EnergyAustralia Social Media Team
October 2025
With the Australian sun beating down, it’s no surprise that Australia has one of the highest rates of home pool ownership in the world. Pools are the ultimate summer luxury, but they also use a fair bit of energy to keep clean, filtered and sparkling. As the temperature climbs, here are some smart ways to keep your pool running efficiently all year round.
Cover up and conserve
A quality pool cover is one of the simplest ways to make your pool more energy efficient. It helps reduce water evaporation by up to 30,000 litres a year and keeps heat locked in, so your heating system (if you have one) doesn’t have to work as hard. It also keeps leaves and debris out, meaning less time and energy spent cleaning.
Choose an energy-efficient pump
Your pool pump is the heart of your system, circulating and filtering the water to keep it healthy. If you’re upgrading or installing a new one, consider an energy-efficient model. Look for a variable-speed or high-star-rated pump; these use less energy to deliver the same result and can make a noticeable difference in your pool’s overall efficiency.
Add chemicals at night
Timing matters when it comes to pool maintenance. Adding chlorine and other chemicals after the sun goes down helps prevent them from breaking down too quickly under UV light. This means your pool stays balanced for longer, reducing the need for frequent top-ups and keeping your water quality steady.
Run your pump smarter
If your household has a smart meter or flexible pricing plan, consider scheduling your pool pump to run during times of lower energy demand. Night-time or weekend operation can ease pressure on the grid and make your overall energy use more efficient. Just check your local council regulations first, as some areas have noise restrictions during certain hours.
Keep it clean through winter
It might be tempting to switch everything off once the cooler weather arrives, but keeping your pool lightly maintained year-round is better for energy efficiency. Run the filter for a few hours each day and clean the filter regularly. This keeps your system in good condition, so it doesn’t have to work overtime when swimming season returns.
Dive into an energy-efficient summer
With a few mindful tweaks, your pool can stay clean, clear and energy smart throughout the year. When the next heatwave hits, you’ll be ready to dive in, knowing your backyard oasis is running as efficiently as possible.