The Pros and Cons of DIY Pool Cleaning vs Hiring a Professional Pool Cleaner

THINKING OF DIY POOL CLEANING? Maintaining a clean and healthy swimming pool is essential for every homeowner who wants to enjoy crystal-clear waters. When it comes to pool maintenance, the decision between handling the task yourself or hiring a professional pool cleaner can be a tough one. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of DIY pool cleaning versus enlisting the services of a professional pool cleaner such as Jim’s Pool Care. So, let’s dive in and discover which approach suits you best.

DIY Pool Cleaning Pros and Cons

Pool Cost Savings

One of the main advantages of DIY pool cleaning is the potential for cost savings. By taking matters into your own hands, you can avoid paying for professional services.

However, it’s important to note that investing in the necessary equipment and chemicals can add up, especially if you’re not well-versed in pool maintenance. An article by Swim University, entitled, A Beginner’s Guide to Pool Maintenance, highlights the three most important parts of pool water chemistry are…pH levels, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels.

Once you know all these key elements of water balance, you can start to add chemicals to tweak your pool. However, improper handling of chemicals can lead to costly mistakes and damage, outweighing the initial cost savings. Also note you need to be very careful when handling pool chemicals and follow all instructions.

Flexibility and Convenience

With DIY pool cleaning, you have the freedom to work on your own schedule. You can choose when to clean your pool and how frequently to perform maintenance tasks. This level of flexibility can be convenient for homeowners who prefer to handle the job themselves. However, it’s crucial to ensure regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent the buildup of debris and the growth of harmful bacteria.

Learning and Empowerment as a Pool owner

We understand that some pool owners really want to look after the pool themselves. Taking care of your pool personally allows you to learn about its intricate workings and gain a sense of empowerment. You can acquire valuable knowledge about water chemistry, pool equipment, and troubleshooting common issues. This hands-on experience can be rewarding and give you a deeper understanding of your pool’s needs. However, it’s important to invest time in educating yourself to ensure you’re implementing the correct maintenance practices.

Time and Effort of Pool Maintenance

Maintaining a pool requires regular commitment and effort. DIY pool cleaning demands time for cleaning, testing water chemistry, empty baskets, adjust timers, and maintaining the pool equipment. While it can be a fulfilling task for some, others may find it time-consuming, especially when juggling other responsibilities and going for a drive to the pool shop every few weeks. It’s essential to evaluate your availability and consider whether you can dedicate sufficient time to keeping your pool in optimal condition so it is always safe to swim.

Pros and Cons of Hiring a Professional Pool Cleaner

Expertise and Experience

Professional pool cleaners bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. They are well-versed in the intricacies of pool maintenance, water chemistry, and pool equipment operation. Their knowledge allows them to diagnose issues quickly, make necessary repairs, and keep your pool in top shape including electronic water balance (every professional should use this). By entrusting the care of your pool to a professional, you are rest assured knowing it’s in capable hands.

Time-Saving

One of the significant advantages of hiring a professional pool cleaner is the time you save. Pool maintenance can be time-intensive, but with professionals taking care of it, you can focus on other aspects of your life. They will handle routine cleaning, equipment maintenance, and chemical balancing, ensuring your pool remains pristine without consuming your valuable time.  They will notify you of any problems or upcoming maintenance issues.

“Work harder, not smarter.” – Allen F. Morgenstern, an Industrial Engineer

Consistent and Regular Maintenance

When you hire a professional pool cleaner, you benefit from their commitment to regular and consistent pool maintenance. They follow a predetermined schedule, ensuring that your pool is cleaned, the water chemistry is balanced, and the equipment is functioning optimally. In fact, according to an article by C&EN, Chemical & Engineering News, about The chemical reactions taking place in your swimming pool, it takes a lot of testing of chemicals to make pool water safe for swimming. Untreated water can accumulate harmful Escherichia coli and Salmonella bacteria and protozoans such as Cryptosporidium parvum and Giardia lamblia. So the disinfection chemicals are necessary for killing pathogens, but at the same time, they don’t just float around inertly in the water: Many of them react with organic material in the water—dirt, sweat, urine, and even skin moisturisers—to form disinfection by-products (DBPs).

In conclusion, we would recommend that it is best to let the professionals handle pool maintenance especially regarding water chemistry. This proactive approach helps prevent major issues and costly repairs down the line.

Peace of Mind

By employing a professional pool cleaner, you gain peace of mind, knowing that your pool is receiving the care it deserves. Professionals have the necessary tools, knowledge, and experience to address any pool-related problems promptly. They can identify and resolve issues before they escalate, protecting your investment and ensuring a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for you and your family.

“A pool is, for many of us in the West, a symbol not of affluence but of order, of control over the uncontrollable. A pool is water, made available and useful, and is, as such, infinitely soothing to the western eye.” – Joan Didion, an American Writer and one of the Pioneers of New Journalism

In the debate between DIY pool cleaning and hiring a professional pool cleaner, both options have their merits. DIY pool cleaning offers cost savings, flexibility, and a sense of empowerment, but it requires time, effort, and a learning curve. On the other hand, hiring a professional pool cleaner provides expertise, time savings, consistent maintenance, and peace of mind, albeit at a cost.

When considering which option is best for you, evaluate your available time, pool maintenance knowledge, and budget. If you value convenience, expertise, and the assurance of a well-maintained pool without the hassle, hiring a professional pool cleaner, such as Jim’s Pool Care, could be the ideal solution.

Jim’s Pool Care is a customer-oriented mobile pool shop service in Australia with more than 100 Mobile Pool Shops on the road. We offer a range of pool cleaning, maintenance, and equipment services, including pool robotic cleaners and green pool recovery.

We are local and owner-operated technicians, part of the reputable Jim’s Group of Companies, deliver great service, prices, and a fast response. To look for our services or learn more about Jim’s Pool Care, book an appointment here! Don’t miss out on this valuable resource that will save you time, money, and effort in your pool maintenance routine.

FAQs

What are the benefits of hiring a professional pool cleaner?

Hiring a professional pool cleaner offers several benefits. They bring expertise, experience, and the necessary tools to maintain your pool effectively. Professionals ensure consistent and regular maintenance, saving you time and providing peace of mind.

Is DIY pool cleaning cost-effective?

DIY pool cleaning can be cost-effective, as it eliminates the need for hiring a professional. However, it’s important to consider the costs of equipment, chemicals, and the potential for mistakes that can lead to expensive repairs. Evaluate your capabilities and budget before deciding.

How often should I clean my pool?

Regular pool cleaning is essential for maintaining water clarity and hygiene. A general recommendation is to clean your pool at least once a week, removing debris, brushing the walls, and skimming the surface. Adjust the frequency based on pool usage and environmental factors.

Can I use household cleaning products to clean my pool?

It’s important to use pool-specific cleaning products as household cleaning products can contain chemicals that are harmful to pool water and equipment. Always choose pool-safe cleaners to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your pool.

How do I balance the chemicals in my pool?

Balancing pool chemicals involves adjusting pH levels, alkalinity, and chlorine. Test your water regularly using a quality pool testing kit and follow the recommended guidelines for chemical adjustments. It’s advisable to consult your local pool shop or a mobile service professional like Jim’s Pool Care. Ensure you always refer to product instructions for accurate dosing.

What should I do if my pool turns green?

A green pool indicates an imbalance in water chemistry or possible equipment problems (and the presence of algae). First, test the water and adjust chemical levels accordingly. Shock the pool with a suitable algaecide and brush the walls to remove algae. Filter and backwash depending how bad. If the problem persists, consider seeking professional assistance.

How can I maintain my pool equipment?

Regular maintenance of pool equipment is crucial for its longevity and optimal performance. Clean or backwash filters, check and lubricate o-rings, and inspect pumps and motors for any signs of wear or damage. Consult equipment manuals for specific maintenance guidelines.

What should I do if I encounter a pool maintenance issue I can’t handle?

If you come across a pool maintenance issue that is beyond your expertise, it’s recommended to reach out to a professional pool cleaner or service provider. They have the knowledge and experience to diagnose and resolve complex pool problems effectively. Don’t risk it and contact a professional.