For this reason, service technicians have started selling robotic and battery-operated cleaners, so clients can use them between service calls. In fact, some service technicians even use the strategy of “loaning out” a pool cleaner to a client to see if they like it or not. For example, if a service technician goes on a service call and finds the customer’s pump is not operating properly, and they cannot immediately install a new one, they leave a robotic or battery-powered cleaner with the client to keep for the weekend. In most cases, the client loves the cleaner so much they end up buying one.
When pool professionals talk to their clients about keeping the pool clean, they have an excellent opportunity to sell a robotic cleaner. In fact, several people in the industry say they compare having a robotic pool cleaner to owning a dishwasher. They simply explain how running the dishwasher daily keeps dishes continuously clean rather than piling them up in the sink to wash manually. Similarly, pool owners should keep a robotic cleaner in their pool to run daily, so the pool is always clean between service visits. This allows service technicians to focus on the maintenance which requires specialized skills.
Many service professionals are now also carrying a battery-powered cleaner in their truck to spot clean pool areas that are regularly dirty; areas such as steps and cuddle coves which accumulate and show dirt. Technicians report the clients often inquire about these hand-held cleaners; therefore, it is important to be ready to sell it to them right away. Savvy technicians are keeping extra units in their trucks to leave behind and simply add to their monthly bill, while others direct customers to the store’s website where they can purchase and have a unit shipped to them instead. It is important to remember, homeowners want to ensure their pool is always ready for impromptu guests and want to be able to quickly clean it. Battery-operated pool cleaners are the best option for spot cleaning steps and corners in a hurry.
As a pool owner himself, Dan Lenz of All Seasons Pools in Orland Park, Ill., understands the desire to ensure the pool is always ready for swimming and the burden of having to rush to clean it before it can be used.
“Battery-operated pool cleaners are also a convenient option for spot cleaning steps and corners in a hurry,” says Lenz, who has two display pools at his store—one equipped with a robotic cleaner and the other with a battery-operated cleaner, so customers can test them out and learn more about the benefits of each.
Just like Lenz, Chris Morelli of South Strand Pool Maintenance in Surfside Beach, S.C., also uses robotic and battery-powered pool cleaners to ensure pools are always clean. His crews carry battery-powered, hoseless, and cordless cleaners in their trucks to spot clean pool areas that are regularly dirty.
