The on-going monthly cost of an Arizona private pool
When a client asks what is the on-going operating cost of a private pool, I struggle to offer a precise answer. The upfront cost to install a private pool can be determined after a 30 minute consultation with one of the many pool builders in the Phoenix area. But what are the daily operating costs that a homeowner can expect? For luxury homes, a well appointed private pool can be a standard expectation. A family with children may look to a private backyard pool as a essential activity for the children during the 100+ degree summer days common to Phoenix. So what is the day to day cost of this hydrated desert amenity?
Breaking down the daily operating costs of a private pool in Arizona
I have always been curious about what portion of my monthly SRP electricity bill is due to the pool pump that recirculates and filters the swimming pool water and runs the water feature. I’ve read that a pool pump can be the 2nd highest usage of electricity for a typical home with a pool next to the air conditioner. Instead of asking somebody at the pool store and getting an anecdotal response, I looked for a more analytical answer.
The first step is to calculate the Watts used consumed. This is done by multiplying the volts x amps. To the left is the label from my pool pump. For a 230 volt motor, multiply this by 7.8 amps. The result is 1,794 Watts, or 1.8 KWh. The next step is to calculate the KWh/day by multiplying this by the hours per day the pump runs. During the summer, it is recommended the pump run 6 – 8 hours/day, and less during the winter. For my calculations, I’ll use 8 hours. 1.8 Kwh x 8 hours = 14.4 KWh/day or 432 KWh/month. The SRP standard summer rate is $0.0806/KWh, so the cost/month is 432 KWh x $0.0806/KWh = $35/month, or a little more than $1/day. The winter rate is lower so this calculation is on the high side.
Pool chemical cost can vary depending on the system used to keep the chemicals in balance. Newer technology uses salt water systems to assist in chlorinating the pool. A rough estimate for chlorine, acid and misc. chemicals such as diatomacheous earth for the filter would be approximately $300/year or $25/month.
Evaporation of pool water
The Phoenix area has over 350,000 private pools. According to the Water Resources Deparment, an uncovered pool loses 4 – 6 feet of water per year. This coincides with other estimates that a pool loses its entire volume once a year due to evaporation. If a pool holds 12,000 gallons and the residential water rate is $1.15/1,000 gallons, the yearly cost for water due to evaporation is barely $14 /year. This much lower than I would have expected and unfortunately such a low cost does not encourage water conservation which could be achieved through the use of a pool cover.
Major pool expenses
An important consideration is the type of lining, the cost and how often it will need to be replaced. When we installed our pool, we went with a basic plaster pool. After 9 – 10 years it had to be replaced. The replacement cost to have the pool relined varies depending on the lining; plaster with quartz, or pebble tec. Pebble tec pool liners are more robust and can out last less expensive linings. A basic lining would be around $5,000 – $6,000 which would equate to $600/year or $50/month over a 10 year functional life expectancy. And as with any replacement parts, watch out when your pool vacuum needs bearing or other replacement parts, you’re looking at a miniumum of $150.
My estimate of the on-going cost of a Phoenix area pool would be $35 for the pool pump, $25/month for chemicals and $60/month for major expenses, so plan to budget roughly $120/month for the maintenance of your swimming pool. This estimate is based largely on my own pool which is from the mid 1990’s era and probably on the high side, so please do your own analysis based on the expense types I’ve outlined above. Your comments are welcome based on your experience!
Still interested in a home with a pool? Click on e-mail me homes with a private pool.
Gilbert and Chandler Waterfront Homes with a private pool
$455,000 :: 1508 W VAUGHN Avenue, Gilbert AZ, 85233
4 beds, 2.5 baths
Home size: 1,748 sq ft
Lot Size: 4,792 sq ft
Added: 03/16/23, Last Updated: 03/20/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6528630
Community: TOWNE PARK AT NORTH SHORE
Tract: TOWNE PARK AT NORTH SHORE
The price of this listing was last increased on 3/20/2023 by 1%
Status: Active
Welcome to this beautiful home in the highly sought-after Towne Park at North Shore community! This 4 bed, 2.5 bath PLUS an office, has 1,748 sqft of living space & is the only 2-story home on the block. Step inside and immediately fall in love with the grand entrance and abundance of natural light. The kitchen is equipped with an island, pantry, plenty of cabinet and counter space. Upstairs you'll find newly installed vinyl flooring. Unwind in your primary suite at the end of the day with walk-in closet, garden tub, separate shower & private balcony overlooking the greenbelt. Large secondary bedrooms all share a full bathroom. The backyard features a covered patio & manicured yard. 2 car garage & full-size RV gate.
Listed with eXp Realty
Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!
$799,999 :: 4277 E Blue Sage Court, Gilbert AZ, 85297
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,232 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,762 sq ft
Added: 10/20/22, Last Updated: 03/20/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6479821
Community: Power Ranch Neighborhood 7
Tract: Power Ranch Neighborhood 7
The price of this listing was last reduced on 2/27/2023 by 3%
Status: Conditional
Stunning, meticulously maintained, 4bed/3bath (PLUS den!) T.W. Lewis home in Power Ranch, set on a cul-de-sac lot, next to trees, greenbelt & playground! Private, gated courtyard enters to Cantara floorplan w/ travertine floors throughout & carpet in bedrooms. Large living & dining room w/ bonus den. Through butler's pantry to upgraded, eat-in kitchen, open to family room w/ custom cabinetry. High ceilings throughout, along with shutters, ceiling fans, RO & other thoughtful touches. Paver patio, custom pergola & large grass yard out back. 3 car, tandem garage & all of this at the end of your own tree lined cul-de-sac. Power Ranch amenities are EXTENSIVE & deserve their own search if you're not familiar! All of this just minutes from shopping, dining & entertainment! Pics are gorgeous!!
Listed with Desert Dimensions Properties
Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!
$419,000 :: 697 E HARRISON Street, Chandler AZ, 85225
2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,152 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,970 sq ft
Added: 09/23/22, Last Updated: 03/20/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6468178
Community: Arcadia Village
Tract: Arcadia Village
The price of this listing was last reduced on 10/9/2022 by 1%
Status: Active
Beautiful Chandler home in a quiet neighborhood, 2 bedroom and 2 bath, an additional room with private access in the back of the house with its own walk-in closet and bath. The kitchen has updated granite counter tops with a breakfast bar and stainless-steel appliances and both bathrooms feature tiled showers and granite counter tops. A bright interior with plenty of natural light, neutral tile floors throughout main areas. Newer A/C, newer roof, R/V gate, large covered patio out back and no H.O.A. The garage was converted into a studio with its own kitchen, bath and closet. There is a total of 3 bedroom and 3 bath and the studio with private access.
Listed with HomeSmart
Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!
$499,900 :: 1221 W Calle Del Norte --, Chandler AZ, 85224
3 beds, 2.5 baths
Home size: 1,783 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,455 sq ft
Added: 01/26/23, Last Updated: 03/20/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6510838
Community: CONTINENTAL TERRACE
Tract: CONTINENTAL TERRACE
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/12/2023 by 9%
Status: Conditional
Spectacular Chandler home with a private detached guest house on an oversized lot!!!! Upon entering this charming home, you are greeted by a quaint and secluded walkway, a beautiful landscaped front yard oasis. Enjoy the spacious, serene backyard from the extended, wrap around porch. Truly a one-of-a-kind retreat that is filled with lush, mature landscaping and built-in planters. Perfect for entertaining and relaxation. The detached 16x16 guest house comes complete with electricity, tile flooring, built-in desk and walk in closet. The guest house does not have plumbing. The large 10x12 storage shed is perfect for your gardening tools and equipment. The backyard has a fenced in dog run. In the main house, cozy up by the wood burning fireplace which opens to the spacious formal dining room.
Listed with West USA Realty
Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!
$519,000 :: 3701 E DOGWOOD Drive, Chandler AZ, 85286
3 beds, 2.5 baths
Home size: 1,771 sq ft
Lot Size: 2,614 sq ft
Added: 02/24/23, Last Updated: 03/20/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6524478
Community: LAYTON LAKES PARCEL 18 AMD
Tract: LAYTON LAKES PARCEL 18 AMD
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/10/2023 by 1%
Status: Active
Enjoy the serenity and tranquility of living on the water in Layton Lakes. This smart home offers all of the features you could want: the sought after Desert Plan (2257), stainless steel appliances updated in 2021, tile floors, structured water system and views of the large park. Take advantage of the low maintenance living this home has to offer, in addition to a secure gated entrance and two-car garage. Private and beautiful, you'll love all the amenities that this community has to offer. Make your move today!
Listed with Walt Danley Christie's International Real Estate
Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!
$475,000 :: 4725 E PEARTREE Lane, Gilbert AZ, 85298
2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,332 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,228 sq ft
Added: 11/08/22, Last Updated: 03/20/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6486527
Community: POWER RANCH 3
Tract: POWER RANCH 3
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/20/2023 by 5%
Status: Active
**Turn-key golf course Lot with mountain views*** Located in the sought-after Trilogy at Power Ranch. Featuring a 2 car garage and an excellent curb appeal. Enter home and be greeted by a mix of elegance and beauty comprised of vaulted ceilings, tile/carpet flooring, windows w/sunscreens & two-tone neutral paint. Kitchen is light and bright with SS appliances, white cabinetry, pantry, and island. Bedrooms are split to allow for maximum privacy for you and your guests. Spacious main bedroom , en-suite, large walk-in shower and dual sinks. Relax in the south-facing backyard while golfers keep you entertained. Enjoy the wide variety of amenities being offered. Tasteful furnishings available if you wish.
Listed with West USA Realty
Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!
$459,000 :: 1193 W KESLER Lane, Chandler AZ, 85224
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,542 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,228 sq ft
Added: 03/17/23, Last Updated: 03/20/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6532618
Community: BLAKEMAN RANCH UNIT 1
Tract: BLAKEMAN RANCH UNIT 1
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/20/2023 by 2%
Status: Active
Beautiful 3BR 2B 2CG w/ desert landscaping and extra driveway parking. A covered front door entry leads into a welcoming formal dining and living room w/ vaulted ceilings and built-in plant shelves. A warm color palette runs throughout this lovely home with two-tone paint, wood look flooring, decorative fans and fixtures throughout. The kitchen features trending white cabinetry with decorative hardware, black appliances, gas stove, spacious breakfast bar and opens to the living and dining area. The main bedroom features pitched ceilings, a walk-in closet and a private bathroom with dual sinks, soaking tub and a walk-in shower. AC and water heater replaced 20203!! French doors lead to the backyard and a spacious paved patio area outlined by manicured gravel and easy maintenance
Listed with AZ Flat Fee
Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!
$645,000 :: 3521 E MERLOT Street, Gilbert AZ, 85298
4 beds, 2.5 baths
Home size: 2,287 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,534 sq ft
Added: 03/20/23, Last Updated: 03/20/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6533768
Community: SEVILLE PARCEL 22
Tract: SEVILLE PARCEL 22
Status: Active
**SPARKLING CLEAN**, impeccably maintained, stylish 4BD/2.5BA w LOFT, 2287sf residence with CONTEMPORARY styling, dazzling upgrades, & many designer touches. **UNBELIEVABLE BACKYARD** w heated pool, lush SYNTHETIC LAWN, gorgeous paver work, and built in FIREPIT. BOTH HVAC UNITS REPLACED in past 2-3 years, **OWNED SOLAR PANELS/SYSTEM** for greatly reduced energy costs. **IMPRESSIVE INTERIOR STYLING** with upgraded, contemporary cabinetry, backsplashes, quartz countertops and fresh, detailed tile work throughout the home, including the gourmet kitchen, great room, and beautiful bathrooms. **SEVILLE COMMUNITY** offers miles of walking paths, playgrounds, parks, and citrus groves, as well as a golf course, community pool/water park, and country club. **UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY** Come and see today!
Listed with Carvalho Real Estate
Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!
$658,900 :: 1750 E WESSON Drive, Chandler AZ, 85286
5 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,980 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,019 sq ft
Added: 02/26/23, Last Updated: 03/20/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6524697
Community: CANYON OAKS ESTATES
Tract: CANYON OAKS ESTATES
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/20/2023 by 0%
Status: Active
5 bdrm 3 full bathrooms! 3bdrms, a bath & a loft upstairs! FULLY REMODELED master bath with 3 body jets & two shower heads! Lighted mirror above the double sinks! Walk in closet! Master & bdrm #2 both downstairs! Ceiling fans in almost every room! GRANITE slab counters in both downstairs baths and kitchen! Breakfast bar,pantry,double oven,r/o water, stainless appliances! R60 insulation added to attic with Pearl certification & all ducts sealed. Pebble surface POOL with rock waterfall, double gate, Super nice pool filter screen + lots of room on both side yards. No carpet on first level! large 17-20inch tile& tile baseboards!Gas Firplace! Garage cabs!Only 3 hms away from greenbelt & park, Great area-borders 9+ mile Paseo Trail, and easy access to the 202. Close to shopping and restaurants!
Listed with RE/MAX Professionals
Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!
$469,000 :: 1593 E OAKLAND Street, Chandler AZ, 85225
4 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,575 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,534 sq ft
Added: 03/20/23, Last Updated: 03/20/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6468726
Community: PARCEL A UNIT ONE AT TRADITION EAST
Tract: PARCEL A UNIT ONE AT TRADITION EAST
Status: Active
This beautiful home is conveniently located just a few minutes away from Downtown Chandler, with easy access to Intel and Microchip Technology. It is also situated close to parks, excellent schools, and shopping centers, making it a great choice for anyone looking for convenience and comfort.Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a spacious living area of 1575 sq ft, this North/South exposed home boasts vaulted ceilings that create an airy and welcoming ambiance. The property has been meticulously maintained, with new carpet installed in 2023, a new AC system in 2021, and a gas water heater also installed in 2021.
Listed with Keller Williams Integrity First
Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!
For additional real estate information, go to Gilbert and Chandler Real Estate, or Phoenix Short Sale info.