Houston pool service questions, answered
General
How much does pool service cost in Houston?
Weekly full service with chemicals usually runs about $150 to $300 a month, depending on pool size. Ours is $265 a month with chemicals included.
How much is a green-to-clean?
A mild green pool is often a few hundred dollars and a dark green one can be $500 or more. It depends on pool size and how bad the algae is, and you get a written price first.
Do I need a license to clean a pool in Texas?
Not for cleaning and balancing water. Swapping a pump, heater or light needs a TDLR Residential Appliance Installer License, and new circuits need a licensed electrician.
Why does my Houston pool turn green so fast?
Heat, rain and sun burn off chlorine quickly, and runoff adds algae food. A weekly visit plus the right stabilizer level keeps it from tipping over.
Can I swim right after you shock the pool?
No. Wait until your tech tests the water and marks it safe, usually the next day or two. Cloudy water also hides the bottom, which is a safety risk.
Weekly pool service
How much does pool service cost in Houston?
Typical full-service weekly care runs about $150 to $300 a month, depending on the pool. Chemical-only service costs less.
Are chemicals included?
In our full service, yes. Chemical-only plans include them too.
What if my pool turns green?
We return and clear it. A green-to-clean may be a separate fee if the pool was already green when you signed up.
Can I swim right after service?
Usually yes once the water is balanced. After a shock, we tell you how long to wait.
Green-to-clean
How long does a green-to-clean take?
A mild pool may clear in a day or two. A dark green pool can take several days to a week.
Do I need to drain the pool?
Sometimes. If stabilizer is very high, partial draining and refilling can help.
How much does it cost?
It varies by size and condition. Typical Houston prices run a few hundred dollars. Get a written estimate.
Can I swim after?
Not until the water is clear and balanced. We tell you when it is safe.
Cloudy water fixes
Is cloudy water safe to swim in?
Not until it clears. Cloudy water can hide poor sanitizer levels.
Can I fix it myself?
Often you can balance water and clean the filter. Call us if it stays cloudy.
How long does it take to clear?
Usually one to three days after the cause is fixed.
Could my pump be the problem?
Yes. A weak pump or dirty filter is a frequent cause.
Filter cleaning
How often should I clean my filter?
Most pools need it once or twice a year. Clean it when pressure rises.
Can I clean it myself?
Cartridge filters are easy to rinse. DE filters are messier.
Where does the backwash water go?
Not into the street or storm drain. Follow local rules.
When do cartridges need replacing?
When they are torn, flat or still dirty after cleaning, often every 2 to 3 years.
Pump and heater repair
Should I repair or replace my pump?
If the motor is old or repair costs near half a new pump, replacement often makes sense.
Why does my heater not light?
Common causes are a dirty igniter, a pressure switch or low gas flow. We diagnose first.
Can I save power with a new pump?
Variable-speed pumps often use much less power than single-speed models.
Is a licensed installer required?
For pumps, heaters and lights, yes. Texas requires a TDLR license for that work.
Salt systems and leaks
How do I know if my pool is leaking?
Mark the water level and check after a week with the pump off. Losing more than evaporation is a sign.
Can you clean a salt cell?
Yes. Many cells last longer with regular cleaning.
Are salt pools low maintenance?
They need less chlorine handling, but cells and balance still need care.
Do you repair concrete cracks?
We locate the cause and refer major repairs to a pool builder.
Cost
Why do prices vary so much?
Pool size, condition and what is included change the work. Written quotes help you compare.
Is a service contract worth it?
Weekly service often costs less than emergency green-to-cleans and chemical guesswork.
Do you charge for estimates?
No. Quotes for service plans are free.
Does pool service include repairs?
Usually no. Repairs are quoted separately.