The 2026 PoolPro Panel: What products or categories are always worth buying early versus ones you wait on? Why?

Current Issue Viewpoints

What products or categories are always worth buying early versus ones you wait on? Why?

Joshua Clinton, owner/CPO instructor; remote senior service manager
Clinton Aquatics Group, Aloha Desert Pools
Hattiesburg, Mississippi

When we operated our service and repair business, early buys focused on minimizing downtime and keeping crews efficient once the season hits full stride.

We always purchase chemicals, test kits, seals, gaskets and pump parts early. These items are essential for both maintenance and emergency calls, and supply chain delays can quickly ripple into lost service hours. Stocking up early ensures we can respond fast when customers need us most.

We typically wait to upgrade high-ticket equipment such as automation systems and heaters until we assess client demand and budget trends for the year. Those purchases benefit from flexibility and updated manufacturer promotions later in the season.

Buying early is about readiness and reliability. When your trucks are stocked and your techs have what they need, you’re positioned to deliver consistent service and build trust with clients from day one.

Kim Langley, owner
Tried & True Pool Company
Lancaster, South Carolina

When it comes to products, deciding what we buy early or during season is a huge deal.

Items we like to purchase before the season include:

Brushes
Nets
Pool poles
Chemicals
Vacuum bags

Replacement parts that we go through frequently like cleaner bags, pump lid gaskets, pressure gauges, etc.

During the season, it’s a little easier because we buy as we go, depending on what’s in demand and what our jobs require, whether that’s pumps, filters, salt cells or other equipment.

As Jandy ServicePros, we are also in their loyalty program, so the more we buy, the more we earn.

The list goes on and never ends when it comes to being a pool service and maintenance company!