Cost to Fill a Pool with City Water: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to maintaining a swimming pool, one of the most significant expenses is the cost of water. Whether you're filling a new pool or topping up an existing one, understanding and calculating the cost of city water will help you make informed decisions and manage your budget effectively.

How Big Is the Pool?

The size of your pool is a crucial factor in determining the cost of water. Typically, pools are measured in cubic feet. Here’s a breakdown of the common dimensions:

Standard Pool and Spa Sizes

Pool Type Dimensions (ft x ft x ft) Small Splash Pool 30 x 10 x 4 Above-Ground Pool 12 x 12 x 3 In-Ground Pool 18 x 30 x 5 Spa 6 x 6 x 2.5

How Much Is the Cost of the Water?

The cost of city water can vary significantly based on your location, the time of year, and your water usage. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the factors that could affect your cost:

Standard City Water Rates

In most cities, the cost of water is charged per unit (gallon), with different rates for residential and commercial users. Here’s a typical residential water rate:

First Unit: $0.005 per gallon Next Unit: $0.007 per gallon New User Rate: $0.02 per gallon

Types of Water Usage

Water usage can be categorized into two types: active and standing. Active water usage includes filling the pool, while standing water usage includes the water needed to keep the pool level and not evaporate:

Active Usage: This includes the volume of water needed to fill the pool. The average volume of a small pool (30 x 10 x 4) is 1,200 gallons. Standing Usage: This includes water losses due to evaporation, which can be estimated at 4% for a week, needing about 48 gallons to be replaced to maintain the pool level.

Are There Different Rates the More You Use?

Yes, many cities have tiered pricing structures where the more water you use, the higher the rate. This encourages water conservation. To calculate the cost, you would:

Determine the total amount of water needed (filling evaporation) for your pool. Apply the appropriate rates based on the city’s pricing structure. Calculate the total cost.

What Is Your Normal Water Usage?

Understanding your normal water usage is essential for accurate cost estimation. Factors to consider include:

Water Losses

Evaporation: 1% to 2% per day. Wind: Can accelerate evaporation, especially in dry climates. Drift: Water lost due to splashing. Backwash: Water needed to clean the pump filter.

Don’t Forget the Sewer Bill

The sewer bill is usually generated from the amount of water used, unless you have a separate meter. Here’s what you need to know:

Sewer Rates

Wastewater Disposal Taxes: Often included in the water bill but separate. Non-Residential Users: May have higher sewer rates due to higher water usage.

Conclusion

Filling a swimming pool with city water can be an exciting yet costly endeavor. By understanding the size of your pool, calculating the appropriate cost of water, considering different rates based on usage, and factoring in the sewer bill, you can make informed decisions about your pool maintenance budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How much does it cost to fill a 15,000-gallon pool?

The cost of filling a 15,000-gallon pool would depend on your city’s water rates. For example, if the first unit costs $0.005 per gallon, the cost would be $75 $105 $180 (assuming the rate for the next unit is $0.007 per gallon).

Q2: How much does it cost to fill an above-ground pool with city water?

For an average above-ground pool (12 x 12 x 3), the volume is approximately 1,080 gallons. The cost would depend on your city’s water rates. For instance, with a rate of $0.005 per gallon for the first unit, the cost would be $5.40 for filling the pool.

Q3: Can I save money by filling my pool at night?

Filling your pool at night may not directly save you money, but it can reduce steam loss due to evaporation, improving overall efficiency and reducing long-term costs.