6 Pool Maintenance Questions to Discuss With a Pro

Create a maintenance plan that matches your lifestyle

Father and son playing in swimming pool
Photo: Halfpoint / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Father and son playing in swimming pool
Photo: Halfpoint / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Geo Icon

Pool owners usually spend around an hour or two on pool maintenance every week. If you’d rather take a dip than roll up your sleeves, it’s a good idea to hire a pro. Since professional maintenance services vary depending on the situation, your technician will want to discuss some pool maintenance questions before they begin. 

1. What kind of service do you want?

There are a range of different pool maintenance tasks, so your technician will need to know what kind of service you’re looking for. Do you want a standard service, where they’ll clean your pool and balance the water? Do you need someone to open your pool or swap out pool filters? Are you having an issue with one of the components and need a repair? 

2. When do you need this work done?

Talk to your local pool technician about timing. They’ll need to fit you into their schedule, so let them know if it’s an emergency (like a large leak or malfunctioning pump) or something that can be scheduled a few weeks out (like pool opening or closing). This way, there are no surprise visits.

3. How often should you come?

Outside of needing one-off repairs, some people hire pool technicians for repeat maintenance throughout the swim season. You’ll need to discuss a schedule, whether it’s weekly, twice a week, or twice a month. It depends on how much you use your pool. 

If you’re not doing it on your own, you should bring in a pro to balance pool chemicals at least once a week. You may need more frequent services during the height of summer, if you’re using your pool often, or after a party.

4. What kind of pool do you have?

Before you can hire a pool technician, they’ll need to know what kind of pool you have. The main reason is that different pools have different maintenance needs. You’ll maintain a saltwater or natural pool differently than a chlorine pool. 

5. What is your pool made of?

Your technician will need to know what your pool is made of. This is because different materials require slightly different methods of care. For example, since concrete pools are porous, they’re more susceptible to algae growth. You’ll need to clean them and balance the chemicals more frequently. Vinyl-lined pools, on the other hand, are more susceptible to damage from high chlorine. 

6. Do you have plans for pool winterization?

When temperatures start to drop, you’ll need to figure out a winterization plan for your pool. Pool closing requires a list of specific maintenance tasks that protect your pool from freezing temperatures. This includes adding winter chemicals, lowering the water level, and using pool antifreeze. Ask your pro for the best way to proceed.

Need professional help with your project?
Get quotes from top-rated pros.
The homeowners guide to pool constructions and installations
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
woman and children playing in swimming pool
Mar 4, 2025
Mar 4, 2025
Pool heater problems could point to many issues, some of which you can troubleshoot. Find out repair costs for heat pumps, natural gas, and solar pool heaters.
Boy jumping in an above ground pool
Apr 24, 2025
Apr 24, 2025
Dreaming of summertime swimming? Find out aboveground pool costs, including prices for materials, fun extras, and professional installation.
A house’s backyard with a fiberglass swimming pool
May 29, 2025
May 29, 2025
Fiberglass pools are a solid choice. If you are looking into installing one at home, read this guide to learn all the ins and outs of fiberglass pool costs.
Young girl sitting by pool at home
Apr 4, 2025
Apr 4, 2025
The type of pool finish you choose is the best way to both show off your personal style and protect your pool in the long run. Let's walk through your options for pool finishes.
A collage featuring an inflatable yellow pool ring, a kidney bean shaped in-ground pool, and a palm tree. Copy overlay says “$145,000 - Austin, TX”.
Apr 23, 2025
Apr 23, 2025
A homeowner in Austin, Texas, breaks down the real cost of his pool installation project, including prices and advice.
woman in outdoor heated swimming pool
Apr 4, 2025
Apr 4, 2025
Swim from early spring through late fall and beyond by warming the water with a pool heater. Learn more about pool heater installation in this guide.