Pool pump (single-speed) vs. variable-speed pool pump: running cost
A variable-speed pool pump is cheaper to run: about $115 a year versus $372 for a pool pump (single-speed) at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $257 difference.
| Pool pump (single-speed) | Variable-speed pool pump | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 1,700 W | 350 W |
| Watt range | 800–2,500 W | 100–2,000 W |
| Typical use | 8 hours a day for 5 months a year | 12 hours a day for 5 months a year |
| Energy per year | 2,070 kWh | 639 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 31¢ | 6.3¢ |
| Cost per day | $2.45 | 76¢ |
| Cost per month | $74.47 | $23.00 |
| Cost per year | $372 | $115 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $901 | $278 |
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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).
- Variable-speed pool pump: Because pump power falls with the cube of speed, running longer at low speed moves the same water for far less energy; a typical schedule averages 300-400 W over 12 hours.
Ways to cut either cost
ENERGY STAR certified pumps can save 3,000+ kWh a year versus single-speed.
See options on AmazonMoves the same water at low speed for 60-80% less energy.
See options on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. It never changes the numbers we show. Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a pool pump (single-speed) or a variable-speed pool pump?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a pool pump (single-speed) costs about $372 a year versus $115 for a variable-speed pool pump. That's $257 more, or 3.2× as much.
How many watts do pool pump (single-speed) and variable-speed pool pump use?
A pool pump (single-speed) typically draws 1,700 W (range 800–2,500 W). A variable-speed pool pump draws 350 W (range 100–2,000 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.