If you’re a pool owner, one of the big questions on your mind might be: How much does a pool guy cost per month? Maintaining a pool can be time-consuming, and hiring a professional pool service can save you a lot of hassle. But how much should you budget for it? The answer varies depending on several factors, and we’ll walk you through the details to give you a clear idea of what to expect.
What Affects Pool Service Costs?
Before we get into specific prices, it’s important to understand what affects the cost of hiring a pool guy. A pool service typically includes tasks like cleaning the pool, balancing chemicals, inspecting equipment, and sometimes, more specialized services like green pool cleaning. The price of these services depends on:
- Location: Prices can vary significantly based on where you live. Urban areas or places with higher living costs may charge more.
- Pool Size and Type: A larger pool requires more chemicals and more time to clean, which increases the cost. In-ground pools also typically cost more to service than above-ground ones.
- Frequency of Service: You’ll need to decide whether you want weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly service, each of which comes with a different price.
- Condition of Your Pool: A well-maintained pool will cost less to clean than a neglected one, especially if it’s turned green and requires special attention.
Now, let’s dive deeper into the specific costs.
How Much Does Weekly Pool Service Cost?
For most homeowners, weekly service is the best option to keep their pool in top condition. The typical cost of weekly pool service ranges from $150 to $190 per month for a standard-sized pool. This usually includes basic tasks like skimming the surface, vacuuming the pool floor, brushing the walls, testing and adjusting chemicals, and emptying the skimmer baskets.
It’s important to note that this is the price range for a basic service. If your pool requires more intensive care or if you request add-ons like filter cleaning or algae treatment, the cost can go up. If you’re searching for “weekly pool service cost near me,” it’s a good idea to contact local providers to get more specific quotes.
Is Weekly Service Necessary?
A common question pool owners ask is whether they really need weekly service. The short answer is: it depends. If your pool is in heavy use, or if debris and leaves often end up in the water, weekly cleaning is the best way to keep it clear and safe. Additionally, if you’re not comfortable managing pool chemicals, it’s wise to have a professional come on a regular basis to balance the water properly.
How Much Does Green Pool Cleaning Cost?
Let’s say you’ve been away for a while, and you come back to a pool that’s gone green due to algae buildup. Fixing a green pool is much more labor-intensive than regular cleaning, which means the cost can be higher. A typical green pool cleaning can cost anywhere from $300 to $500 or more, depending on the severity of the problem.
Green pool cleaning often involves:
- Draining the pool
- Scrubbing the walls and floor
- Using shock treatments and algaecide to clear out the algae
- Refilling and balancing the chemicals
This process can take several days, and it may require multiple visits from the pool guy. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s usually because the pool hasn’t been maintained regularly. This is another reason why regular weekly service can save you money in the long run.
What Does Monthly Pool Service Include?
Some pool owners opt for monthly service instead of weekly. Monthly pool service typically costs around $80 to $120 per month, but it comes with some limitations. Since the pool is only being cleaned once a month, you may have to do some of the upkeep yourself in between visits.
Monthly service usually includes:
- A thorough cleaning (but not as detailed as weekly service)
- Testing and adjusting water chemistry
- Inspecting pool equipment for damage
While this option is cheaper, it may not be ideal if your pool is used frequently or is prone to debris buildup. Neglect between visits can lead to more expensive problems, like algae blooms, that could cost you more in the long run.
Is Hiring a Pool Guy Worth It?
You might be wondering if paying for a pool guy is worth the money. If you enjoy doing maintenance yourself and feel confident in balancing pool chemicals, you might not need weekly professional service. However, if you’re busy, inexperienced, or just want peace of mind, hiring a pool service can save you time and prevent costly repairs in the future.
For most people, the convenience of having someone else take care of their pool far outweighs the cost. A well-maintained pool not only looks great, but it’s also safer for swimming and extends the life of your equipment. Plus, you avoid the stress of dealing with complex pool issues like green pool cleaning.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a pool guy can cost anywhere from $80 to $500 per month, depending on your needs and the condition of your pool. Weekly service tends to be the most popular option for pool owners, but monthly service is also available if you’re looking to save money. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding bigger, more expensive problems down the line, like green pool cleaning. So, whether you’re searching for “weekly pool service cost near me” or just curious about the cost of a pool guy, it’s worth considering the long-term benefits of professional care.