Energy subsidies can help pool pumps run for free

The federal government’s Solar Sharer initiative offering free power to households throughout the middle of the day has been seen as an ideal chance for pool owners to filter their pool water for free.

Pool pumps can be one of the most energy intensive appliances in a home with a pool, with some estimates saying they make up around 18 per cent of the electricity bill.

Many pool owners use their own photo voltaic roof solar to the power the pool pump, but those who don’t have that ability can, from July 1, 2026, use free electricity in the middle of the day to run their pumps to filter the pool water.

Households in NSW, South Australia and South East Queensland will be able to get three hours of free electricity per day under the federal government’s default market offer (DMO) framework.

The government says it will also work with non-DMO states such as Victoria and Western Australia to consider implementing the policy there as well.

The average Australian home with a connection to the grid can draw down 45kWh over the three hours. While charging home batteries is seen as one option for householders, for those with swimming pools, using a timer to run the pool pump and filter is an excellent use of this free electricity.

Image: AdobeStock, illustrative only