There are many different swimming pool companies. They can range from a person working out of their home to a multi-million dollar corporation. With so many choices, how do you choose which is right for your pool?
1: Services Provided
[three_fourth]The first choice is what services will be provided? There are many factors to consider here. Factors such as pool usage, site specific challenges, pool mechanical equipment and your geographic location all play a role.
A typical maintenance visit should consist of emptying baskets, skimming the surface, brushing the walls and floor, balancing chemicals, servicing automated cleaners, as well as vacuuming and cleaning filters as needed.
The technician should document what was done during the visit. This not only gives you piece of mind that services are being performed, but this documentation is sometimes required when filing certain warranty claims for your equipment.[/three_fourth]
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2: Experience
Pool technicians are chemists, plumbers, electricians and much more. They are required to locate and resolve issues, even if you didn’t know you had one. Training and experience are critical in proper pool maintenance.
Most industries deal with a specific trade. Pool maintenance requires knowledge of many trades. As such, new employees are generally selected because of their knowledge and trained to fit their new role.
Not every tech needs to know every aspect of pool repair. They do however need to be able to recognize that there is an issue. Does this prospective company have the experience and resources to deal with your current and future needs?
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3: Costs
What is actually included in your service call? Some companies provide chemical only service. Others provide an all-inclusive service with cleaning, servicing and chemicals. Obviously there will be charges for repairs completed, but are there additional charges for specific chemicals, fuel, etc.?
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4: Licensing
Licensing requirements can vary by state and even local ordinances. General maintenance and repairs can often times be completed with just a basic business license that in many cases does not even require proof of proficiency. Major repairs can require a contractor’s license. This all reverts back to is this this company qualified to service your needs?
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5: Relationships
What is the goal of the prospective company? Do they simply want a quick sale, or do they want to establish a long term relationship?
Anyone can run out to a big box store to buy a bag of shock. Does that big box store have a trained staff that knows what type of shock is best for your pool? Do they know your current and future needs? Each pool has its’ own specific requirements to keep it clean and safe.
6: Realistic Expectations of Service
Even the best pool service companies need some assistance. Wind, rain, seasonal changes, landscape issues, etc. all have a direct connection with the condition of your pool. If a tech is only scheduled to be there every other week, a lot of negative things have the possibility of occurring. You may need to add/drain water, empty baskets or remove debris. Sometimes you may need to add some chemicals as directed.
Make sure that you understand what is and is not included in your maintenance contract. Most companies will go above and beyond what they are obligated to do. Just because they do does not mean that you should demand more of them. Discuss areas of concern and listen to their response. Maybe more is needed of them. Maybe more is needed of you. Most companies will accommodate your needs, although sometimes it may mean a change in the contract terms.
The 3 “C”s
Here at Clearwater Pool & Spa, Inc. we have adopted a policy that we termed the 3 “C”s of service.
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