How Much Does It Cost To Clean Your Pool

So, you’ve just installed that dream swimming pool in your backyard, and you’re already dreaming about having a refreshing summer dip. But wait ― there’s more to owning a pool than just picking out the perfect floaty. The reality? You’ll have to invest in regular pool cleaning to keep your water crystal clear and safe for swimming.

Now, before you start pulling your hair out, let me explain it to you. Not only will we be diving into the costs of cleaning a pool, but we’ll also provide some easy peasy lemon squeezy tips on how you can save some money while at it. Sounds good? Let’s get into it!

The Underwater Costs You Might Not See 

Quick reality check: swimming pools do require regular cleaning to keep algae and bacteria away. You don’t want your pool turning into a mini swamp, right? So, what factors contribute to these costs?

Size of the pool 

A larger pool simply means more water, more surface area, more potential dirt. Big or small, size does matter.

Type of pool

Concrete, vinyl or fiberglass? Each type of pool will have unique cleaning and maintenance requirements, contributing directly to the associated costs. For instance, in-ground pools may have different servicing needs in comparison to above-ground pools

Pool condition 

Of course, the state you’ve left your pool in plays a huge part in how much your cleaners are going to charge you. So, try not to skip your yearly pool cleaning obligations to avoid paying for costlier pool cleaning fees in the future.

Seasonal Variation

Cleaning expenses tend to spike during summer – the height of pool party season. It’s during the warmer months that we use our pools most frequently. Unfortunately, hotter temperatures also encourage algae growth, potential chemical imbalances, and plenty of leaves or debris to drop into the water. So, you might find yourself reaching for your wallet more often just to keep your pool in top shape.

Types of Pool Cleaning Services

Four main tasks need to be done to keep your pool safe and clean. Each one is just as important as the rest, and each one requires a different type of pool cleaning service. Let’s take a look at what each one entails.

Chemical Cleaning

An essential part of maintaining your pool is checking and adjusting the chemical balance. It keeps your water safe, clear, and free from harmful bacteria. It’s like cooking a good stew – it’s all about getting the ingredients just right. Regular dosing can range from $20 – $60 per month, depending on the size of your pool and its usage.

Skimming and Vacuuming

Skimming is the pool equivalent of picking up after a messy toddler – except this toddler is Mother Nature, and she’s dropping dusk, leaf, and general debris by the bucketful. Vacuuming is vital too, like a good deep carpet clean, but underwater. Prices vary, but you can generally expect to pay around $60-90 per session for skimming and vacuuming.

Filter Cleaning

Just like you need to replace the filter in your air conditioner for clean air, your pool filter also needs regular cleaning to keep the water crystal clear. Think of it as your pool’s very own superhero, working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep things clean. Filter cleaning service could cost anywhere from $75 – $125 per cleaning.

Tile Cleaning

Grime and calcium can build up along the waterline, leading to discoloured and unsightly pool tiles. Regular tile cleaning helps maintain an alluring sheen to your pool. Cleaning the tiles is like detailing your car – it not only looks great but can also extend their lifespan. Fees can vary depending on tile types and the degree of staining, but on average, tile cleaning can range from $25 – $45 per hour.

The Additional Bits and Pieces

So, you might be thinking you have it all figured out. But remember, there are always extra costs hiding like an unexpected shark in the water. These might include repairs for pool equipment, water testing, and chemical balancing. Creating that perfect ‘pool paradise’ could cost you approximately an additional $500-$700 per year. Ouch!

The cost of pool chemicals, for instance, varies like the market. And since you have to buy a lot to cover your entire pool, a slight bump in price can easily make you go over your annual pool cleaning budget.

Equipment failure is also always on the table. This can happen in the blink of an eye and leave you with a gaping hole in your bank account. If your pump malfunctions, it could cost you $200-$500 to repair or replace. And since you have to keep that water moving around, it’s important to have a backup pump available just in case! The bottom line is that there are always going to be unexpected costs when owning a swimming pool.

Money-Saving Tips (Yes, They Do Exist!)

But don’t float away in despair just yet! Here’s the lifesaver you were waiting for – our top money-saving tips:

Regular Maintenance

Nipping issues in the bud can save substantial repair costs. So, make cleaning a routine! 

You can also use a pool cover, especially during colder months. Besides being a safety feature, it’s great at keeping debris out. Less debris equals less cleaning!

Lastly, a great way to avoid skin irritations and prevent damage to pool parts from overly acidic or basic water is by making sure you get your pool water analysed regularly and balancing chemicals correctly. 

DIY Cleaning

There are two options here, folks ― you can either your hi-vis and do the cleaning yourself or hire a professional pool cleaning service. Now, each option has its own pros and cons. DIY requires more effort and learning, but you’ll be saving some bucks. On the other hand, professional services might be pricier, but hey, at least you won’t look like a drenched mouse afterwards.

If you’re considering hiring a professional pool service, costs will usually range from $75 to $100 per hour. If you go the whole nine yards, yearly costs can push up to around $1,200. But let me tell you, the peace of mind you get knowing your pool is in safe hands? Priceless!

Making a Splash Without Splurging

It doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a swimming leg to keep your pool clean. With a little savvy planning and our money-saving tips, you can indeed have your pool cake and eat it too (although, we’d recommend just swimming in it!).

If you have the time and inclination to learn, go try the DIY route. It’s going to be a fulfilling project with tons of rewards, and you’ll be surprised at how much you can save.

If you don’t have time or aren’t sure of your skills, though, don’t stress! There are plenty of pool cleaning professionals who can take care of it for you. You can even customize their service if you want to. For example, if you already know how to balance the chemicals, you can do that and just let cleaners do the rest. You don’t need to pay for full-service pool cleaning!