Swimming pools are a great addition to any backyard but they can also be a costly one. While you may think the bulk of your spending is over once that pool is completely installed, you may be surprised to find that the cost of maintaining your pool can also add up. The good news is that there are ways to save money and still keep your pool safe and clean. We've got tips to help you keep your pool crystal clear for a lot less money.

Running Your Equipment

One mistake that many pool owners make is to run their equipment longer than they have to. Your pump only needs to function as long as it takes to keep the water clear and blue. Experiment with the timing a bit to see just how long that might be. You might find that you can shave an hour or more off your running time each day, saving a small bundle in energy costs over the course of a swimming season.

Using a Stabilizer

The stabilizer is a chemical that is added to pool water to keep the sun's UV rays from diminishing the amount of chlorine in your water. By using a stabilizer, you will cut down the amount of chlorine and sanitizer you need to add to your water regularly. However, too much stabilizer can make your pool water cloudy, so use with caution. This is not a chemical that typically needs to be added regularly. As long as you test the amounts every week, you can avoid adding additional stabilizer unless you have to add more water to the pool.

Using a Cover

Yes, purchasing a high quality pool cover may seem like an expensive proposition at the outset. However, this handy piece of equipment will pay you back tenfold by conserving both the amount of water in your pool and the temperature of the water. Using a cover prevents water evaporation, so you have to add water less frequently. The right kind of cover will also help keep heat in your swimming pool so your heater doesn't have to work overtime to keep the water temperature comfortable. An added bonus is that you will spend less time skimming your pool's surface to remove dead leaves and debris if a cover is used regularly. And your precious time is as valuable as the money you save.

Address Problems Promptly

One of the costliest mistakes you can make with your pool is to ignore small problems until they become big ones. This is particularly true with potential issues like leaks and algae. Most pool problems are much easier - and cheaper - to fix when they are caught early. This means inspecting your pool weekly for potential issues and addressing them as soon as they arise. Your pool will continue to function efficiently and you will appreciate the money you are saving on major repair jobs.

Maintaining a backyard pool doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. With these tips in mind, you will keep your pool safe and clean and your money in the bank at the same time.