How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Pool Cleaning Service?
Last Updated: June 02, 2023
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There's nothing like having your own pool to cool off in on a hot day. Regular maintenance, however, is a less satisfying component of pool ownership, and one that many homeowners choose to outsource. The cost of pool cleaning services depends on the size of the pool, the condition of the pool, the local market, and how often cleaning is performed. If a technician finds broken pool components, budget extra for repair or replacement.
Pool Cleaning: What's Involved #
The actual pool cleaning services performed vary from company to company but generally include the following:
- Clear debris with net and skimmer
- Water analysis readout
- Monitor and balance water chemistry
- Empty skimmer and basket
- Brush and vacuum
- Monitor proper function of pool equipment
- Backwash filter as needed
Cost: $75 to $150 per month based on weekly cleanings (usually 4 cleanings per month, but some companies offer twice per week cleaning at greater cost) or $100 to $150 per month based on a once-per-month cleaning.
Other Pool Cleaning Services and Costs #
- A one-time cleaning of a particularly dirty pool might cost $75 to $100 per hour. Assuming a typical 2-3 hour job, that's a total estimated cost of $150 to $300.
- Extremely dirty pools (so murky that you can't see the bottom on the deep end) might require a drain and clean service that runs $500 to $600 or more.
- Pool acid washing, required for the most stubborn pool stains, costs $200 to $300 in addition to the cost of a drain and clean.
- Filter cleanings, if not included in a regular maintenance plan, might cost $75 to $100 per cleaning (every 6 months is recommended).
- Opening and closing a pool costs $150 to $300 per service.
DIY Pool Cleaning #
The ongoing costs of a pool (electricity, maintenance, and repairs) can cost owners $3,000-$5,000 or more per year. In an effort to save money, many homeowners decide to tackle pool cleaning on their own. Using the monthly pool costs outlined above, that can work out to yearly savings of more than $1,000.
The initial equipment investment, however, will set you back at least $50 to $100 (for a leaf skimmer and algae brush). You could save time by purchasing a robot pool vacuum, but this big-ticket item can run $400 to $1,000.
In addition to cleaning equipment, plan on spending around $60 to $120 per month.
Installing a pool cover, often done during winter months, can also help you cut down on water use, chemical consumption, and heating and cleaning costs during swimming season. A basic winter cover costs $100 to $500.