Austin Gardiner, founder and CEO
GL Pools
Two locations serving San Diego 

We have worked with many folks who were DIYers over the years. Some of the top reasons that we see people converting to professional services include:

1. Emotional frustration from chasing an issue or set of issues that just can’t seem to get resolved. Often, there is something minor or odd going on that has impacted their success, and when we step onto the scene, we can usually quickly unlock it. A clogged impeller, a cracked pump lid causing priming issues or a filter passing debris are rare problems that a DIY client just hasn’t seen nearly as many times as we have, so we are naturally going to pick up those patterns faster. They keep taking their samples to the local pool store, but there are some things that you just need eyes and ears on-site for. That’s the value of having someone with broader experience in their corner, managing the equipment and water weekly and efficiently.
2. Physical changes or injuries. We have served quite a few folks who had proven they were capable of servicing their own pool successfully for decades before calling us, but the physical demand and toll on their body to do the work is no longer worth it to them. Those clients tend to understand the difficulty and appreciate the support. We love helping people turn their chore into their sanctuary, and it’s very rewarding to say “You don’t have to worry about this anymore — just enjoy it!”
3. Seasonal changes that surprise even the toughest DIYers. When we get a Santa Ana wind, or two weeks of 90-degree-plus temps in Southern California, a pool ecosystem can change very rapidly and catch someone on their heels. 
4. Time restraints. Our clients are busy, hard-working folks who tend to fill their calendar with more interesting and exciting things to do than take care of their own pool. It becomes less about saving every dollar, and more about enjoying every moment possible. Time is a much more valuable resource than anything else. 
5. Overall costs are similar or cheaper when hiring a professional. We had a client that used us for a seasonal cleanup of their pool two times per year. Each time, it included several filter cleanings and algae treatments, and often new and avoidable repairs. We finally were able to mathematically prove to them that it would cost the same amount or less annually to just do the preventive approach, have the pool cleaned weekly and keep the algae from ever showing up in the first place. Plus, then they could be proud of their pool the whole year and enjoy it. They said yes, and they have been very happy with the new arrangement for many years.