Owning a pool is meant to be relaxing — not a full-time job. But if you’ve been fighting constant cleaning, chemical balancing, or high energy bills, your pool might just need a few smart upgrades. The good news? You don’t have to rebuild anything major to make a big difference.

If you built or maintain your pool using a DIY pool kit, you already know that the right setup makes all the difference — and the same goes for upgrades. You don’t need major renovations to see big savings; a few thoughtful tweaks can make pool ownership much simpler.

Here are five simple upgrades that’ll make pool care easier, faster, and cheaper in the long run.

1. Switch to a Variable-Speed Pump

If you’re still running a single-speed pump, you’re basically burning money every time it runs. Modern variable-speed pumps adjust flow automatically, meaning they only use as much power as needed.

Yes, they cost more upfront, but most owners make their money back in 1–2 years through lower energy bills. Plus, quieter operation and longer equipment life are bonuses you’ll notice right away.

Tip: Look for an Energy Star–rated model and set it to run during off-peak hours for maximum savings.

2. Add a Pool Cover You’ll Actually Use

Covers sound boring — until you realise how much they save. A thermal or automatic pool cover can reduce evaporation by up to 90%, cutting both water and heating costs.

Most people buy one and forget it in the shed because it’s awkward to roll up. So, if you’re upgrading, spend a little more for a roller system or automatic track cover. The easier it is to use, the more likely you’ll actually cover your pool — and save.

3. Install LED Pool Lighting

Swapping halogens for LED lights is one of the cheapest but most satisfying upgrades you can do. LEDs use up to 85% less energy, last up to 10 times longer, and instantly modernise how your pool looks at night.

If you like entertaining, go for RGB LEDs that can change colours via remote or app — they’re fun and surprisingly affordable.

4. Use a Robotic Pool Cleaner

If you’ve ever spent your Sunday chasing leaves with a manual vacuum, this one’s for you. A robotic pool cleaner does the dirty work while you do something better with your time.

They scrub walls, floors, and even steps using built-in sensors — no hoses or booster pumps required. It’s one of those upgrades that feels like cheating (in a good way).

Expert insight: Look for models with energy-efficient DC motors and programmable cleaning cycles. A good cleaner uses about the same power as a light bulb — not a pump.

5. Improve Filtration with a Cartridge or Glass Media Filter

If your sand filter’s been around since the early 2000s, it’s time to retire it. Modern cartridge filters or glass media filters capture much finer debris, which means clearer water and less backwashing.

Glass media, in particular, doesn’t compact over time, so you’ll use less water when cleaning and maintain better flow.
That means your pump works less, lasts longer, and saves energy — a quiet win for your budget.

Final Thoughts

Small changes add up fast. Whether you install a smarter pump, switch to LED lighting, or let a robot do the cleaning, each of these upgrades trims both effort and expenses.

Owning a pool shouldn’t feel like maintenance homework — it should feel like summer.