Pool equipment basics: pumps, filters, heaters and salt systems
Pumps, filters, heaters, salt systems, automation, lighting, and California variable-speed pump rules.
Get a free pool estimate
Takes about a minute. A licensed local pool pro will follow up to schedule an on-site estimate.
Short answer: Every pool runs on a pump (moves water), a filter (cleans it), and a sanitizer (chlorine or a salt chlorine generator). Many also have a heater or heat pump, lighting, and automation. In California, replacement pool pump motors of 0.5 hp or more made on or after July 19, 2021 must be variable-speed, per the California Energy Commission's Title 20 rules. Your Pool Renovation is a free referral service that connects you with an independent, licensed local pool contractor.
TL;DR
- Pumps: Title 20 requires variable-speed replacement motors of 0.5 hp or more (made on/after July 19, 2021). HomeGuide lists pool pumps at $300–$1,600.
- Filters (HomeGuide, installed): sand $250–$1,000; cartridge $250–$1,200; DE $550–$1,300.
- Heaters (HomeGuide, installed): gas $1,500–$4,500; heat pump $2,000–$6,000; solar $2,500–$6,500.
- Salt: HomeGuide lists $1,100–$2,200 to convert an existing inground pool.
- Covers: ENERGY STAR says covering a pool can cut heating costs by 50%–70%.
What does a pool pump do, and what does California require?
The pump circulates water through the filter, heater, and sanitizer.
California Title 20 (CEC): - Replacement dedicated-purpose pool pump motors ≥ 0.5 hp, manufactured on or after July 19, 2021, must be variable-speed. - "Variable-speed" means user-selectable speeds in increments of no more than 100 RPM, with a lowest speed no more than one-third of maximum. - A drive sold with a variable-speed replacement motor must default to no more than 55% of max speed, and high-speed override can't last more than one 24-hour cycle. - New dedicated-purpose pool pumps must meet federal and state efficiency standards (Title 20 §1605.1(g)(7)).
California energy code (2025, single-family): the CEC says filtration pumps must be sized or programmed to turn over the pool volume in 6 hours or at 36 gallons per minute, whichever is greater, and pumps must be listed in the CEC's certified-equipment directory.
ENERGY STAR notes that running a filter pump 6 hours a day instead of 24 cuts its energy use by 75%.
Cost: HomeGuide lists pool pumps at $300–$1,600 (national).
Sand, cartridge, or DE filter?
From HomeGuide (installed, national):
| Filter | Installed cost | Traps particles | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sand | $250–$1,000 | 20–40 microns | Backwash every few weeks; sand every 2–5 years |
| Cartridge | $250–$1,200 | 10–15 microns | No backwash; rinse; replace cartridges every 2–3 years |
| DE | $550–$1,300 | As small as 5 microns | DE powder coats grids; most expensive |
HomeGuide notes sand lasts 2–3 years in warm, year-round climates.
Gas heater, heat pump, or solar?
From HomeGuide (installed, national):
| Type | Installed cost | Monthly operating cost | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas / propane | $1,500–$4,500 | $200–$500+ (natural gas) | Shortest, 7–8 years |
| Heat pump | $2,000–$6,000 | $50–$150 | Up to 15 years |
| Solar | $2,500–$6,500 | $10–$25 | Up to 15 years |
ENERGY STAR says gas heaters are best for occasional rapid heating, while heat pumps and solar are good at holding a set temperature over time. The current federal minimum for gas-fired pool heaters is 82% thermal efficiency, and amended DOE standards take effect May 30, 2028.
Chlorinators and salt systems
A salt system (salt chlorine generator) makes chlorine from dissolved salt, so it's still a chlorine pool. HomeGuide lists $1,100–$2,200 to convert an existing inground pool to saltwater and says saltwater is gentler on skin and hair but costs more. Check that your filter and other equipment are rated for salt.
Is pool automation worth it?
Automation lets you schedule the pump, heater, lights, and features from a panel or phone. With a variable-speed pump, scheduling lower speeds is where Title 20 and ENERGY STAR guidance point for savings. Ask your contractor which system fits your equipment.
What about pool lighting?
HomeGuide lists inground pool lights at $700–$1,800 and notes some LED and fiber-optic systems can be phone-controlled. It's cheaper to add lights during construction or remodeling.
How long does pool equipment last?
From HomeGuide: pool heaters average 10–12 years (gas 7–8, heat pumps and solar up to 15); cartridges 2–3 years; filter sand 2–5 years. Pump lifespan varies. Ask your contractor about warranty terms.
Sources
- California Energy Commission — Replacement Dedicated-Purpose Pool Pump Motors FAQ: https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/appliance-efficiency-program-outreach-and-education/replacement
- CEC — Replacement DPPP Motor Standards (2021, PDF): https://www.energy.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2021-06/2021_ReplacementDedicatedPurposePoolPumpMotorStandards_ADA.pdf
- CEC — Dedicated-Purpose Pool Pumps FAQ: https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/appliance-efficiency-program-outreach-and-education/dedicated-purpose
- CEC — 2025 Single-Family Pools and Spas FAQs: https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/building-energy-efficiency-standards/energy-code-support-center-22
- ENERGY STAR — Pool Pumps: https://www.energystar.gov/products/pool_pumps
- U.S. DOE — Consumer Pool Heaters: https://www.energy.gov/cmei/buildings/consumer-pool-heaters
- HomeGuide — Pool Filter Cost: https://homeguide.com/costs/pool-filter-replacement-and-installation-cost
- HomeGuide — Pool Heater Cost: https://homeguide.com/costs/pool-heater-cost
- HomeGuide — Inground Pool Cost: https://www.homeguide.com/costs/inground-pool-cost
See also: pool design guide, pool resurfacing cost and timeline, and pool contract payment schedules.
Find local pros: pool contractors in Ventura, Santa Barbara & SLO Counties.
Pool equipment questions
Do I have to buy a variable-speed pump in California?
Replacement pool pump motors of 0.5 hp or more made on or after July 19, 2021 must be variable-speed under Title 20.
Which filter is best?
DE traps the finest particles; cartridges skip backwashing; sand is the simplest (HomeGuide).
Heat pump or gas?
ENERGY STAR says heat pumps suit holding a temperature; gas suits occasional fast heating.
How much does a pool heater cost?
HomeGuide lists about $1,500–$6,000 installed, depending on gas or heat pump on average.
Is a salt pool chlorine-free?
No. A salt system generates chlorine from salt.
Do pool covers save energy?
ENERGY STAR says covers can cut heating costs by 50%–70%.
Are you a pool contractor?
No. Your Pool Renovation is a free referral service connecting you with an independent, licensed local contractor.
Does it cost anything to use this site?
No. You only pay a contractor if you accept their estimate.