How much does it cost to acid wash a pool?
How much does it cost to acid wash a pool?
$0.50 – $0.75 per square foot
$300 – $700 average total cost
Acid wash pool cost
Pool acid wash costs $0.50 to $0.75 per square foot for the professional deep cleaning process that strips away a thin layer of the pool's surface using muriatic acid. The total cost to acid wash a pool ranges from $300 to $700 for most residential inground pools, with a national average swimming pool acid wash cost of $450.
| Pool size | Total interior surface area (square feet) |
Average cost |
|---|---|---|
| 10 x 20 | 470 | $240 – $350 |
| 12 x 24 | 610 | $300 – $460 |
| 14 x 28 | 770 | $390 – $580 |
| 15 x 30 | 860 | $430 – $650 |
| 16 x 32 | 940 | $470 – $700 |
| 18 x 36 | 1,130 | $570 – $850 |
| 20 x 40 | 1,340 | $670 – $1,000 |
The total surface area for acid washing includes both floor and wall surfaces, which is significantly larger than the pool's footprint area. Actual surface areas may vary based on specific pool designs, slopes, and features like steps or benches.
Pool acid wash cost factors
Several factors influence the total cost to acid wash a pool:
Pool size and surface area: Larger pools require more chemicals, labor time, and equipment, directly increasing costs.
Pool condition and stain severity: Pools with extensive staining, algae buildup, or mineral deposits require more intensive treatment, increasing both chemical usage and labor time.
Labor and professional expertise: The complexity of the job, pool accessibility, required safety measures, and specialized equipment all influence total labor costs. Contractors with advanced training or specialized equipment may charge premium rates.
Geographic location: Metropolitan areas command premium pricing due to higher overhead costs, stricter environmental regulations, and increased demand for professional services. Rural markets may offer lower base rates but could include travel charges for service calls.
Seasonal timing: Off-season scheduling may offer cost advantages due to the reduced demand for pool services. Weather conditions also influence the complexity of the work and chemical requirements.
Additional services
Pool draining, refilling, and water chemistry balancing may be included in comprehensive packages or charged separately.
Pool draining costs $150 to $250, depending on the pool size.
Pool filling costs $40 to $200 with a garden hose.
Pool water delivery costs or $400 to $2,400 for a 10,000 to 20,000 gallon pool.
Pool chemical balancing costs $150 to $350 for a one-time service or less for ongoing maintenance.
What is a pool acid wash?
Pool acid washing is a specialized cleaning process that goes far beyond regular maintenance. Unlike routine cleaning that addresses surface dirt and debris, acid washing involves applying hydrochloric acid (also known as muriatic acid) mixed with water to the pool's interior surfaces.
This chemical treatment strips away a very thin layer of the pool's plaster, concrete, gunite, or aggregate surface, taking with it deeply embedded stains, algae growth, mineral deposits, and discoloration that cannot be removed through conventional cleaning methods.
Benefits and risks of acid wash for pools
Professional acid washing can restore approximately 70 to 80 percent of your pool's original brightness, giving it a fresh, clean appearance. This deep cleaning process removes stubborn calcium scaling, metal stains, and persistent algae residues that regular cleaning cannot eliminate.
However, because acid washing removes actual surface material, it should only be performed when absolutely necessary and by trained professionals who understand the proper techniques and safety protocols.
Chemical safety hazards
Muriatic acid is highly corrosive and can cause severe skin burns, eye damage, and respiratory injuries from toxic fumes. Even brief contact requires immediate rinsing, and professional technicians must wear specialized protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and respirator masks.
Permanent surface damage
Acid washing permanently alters the pool surface by dissolving cement between pebbles, creating a rougher texture that's uncomfortable to touch and traps dirt more easily. Incorrect application leaves permanent streaks and blotchy areas that cannot be corrected, while creating small cavities that become algae breeding grounds.
Structural and environmental risks
Acid washing involves serious structural and environmental hazards that require professional expertise to manage safely and effectively:
Pool draining hazards: Acid washing requires complete pool draining, which can cause hydrostatic pressure from groundwater to push concrete pools out of the ground. This often results in total loss costing more than building a new pool.
Surface delamination: Draining can cause the plaster layer to separate from the pool structure due to temperature changes, creating permanent air voids that cause irreversible discoloration and ongoing maintenance issues.
Equipment and environmental damage: Muriatic acid corrodes metal equipment and plumbing while improper disposal can destroy landscaping, harm wildlife, and violate environmental regulations.
Swimming pool acid wash FAQs
How do you acid wash a pool?
The acid-washing process involves completely draining the pool and then scrubbing the pool with muriatic acid. However, this process requires specialized safety equipment, proper chemical handling expertise, and extensive knowledge to prevent permanent damage to the pool.
How often should you acid wash a pool?
Pool acid washing should only be performed when absolutely necessary, as it can damage the pool's surface due to the harsh chemicals involved. Some pool professionals recommend acid washing every 3 to 7 years depending on the pool's condition, but most well-maintained pools only require this intensive treatment every other time you drain and refill the water.
Can I acid wash my pool myself?
While some DIY tutorials exist online, homeowners should not attempt acid washing due to the extreme safety hazards of handling muriatic acid and the risk of serious injury or pool damage if done incorrectly. Professional pool service companies have the proper safety equipment, specialized training, insurance coverage, and the expertise necessary to handle the dangerous chemicals and complex process safely.
Getting estimates from pool service pros
Follow these tips to find reputable pool service companies near you :
Get estimates from at least 3 to 4 different companies to compare pricing and services offered.
Ask for detailed written estimates that break down labor, materials, draining, refilling, and any additional charges.
Verify what's included in the base price since some companies charge separately for draining and refilling.
Read reviews on HomeGuide and Google to gauge work quality and customer satisfaction.
Check licensing and insurance coverage, especially pool pop insurance to protect against hydraulic damage.
Ask about experience with your specific pool surface type since different materials require different techniques.
Don't choose extremely low bids that seem too good to be true as these often indicate inexperienced contractors or hidden costs.
Avoid door-to-door solicitors without proper business credentials and those who apply pressure to sign immediately, as legitimate service pros will give you time to consider your decision.
Questions to ask a pool service
Before scheduling an acid wash service, ask the pool pro these questions:
How many acid washes have you completed this year?
Do you have references from recent acid-washing jobs?
Are you licensed and insured?
Do you carry pool pop insurance?
What happens if something goes wrong during the process?
Does your price include draining, refilling, and balancing the pool chemicals?
What type of acid and concentration do you use?
How long will the entire process take?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.