What Is Pool Servicing?
Pool service (or pool maintenance) involves a set of tasks performed by a pool contractor to keep a pool in optimum condition.
The objective of pool servicing is to achieve and maintain a clear pool with the right water chemical balance (i.e., meeting NEA standards). This results in a pool that is safe to swim in and pleasant to look at (e.g., not green).
Moreover, pool service can vary from pool to pool due to size, frequency as well as design and expectations.
The frequency of servicing can be once every week or possibly once every 2 weeks for very small pools while bigger pools require more frequent servicing. For example, two to three times a week generally.
What Is Included In Pool Servicing?
Firstly, visible debris is cleared as much as possible from the surrounding pool area as well as pool floor. While most debris are harmless and does not affect water quality, they can be unsightly (and annoying to swim with).
If left uncleared, debris can accumulate over time and eventually reach the pumps and damage them.
Therefore, clearing debris from pumps and pool strainers is an important step of pool service.
Another step of pool servicing is brushing the pool walls and floor if algae is visible. Do note that even with optimal chlorine levels, algae can still grow (and may need other methods of removal). This could be due to dead spots of water flow as well as sunshine and other factors such as rain and pool usage.
Pool servicing should include a check of the pool water quality to determine if there is a need to top up chlorine.
Additionally, it is important to use the right type (and amount) of chlorine. Generally, there are 2 types of chlorine - basic and acidic. A combination of both typically has to be used to ensure the water pH level is around the neutral band. This will prevent eye irritation and premature wear of pool tile grout lines.
Pool servicing may also include flushing or cleaning of the pool filters. This does not need to be done for each instance of pool service. Instead, it is usually done once every 3 to 5 weeks.
Finally, pool servicing can include a check of all pool assets (e.g., pumps, filters, electrical panel, lights, valves).
What Are The Benefits Of Pool Servicing?
Getting a specialized pool contractor will save you time and money in the long run. Firstly, keeping up with your pool maintenance on your own can be tiring.
Secondly, it is difficult for an untrained person to get the chemical balance of pool water correct. A pool that is too high in acidity or alkaline can degrade the pool tiles and equipment prematurely.
How Much Should A Pool Service Cost?
Pool service can cost between SGD80 to SGD500 a month for private house pools depending on the frequency of servicing, location of the pool, expectations and scope.
How Often Should I Have My Pool Serviced?
For very small pools that are not often used, once every 2 weeks is acceptable. But generally, once a week is fine for private house pools.