New Pool Pump Efficiency Standards Could Add Thousands to Your Georgia Pool Service Bills in 2025

Pool owners across Georgia are facing a major shift in 2025 as new federal energy efficiency standards for pool pump motors take effect on September 29, 2025. These Department of Energy (DOE) regulations will fundamentally change how pool service companies operate and could significantly impact maintenance costs for homeowners throughout the state.

What’s Changing in 2025

All pumps with 1.15 Total Horsepower (THP) or greater must now meet DOE minimum energy-efficiency requirements, effectively requiring most pool pump motors to be variable-speed starting September 29, 2025. This is a tiered standard, with the first tier going into effect in September 2025, and the second tier in 2027, when the rule expands to motors 0.5 – 1.15 THP.

The new standards use the Weighted Energy Factor (WEF) as a measurement system. The Weighted Energy Factor (WEF) is the equivalent of miles-per-gallon metric for pool pumps. It measures how much water a pump can move per unit of energy—the higher the WEF, the more efficient the pump. DOE Minimum Requirement is approximately 3.8 – 4.0 WEF for most in-ground pumps, while Single-Speed Pumps typically achieve 2 – 3 WEF (non-compliant), and Variable-Speed Pumps commonly achieve 7 – 12+ WEF (fully compliant).

Impact on Georgia Pool Service Costs

For Georgia pool owners, these regulations will create both immediate and long-term cost implications. Supplies will dwindle and disappear, as will the option to continue using non-compliant, low-efficiency pumps. Pool service companies will need to stock only compliant equipment, which typically costs more upfront but offers significant energy savings.

The financial impact varies significantly based on your current setup. Annual electricity costs for efficiently equipped pools run $900-1,500, while pools with standard equipment and heating cost $2,400-4,200. Running a variable-speed pump can cost $10 to $50 per month in electricity, compared to single-speed pumps which cost $40 to $150 per month.

Why This Matters for Georgia Pool Owners

Georgia’s climate creates unique challenges for pool owners. Heat and low humidity accelerate evaporation, with pools losing 1-2 inches weekly during summer. A 16×32 pool losing 1.5 inches weekly needs approximately 2,500 gallons monthly during peak season (May-September). This increased water usage, combined with pump operation demands, makes energy efficiency crucial for controlling costs.

Pool maintenance experts say costs could range anywhere from $80 to $150 a month on average, depending on the services, including cleaning and vacuuming the surface, water testing, adjusting chemicals, opening or closing for the season, and any necessary repairs. With the new efficiency standards, service companies may need to adjust their pricing to account for upgraded equipment and training requirements.

Professional Service Becomes More Important

The complexity of new variable-speed systems and DOE compliance requirements makes professional pool services leliaton more valuable than ever. Companies like Deep Waters Pools in Douglas, Georgia, with over 30 years of industry experience and expertise in new pool designs, renovations, and repairs, ensure that three decades of hands-on pool construction expertise means your project is done right the first time.

Being fully compliant with Georgia regulations and International Swimming Pool Code, they handle electrical, plumbing, and filtration system installation using modern, energy-efficient equipment, with every project including proper safety barriers that meet Georgia code requirements. This expertise becomes essential as pool owners navigate the new regulatory landscape.

Long-term Benefits Offset Initial Costs

While the upfront costs of compliance may be higher, the long-term savings are substantial. According to the DOE, by updating a pool pump that complies with the DPPP rules, pool owners have the potential of saving $2,140 in 12-months and improving yearly operating costs by about $550. In most cases, a new variable-speed pump will pay for itself in the first year or two thanks to energy savings.

Investing in energy-efficient equipment is a smart move that will not only enhance your swimming experience but also save on electric bills, as you are not just considering the short-term costs; you are strategically planning for long-term savings.

Preparing for the Changes

Pool owners should work with experienced local professionals to evaluate their current systems and plan for necessary upgrades. Homeowners need to rely on their Pool Professional to prescribe the best pump for the application, as pumps still need to be sized properly for the application (you would not expect a low HHP/THP pump to move enough water to effectively filter a 40,000 gallon pool).

The 2025 DOE regulations represent a significant shift toward more sustainable pool ownership in Georgia. While initial compliance costs may be higher, the combination of reduced energy bills, improved equipment reliability, and professional service support will ultimately benefit pool owners who prepare properly for these changes. Working with established local companies ensures you’ll navigate these new requirements successfully while maximizing your long-term savings and pool enjoyment.