FlowBeacon
FlowBeacon is an all-in-one pool service app that helps DIY enthusiasts and professional operators manage pool chemistry, track maintenance, and streamline operations.
Skimmer
Skimmer is a comprehensive pool service management software designed to help pool professionals modernize their businesses through digital route optimization, automated billing, and professional customer communication tools.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | FlowBeacon | Skimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Website | flowbeacon.app | getskimmer.com |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Starting Price | $7/month | $50/month |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 30 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✘ No product demo | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 0 | 2017 |
| Headquarters | Texas, United States | Austin, USA |
Overview
FlowBeacon
FlowBeacon is a comprehensive pool service management application designed for both homeowners and professional pool operators. You can easily log water test results, calculate chemical dosages, and track your pool's chemistry over time to ensure perfect balance. It helps you move from reactive to proactive maintenance with predictive insights.
The platform allows you to manage multiple pools and properties, track chemical inventory, and create detailed maintenance checklists. You can also attach photos and videos to your logs for visual documentation, making it easier to stay organized and keep your pools running smoothly.
Skimmer
Skimmer is a dedicated field service platform built specifically for pool service professionals who want to move away from paper logs and fragmented systems. You can manage your entire operation from a single dashboard, allowing you to track thousands of accounts, optimize complex routes, and monitor chemical readings with precision. It eliminates the guesswork for your technicians by providing them with clear checklists and historical data for every pool on their route.
The software solves the common headache of manual billing by syncing your field data directly with accounting tools. You can automatically send professional service reports to your customers, complete with photos and chemical logs, which builds immediate trust and reduces follow-up calls. Whether you are a solo operator or managing a large fleet, it provides the structure you need to scale your pool business without increasing your administrative workload.
Overview
FlowBeacon Features
- Chemistry & CSI Calculations Input your test results to instantly get Calcium Saturation Index (CSI) values and ensure your water is perfectly balanced.
- Predictive Insights Analyze historical data to predict your pool's needs, shifting your maintenance from reactive to proactive.
- Maintenance Checklists Pre-plan maintenance or track pending tasks with flexible scheduling to ensure nothing is overlooked.
- Inventory Tracking Manage chemical supplies for every pool in your portfolio with precision stock tracking and low-stock alerts.
- Extensive Service Tracking Log over 100+ unique tasks and observations, from routine cleaning to detailed water chemistry readings.
- Multi-Pool & Property Management Organize and track multiple bodies of water under one location, whether it's a single pool or a large commercial route.
- Visual Documentation Attach photos and videos to your logs for visual verification of pool clarity and surface condition.
- Customizable Dashboard View your pool's current chemistry and basic information at a glance, with quick navigation to your data.
Skimmer Features
- Route Optimization. Organize your daily stops geographically to reduce drive time and save on fuel costs for your entire fleet.
- Digital Service Reports. Send automated, branded emails to your customers after every visit including photos, chemical levels, and completed tasks.
- Chemical Tracking. Record chemical readings and dosages instantly to track usage trends and ensure every pool stays perfectly balanced.
- Shopping List Management. Track parts and chemicals used at each job site so you never forget to bill for installed equipment.
- Work Orders. Schedule and track one-time repairs or installations separately from your recurring maintenance routes to stay organized.
- Customer Database. Access full service histories, equipment photos, and gate codes for every client directly from your mobile device.
Pricing Comparison
FlowBeacon Pricing
- Up to 3 managed pools
- Water test logging & 90-day history
- Chemical tracking & Inventory
- Maintenance Checklists & shopping list
- Insights & trends
- Calculators
- 1 active pool share link
- Everything in DIY, plus:
- Unlimited pools, history
- Properties & client management
- Unified or individual inventory modes
- Global overrides by pool type
- Unlimited share links
- Priority support
- Early access to new features
Skimmer Pricing
- Unlimited mobile users
- Unlimited office users
- Route optimization tools
- Automated service reports
- Chemical dosage calculator
- QuickBooks Online integration
- Everything in Standard, plus:
- Pay only for active customers
- Billed per serviced location
- No charge for inactive accounts
- Scales with your route size
- Transparent monthly billing
Pros & Cons
FlowBeacon
Pros
- Comprehensive tools for both DIYers and professionals
- Predictive insights help you stay ahead of maintenance
- Detailed inventory tracking prevents chemical shortages
- Flexible checklists ensure consistent pool care
- Ability to attach photos and videos for documentation
Cons
- No free plan available after the trial period
- Learning curve for advanced analytical features
- Requires internet connection for full functionality
- No explicit mention of third-party integrations
- Pricing increases significantly for professional features
Skimmer
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app works well in the field
- Professional service reports significantly improve customer trust
- Chemical tracking helps monitor and reduce inventory waste
- Excellent customer support tailored to pool professionals
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks saves hours of billing
Cons
- Initial data entry for large routes takes time
- Limited customization for specific non-pool service tasks
- Requires consistent internet connection for real-time syncing