Top Pool Maintenance Mistakes That Increase Your Water and Hydro Bills

Owning a pool in Mississauga is a fantastic way to enjoy warm weather and entertain family and friends. However, pool maintenance can sometimes lead to surprisingly high water and hydro bills if not done correctly. At Pallett Pools, we frequently see common mistakes that cost pool owners extra money — often without them even realizing it.

To help you keep your pool costs in check while maintaining a clean, safe swimming environment, here are the top pool maintenance mistakes that could be driving up your water and electricity bills.

1. Running the Pool Pump Too Long or at the Wrong Time

One of the biggest contributors to high hydro bills is the pool pump. Many pool owners leave their pumps running 24/7 or during peak electricity rate hours. In reality, most pools only need 8–12 hours of circulation per day, and running your pump during off-peak hours can save you significantly on energy costs.

Tip: Invest in a programmable timer or a variable-speed pump to optimize run times and reduce electricity use. Our technicians at Pallett Pools can help you set this up efficiently for Mississauga’s energy rates.

2. Overfilling Your Pool or Ignoring Leaks

Constantly topping up your pool due to leaks or overfilling is a hidden water expense that adds up quickly. Even a small leak can waste hundreds of litres per day, leading to higher water bills and potential damage to your pool’s structure.

Tip: Regularly check water levels and inspect your pool for leaks. If you suspect a leak, contact a professional immediately for leak detection and repair.

3. Inefficient or Old Pool Equipment

Older pumps, heaters, and filters often use more electricity and water to operate efficiently. For example, single-speed pumps consume more power than newer variable-speed models. Similarly, inefficient heaters may run longer to maintain temperature, increasing hydro bills.

Tip: Consider upgrading to energy-efficient equipment designed to reduce electricity consumption. Pallett Pools offers expert advice on the best upgrades for Mississauga pools.

4. Improper Chemical Balance Leading to Frequent Water Changes

Poorly balanced pool chemistry can cause cloudiness, algae growth, and corrosion, forcing you to drain and refill your pool more often. Frequent water replacement is expensive and wastes both water and energy.

Tip: Maintain proper chemical levels with regular testing and treatment. Our team can provide water analysis and chemical balancing services to keep your pool healthy and reduce unnecessary water use.

5. Running Your Pool Heater Non-Stop

Heaters can be one of the biggest energy consumers in your pool system. Some pool owners keep heaters running all day to maintain a constant temperature, which spikes hydro bills.

Tip: Use a timer or thermostat to run your heater only when needed—typically a few hours before swimming. Solar covers can also retain heat and reduce heater run time, saving energy.

6. Skipping Routine Filter Cleaning

A clogged or dirty filter makes your pump work harder, consuming more electricity. It also reduces water flow, forcing the system to run longer to maintain clarity.

Tip: Clean or backwash your filters regularly as recommended by the manufacturer. Pallett Pools can provide professional filter maintenance and ensure your system runs efficiently.

7. Not Using a Pool Cover

Evaporation accounts for a significant loss of pool water, especially in hot weather. Without a cover, your pool loses water faster, requiring frequent refilling and heating.

Tip: Use a high-quality pool cover whenever the pool is not in use. This simple step reduces evaporation, heat loss, and debris accumulation, ultimately lowering water and energy bills.

Keep Your Mississauga Pool Efficient with Pallett Pools

Avoid these common mistakes and enjoy a cleaner pool without breaking the bank. At Pallett Pools, we offer expert pool maintenance, repairs, and energy-saving advice tailored to Mississauga’s climate and your unique pool needs.