Pool Running Cost Comparison

We use 30c/kWh, which is roughly the average residential rate in Adelaide in 2026. If your actual tariff is higher (e.g. peak usage, time-of-use plans), the savings will be proportionally larger. If you're on a cheaper off-peak arrangement, scale accordingly.

Upgrading from an old 1100W single-speed pump running 8 hours a day to a modern variable-speed pump typically saves $500 – $900 per year at Adelaide electricity rates. For larger pumps (1500W+), savings can exceed $1,200 per year. The new pump usually pays itself back in 2 – 4 years.

For Adelaide's climate, yes — almost always. Heat pumps use ambient air to warm the water, delivering 3-5 units of heat per unit of electricity. Gas heaters are closer to 0.9 units of heat per unit of input due to combustion losses and standing heat loss. For identical heating hours, a heat pump is typically 40-60% cheaper to run.

Not recommended. Pool equipment installation is electrical work and should be done by a licensed electrician or pool professional. It's also an opportunity to check your plumbing, valves and filtration setup at the same time — which is why we usually do pumps, filters and chlorinators together.

Yes. Variable-speed pumps can ramp up to full power when you need to run a suction cleaner, then drop back down to low speed for normal filtration. The cleaner still works exactly the same — you just get the efficiency benefit the rest of the time.

If both are ageing, yes — the installation labour and any plumbing changes are much cheaper when done together than in two separate visits. If your pool is also due for resurfacing, bundling all three together is the most cost-effective approach.