Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked question
What does "all chemicals included" actually mean?
It means every chemical your pool needs for the entire season is included in your price. Chlorine, shock, pH adjusters, alkalinity, calcium hardness, stabilizer, algaecide — all of it. You don't buy anything. You don't carry anything. We bring it, we apply it, it's part of the price.
How does pricing work?
We offer three packages — Essential, Complete, and Estate. Each covers your entire season from opening to closing. The starting prices on our website are for standard-size pools on a 4-month season.
Your final price is based on pool size and season length, determined at a free on-site assessment. No surprises. The quote is the cost.
Do I need to be home for service?
No. Most of our customers aren't home when we service. We just need gate access. After every visit, you'll receive a photo and chemistry report on your phone so you know exactly what was done.
Do you do repairs?
Yes — we handle equipment repairs including pumps, heaters, filters, and mechanical issues. What we don't do is installation work — new pump installs, heater installs, plumbing, or filtration system installation.
If something needs to be replaced or installed, we'll connect you with a qualified specialist.
What if it rains on my service day?
We still come. Rain doesn't stop pool maintenance — in fact, heavy rain often throws off water chemistry.
If severe weather makes service unsafe or impossible, we reschedule within 48 hours.
Do you service salt water pools?
Yes. Our Complete and Estate packages include salt cell inspection and cleaning. We manage salt levels, monitor chlorine output, and clean the cell to extend its life.
What areas do you service?
We cover the Capital Region (Saratoga Springs, Loudonville, Malta, Ballston Spa, Ballston Lake, Wilton, Clifton Park) and Columbia County (Hudson, Copake, Ghent, Chatham, Valatie, Kinderhook). Extended service in Niskayuna, Latham, Delmar, and Colonie.
How do I get started?
Fill out the quote form or call us. We'll schedule a free on-site assessment, look at your pool, and send you a written quote within 24 hours. No obligation, no pressure.
What is the Clear Water Guarantee?
It's simple. Your pool will be clean, balanced, and swim-ready every week. If it's not right after a service visit, we come back and fix it — no questions, no additional charge. We stand behind our work.
What makes Penguin different from other pool services?
We're owner-operated with a commitment to professional, reliable service. One price, one invoice covers your entire season — most companies nickel and dime you with separate charges. You get a photo and chemistry report after every visit so you always know it got done. And we back everything with our Clear Water Guarantee.
When does the season start and end?
Standard season is May through September (18 weeks). We offer extended seasons — May through October or April through October — at adjusted pricing. Most customers open in early to mid-May and close in mid to late September.
Can I cancel mid-season?
We ask for a full-season commitment because our pricing is built around it. Details are in the service agreement. If something changes, talk to us — we're reasonable people.