If your pool is turning green quickly, feels slimy underfoot, or smells a bit off, it may be time for more than just routine upkeep. While regular skimming and chemical adjustments help maintain day-to-day cleanliness, stubborn algae, cloudy water, or built-up grime often signal the need for a deep pool cleaning. Understanding what a professional deep clean typically includes can help pool owners recognize what their pool truly needs—and be prepared when comparing local deep cleaning providers.
Whether you own an in-ground or above-ground pool, understanding the difference between light maintenance and a comprehensive deep cleaning can help extend the life of your pool and improve swimming conditions. This guide breaks down what’s typically included in a deep cleaning service, the issues it helps resolve, and when it might be time to consider reaching out to a local provider.
What Is Deep Pool Cleaning and Why Does It Matter?
Deep pool cleaning goes far beyond routine skimming and vacuuming. It targets the buildup that standard maintenance often misses—such as algae hiding in corners, mineral stains along tile lines, or debris clogging filters and drains. While not needed every week, a deep clean is a key part of maintaining a healthy, balanced pool over time.
How Deep Pool Cleaning Differs from Routine Maintenance
Routine pool care includes skimming leaves, checking chemical levels, and brushing the walls. These tasks help maintain water clarity and basic hygiene, but they don’t always address problems lurking below the surface. A deep pool cleaning, on the other hand, involves detailed work on both the water and the pool structure. This often includes scrubbing buildup from tile and grout, vacuuming sediment from the pool floor, and servicing filters for improved circulation.
Signs Your Pool Needs a Deep Clean
Specific problems indicate that it’s time to go beyond surface-level cleaning. These may include:
- Persistent algae growth, even after chemical treatments
- Cloudy or discolored water despite filtration
- A musty or harsh chlorine smell
- Slippery surfaces or visible residue on walls and floors
- Low circulation or pressure from the return jets
When these issues appear, a more thorough approach is often necessary to restore safe and enjoyable swimming conditions.
Key Services Typically Included in Deep Pool Cleaning
A deep pool cleaning usually involves multiple steps designed to address both water quality and the physical condition of the pool. While offerings may vary between professionals, there are several core services commonly included in a deep clean.
Complete Water Testing and Chemical Rebalancing
Water chemistry is the foundation of a healthy pool. During a deep cleaning, most professionals perform detailed water testing—not just for chlorine and pH but also for alkalinity, calcium hardness, cyanuric acid, and other levels. Based on these readings, they apply precise chemical treatments to rebalance the water, ensuring it’s both clear and safe for swimmers.
Thorough Brushing and Tile Scrubbing
Over time, residue from algae, sunscreen, and minerals can form visible lines and stains around the pool’s perimeter. A deep pool cleaning typically includes brushing down the pool walls, steps, and waterline tile to remove this buildup. This step helps prevent long-term staining and keeps surfaces smooth and clean.
Vacuuming the Pool Floor and Surfaces
A high-powered pool vacuum—often one designed for deep cleaning—may be used to remove acceptable debris from the floor, corners, and other hard-to-reach areas. Unlike basic handheld vacuums, deep-cleaning vacuums can extract dirt that settles at the bottom and doesn’t get picked up by regular filtration.
Cleaning or Backwashing the Filter System
Whether your system uses a sand, cartridge, or DE filter, the filter media must be appropriately maintained for the pool to stay clean. During a deep cleaning, a professional may backwash the filter, clean the cartridges, or inspect the media to ensure efficient water circulation. Clogged or dirty filters can lead to poor water quality, even if the chemicals are correctly balanced.
Draining and Refilling (When Necessary)
In some cases—especially when the water is heavily contaminated, over-saturated with chemicals, or stained—draining all or part of the pool may be required. After draining, the pool is refilled with fresh water and chemically balanced to ensure optimal water quality. This step is not always included in standard deep cleans, but it may be recommended under certain conditions.
FAQs About Deep Pool Cleaning
How often should a pool be deep cleaned?
Most residential pools benefit from a deep cleaning once or twice per year. Spring and fall are standard times to schedule one, although pools that experience heavy use or have ongoing water issues may require deep cleaning more frequently.
Can I deep clean my pool myself?
Some aspects of deep cleaning—like vacuuming or brushing—can be handled by experienced DIYers. However, many tasks require specialized equipment, knowledge of water chemistry, and safe chemical handling. Working with a qualified pool cleaning company is often the safest and most efficient option.”
Is deep pool cleaning different from shocking the pool?
Yes. Shocking addresses water chemistry by raising chlorine levels to eliminate contaminants. Deep cleaning encompasses physical tasks such as scrubbing, vacuuming, and filter maintenance that extend beyond chemical treatment.
Will I need to drain my pool during a deep clean?
Not always. Most deep cleaning services are done with the pool full. Draining is only recommended if the water is beyond chemical repair, if staining is severe, or if an acid wash is being performed.
How much does deep pool cleaning usually cost?
Costs vary by pool size, condition, and region. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $200 and $600 for a deep pool cleaning, depending on the services included.
Compare Deep Clean Services from Pool Cleaners Near You
Soon, you’ll be able to compare deep clean services from pool cleaners near you—all in one place. Our upcoming directory is designed to help pool owners find qualified local experts for the exact type of care their pool needs.
Whether you’re dealing with murky water, persistent algae, or simply in need of a refresh, finding the proper help will soon be easier than ever.
