As pool season gets underway, we want to share an important message with homeowners throughout our community.
Over the past several years, we’ve seen a troubling trend: an increasing number of pools, heaters, filters, and equipment systems requiring costly repairs due to improper installations, poor maintenance practices, and incorrect winterizations and pool closings. In many cases, homeowners initially chose a contractor based on price alone, only to discover later that the savings came at a much greater cost.
The reality is that not all pool companies are created equal. When it comes to protecting one of the largest investments in your backyard, choosing a qualified, reputable contractor can make all the difference.
Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask
Before hiring a company for pool service, maintenance, repairs, renovations, or installation, take the time to ask a few important questions:
Are they properly licensed?
In Connecticut, swimming pool installers and service providers should hold the appropriate state licenses. At a minimum, ask whether they maintain Connecticut HIC, SP-1, SP-2, and SPB licenses and verify that those licenses are current.
Are they adequately insured?
A contractor should be able to provide proof of liability insurance and explain their coverage limits. If a catastrophic event occurs—such as structural damage, property flooding, or equipment failure—you want to know the company has sufficient protection in place.
Do they invest in continuing education?
The pool industry is constantly evolving. Membership in professional organizations often requires ongoing training and education, helping contractors stay current on safety standards, technology, and industry best practices.
Can they stand behind their work?
Experience matters, but so does financial stability. Ask whether the company has the knowledge, resources, and commitment to address issues if something goes wrong after the job is completed.
What does their reputation say?
Look beyond testimonials on a company’s own website. Search for unbiased online reviews, ask for references, and review examples of past work. Check whether the company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and review any complaint history.
Reputation Matters
In today’s digital world, a reputable company leaves a footprint. While a newer business isn’t necessarily a bad choice, a lack of online presence, reviews, or verifiable references should encourage homeowners to ask additional questions before making a decision.
Similarly, be cautious of prices that seem unusually low or contractors who always have immediate availability during peak season. Quality workmanship, proper licensing, insurance coverage, continuing education, and experienced technicians all come with costs—but they also provide valuable protection for your investment.
Our Commitment to Doing Things Right
For 63 years and through three generations of family ownership, Hunter’s Pool Center has remained committed to doing things the right way.
Our team maintains state licensing, professional memberships, and ongoing industry education to ensure we provide the highest level of workmanship and customer care. We carry extensive liability insurance, maintain an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, and actively participate in our local business community because earning—and keeping—our customers’ trust is at the core of everything we do.
We believe an informed customer is a protected customer. Before hiring any contractor for your pool, ask the important questions, verify credentials, and choose professionals who will stand behind their work.
Because in the long run, the cheapest option can sometimes become the most expensive one.
Hunter’s Pool Center, Inc.
Proud members of NESPA, CONSPA, APSP, PHTA, ASPSA, the Better Business Bureau, the Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce, and other professional organizations.
Our owners and staff maintain Connecticut licenses including SP-1, SP-2, SPB, and HIC.
