How long should you run your pool pump in winter in Arizona? SRP's guidance is six to eight hours a day in winter, down from eight to 12 hours a day in summer. Put the pump on a timer so it runs only as long as needed, and if you're on an SRP Time-of-Use plan, schedule it for off-peak hours.
Do you need to shut the pool down for winter? In Scottsdale, generally no. NOAA's normals for Scottsdale Airport average just 0.2 freezing nights in November and about 2.8 from December through February combined. Most 85250 owners keep the water circulating on a shorter winter schedule rather than closing the pool.
Data note: Run-time guidance comes from SRP. Weather figures are NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 climate normals for Scottsdale Airport. Draining rules come from the City of Scottsdale. General information; follow your equipment manufacturer's instructions.
Winter Pump Schedule at a Glance
SRP's five tips for cutting pool energy costs:
- Use a timer: 8-12 hours a day in summer, 6-8 hours in winter
- Run off-peak if you're on a Time-of-Use plan
- Clean filters and baskets often so the pump works less
- Check pool chemistry regularly
- Consider a pool cover, which SRP says helps keep the pool clean and limits evaporation
SRP cites the U.S. Department of Energy: a pool pump alone can cost as much as $270 a year. One note if you're shopping: SRP says it offered a pool pump rebate in the past, but it's no longer available.
Not sure which hours are off-peak on your plan? See our guide to SRP Time-of-Use hours and winter prices.
Why Winter Needs Less Run Time
Cooler water slows algae, and fewer swimmers and less debris mean less filtering. In Scottsdale:
- Normal highs fall from 87.3°F in October to 74.8°F in November and 64.6°F in December
- Normal lows reach 42.5°F in December and 43.4°F in January
- Freezing nights average 1.4 in December, 1.0 in January and 0.4 in February
On Freeze Nights
Water in pipes and equipment is what's at risk. Many modern automation systems have a freeze-protection setting that runs the pump when air temperatures drop. If yours does, confirm it's enabled; if not, ask your pool professional how to handle a cold snap. Keep frost cloth handy for your plants, too. Our 85250 frost guide covers that.
Thinking About Heating Instead?
If you'd rather swim through winter, run time is only part of the picture. Our guide to whether heating a pool is worth it in Scottsdale compares heat pumps, gas and solar.
Draining or Backwashing in Scottsdale
Winter is a popular time to drain and refill. The City of Scottsdale's rules:
Do
- Use the water on your own landscaping. Test first: plants tolerate pH 6.5-8.5 and chlorine below 0.1 mg/l
- Wait three to seven days after treatment to let chlorine dissipate, per Scottsdale Water
- Drain over a few days so the water soaks in and stays on your property
- Use your own sewer cleanout at less than 12 gallons per minute (you may need to rent a pump), or hire a septic hauler
Don't
- Drain to the street, alley or city right-of-way
- Drain into a sewer manhole or storm drain
- Drain onto neighboring property or drainage easements
Finding the cleanout: Scottsdale describes it as two four-inch caps about a foot apart with a square nut on top, often near a bathroom. Homes older than 20 years may not have one, and the city has no records of cleanout locations on private property.
“A pool in winter is mostly about maintenance: shorter run times, clean filters and a quick check that freeze protection works. When I list an 85250 home with a pool, I ask sellers to have the water sparkling and the equipment running quietly. Buyers notice, and their inspector will too.”
— Elizabeth Vijan, Tackett Team, eXp Realty
FAQ: Pool Pumps in an Arizona Winter
How many hours should I run my pool pump in winter in Arizona?
SRP suggests six to eight hours a day.
Should I run my pool pump at night in winter?
On a Time-of-Use plan, SRP suggests off-peak hours.
Do I need to winterize my pool in Scottsdale?
Generally no. Scottsdale averages about 2.8 freezing nights from December through February.
Can I drain my pool into the street in Scottsdale?
No. Use your landscaping or your sewer cleanout at under 12 gallons per minute.
Looking for an 85250 Home With a Pool?
I'll help you find a Chaparral Park-area home with the backyard you want, and point out what to check on the pool and equipment before you buy.
Elizabeth Vijan | Tackett Team, eXp Realty
Chaparral Park Resident & 85250 Real Estate Expert
Find My 85250 Home · Call or text 602-885-7752
Sources: SRP: How to lower your pool energy costs · SRP: Residential rebates FAQ · City of Scottsdale: Swimming pools · Scottsdale Water: Protect your water · NOAA NCEI: 1991-2020 monthly normals, Scottsdale Airport
Disclaimer: General information. Follow your equipment manufacturer's instructions and consult a licensed pool professional. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Equal Housing Opportunity.
