Dreaming of your backyard oasis but wondering when to take the plunge? Timing plays a crucial role in maximising your budget and getting the pool you’ve been fantasising about. From price fluctuations throughout the year to geographical and economic factors, knowing when to buy can make all the difference.
This blog breaks down the seasonal trends, regional influences, and economic factors that will help you decide the best time to buy your pool. By the end, you’ll have all the insights you need to splash wisely.
Seasonal Trends and Pool Buying
The first thing to consider when buying a pool is how the seasons affect pool prices and availability. Like many industries, pool manufacturers and retailers follow predictable cycles. Here’s what you need to know about pool-buying trends over the year.
Spring
Spring is a popular time for pool shopping. As the weather warms in many regions, homeowners begin to think about summer and all the enjoyment a pool can bring. However, the downside to buying in spring is the uptick in demand. High demand often leads to increased prices, limited availability, and longer installation schedules. If you want your pool installed by summer, you should prepare to pay premium prices during this time.
Summer
Buying a pool in the summer might sound convenient, but it’s far from ideal. This is peak swimming season, and retailers are often at their busiest. Installation companies may be fully booked, leading to frustrating delays. Prices can remain high due to strong demand. That said, if you’re purchasing an above-ground pool or a quick-to-install model, buying during the summer may still be possible.
Autumn
Autumn is one of the best times to buy and install a pool. By this time, summer’s high demand has cooled off, making retailers more likely to offer discounts on pools and accessories. Plus, installation companies tend to be free up, so you’re more likely to get your pool set up quickly and at a lower cost. Pools purchased in autumn will be ready and waiting for you when next summer rolls around.
Winter
Winter is the offseason for pool sales, and that can be a massive advantage to savvy buyers. Since demand for pools is at its lowest, retailers are keen to clear out inventory, often slashing prices significantly. Installation companies may also offer discounts, making winter an excellent time to secure a bargain. However, weather conditions in colder regions could limit installation during this time. Still, winter is arguably the best season to buy if you’re looking for the most significant savings and can plan.
Summary
- Best seasons for savings: Autumn and winter
- High demand and delays: Spring and summer
Regional Differences in Pool Buying
Geography plays a key role in determining when to buy a pool. Depending on where you live, climate and regional demand can heavily influence pricing and availability.
Warm Climates
For those in warmer climates, where the pool season lasts longer, demand tends to remain more consistent throughout the year. States like Florida, Texas, and Southern California in the US, or similar warmer regions worldwide, may not experience the dramatic seasonal pricing shifts seen in places with colder winters. That said, retailers may still offer discounts in the cooler months when demand dips slightly.
Cold Climates
If your region experiences frosty winters, it is typically best to buy a pool during the autumn or winter. Retailers in colder climates are more likely to offer end-of-season sales as people turn their focus towards indoor activities. Installation could be delayed in areas prone to heavy snowfall or ground freezing, so if you’re buying during the winter, be prepared to wait until spring for setup.
Rural vs Urban Areas
Availability can also vary depending on whether you live in a rural or urban area. Urban regions may offer more competitive pricing due to their larger selection of retailers, while rural areas may have fewer options and potentially higher transportation or delivery fees.
Pro Tip
Check with your local pool retailer for specials and advice tailored to your region’s climate and buying patterns.
Economic Factors to Consider
Price changes throughout the year aren’t the only factor to consider. Broader economic conditions and your finances also play a significant role in determining the best time to buy.
Economic Trends
Economic conditions, such as inflation and interest rates, often affect the cost of pools. When the economy is booming, demand for pools might rise, leading to higher prices. On the flip side, during economic downturns, retailers might offer more promotions and incentives to boost sales. Monitoring these trends can help you find a great deal.
Personal Finances
Before you purchase a pool, take a close look at your financial situation. Do you have room in your budget for a new pool, including accessories and maintenance costs? Pools are a long-term investment, so consider all the associated expenses and ensure you have the funds to cover them, regardless of seasonal savings.
Financing Options
If upfront costs are a barrier, many retailers offer financing plans. Keep an eye out for financing deals during the offseason, as retailers may incentivise purchases with low- or no-interest payment plans.
Key Takeaway
Aligning your purchase with both seasonal savings and your financial readiness is the most innovative way to approach your pool-buying decision.
How To Decide When to Buy
Here’s a quick checklist to help you decide the best time to buy your pool:
- Budget: Can you afford a pool now, or should you save for a few months and aim for offseason discounts?
- Timing: Do you need your pool installed by next summer, or can you wait to take advantage of winter sales?
- Geography: What’s the seasonal demand in your region?
- Installation Windows: Will weather conditions permit immediate installation or necessitate delays?
Contact Us for Swimming Pools and Pool Accessories
Contact AG Budget today to speak with one of our Pool Maintenance specialists and ask any questions you may have. Call us on 0208 941 6618 or contact us.
