Pool Cleaning Service vs DIY: Cost Comparison
- Patrick Wallain
- Jun 7
- 9 min read
Updated: Jun 8
Should you hire a pool cleaning service or tackle it yourself? Here's the quick answer:
- Professional services cost $1,200–$2,400 annually, offering convenience, expertise, and fewer errors.
- DIY maintenance costs $780–$1,596 annually after initial setup, saving money but requiring time and effort.
Quick Comparison:
Aspect | Professional Service | DIY Maintenance |
Annual Cost | $1,200–$2,400 | $780–$1,596 |
Upfront Costs | $0 | $500–$1,500 (equipment) |
Monthly Time Commitment | Minimal | 12–20 hours |
Risk of Errors | Low | High (chemical imbalances, costly repairs) |
Convenience | High | Low |
What to Consider:
- Hire professionals if you're short on time or have a complex pool system.
- Go DIY if you're budget-conscious and willing to invest time and effort.
Both options have pros and cons, but regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs and keep your pool safe and enjoyable.
Should You Clean Your Own Pool Or Hire a Pool Service Company?
Professional Pool Cleaning Services: What You'll Pay
Knowing what to expect when it comes to professional pool cleaning costs can help you plan your budget and compare options effectively. Arizona's desert climate brings unique challenges for pool maintenance, making professional care a practical choice for many homeowners.
Monthly Service Costs
In Phoenix, monthly pool cleaning services typically cost between $80 and $150, with the average hovering around $115. If you opt for weekly or bi-weekly visits, expect to pay about $125 per month, while monthly-only services remain closer to that $115 average. Factors like your pool's size and the amount of nearby foliage can influence these rates. In Scottsdale, prices tend to range slightly higher, from $115 to $140 per month. Beyond these regular services, one-time and seasonal maintenance costs can also play a role in your annual expenses.
One-Time and Seasonal Service Costs
Certain situations call for specialized services, which can add to your overall pool maintenance budget. For example, one-time cleanings in Phoenix average around $233, with prices varying from $121 to $372, depending on your pool's size and condition. Seasonal services, like pool openings and closings, can also be a significant expense. Pool opening services typically cost about $400, with a range of $385 to $485 for pools up to 20' x 40'. On the other hand, pool closing services average $350, but prices can span from $300 to $650, depending on the complexity of the winterization process.
If your pool requires acid washing to remove tough stains or algae buildup caused by Arizona's mineral-rich water, expect to pay between $300 and $500 or more per treatment. Additionally, Arizona's monsoon season often brings unexpected costs, as emergency cleanings may be needed after dust storms or heavy rains. These added services highlight the importance of factoring in occasional expenses when planning your pool maintenance budget.
What You Get with Professional Services
Hiring a professional pool cleaning service ensures more than just a clean pool - it delivers thorough, consistent care. Most standard packages include water testing and chemical balancing to maintain safe pH and chlorine levels, which are particularly crucial in Arizona's harsh climate. Physical cleaning tasks typically cover emptying skimmer and pump baskets, brushing walls and steps, skimming debris from the surface, and vacuuming the pool bottom. Many companies also include filter cleaning and equipment inspections, helping to catch potential problems early and avoid costly repairs.
What sets professional services apart is their ability to tailor treatments to Arizona's unique conditions. Plus, licensed and insured providers offer liability protection and warranty coverage, giving you peace of mind. If any service-related damage occurs, the company handles it, saving you from expensive mistakes. These benefits provide a strong foundation for comparing professional services to DIY maintenance costs.
DIY Pool Maintenance: What You'll Spend
When taking on the responsibility of maintaining your pool yourself, it's important to consider both the obvious costs and the less apparent ones. This will help you weigh the long-term expenses against hiring professional services.
Monthly DIY Costs
Maintaining a pool on your own involves more than just buying chemicals; you'll also need testing kits and cleaning supplies. On average, monthly chemical costs range from $45 to $83, depending on the type of pool. For example, chlorine tablets cost about $25 for 5 lbs, soda ash runs around $40 for 15 lbs, and muriatic acid is approximately $8 per gallon. If you have a saltwater pool, expect to spend about $45 per month on supplies.
The type of pool surface also affects annual chemical costs:
- Fiberglass pools: Around $175 per year
- Vinyl pools: Roughly $400 per year
- Concrete pools: Up to $750 per year
Beyond chemicals, you'll need water testing kits, which cost between $10 and $30 each, and cleaning supplies that add another $20 to $50 per month. For added convenience, some opt for monthly maintenance kits, priced between $109.99 and $299.99, or chemical balancing kits, which typically cost $25 to $40.
Equipment and Startup Costs
Starting DIY pool maintenance requires an upfront investment in tools and equipment. Initial costs generally range from $500 to $1,500.
Key equipment expenses include:
- Pool vacuums: $100 to $1,000
- Automatic cleaners: Several hundred dollars, offering time-saving benefits
- Skimmer nets: $10 to $36
- Pool brushes: $17 to $60
For a comprehensive setup, deluxe maintenance kits start at $35. While higher-quality tools cost more initially, they tend to last longer, which can save money in the long run. Cheaper tools may need frequent replacement, increasing overall expenses.
Time Requirements and Hidden Costs
DIY pool maintenance isn't just about money - it also requires a significant time commitment. Weekly tasks include skimming debris, brushing walls, vacuuming, emptying baskets, and testing water chemistry. Monthly duties might involve cleaning filters and inspecting equipment. Seasonal tasks, like opening and closing the pool, demand even more time and expertise.
Mistakes in maintenance can lead to costly repairs. For example:
- Chemical imbalances can result in green water, algae growth, and equipment damage, requiring expensive fixes.
- Neglecting filters and skimmers can cause pump burnout, which may cost $800 or more to repair.
Many homeowners lack the expertise to identify early signs of water quality or equipment issues, which can lead to further complications.
In total, annual DIY costs typically range from $600 to $1,200 for chemicals and testing kits, plus $500 to $1,500 for equipment and supplies. While DIY maintenance can save around $1,200 per year compared to professional services, even small errors can quickly erase those savings if emergency repairs or replacements are needed. The next section will dive deeper into these cost comparisons.
Professional Service vs DIY: Side-by-Side Comparison
Let’s dive into a direct comparison of professional pool services and DIY maintenance to help you decide which option aligns with your needs.
Annual Cost Breakdown
When comparing these two approaches, the financial differences become clear. Here's how the costs add up over a year:
Cost Category | Professional Service | DIY Maintenance |
Monthly Service | $100–$200 | $45–$83 (chemicals only) |
Annual Service Cost | $1,200–$2,400 | $540–$996 |
Initial Equipment | $0 | $500–$1,500 |
Testing Kits & Supplies | Included | $240–$600 annually |
Total First Year | $1,200–$2,400 | $1,280–$3,096 |
Ongoing Annual Cost | $1,200–$2,400 | $780–$1,596 |
DIY maintenance can save you about $800–$1,000 annually after the upfront equipment costs. On average, professional services cost around $1,440 per year for monthly visits, while DIY maintenance runs closer to $850 annually when factoring in equipment and supplies.
Now, let’s look beyond the numbers and consider the long-term factors that separate these two options.
Long-Term Cost Factors
While monthly costs are important, it’s the long-term implications that often tip the scales.
Professional Services:Hiring professionals means consistent care and fewer surprises. They can spot potential equipment problems early and maintain the right chemical balance to protect your pool’s surface and components. Research shows that many pool owners underestimate their yearly maintenance costs by about 40%. With professional service, you get predictable expenses, which can be a relief for many homeowners.
DIY Maintenance:Although it’s cheaper, DIY maintenance demands a significant time commitment - around 3–5 hours per week, depending on your pool’s size and condition. Mistakes, especially with chemicals, can lead to unexpected repair costs. Professionals also tend to work more efficiently, completing tasks faster and with greater precision than most DIY efforts.
Usage Patterns:If your pool sees daily use, maintenance costs can jump by as much as 65%. In such cases, professional oversight becomes even more critical to maintain the delicate chemical balance required for heavy usage.
A Blended Approach:Many pool owners opt for a professional maintenance contract ($150–$300 per month) during their first season. This gives them time to learn proper techniques while ensuring their investment is protected. Over time, some transition to DIY maintenance, combining cost savings with the knowledge gained from professional guidance.
While DIY maintenance can save $800–$1,000 annually, professional services offer expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind - valuable benefits for those looking to avoid costly errors or time-consuming upkeep.
How to Choose the Right Option for Your Pool
Deciding between professional pool care and a do-it-yourself approach depends on your budget, time, and expertise. It’s not just about the upfront costs - it’s about selecting the method that aligns with your lifestyle while keeping your pool in top shape. Let’s break down when each option makes the most sense.
When Professional Services Are the Better Choice
If you’re short on time or unsure about pool maintenance, professional services might be the way to go. For busy individuals or those unfamiliar with pool chemistry, hiring experts ensures your pool stays in great condition without the hassle. This is especially true if your pool includes features like spas, waterfalls, or saltwater systems, as these require specialized care to function properly and meet safety standards.
Professional pool technicians bring knowledge that can help avoid costly repairs down the road. For instance, Shine Pools offers weekly cleaning services throughout the East Valley, serving areas like Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa. Their services include everything from netting and wall brushing to chemical balancing and equipment repairs, with a one-year warranty on equipment work. For pools with complex systems or commercial setups, professional care is often the safest bet.
When DIY Maintenance Makes Sense
If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind dedicating some time to pool care, DIY maintenance can work well. For homeowners willing to learn the basics, maintaining a pool can cost significantly less - annual expenses for chemicals, testing kits, and supplies typically range from $800 to $1,200.
DIY is often a good fit for simpler pool systems, like above-ground pools or basic in-ground designs without additional features. That said, consistency is essential. Neglecting regular care can lead to issues that are far more expensive to fix later. DIY maintenance requires a solid understanding of pH levels, chlorine balance, and basic troubleshooting, but it can be rewarding for those who enjoy hands-on work.
Key Takeaways
Many pool owners start with professional services to learn the ropes and then transition to DIY care once they feel confident. Professional care is ideal for those with complex systems or who prefer predictable costs - the national average for professional pool service is around $230 per month. On the other hand, DIY maintenance is a great option for those looking to reduce costs and take a more active role in pool upkeep.
Regardless of the approach you choose, regular maintenance is critical to avoid expensive repairs and ensure your pool remains a source of enjoyment. Shine Pools offers flexible service plans, from full weekly cleanings to chemical-only programs, making it easier to find an option that works for you. After all, a well-maintained pool is not just an investment - it’s a place to relax and unwind.
FAQs
What are the risks of maintaining your pool yourself, and how can you avoid them?
DIY pool upkeep has its challenges, especially when it comes to chemical mishandling, potential electrical issues, or the risk of slips and falls around the pool area. Without proper knowledge, mistakes like adding too much chlorine or neglecting water balance can result in problems like algae blooms or even damage to your pool’s surface and equipment.
To reduce these risks, it’s crucial to get familiar with the essentials of pool maintenance. Learn how to handle chemicals safely and use your equipment correctly. Invest in reliable water testing kits to regularly check and maintain proper chemical levels. Always prioritize safety by wearing protective gear, keeping the pool deck dry to prevent slips, and ensuring all electrical components are correctly grounded. These steps can help you maintain a safe and well-functioning pool.
How does Arizona's climate impact pool maintenance costs and needs?
Arizona's scorching heat and dry air can make pool upkeep more demanding and expensive. The combination of high temperatures and low humidity speeds up water evaporation, meaning you'll likely need to top off your pool more often. This extra water usage can bump up your monthly water bill by $20 to $50. On top of that, the relentless sunlight depletes chlorine faster, so you'll need to adjust chemicals more frequently, which usually adds $50 to $100 per month.
The state's dusty conditions and occasional gusty winds bring extra debris into pools, making cleaning a bigger chore. If you opt for professional cleaning services, expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $400 per month, depending on the level of service. In short, Arizona's climate makes pool maintenance a more time-consuming and costly endeavor compared to regions with milder weather.
What are the long-term costs of hiring a professional pool cleaning service compared to maintaining your pool yourself?
Hiring a professional pool cleaning service might feel like a bigger expense upfront, but it can actually save you money over time. How? By keeping your pool equipment in good shape and avoiding costly repairs. Professionals know how to maintain the right chemical balance and perform regular upkeep, which helps prevent damage that could set you back hundreds - or even thousands - of dollars.
On the flip side, doing it yourself might seem like the cheaper option initially. The annual costs for things like chemicals and testing kits usually fall between $600 and $1,200. But here's the catch: if maintenance isn’t done correctly, you could end up facing unexpected expenses, like equipment breakdowns or pool repairs. While DIY maintenance might cut costs in the short term, professional services often deliver better long-term value by protecting your pool and offering peace of mind.
