Pool cleaning services cost $80 to $150 per month for regular customers, which includes weekly or bi-weekly care. A first-time service costs $150 to $350 since the cleaning company is establishing a good chemical balance and clean surface.

Pool opening or closing service costs average $300 to $500 for each seasonal cleaning. Closing the pool season is slightly more costly since the water's pH must be adjusted, and the pool equipment must be winterized by removing and storing the components. Some companies will blow antifreeze through equipment in climates where temperatures drop below freezing frequently.

Annual pool maintenance costs $960 to $1,800, but the total yearly upkeep for a pool runs $3,000 to $6,000 per year and includes costs for:

• Maintenance (weekly or biweekly cleaning services)
• Chemicals
• Minor repairs
• Electricity costs to run the pump
• Water costs to keep the pool topped up
• Seasonal opening & closing services

Saltwater pool maintenance costs $80 to $95 per month for a once-monthly professional service package. Similar to a chlorine pool, a saltwater pool needs regular testing of the water to ensure the salinity, pH, and alkalinity levels are correct. Salt cells need to be cleaned to wash off buildup unless your pool has a self-cleaning salt system in place.

Saltwater pool maintenance is primarily focused on keeping the proper salt level in the water and preventing metal stains and corrosion. Generator cells chemically change salt into chlorine with an electric charge. Every 3 to 4 months the generator cells need a mild acid wash to descale corrosive buildup.

Swimming pools should be cleaned weekly to keep the pool in top condition. A pool cleaner will perform the following tasks:

• Skim the pool surface to remove debris
• Brush and vacuum the pool walls and floor to loosen dirt and algae
• Inspect and clean (backwash) the filter.
• Top up the water level
• Test the pool water for chlorine/bromine, alkalinity, and pH levels
• Adjust chemicals as needed

Hiring a professional pool cleaner has many advantages including:

• Saves money – No need to buy automated cleaning equipment or water test kits.
• Saves time – No more brushing pool walls or emptying skimmer baskets.
• Ensures the pool is clean and safe – Professional cleaners are experienced at balancing the pool chemicals.
• Extends the life of your pool – Maintaining the condition of your pool extends the time before resurfacing or replacement is required.

The time it takes to clean a pool depends on the pool size and condition. A small, well-maintained pool can be cleaned in about 30 minutes. A large pool in need of deep cleaning can take several hours. A neglected pool with green water can take up to a week or more.

You can safely swim in your pool once the chemicals have had a chance to disperse and the water is clear. For most chemicals, this takes about 30 minutes to an hour. Wait 24 hours after a chlorine shock before swimming to avoid skin and eye irritation.

When choosing a pool cleaning service, it is important to find a company with trained and certified technicians with several years of experience. Follow these additional guidelines to find the best pool cleaning service near you:

• Get several detailed quotes to compare.
• Ask for referrals from your pool builder.
• Compare company reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
• Select from companies with Certified Maintenance Specialist (CMS) certification.

A quality pool cleaning service is critical to keeping your pool looking and functioning at its best for years to come. Asking these questions can help you narrow down the companies to the most professional and highly-trained technicians:

• Are you licensed and insured?
• How long has your company been in business?
• What is your price for regular maintenance?
• How often will you come?
• What services are included in the maintenance?
• What additional services do you offer?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• What is your contingency for bad weather?
• Will you provide references with contact details?