Replacing a pool pump costs an average of $1,300
The average pool pump replacement cost ranges from $700 and $4,000, with most homeowners paying $1,300.
Factors influencing the cost include pool type, pump type, labor costs, and additional features like timers or water features.
Replacing your pool pump ensures proper filtration, keeps your pool clean and safe, and prevents potential damage from untreated water.
Hiring a professional pool service technician ensures correct installation, extends the lifespan of your pump, and avoids costly mistakes.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Installing a new pool pump costs an average of $1,300, with most projects totaling between $700 and $4,000, depending on the pump type and installation factors. The pool pump is the heart of your pool's water system, keeping the water clean and clear for swimming. Without a functioning pump, your pool water can become stagnant, leading to algae growth and debris buildup.
When budgeting for a pool pump replacement, consider factors like your pool type, the pump you choose, and labor costs. Hiring a professional ensures proper installation and extends the lifespan of your pool pump.
Several factors influence the cost of installing a pool pump, including your pool type, the pump type you select, labor costs, and additional features like timers or water features. Here’s a breakdown of pool pump replacement cost factors.
Due to the increased complexity of installation, in-ground pool pumps typically cost more than above-ground pumps. You can expect to pay between $700 and $4,000 for a pool pump, with above-ground pools falling at the lower range and in-ground pools climbing towards the higher end.
The type of pump you choose significantly affects the cost. Pump prices range from $250 to over $4,000, depending on your pool size and specific needs. For instance, dual-speed pumps start around $300, while high-head pumps designed for complex setups can cost upwards of $4,000.
The brand of pool pump you select also impacts the overall cost. Due to better materials, advanced features, and longer warranties, high-end brands may cost up to 80% more than lower-end options.
Pool pump labor costs average $100 to $400, excluding the pump price. Pool installation costs will automatically cover pump installation if you're putting in a new pool.
If installation requires excavating space to bury the pump, this will add an extra $100 to $200 to your costs.
Adding waterfalls, spas, and fountains enhances your pool's elegance, but these features require either their own low-head pump, which can add anywhere from $250 to $1,600 to your pool build, or an upgrade to a high-head submersible pump that can handle complex setups.
Adding a pool pump timer costs an additional $50 to $100. A timer ensures your pump operates only when needed, saving energy and eliminating the need to manually turn it on and off. If you're also installing a new filter, expect to add $250 to $2,000 to your overall pool remodel costs.
The type of pool pump you choose will impact your cost. Here’s a look at different types of pool pumps and their average prices.
Pump Type | Average Cost Range (Installed) |
---|---|
Single speed | $250–$1,000 |
Dual speed | $300–$1,600 |
Variable speed | $800–$2,500 |
Low head | $250–$1,600 |
Medium head | $400–$2,500 |
High-head submersible | $1,250–$4,000+ |
Solar pump | $500–$3,000 |
Single-speed pool pump prices range from $250 to $1,000 for most residential installations, including labor. As the name indicates, they pump water at the same speed when turned on. As of 2021, these pumps are no longer manufactured because they don’t meet the Department of Energy’s standards for energy efficiency.
Dual-speed pool pumps, including labor, cost from $300 to $1,600 for most residential pools. As the name suggests, they run at two fixed speeds: high and low. High speed is best for most filtration needs, while low speed works best for general circulation with reduced energy costs. Most dual-speed pumps pay for themselves in energy savings within one year.
Variable-speed pump prices span from $800 to $2,500 for home pools. This type of pump is more expensive than your average pump, but the payoff is that it’s quieter, faster, and much more energy efficient, paying for itself within two years.
Low-head pool pumps cost $250 to $1,600 on average. They’re usually used strictly for water features, like a waterfall or fountain. They operate at low head pressures, don’t pump much higher than 10 feet, and generally need large pipes.
Medium-head pool pumps cost $400 to $2,500 and make up the majority of pool pumps. They’re useful in general pool applications and operate at medium pressures. They’re excellent when your pool is average-sized and does not have a water feature.
High-head or high-performance pool pumps cost $1,250 to $4,000 and up. They’re ideal for complex pool setups with things like a pool plus a water feature, such as a waterfall, spa, or endless edge.
Solar pumps cost anywhere from $500 to $3,000. They run on solar power, meaning they can save you a lot of money over time, provided your pool gets enough sunlight. Because of the high initial cost of solar pumps, they’re only recommended for pools that get at least 10 hours of direct sunlight a day.
Pump replacement costs average around $1,300. The purchase and installation typically range from $700 to $4,000, though in some cases costs can be as low as $160 or as high as $6,000. Here are some replacement costs to consider:
Large or high-head pumps for big commercial-style installations can cost upwards of $4,000 or, in rare high-end scenarios, up to $6,000.
If you opt for the same make and model as your current pool pump, you’ll probably pay $280 to $500 less than opting to upgrade.
The added costs of upgrading often come from small modifications needed to the housing or plumbing system to make it work.
These are the costs for various pool pump replacements and similar jobs that are often bundled together.
Replacing your pool pump and filter at the same time may save you a little. New pool filters cost $250 to $2,000, not including labor.
Including labor and materials, replacing your pool pump motor costs between $200 and $800 for most motors, though in some cases it can reach up to $2,000. The average cost of replacing a pool pump motor is $500.
Pool pumps last an average of eight to 15 years. If your motor is no longer functioning and your pump is more than 10 years old, it’s probably more cost-effective to get a new pump rather than replace the motor and then have to replace the whole unit shortly after.
Installing a pool pump yourself can save you $100 to $400 in labor costs. However, pool pump replacement is a complex task involving electrical work and plumbing. Unless you have the necessary expertise, it's best to hire a pool repair professional to ensure the job is done safely and correctly. Improper installation can lead to equipment damage, safety hazards, and costly repairs down the line.
Hiring a professional ensures your pool pump is installed properly, extending its lifespan and complying with local regulations. Pros can also help you choose the right pump for your pool size and setup. While it might cost more upfront, professional installation can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Optimizing your pool pump's runtime involves scheduling it for eight to 12 hours daily, focusing on non-peak electrical hours. Running your pump strategically not only maintains effective water circulation but also reduces energy consumption. This approach results in noticeable savings on your monthly electricity bill while keeping your pool water consistently clean.
When properly maintained and correctly sized for your pool, your pool pump will last eight to 12 years. Regular maintenance and ensuring the pump's output matches your filter's capacity are essential for longevity. Routine cleaning, monitoring operating sounds, and checking for unstable water pressure help maintain its performance and extend its life.
Unusual noises or erratic operation are signs that your pool pump needs repair. If your pump repeatedly trips the electrical breaker, produces irregular motor sounds, or shows an unexpected increase in your home’s electricity usage, these are clear warning signs that it may require repair or replacement to avoid further complications. Contact a pool repair pro to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action for your situation.