overall cost.
4. Additional Chemicals
Adding chemicals to the pool water, such as chlorine or algaecide, may be necessary to maintain proper water balance and ensure that the water is safe for swimming. However, these additional expenses can add to the overall cost of filling the pool with water.
5. Rainwater Collection
Collecting rainwater can be a cost-effective way to fill a pool with water. However, this method depends on your area’s weather conditions and the rainfall in your area.
The Cheapest Ways to Fill a Pool with Water
There are several ways to fill a pool with water that can be cost-effective. A few of them are mentioned below.
1. Ask your Local Fire Department
Some fire departments may offer to fill your pool with water for a small fee or donation. This can be a cost-effective option if you have a large pool that would be difficult to fill with a garden hose.
Not all fire departments offer this service, and it may not be available during times of high demand, such as during a drought or wildfire season.
2. Consider a Water Delivery Service
Some companies specialize in delivering large amounts of water for pools and other uses. While this may be more expensive than filling the pool, it can be a good option if you need access to a reliable water source or if your pool is too large to fill with a garden hose.
3. Rent a Water Truck
If you need to fill a large pool quickly, you can rent a water truck to deliver the water to your property. This can be a more expensive option, but it can be a good choice if you need to fill the pool quickly for an event or party.
The cost of renting a water truck can vary depending on your location and the water you need. It’s also important to note that some areas may have restrictions on the use of water trucks due to drought conditions or other factors.
4. Utilize a Nearby Hydrant
In some areas, you may use a nearby fire hydrant to fill your pool with water. This method can be cost-effective, as fire hydrants typically have a high flow rate, meaning your pool can be filled quickly.
However, you will likely need to obtain a permit from your local water utility company and rent a meter to monitor the water usage.
Additional Costs to Consider
Here are some additional costs you should keep in consideration.
1. Chemicals
The cost of chemicals can vary depending on the type and amount needed for your specific pool size. However, it’s important to note that using the right chemicals in the right amount is crucial to maintaining a healthy pool. Without proper chemical balance, the water can become unsafe and even cause health problems for swimmers.
2. Equipment Rental
If you need to rent equipment to fill your pool with water, it’s important to factor in the cost of rental and any associated delivery or pickup fees. Additionally, consider the labor cost if you require assistance operating the equipment.
3. Water Delivery
The water delivery cost can vary depending on the water needed and the distance from the water source to your pool. Additionally, you may need to factor in any fees associated with the delivery, such as transportation costs or taxes.
4. Pool Maintenance
The cost of maintaining a pool can vary depending on the pool size and type and the maintenance frequency required. Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs and ensure the pool stays clean and safe for swimming.
5. Water Loss
Over time, the water in the pool may evaporate or leak, which can result in the need to add more water. It’s important to factor in the cost of replacing lost water and any potential costs associated with identifying and repairing leaks or addressing other water loss causes.
Tips for Saving on Pool Water Filling Costs
Some tips for saving pool water filling costs.
1. Install a Pool Cover
A pool cover is a great investment that can help you save on water and utility costs in the long run. By limiting evaporation, which is one of the main reasons for water loss, you can reduce the frequency of refilling your pool. A pool cover can also help keep debris out of the pool, which can help reduce the need for chemicals and cleaning.
2. Use a Water-Saving Nozzle
Using a water-saving nozzle with a shut-off valve on your garden hose is an easy and inexpensive way to reduce water waste. These nozzles can control the water flow, so you can avoid overfilling the pool and wasting water.
Some nozzles also have multiple spray patterns, so choose accordingly.
3. Schedule Pool Filling During Off-Peak Hours
Some water utility companies offer lower rates during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening. You can save on water costs by scheduling pool filling during these times.
This is especially helpful if you have a large pool that requires a significant amount of water.
4. Maintain Proper Pool Chemistry
Proper maintenance of the pool chemistry is essential to keep the water clean and safe for swimming. When the pool chemistry is not balanced correctly, the water can become cloudy, algae can grow, and bacteria can thrive.
In such cases, it may be necessary to drain and refill the pool to restore the proper balance of chemicals in the water. By regularly testing and adjusting the pool chemistry, you can prevent the need for frequent draining and refilling of the pool.
5. Repair Leaks Promptly
Regularly check for leaks in your pool or pool equipment and address them immediately. Even small leaks can lead to a significant increase in your water bill over time and can waste a significant amount of water.
Additionally, leaks can cause damage to your pool or equipment, leading to costly repairs. You can prevent water waste and save money in the long run by promptly repairing leaks.
6. Check for Discounts
Some water utility companies offer discounts or rebates for filling a pool with water, especially during drought or water restrictions. It’s a good idea to check with your local utility company to see if they have any special programs or offers.
You may save significant money on your pool water filling costs by taking advantage of these discounts or rebates.
Additionally, some utility companies may offer incentives for installing water-saving devices or making other water-efficient improvements to your pool, which can further reduce water bills.
Conclusion
Whether you fill it with a garden hose, well water, or even a water truck, just remember to schedule during off-peak hours, use a water-saving nozzle, and maintain proper chemistry to prevent water waste.
And if all else fails, just wait for the next rainstorm and grab your buckets! Happy swimming, folks!
Additional Resources
For more information on estimating pool water filling costs, finding local water rates, and exploring cost-effective options, check out the following resources:
- The EPA’s WaterSense Program for Water-Saving Tips
- The American Red Cross’s Guide to Healthy Swimming Practices
