How much does it cost to fill a pool in Arizona: Hose vs Water Truck

February 27th, 2026

3 min. read

By Bryan Ashbaugh

How much does it cost to fill a pool in Arizona: Hose vs Water Truck
How much does it cost to fill a pool in Arizona: Hose vs Water Truck
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That moment when your pool installation is complete often is unforgettable. After months of constructions, new pool owners consistently ask. What is it going to cost to fill it?

After 60 years building pools, we’ve seen people assume filling thousands of gallons creates a massive water bill. In reality, most pools in the Phoenix metro cost between $100 and $250 to fill. This is all done using a standard garden hose connected to municipal water.

In fact, more than 95% of Arizona homeowners simply use their hose for the initial fill. Even in the Phoenix Valley, municipal water remains surprisingly affordable to fill of a residential pool.

Water delivery trucks offer a faster alternative. However, the speed comes at a premium. In the Arizona market, truck delivery typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,000 or more.

So which option makes the most sense for your pool? The answer depends on your pool type, your water source, and how quickly you want to start swimming. This article showcases what Arizona homeowners need to know about filling with either a garden hose or water truck.

Table of Contents

How to Fill Your Pool After It's Completed

The two most common options include a garden hose or professional water delivery. Each new pool owners needs to decide which fits their situation or priorities.

Most Homeowners Fill Their Pool with a Garden Hose

“In Arizona, more than 95% of homeowners fill their new pool with a garden hose. It’s usually the most practical and affordable option.” - Skip Ast III, Shasta Pools Director of Sales

Garden Hose Filling

A standard garden hose delivers 8 to 9 gallons per minute. This means your pool will be ready in 24 to 48 hours. Even larger 20x40 foot pools complete filling within 48 hours.

Water Delivery Trucks

Most water truck services can fill your pool in one to three hours. The delivery truck carries between 3,500 to 6,000 gallons and typically needs multiple deliveries. The municipal sourced water flows directly into your filtration system.

What You'll Actually Pay to Fill Your Pool

Municipal water rates make hose filling surprisingly affordable. Most Arizona regions charge $4 to $10 per 1,000 gallons. This equates to a 15,000-gallon pool costs between $60 and $150. Even in Phoenix desert heat, the cost to fill your pool is very cost effective.

  • Garden Host costs $60 - $250
  • Water Truck costs $1,000 - $2,000

Filling with a Hose is Affordable

“In the Phoenix metro, most homeowners spend somewhere between $100 and $250 to fill their pool with a hose. It’s usually much less than people expect. People think they’re about to get hit with a massive water bill, but in most cases, filling a pool here in Arizona is surprisingly affordable.” - Skip Ast III, Shasta Pools Director of Sales

Is there an unexpected cost to filling your pool with a hose?

Many municipalities add sewer fees based on your water usage. Some areas charge combined water and sewer rates that can cost $15 to $20 per 1,000 gallons. For a 20,000-gallon pool, you will need to budget an extra $200 to $300. However, most offer pool credits or waive sewage charges completely when you let them know you are filling up your pool.

What does using a water delivery truck cost to fill your pool?

Water delivery trucks cost significantly more. Expect $200 to $600 per truckload.  With each truck carrying about 6,000 gallons, a typical residential pool runs $1,000 to $2,000 total. Companies often add trip charges for areas outside their normal service zone.

When does Water Truck Delivery Make the Better Option for Filling Your Pool

The #1 reason to use a water truck is if you have well water. Basically, running your well pump continuously for 2-3 days to fill a pool risks serious damage. Temporary well depletion and sediment stirring could cloud your water.  Furthermore, a new well pump or repairs can cost thousands.

Low-yield wells produce less than 1-5 gallons per minute. These wells already work hard to meet daily household needs. Adding pool filling pushes the system past its limits. The pump starts pulling water faster than the aquifer can replenish. The well running dry can destroy pump motor windings and impellers.

Some regions impose water restrictions during drought seasons. This makes truck delivery your only option.

The Arizona Approach to Filling a New Pool

Yes, filling your pool will cost far less than you probably expected. Most municipal water users spend between $100 and $250. Although, well owners should budget for truck delivery to protect their pump systems.

We hope the water bill increase is manageable. Especially, when you consider how much value and enjoyment you're getting in return.

Here's what to do before you start filling. Please call your local utility and ask about pool filling credits. Most municipalities waive sewer charges since pool water doesn't enter their system.

FAQs

Q1. How much will filling my pool increase my water bill? For most homeowners using municipal water, filling a pool costs between $100 and $250.

Q2. What's the most affordable method to fill a swimming pool? Using your garden hose with municipal water is the cheapest option.

Q3. Should I use a water delivery truck or my garden hose? If you have well water, a delivery truck is recommended to avoid damaging your well pump from continuous operation.

Q4. Can I get a discount on sewer charges when filling my pool? Yes, many municipalities offer sewer charge credits or waivers for pool filling since the water doesn't enter the sanitary system. 

Q5. How much does water truck delivery cost for pool filling? For a standard residential pool, expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 total. 

Bryan Ashbaugh

Bryan Ashbaugh is a product expert at Shasta Pool Supply and Shasta Pools. He’s dedicated to helping homeowners and pool professionals make informed decisions about their pool care. Bryan combines real-world expertise with clear and trustworthy advice. He’s passionate about simplifying pool ownership through helpful how-to guides and honest product insights.