Choosing and replacing your pool equipment well
Pump, filter, salt chlorinator, electrical panel: replacing pool equipment is a chance to gain quiet, lower running costs and peace of mind — provided you choose the right gear. Here's how to avoid the classic mistakes.
Pump: fixed or variable speed?
Variable speed has become the standard:
- Consumption: 50 to 70% savings over a season.
- Noise: audible but discreet, versus constant noise for a single-speed unit.
- Lifespan: longer because the pump never has to strain.
- Extra cost: €150 to €300 upfront, paid back within 2 to 3 years.
For 99% of private pools in the Var, it's the right choice. See also our guide on repairing or replacing your pump.
Filter: sand, cartridge or glass?
- Sand: economical, simple, durable. The standard choice.
- Filtering glass: replaces sand, traps particles 2 to 3 times finer, lasts 7 to 10 years (versus 4 to 5 for sand). 30% extra cost.
- Cartridge: excellent filtration fineness, compact. More manual handling (hand rinsing).
- Diatomaceous earth: maximum fineness, mainly for demanding pools. More technical day-to-day.
For most pools in the Var, a sand filter fitted with filtering glass is the best balance of durability, performance and price.
Salt chlorinator: no more chlorine from a bottle
A salt chlorinator turns salt into chlorine naturally, continuously. Benefits:
- No more storing chemical products.
- Gentler water on skin and eyes.
- Automatic dosing, adjusted to your pool.
Good to know: you need to maintain a well-adjusted pH (a pH regulator is almost essential alongside it), and the cell is replaced every 5 to 7 years.
Electrical panel: the great overlooked item
An ageing panel is responsible for most repeat breakdowns (breaker tripping, temperamental lights, a pump that starts poorly).
Replacing it means:
- Bringing it up to current electrical standards (moisture safety).
- A dedicated 30 mA RCD for the pool.
- A timer or smart control to run filtration.
- Automatic frost protection.
A new panel costs €250 to €600 installed, and often fixes several faults at once.
Pitfalls to avoid
- Buying without knowing the flow rate your pool needs → an under- or oversized pump.
- Mixing brands without checking electrical compatibility.
- Having it fitted by a non-specialist: a poorly made fitting leaks within 6 months.
- Forgetting the warranty: pool equipment is guaranteed for 2 to 5 years depending on the brand, but only if the installation is compliant.
An equipment replacement by a pool professional includes the choice, fitting and commissioning. No hidden extra costs, and a quote before the work.
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Start my diagnosisFrequently asked questions
How much does replacing a pool pump cost?+
Between €400 and €900 installed depending on power and technology. A quality variable-speed pump comes to around €600 to €800.
How long does pool equipment last?+
Pump: 8 to 12 years. Filter (tank): 15 to 20 years. Salt chlorinator (cell): 5 to 7 years. Electrical panel: 15 to 20 years. All these figures drop by 1 to 2 years in the Var because of limescale and heat.
Can I supply the equipment myself?+
Yes, but we recommend proven references to guarantee the fitting and longevity. If you buy it yourself, check above all that the fittings and voltage are compatible with your installation.
Do you need to declare a change of equipment?+
No, a like-for-like replacement requires no paperwork. Changing an electrical panel requires compliance with current standards.
Also worth reading
Should you repair or replace your pool pump?
A good diagnostic often avoids a full replacement.
Read5 minMaintaining and repairing your filtration system
From the 6-way valve to the filter sand: the whole ecosystem explained.
Read5 minWhy has my filtration stopped working?
The most common causes of filtration coming to a halt.
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