Pool pump (single-speed) vs. pool heat pump: running cost
A pool pump (single-speed) is cheaper to run: about $372 a year versus $723 for a pool heat pump at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $350 difference.
| Pool pump (single-speed) | Pool heat pump | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 1,700 W | 5,500 W |
| Watt range | 800–2,500 W | 3,000–7,500 W |
| Typical use | 8 hours a day for 5 months a year | 8 hours a day for 5 months a year |
| Energy per year | 2,070 kWh | 4,018 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 31¢ | 59¢ |
| Cost per day | $2.45 | $4.75 |
| Cost per month | $74.47 | $145 |
| Cost per year | $372 | $723 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $901 | $1,748 |
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What drives the difference
- Pool pump (single-speed): A 1.5 HP single-speed pump draws about 1.7 kW and running 8 hours a day uses roughly 2,000 kWh in a 5-month season (over 5,000 kWh where pools run year-round).
- Pool heat pump: Pool heat pumps draw 4-7 kW and deliver 4-6 times that in heat, but heating a pool still takes a lot of energy; using a solar cover is the biggest savings.
Ways to cut either cost
Moves the same water at low speed for 60-80% less energy.
See options on AmazonEnsures the pump only runs needed hours, off-peak.
See options on AmazonStops evaporation, the main way pools lose heat.
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Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a pool pump (single-speed) or a pool heat pump?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a pool heat pump costs about $723 a year versus $372 for a pool pump (single-speed). That's $350 more, or 1.9× as much.
How many watts do pool pump (single-speed) and pool heat pump use?
A pool pump (single-speed) typically draws 1,700 W (range 800–2,500 W). A pool heat pump draws 5,500 W (range 3,000–7,500 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.