DIY vs. Professional Pool Cleaning: When Should You Call in the Experts?

Pool cleaning is often a chore many homeowners try to tackle themselves. Keeping a pool clean and well-maintained is essential for any homeowner, especially in places with long swimming seasons like Arizona. While some pool tasks can be easily handled by a do-it-yourself approach, there are times when calling in the professionals is the better option. Knowing when to tackle pool maintenance yourself and when to rely on experts can save you time, money, and even prevent costly repairs in the long run. Here’s a look at DIY pool cleaning versus professional services and when it’s best to call in the experts.

DIY Pool Cleaning: What You Can Handle Yourself

For many pool owners, handling basic pool cleaning tasks on their own can be an effective way to maintain a clean pool and save on maintenance costs. Here are some essential pool cleaning tasks that you can easily take care of yourself:

1. Skimming and Brushing: Skimming the pool’s surface daily to remove debris, leaves, and bugs is a simple task that can help prevent clogs in your filter and reduce strain on your pool’s circulation system. Brushing the walls and floors weekly can also prevent algae and debris buildup, keeping your pool’s surfaces clean and safe for swimming.
2. Vacuuming: Manually vacuuming your pool or using an automatic pool cleaner once a week helps remove dirt, dust, and other particles that settle at the bottom. For homeowners with a busy schedule, automatic pool cleaners are convenient and require little manual effort.
3. Testing and Balancing Chemicals: Testing your pool’s water for pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness is critical to maintaining balanced water chemistry. Homeowners can use test kits to measure these levels weekly and adjust as needed. This is important for both pool health and swimmer safety, as balanced water prevents algae growth and protects against bacteria.

While these tasks are manageable, they require consistency and a bit of knowledge about the proper tools and chemicals to use. Amici Pools offers resources and advice on DIY pool care products, helping homeowners make informed choices when handling basic pool maintenance themselves.

When to Call in the Experts

While DIY pool cleaning can take care of the basics, there are instances where professional pool services are the better choice. Here are some reasons why you should consider the services of a professional:

1. Persistent Algae Growth: Algae can become a recurring problem, especially in warm climates like Arizona’s. If you notice green, black, or mustard-colored algae returning even after brushing and treating it, it may indicate an underlying water chemistry imbalance or a filtration issue. Professional pool technicians from Amici Pools can identify the root cause, perform a thorough algae treatment, and recommend solutions to prevent future outbreaks.
2. Unbalanced Water Chemistry: While home test kits are great for routine testing, they may not detect more complex issues that affect water chemistry, such as high levels of dissolved solids or metals. If you’re struggling to maintain balanced water or noticing cloudy or discolored water despite your efforts, it’s time to call in the experts. Professionals can conduct a detailed water analysis and apply the correct treatments to restore the clarity and safety of your pool, giving it an in-depth pool cleaning that is targeted to your specific pools needs.
3. Filter and Pump Maintenance: Filters and pumps are essential for proper water circulation and cleanliness. Over time, filters can clog with dirt and oils, while pumps can experience wear and tear. If your filter or pump is showing signs of decreased efficiency or if you’re unsure how to perform maintenance, it’s best to have a professional handle it. AmiciPools.com offers filter and pump cleaning services, as well as equipment inspections, to ensure your pool’s systems run smoothly.
4. Seasonal Opening and Closing: At the beginning or end of swimming season, many homeowners opt to have professionals open or close their pools. Seasonal maintenance involves tasks like draining and refilling water, deep cleaning, equipment inspection, and chemical adjustments. These tasks can be labor-intensive and require specific knowledge about your pool system. Hiring experts to perform these services ensures a hassle-free start and finish to each pool season in addition to ensuring that your first pool cleaning of the season is in depth.
5. Pool Repairs: Cracks, leaks, and broken equipment often require specialized tools and expertise. Attempting to repair these issues yourself can lead to further damage and higher costs if done incorrectly. When it comes to structural repairs, it’s best to rely on experienced pool technicians. Amici Pools provides repair services for various pool issues, including plumbing, equipment, and structural repairs, ensuring your pool remains in optimal condition.

Trust Amici Pools for Your Pool Care and Pool Cleaning Needs

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer professional assistance, keeping your pool clean and well-maintained is essential. Basic cleaning tasks like skimming, brushing, vacuuming, and water testing are manageable for most homeowners, but complex issues such as persistent algae, unbalanced chemistry, and equipment maintenance often require professional attention.

Amici Pools offers a full range of pool cleaning and maintenance services, from algae treatments and chemical balancing to equipment repairs and seasonal opening/closing services. Their experienced technicians are equipped to handle everything from routine maintenance to complicated repairs, making it easy for you to enjoy a pristine, safe, and inviting pool year-round.