Welcome to Business Ideas & Strategies
Hello and welcome to the latest edition of Business Ideas & Tips by The Practical Penny.
This newsletter is packed with tips and tricks to help you start a business.
These are actual real world businesses that pretty much anyone can start, with very little (or zero) start-up costs. If you love our ideas, let us know!
Pool & Hot Tub Maintenance
Want a job that gets you out in the sunshine? Well, here it is.
Running your own pool and hot tub maintenance company can be a rewarding business opportunity, especially in regions with a high number of residential pools, vacation rentals, or resorts. Whether you're looking to start a small local service or scale into a larger operation, pool & hot tub maintenance can be a fun way to work outside without breaking a sweat.
1. Understand the Industry
Pool and hot tub maintenance is a niche service business that includes cleaning, chemical balancing, inspections, minor repairs, and seasonal services like opening and closing pools. Many homeowners and property managers are willing to pay professionals to avoid the hassle and ensure safety.
Common services include:
Skimming and vacuuming
Chemical testing and balancing
Equipment checks and minor repairs
Filter and pump maintenance
Hot tub draining and refilling
Seasonal pool openings and closings
This is a service that sounds like you need a lot of money to start. But not really. All you need to get started is some basic chemicals, testing strips, a skimmer and brush.
Don’t know how to repair pools & hot tubs? Me neither. You can always get to know some professionals in the area that you can call for such work. You can rack up some really nice referral fees this way. And you can add that service in later if you like.
2. Gain Knowledge and Experience
Before launching, make sure you understand water chemistry, filtration systems, safety protocols, and troubleshooting equipment issues. You can:
Take courses or certifications from the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) or Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA)
Work for an established company for hands-on experience
Watch industry tutorials and attend trade expos
3. Create a Business Plan
A solid business plan outlines your goals and maps out how to achieve them. Include:
Target market (residential, commercial, vacation rentals)
Services offered
Startup and ongoing costs
Pricing strategy
Marketing approach
Growth projections
This plan is also crucial if you intend to seek financing.
4. Register Your Business
Choose a business name and structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.) and register with your state. Don’t forget to:
Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) through the IRS
Get a business license if your local government requires it
Check for any specific pool technician certifications required in your state
5. Purchase Equipment and Supplies
You’ll need basic tools and materials to get started. Initial purchases may include:
Pool vacuums, poles, nets, and brushes
Water test kits and chemicals (chlorine, pH balancers, etc.)
Skimmer baskets, filters, and replacement parts
Hot tub pumps and cleaning solutions
A reliable service vehicle
6. Set Your Pricing
You can charge per visit or offer monthly service contracts. Consider factors like:
Type of pool or hot tub
Frequency of service
Distance traveled
Additional services (e.g., repairs, emergency visits)
Research competitors in your area and offer competitive but sustainable rates.
7. Market Your Services
To build your client base:
Create a professional website with contact info and service list
Use social media to share tips and promote seasonal services
Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile for local search
Partner with local realtors, Airbnb hosts, or property managers
Offer referral discounts to current clients
8. Use Software to Stay Organized
Pool service software can help you:
Schedule and track appointments
Manage customer information
Track chemical logs and maintenance records
Generate invoices and accept payments
Popular tools include Skimmer, PoolOfficeManager, or Jobber.
9. Deliver Excellent Customer Service
This business thrives on reliability and trust. Always:
Show up on time
Communicate clearly with clients
Keep detailed service records
Offer honest advice on needed repairs or upgrades
Positive reviews and referrals are the backbone of a service business.
10. Plan for Growth
Once you’re established, think about:
Hiring trained technicians
Expanding to include pool installations or remodeling
Creating seasonal packages
Partnering with real estate agents or vacation home services
Final Thoughts
Starting a pool and hot tub maintenance company isn’t just about cleaning water—it’s about creating a stress-free experience for your clients while building a stable, recurring-revenue business. With the right skills, tools, and strategy, you can turn this seasonal or year-round business into a profitable venture.
Ready to make a splash? Your pool service empire starts today.
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Thanks for reading! 🙂
Michelle / The Practical Penny