Why is There So Much Variation in Pricing for Pool Openings and Closings in Maryland?
As pool owners gear up for the swimming season in Maryland, many turn to professional services to open their pools. However, they often encounter a wide range of pricing for these services. Understanding the factors causing this variation can help you make an informed decision and ensure you get the best value for your money. Here’s a closer look at why prices for pool openings can differ so significantly.
1. Balancing Water Chemistry Using LSI and the ORENDA Method
The Importance of Water Chemistry
Properly balancing the water chemistry is crucial for maintaining a healthy and safe swimming environment. But that’s not the only reason to adjust the chemistry in your pool! Balancing pool water using the LSI (Langelier Saturation Index) involves calculating the saturation index of the pool water, which helps determine whether the water is corrosive, scale-forming, or balanced.
This affects how the water reacts with your pool plaster and equipment, two expensive parts of the pool that you want to keep happy! Don’t take our word for it, find out more about LSI and ORENDA’s proven method for maintaining pool water here: ORENDA- LSI. Several manufacturers make “sequestrants,” “chelating agents,” or “stain and scale products.” One of the most reputable is ORENDA’s SC-1000. Ask your pool company which product they use, if any.
Impact on Pricing
The use of these advanced methods requires trained technicians and specific products, contributing to higher costs. Companies that invest in these techniques often charge more due to the expertise and quality of service provided. Some homeowners like to manage their own chemistry, and so may prefer to have their water tested at the pool store, and make adjustments afterward themselves. Other pool owners would rather bundle this as part of the opening and closing to avoid trips out, or confusion about what to add before or after a long winter.
2. Vacuuming to Waste at Opening
Efficient Debris Removal to Prevent Filter Overload
Vacuuming “to waste” is a step some companies use during pool openings, especially for pools with a mesh cover. This method involves bypassing the filter and sending debris directly out of the pool, ensuring a thorough clean. By vacuuming to waste, technicians prevent the pool’s filter from becoming clogged with large amounts of debris, since a separate vacuum/pump/hose setup is used to remove the sludge out of your system entirely. This means the pool will be swimmable significantly faster than if this step were skipped, and avoids what could be multiple filter cleanings required to clear the water.
Impact on Pricing
Vacuuming to waste is more labor-intensive and requires proper disposal of the waste water. Companies that offer this service may charge higher rates due to the additional time, effort, and equipment involved. Ask if this is included in the price quoted for your pool opening.
3. In-Depth Cleaning
Comprehensive Cleaning Services
Some companies provide a pool opening including just pulling plugs and turning the pump on, or a closing that only includes plugging lines and installing the cover. Other companies may include blowing off or rinsing the pool cover, vacuuming to waste, vacuuming out the leaves or pollen, brushing the walls and floor, using a leaf blower to clear the coping and deck, and shocking the pool and brushing to remove stains or algae buildup. In-depth cleaning saves the homeowner time that would need to be spent later getting the pool ready to swim.
At closing, some companies do a full chemistry adjustment filter cleaning, and acid wash the salt cell, while others leave these steps up to the homeowner to complete ahead of time.
Impact on Pricing
The level of detail and effort required for comprehensive cleaning varies among companies. Those that provide an extensive cleaning service typically charge more, reflecting the time and resources dedicated to ensuring a quickly swimmable pool. Homeowners who feel knowledgeable and confident managing this cleaning portion of the opening or enjoy working outdoors may save money by hiring a company that provides a more basic checklist and lower price to match. Every pool owner has to evaluate how much work they want to do themselves, vs. paying for a professional.
4. Equipment Setup
Inspecting and Setting Up Equipment
An important aspect of pool opening is the inspection and setup of pool equipment. This includes pumps, filters, heaters, salt systems, water features, and automatic cleaners. Ensuring everything is in working order is crucial for the pool’s functionality. Proper equipment setup and maintenance can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of the pool’s systems. If your pool has automation or timers, valve actuators, hand rails or ladders, or water features your pool may take more time to set up for the season.
Impact on Pricing
Companies that offer a detailed equipment setup as part of service may charge higher rates due to the expertise required, and the time needed to make sure everything is in working order. The quality of this service can significantly impact the overall performance of the pool equipment. Your pool opening and closing price will greatly depend on the number of plumbing lines in the pool, and pieces of equipment on your pad.
5. Experience and Expertise of Staff
Skilled Technicians
The experience and expertise of the technicians who perform the pool opening services play a significant role in the quality and reliability of the service. Experienced technicians are more adept at diagnosing issues, performing thorough cleanings, and balancing water chemistry accurately. Their knowledge ensures that these aspects of the pool opening are handled professionally and efficiently.
Knowledgeable Office Staff
A knowledgeable and responsive office staff impacts your experience with your service company. They are the first point of contact and are responsible for scheduling, answering questions, and providing customer support. Their ability to communicate effectively, address concerns promptly, and offer expert advice can make your season go smoothly.
Continuous Training
Companies that invest in continuous training for their staff ensure that both technicians and office personnel stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards, technologies, and best practices. This commitment to ongoing education reflects a dedication to providing top-notch service.
Impact on Pricing
Higher levels of experience and expertise often come at a premium. Companies with well-trained, long tenured, knowledgeable staff may charge more due to the quality of service they provide. This additional cost is often justified by the peace of mind and assurance that your pool is being cared for by professionals. Experienced pool owners who feel confident in their ability to handle most of the pool care and equipment setup, but are just looking for help with vacuuming and putting the cover on and off may not need this, and sometimes choose a more “basic” pool opening in order to save money.
Conclusion
Lower-cost services could be a good fit for experienced pool owners with extra time, interest, or who simply enjoy working on the pool themselves. For others, investing in a comprehensive and professional pool opening can save time, money, and hassle for those without technical pool knowledge. Understanding what each service entails and the expertise required can help you choose the best option for your pool, ensuring a safe, clean, and enjoyable swimming season.