Everyone enjoys a swim in the backyard pool or spa to relax after a hard day or to cool off on a hot one. But, not everyone who owns a pool or spa likes to do all the things necessary to keep it clean and healthy -- tasks like cleaning the filter, scrubbing the tile and walls, raking out the leaves and debris, testing and chemically treating the water for safe and comfortable swimming and making certain that all the equipment is in good working order.

However, there are professionals such as members of the Independent Pool & Spa Service Association (IPSSA) who will take care of all these things for you, and more. They are specially trained pool service technicians who will provide you near freedom from caring for your pool or spa while they do all the work. How much service is needed depends on how much your pool is used, and depends on the nearby environment conditions (trees that shed, windy desert sand, etc.).

To draw a sharp distinction between the knowledge and skill required of these professionals versus a neighborhood kid you hire to throw in some chemicals now and then, IPSSA members are encouraged to be licensed and certified ( as required in their particular state or county).

IPSSA members maintain liability insurance and cover each other’s routes when a member is ill. They may also receive continuing education through monthly meetings where guest speakers discuss various aspects of the pool service business. Each year many IPSSA members attend the Western Pool and Spa Show (Southern California), Pool Industry Expo (Northern California), Texas Pool and Spa Show and the Florida Pool and Spa Show, where they can learn the latest technical, business and educational seminars offered.

Along with owning their own businesses, many IPSSA members are in involved in community safety. Many members help to organize or attend drowning prevention programs to help keep children safe in the communities IPSSA serves. Drowning prevention tips are available to you through your IPSSA professional.

When you hire an IPSSA member, you will receive competent chemical water treatment, pool and spa vacuuming and equipment maintenance. Some specialize in repair work and repair pumps, motors, filters and heaters. Others do tile and plaster repairs, acid washes and painting. The Independent Pool and Spa Service Association currently has over 3,600 members throughout California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas and Florida. There is a difference when it comes to servicing your swimming pool. Aquaclear Pool Service is a proud IPSSA member.