I took my PADI certification and the instruction h...

I took my PADI certification and the instruction here is first rate. But recently, I asked if I can use the pool to test my gear with a buddy. Other dive shops are OK with this, for example, Pinnacle. But Diver Dan's wanted me to rent the pool for $100. When I asked what I should do as a beginner who got certified through their shop, she said, go out in the ocean and keep fiddling. I consider this pretty tightwad and unhelpful. Why can't they let me use their pool for 15 minutes when it's empty? Generally they are average, friendly, but they definitely don't give you that vibe of "we're here to give you want you want."