How the calculator works
The calculator keeps the assumptions visible. For each setup, annual electricity use equals watts × hours per day × 365 ÷ 1,000. Annual operating cost equals that kWh result multiplied by the rate you enter. Estimated savings are the current result minus the proposed result. When you enter an upgrade cost and the proposal saves money, simple payback equals installed cost divided by annual savings.
No APS or SRP tariff is built into the math. That is intentional: Arizona rate plans vary, utility prices change, and some plans include time-of-use or demand charges that a single statewide number would hide. For a quick all-in planning rate, divide the electric charges on a recent bill by its billed kWh. You can also use the APS calculator or SRP calculator to understand the energy-rate structure of those reviewed plans.
Arizona schedule guidance
Scheduling matters even when two options use the same kWh. On its Time-of-Use 4pm–7pm Weekdays plan page, APS advises customers to run a pool pump before 4pm or after 7pm. That guidance is specific to the named plan; confirm the rules for your own APS plan, especially if it includes a demand charge.
SRP's summer energy guide recommends using a variable-speed pump and timer, running during off-peak hours, and using seasonal schedules—generally 8–12 hours in summer and 6–8 hours in winter. Treat those ranges as a starting point, not a water-care prescription. Pool size, plumbing, filter condition, chemistry, debris, bather load, equipment instructions, and local health requirements can change the runtime your pool needs.
What to measure before comparing pumps
- Running watts: use a controller display, pump documentation, or a qualified measurement. Horsepower alone is not electrical consumption.
- Hours at each speed: a variable-speed schedule can use multiple wattages in one day. Run the calculator once for each operating block or use a weighted average wattage.
- Your relevant electric rate: an all-in rate is convenient, while a time-of-use rate is more useful when you know exactly when the pump will run.
- Installed cost: include the equipment and installation you actually expect to pay for. Leave the field at zero if you only want an energy comparison.
Efficiency labels and rebates
ENERGY STAR maintains an official pool pump product and efficiency resource. Use it to understand certification, then verify the exact model's current specification sheet and compatibility with your pool system before buying.
Do not assume a rebate exists. When this page was reviewed, SRP's residential rebate page stated that its pool pump rebate was no longer offered. Utility programs can change, so check the official rebate pages again before using an incentive in your payback decision.
What this estimate leaves out
The result does not simulate hydraulic head, water turnover, filtration quality, pump curves, motor ramping, seasonal schedule changes, taxes, fixed utility charges, time-of-use intervals, or demand peaks. A dirty filter or restrictive plumbing can also change actual power and flow. Use the result to compare measured operating plans—not to size plumbing or replace equipment instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find my pump's watts?
Check the pump or motor nameplate, variable-speed controller, manufacturer specification sheet, or an electrician's measurement. If the label shows only volts and amps, do not assume multiplying them gives exact running watts; motor power factor and load matter.
What electric rate should I enter?
Use cents per kWh. Dividing recent electric charges by billed kWh gives a convenient all-in estimate. If your pump operates entirely in a known time-of-use window, that window's energy rate may be more decision-useful. Demand charges require a separate peak-demand analysis.
Does the calculator tell me how many hours my pool needs?
No. It prices the schedule you enter. Required circulation depends on the pool and equipment, so confirm a safe schedule with the equipment instructions and a qualified pool professional.
Does a longer variable-speed schedule always cost more?
No. A lower-speed pump can draw far fewer watts, so a longer schedule may still use less total energy. Enter the actual wattage and hours for each option—the calculator compares their watt-hours directly.