Totally understand. Can you "winterize" it long term. Not sure it is a good idea to let it stand empty too long. Particularly for pool equipment.

Did a google search last night and found an article on being sure your pool pump isn't too large for your pool size. Said a smaller pump was actually better at properly filtering the water. Considering that our pump is over 20 years old, we will check that out.

Another interesting thing that came up was a company that builds decks over pools. Supposedly the drained pool is preserved for future resale.

Guess we aren't the only ones tired of the cost!

I actually promote smaller basins like dipping pools. Half the cost, half the hassle and much easier to use. Plus not being deep,sun warms up water in a nod and a wink https://www.houzz.com/photos/house-renovation-contemporary-patio-phvw-vp~2968449

We spoke to the pool company today and they are putting a new efficient pump in on Monday. Sounds like the savings will be amazing (fingers crossed!).

If I had it to do over I would go the route you suggested!

Congratulations on your new energy efficient pool pump! A lot of our clients are choosing variable speed pumps by Jandy:
http://www.zodiacpoolsystems.com/Products/Pumps/Variable-Speed-Pumps.aspx

Here is a pool pump savings calculator for those interested:
http://www.zodiacpoolsystems.com/Energy-Center/Calculators/Pool-Pump-Savings.aspx

In regard to saving on maintenance and chemicals, consider a Polaris robotic cleaner and a salt chlorine generator by AutoPilot:
http://www.zodiacpoolsystems.com/Products/Cleaners/Robotic.aspx
http://autopilot.com/our-products

Good luck!

Will you let us know if you see a different in maintenance costs?

It adds value in California where the OP lives.

oops, sorry! Should have checked to see where OP lives. Thank you.

Would I add a pool now if I had it to do over....for just my husband and I, no. I would go for a spa and just keep it cool for the summer.

But when we moved to this home there was zero landscaping, and had two children one and three, and many hot hot summers ahead (hot as in "the hottest temp in the world" on a few summer days). So, backyard is centered around our pool. It is a perfect rectangle (built with a locking automatic cover to protect the kids when they were small). I have thought I could have it filled in for a volleyball court?

But now the new pump will go in and I will let you know the difference in cost. I am also thinking of having the now broken automatic cover repaired (it was great in that it gave complete security and in dark blue was great at solar heating our pool). Might as well, if we are paying for this pool, get as many swimmable days as possible out of it!

http://www.deckover.com/ There IS a way to retire your pool!