Skimmer Alternatives 2026: 8 Pool Service Software Options
Skimmer has long been a popular choice for pool service professionals, known for its pool-specific features and strong iOS app. However, several factors are driving pool service businesses to explore alternatives in 2026: recent price increases from $1 to $2 per pool, Android app stability issues, and the lack of modern AI features that newer platforms offer.
Whether you are frustrated with Skimmer's pricing changes, need better Android support, or want features like AI phone answering, there are excellent alternatives available. We have analyzed and compared 8 pool service software options to help you find the right fit for your business.
Why Pool Professionals Are Looking for Skimmer Alternatives
Price Increases
Skimmer doubled prices for full features from $1 to $2/pool, making businesses reevaluate their options.
Android Issues
Many users report stability problems with the Android app, creating frustration for mixed-device teams.
No AI Features
Skimmer lacks AI phone answering and automation features that newer platforms now include.
Feature Limitations
Route optimization only available at higher tier, and some users want more comprehensive business tools.
Quick Comparison: Skimmer Alternatives at a Glance
| # | Software | Rating | Pricing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PoolDial Top Pick | $2/pool/mo | AI + Pool-Specific | |
| 2 | Jobber | $39-599/mo | Multi-Service | |
| 3 | Pool Brain | Enterprise | Large Operations | |
| 4 | Housecall Pro | $59-189/mo | Growing Teams | |
| 5 | ServiceTitan | $235-398+/tech/mo | Enterprise | |
| 6 | GorillaDesk | $49-99/mo | Route-Based | |
| 7 | PSS (Pool Service Software) | Custom | Established Businesses | |
| 8 | ProValet | Per-pool pricing | Newer Option |
Detailed Reviews: Best Skimmer Alternatives
PoolDial
AI-powered pool service software with 24/7 receptionist
PoolDial is our top recommended Skimmer alternative for 2026. Like Skimmer, it is built specifically for pool service businesses with features like chemical tracking, route optimization, and service logging. However, PoolDial includes something no other pool software offers: a 24/7 AI phone receptionist at no extra cost.
This AI receptionist answers calls when you are busy, captures lead details (name, address, pool type, equipment, urgency), and sends instant email summaries. For solo operators, this feature alone can save $200-500/month compared to hiring an answering service. The mobile app works reliably on both iOS and Android, addressing one of Skimmer's key weaknesses.
At the same $2/pool price point as Skimmer's full-featured tier, PoolDial offers more value with its included AI features, modern interface, and route optimization at the base price. The platform is newer to the market, but its AI-first approach represents where pool service technology is heading.
Advantages over Skimmer
- 24/7 AI receptionist included (Skimmer has none)
- Reliable Android app (vs Skimmer's reported issues)
- Route optimization included at base price
- Modern interface built in 2024
- No contracts, cancel anytime
- Full offline mobile support
Considerations
- Newer platform, smaller user base
- Building integration ecosystem
- Less water test equipment integrations currently
Jobber
General field service management platform
Jobber is a well-established field service management platform used across multiple industries. If your pool business also offers landscaping, spa maintenance, or other services, Jobber's flexibility makes it an attractive Skimmer alternative. The platform offers scheduling, invoicing, client management, and team coordination tools.
With over 800 reviews on Capterra and consistent high ratings, Jobber is proven software. The mobile app works reliably on both iOS and Android, and the interface is modern and intuitive. However, Jobber is not pool-specific, meaning you will not find chemical dosage calculators, water test logging, or pool equipment databases built in.
For businesses that need a general-purpose field service tool with excellent reviews and broad feature set, Jobber is worth considering. Just be prepared to set up custom fields for pool-specific data tracking.
Advantages over Skimmer
- Supports multiple service types
- Reliable Android app
- Larger established user base
- More comprehensive business tools
- Strong customer support
Considerations
- Not pool-specific (no chemical tracking)
- Higher monthly cost for small operations
- Requires custom setup for pool workflows
- No water test integrations
Pool Brain
Enterprise-focused pool service automation
Pool Brain targets larger pool service operations looking for enterprise-grade automation. If you have outgrown Skimmer and manage hundreds of pools with multiple crews, Pool Brain's advanced workflow automation and comprehensive reporting may be worth exploring.
The platform emphasizes reducing manual tasks through automation, including advanced scheduling, inventory management, and business analytics. While the Capterra rating (3.9/5) is lower than Skimmer's, this partly reflects the steeper learning curve of a more complex enterprise system.
Pool Brain requires custom pricing quotes, making it less accessible for smaller operators. However, for established businesses ready to invest in sophisticated software, it offers capabilities beyond what Skimmer provides.
Advantages over Skimmer
- More powerful automation capabilities
- Better for large multi-crew operations
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics
- Advanced inventory tracking
- Pool-industry specific
Considerations
- Enterprise pricing (not transparent)
- Steeper learning curve
- Overkill for small operations
- Implementation takes time
Housecall Pro
Popular field service platform for growing teams
Housecall Pro is one of the most popular field service platforms with nearly 3,000 reviews on Capterra. It is designed for growing home service businesses and offers strong scheduling, dispatching, invoicing, and customer communication tools. The platform works well for pool service companies looking for a polished, general-purpose solution.
The 4.7/5 rating reflects a well-executed product with good customer support. Marketing features like automated review requests and a booking widget help businesses grow. The mobile app is reliable across both platforms, addressing Skimmer's Android issues.
Like Jobber, Housecall Pro is not pool-specific. You will need to work around the lack of chemical tracking and water test features. The monthly pricing ($59-189) can also add up compared to per-pool pricing models.
Advantages over Skimmer
- Excellent user reviews (2,784 on Capterra)
- Reliable Android app
- Strong marketing and growth features
- Good customer support
- Polished, modern interface
Considerations
- Not pool-specific (no chemical tracking)
- Monthly pricing can exceed per-pool models
- No water test integrations
- Learning curve for pool workflows
ServiceTitan
Enterprise field service management platform
ServiceTitan is an enterprise-grade field service platform designed for large home service businesses. With features spanning dispatching, marketing, sales, and operations, it is one of the most comprehensive solutions available. Pool service companies with multiple crews and high revenue may find value in its advanced capabilities.
The platform offers sophisticated reporting, marketing automation, and sales tools that go far beyond what Skimmer provides. However, the pricing ($235-398+ per technician per month) puts it out of reach for most small to mid-size pool service businesses.
ServiceTitan is best considered by established pool companies with significant revenue looking for a complete business management platform. For smaller operators, the cost and complexity are likely overkill.
Advantages over Skimmer
- Most comprehensive feature set
- Advanced reporting and analytics
- Marketing and sales automation
- Enterprise-grade capabilities
- Strong integrations ecosystem
Considerations
- Very expensive ($235-398+/tech/mo)
- Long-term contracts often required
- Complex implementation
- Overkill for most pool businesses
- Not pool-specific
GorillaDesk
Route-based field service software
GorillaDesk started in pest control but has expanded to serve multiple route-based service industries including pool service. The platform offers strong route optimization, scheduling, and customer management features at a competitive monthly price point.
With a 4.8/5 Capterra rating, GorillaDesk has earned a positive reputation for reliability and ease of use. The route optimization capabilities are particularly strong, which is valuable for pool service professionals managing many stops per day.
While GorillaDesk is not pool-specific, its route-based DNA makes it a reasonable fit for weekly pool maintenance operations. The flat monthly pricing ($49-99) may be more cost-effective than per-pool pricing for smaller route sizes.
Advantages over Skimmer
- Strong route optimization
- Reliable mobile apps
- Flat monthly pricing
- Good customer support
- Easy to use interface
Considerations
- Not pool-specific
- No chemical tracking or water test integration
- Pest control focus in some features
- Limited pool industry customization
PSS (Pool Service Software)
Established pool service management platform
Pool Service Software (PSS) is a long-standing player in the pool service industry with features specifically designed for pool professionals. Like Skimmer, it understands the unique needs of pool maintenance including chemical tracking and water testing.
PSS offers comprehensive features for established pool service businesses including route management, billing, and customer portals. The platform has been around longer than many competitors, giving it a mature feature set.
The custom pricing model and lack of transparent rates makes it harder to evaluate upfront. PSS works best for established businesses willing to contact sales for a personalized quote and implementation plan.
Advantages over Skimmer
- Pool-industry specific like Skimmer
- Mature, established platform
- Comprehensive feature set
- Customer portal included
- Good for established businesses
Considerations
- Pricing not transparent
- Older interface design
- Requires sales contact
- May have learning curve
ProValet
Newer pool service software option
ProValet is a newer entrant to the pool service software market, positioning itself as a modern alternative with per-pool pricing. The platform aims to provide pool-specific features with a contemporary interface.
As a newer platform, ProValet has fewer reviews and a smaller user base compared to established options like Skimmer or Jobber. However, newer platforms sometimes offer competitive pricing and more responsive customer service as they build their user base.
ProValet may be worth evaluating if you are comfortable with newer software and want to explore emerging options in the pool service space. Be sure to verify feature completeness and reliability before committing.
Potential Advantages
- Pool-specific design
- Per-pool pricing model
- Modern interface
- May offer competitive pricing
Considerations
- Newer platform, less proven
- Smaller user community
- Limited reviews available
- Feature set still developing
For pool service professionals looking for a Skimmer alternative, PoolDial stands out as our top recommendation. It offers the same per-pool pricing and pool-specific features you are used to with Skimmer, plus the game-changing addition of a 24/7 AI receptionist included at no extra cost. The reliable Android app also addresses one of Skimmer's most common complaints.
If you need a general field service platform that supports multiple service types, Jobber or Housecall Pro are excellent choices with proven track records and thousands of positive reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I import my data from Skimmer to another platform?
Most pool service software platforms offer data import assistance. PoolDial, Jobber, and Housecall Pro all provide help migrating customer data, service history, and route information. Contact the new platform's support team to understand their specific import process and what data can be transferred.
Is per-pool pricing or monthly pricing better?
It depends on your route size. Per-pool pricing ($1-2/pool) is more cost-effective for larger routes (50+ pools). Monthly flat-rate pricing ($49-99/month) may be better for smaller operations. Calculate both models with your current pool count to determine which saves you money.
Which Skimmer alternative has the best Android app?
PoolDial, Jobber, and Housecall Pro all report reliable Android apps without the stability issues some Skimmer users experience. Among pool-specific options, PoolDial was built in 2024 with modern mobile technology supporting both platforms equally.
Do any Skimmer alternatives offer AI features?
PoolDial is currently the only pool service software that includes AI phone answering at no extra cost. This 24/7 AI receptionist captures leads and handles calls when you are busy servicing pools. Other platforms may offer add-on integrations with third-party AI services at additional cost.