Talking Pools Podcast

Pool Pros text questions here On this episode of Floc It Friday, Rudy Stankowitz dives headfirst into one of the most overlooked realities in the swimming pool industry: your pool truck may legally qualify as a hazardous materials transport vehicle. Rudy breaks down how everyday pool chemicals like liquid chlorine, muriatic acid, trichlor, cal hypo, cyanuric acid, and even improperly labeled buckets can place pool professionals directly under federal DOT hazmat regulations. From 49 CFR Materials of Trade exceptions to hazmat training requirements, shipping papers, securement rules, placarding, container limits, and chemical compatibility, this episode becomes an eye-opening deep dive into how many pool companies may unknowingly be operating outside federal compliance. Rudy explains why “everybody does it this way” is not a legal defense and why a single roadside inspection could turn a routine service route into a federal violation.  The episode also revisits Rudy’s alum cyanuric acid removal method and the science behind aluminum complexation with cyanuric acid. Rudy addresses criticism surrounding the process, explaining why the observed CYA reduction cannot simply be attributed to water loss during vacuum-to-waste. He discusses the original research, lab verification by OnBalance, the role of metal complexation, and the parallels between aluminum cyanurate and copper cyanurate chemistry. Rudy also compares aluminum sulfate and lanthanum chloride as phosphate removers, breaking down the chemistry, dosing calculations, pH considerations, and operational trade-offs between the two treatment methods in a way only Rudy can deliver.  Later in the episode, Rudy shifts into industry news and commentary, discussing Hayward’s gradual discontinuation of legacy ProLogic accessories and what it means for service companies maintaining aging automation systems. He explains why proactive OmniPL upgrades may become a business necessity rather than an option. The show closes with a rapid-fire industry update touching on PoolCorp’s executive leadership transition, Pentair and PoolBrain’s push toward data-driven service automation, the growing divide between tech-driven companies and “memory-based” operations, and the importance of National Water Safety Month. Throughout the episode, Rudy blends technical education, operational reality, and industry forecasting into a no-nonsense conversation about where the pool industry is headed — and who may get left behind if they fail to evolve.  Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here hosts Steve Sherwood and Pat Rignyan from the California Pool Association take a deep dive into one of the busiest and most overlooked risk seasons in the pool industry: commercial and student housing pools. As pool professionals across the country juggle openings, CPO classes, hotels, HOAs, and large commercial accounts, Steve raises an important question many service companies never stop to ask until it’s too late — how much additional liability comes with servicing high-traffic student housing and HOA pools?  Pat explains that while most insurance policies don’t specifically exclude commercial pools, student housing environments bring a completely different level of exposure due to heavy bather loads, parties, glass breakage, and general “shenanigans.” The conversation explores the importance of umbrella policies, understanding indemnification clauses in HOA contracts, and why pool pros should carefully review agreements before signing. The guys discuss how some HOA contracts place all responsibility on the service company regardless of fault, and why mutual indemnification language matters more than most pool operators realize.  Steve also shares real-world frustrations from dealing with hotels and constantly changing management teams, highlighting how turnover, delayed approvals, and lack of communication can create operational nightmares for service companies. The episode ultimately becomes a larger conversation about trusting your gut, setting boundaries with difficult clients, pricing appropriately for high-risk work, and learning when to walk away from accounts that create more headaches than profit. For pool professionals servicing HOAs, hotels, apartment complexes, or student housing, this episode offers valuable insight into protecting both your business and your sanity.  Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here Natalie Hood (the Grit Game) explores the diverse roles and responsibilities of Coast Guard aviation professionals with Nicholas L. Gavin. This includes, but is not limited to myths about AMTs, AETs, and ASTs, and gain insights into their training, missions, and career paths.  keywords Coast Guard, aviation, AMT, AET, AST, rescue missions, military careers, aviation maintenance, rescue swimmer, career in Coast Guard  key  topics Roles of AMT, AET, and AST in Coast Guard Training and skills required for Coast Guard aviation roles Myths and realities of rescue missions and responsibilities Career paths and opportunities in Coast Guard aviation The importance of physical and technical skills in rescue operations  guest  name Nicholas L. Gavin  sound bites "Most of my career has been anything but routine." "Coordination with pilots is vital during rescues." "My favorite job was doing search and rescue." Chapters 00:00 Behind the Scenes of Coast Guard Aviation 04:38 Understanding the Roles of AMTs and ASTs 22:11 The Training and Skills of Aviation Survival Technicians 32:33 Realistic Expectations for Joining the Coast Guard  resources Go Coast Guard - https://gocoastguard.com US Coast Guard - https://www.uscg.mil Rescue Swimmer School - https://www.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/Assistant-Commandant-for-Prevention-Policy-CG-5P/Rescue-Swimmer/  guest links Email - Nicholas.L.Gavin@USCG.mil The Grit Game The Grit Game, is not just playing the game, we’re changing it. 500+ years industry experience, Revdup Apparel a custom apparel company built for the pool industry. Founded by pool professionals Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here This week on Talking Pools Podcast, Rudy Stankowitz rips into one of the most misunderstood topics in pool chemistry—cyanuric acid. Starting with a hard truth most pros overlook, the EPA-required label on chlorine products caps free chlorine at 4 ppm… and that’s not a suggestion, it’s law. From there, the episode dismantles the industry’s oversimplified “stabilizer” narrative and replaces it with what’s actually happening: cyanuric acid doesn’t just protect chlorine—it binds it, regulates it, and suppresses the amount of active sanitizer available in real time. This is where the conversation gets uncomfortable. Because that “perfect” chlorine reading on your test kit? It doesn’t tell you how much hypochlorous acid you actually have—it just gives you a combined number that includes both active and bound chlorine. Drawing on research from Richard Falk, CDC studies, EPA modeling, and decades-old equilibrium work, Rudy breaks down how rising CYA levels throttle chlorine performance, slow disinfection, and create a system where pools look fine on paper but underperform in reality. The myth that “pH doesn’t matter with CYA present” gets crushed too—because while the impact is reduced, it’s still very real, and ignoring it stacks the problem.  The takeaway is blunt: cyanuric acid isn’t the villain—mismanagement is. Every tablet adds CYA. Every week without dilution compounds the problem. And every pool pro who ignores the FC-to-CYA relationship is operating blind. This episode draws a hard line between surface-level pool care and true chemical control, making it clear that the industry is shifting toward those who understand the science—not just the numbers. Because at the end of the day, you’re not managing chlorine… you’re managing how much of it is actually doing the work. AquaStar Pool Products The Global Leader in Safety, Dependability, & Innovation in Pool Technology. BLUERAY XL The real mineral purifier! Reduce your pool maintenance costs & efforts by 50% Jack's Magic If you know Jack's you'd have no stains! Service Industry News Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here Thursdays with Steve & Wayne “The Price of Doing Business” 🧠 Overview This week on Talking Pools Podcast, Steve and Wayne break down the reality of running a pool service company—where one service call can derail your entire day and expose bigger industry problems. 👨‍🔧 From the Field A commercial emergency turns into a full-blown headache involving:  Faulty flow meters   Leaking high-pressure filters   Multiple supply runs   Hours of downtime  👉 The takeaway: In commercial service, failure isn’t an option. ⚙️ Equipment Issues  Traditional flow meters and gauges are often unreliable   Installation standards don’t match real-world conditions   More pros are switching to better-performing alternatives like FlowVis-style meters  💸 The Pricing Problem Steve uncovers a major issue:  Distributor price: ~$700   Online price: ~$500   Knockoff: ~$200  👉 For the first time: “I couldn’t sell this in good conscience.” 🌐 The Internet Changed Everything Today’s customers:  Check prices instantly   Know what things cost   Question everything  👉 And honestly? We all do the same thing. 🧪 Bigger Industry Concern  Equipment failing too quickly   Warranties getting harder to process   Manufacturers losing control of pricing  👉 If cheaper works the same… what are we paying for? 📣 Get Involved Seen this in your business?  📧 talkingpools@gmail.com 🏆 Mentor Award Nominate someone who shaped your career:  👉 cpoclass.com LaMotte Company LaMotte Company is a leading manufacturer of water quality testing products & pool test kits California Pool Association Pool Industry Trade Organization CMAHC The Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code promotes health & safety at public swimming pools Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here In an industry where misinformation spreads faster than wildfire, this episode pulls no punches. Natalie Hood sits down with Matt Dahl, CEO of American Fire Products, to dismantle some of the most persistent—and dangerous—myths surrounding fire features in outdoor environments. From DIY disasters to misunderstood gas systems, this conversation is a wake-up call for builders, service pros, and homeowners alike. Because here’s the truth: 👉 Fire features are not decorative add-ons.  👉 They are engineered systems.  👉 And when they’re done wrong… they fail hard. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode 🚫 The Myths That Won’t Die  Why you can’t just throw any glass into a fire pit (and what happens if you do)   The dangerous assumption that “a burner is just a metal ring”  Why stainless steel is NOT all the same (201 vs. 304 matters more than you think)   The truth about DIY fire pits and YouTube “experts”  Why cheap online fire pits can become expensive problems  ⚙️ The Technical Reality (That Most People Miss)  The difference between natural gas vs. propane systems  Why gas volume vs. pressure changes everything   How media (lava rock, glass) actually affects flame performance   The role of ventilation, drainage, and airflow in preventing catastrophic failure   Why drop-in pans and proper ignition systems are non-negotiable in high-end builds  💸 The Cost of Doing It Wrong  Real-world examples of $40,000 failures from poor system selection   How undersized gas lines lead to weak flames and angry clients  Why builders often get blamed for products they didn’t even choose  The hidden risks of cheap materials and knockoff components 🧠 The Smart Approach (What Pros Should Be Doing)  Designing around engineered, off-the-shelf systems to reduce cost and risk   Planning for gas, electrical, and system integration BEFORE construction  Using certified components and proper materials (not hardware store shortcuts)   Building fire features that increase property value AND performance Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here 🎙️ Making Social Media Work for You (Without Letting It Take Over Your Route) In this episode of Talking Pools Podcast, Andrea breaks down a question she’s been hearing more and more from pool pros in the field: 👉 “How are you posting so much… and still getting your pools done?” What follows is a real-world, no-BS look at how to use social media as a tool—not a second job. This isn’t about going viral.  This isn’t about chasing millions of views. This is about efficiency, strategy, and staying relevant without sacrificing your route, your time, or your sanity. Andrea shares practical, field-tested insights on:  Filming content while you’re already working (without slowing yourself down)   Choosing the right pools—and customers—to film at (and avoiding problems)   Using simple tools like POV shots and B-roll to create content fast   Avoiding time-wasting traps like over-editing, bad camera setup, and unnecessary gear   Understanding how algorithms actually work (and how to work with them, not against them)   Posting strategies that drive engagement without burning you out   Why clickbait, rage bait, and auto-sharing can quietly wreck your reach   How to stay consistent—even when you’re slammed with work  There’s also a deeper message running underneath this entire episode: 👉 Social media should support your business—not compete with it. If you’ve ever felt like content creation is pulling you away from what actually makes you money, this episode will help you recalibrate and take control of your time again. Real talk. Real experience. Real strategies that actually work in the field. 📲 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts—and start making social media work for you, not the other way around. POOL MAGAZINE Pool Magazine is leading up to the minute news source for Swimming Pool News and Pool Features. Ou Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here In this continuation of their conversation, Lee, Shane, and Nick are joined again by industry expert Spiros from Next Gen Experts to break down a topic that’s generating serious noise across the pool industry right now: proposed workplace exposure changes and what they actually mean. This isn’t a surface-level chlorine conversation. It’s a deep dive into how regulations, standards, and real-world operations collide—and where the industry needs to be paying attention versus where it might be overreacting. 🧠 Key Topics Discussed 🔹 Toolbox Talks You’re Already Doing (But Not Documenting) Many pool businesses are already holding informal safety and operations meetings—but without documentation, they don’t count. Spiros explains how simple adjustments can turn everyday conversations into compliant, valuable safety practices without adding complexity.  🔹 Safe Work Australia Proposal — What’s Really Happening There’s been a lot of chatter about new workplace exposure limits—especially around chlorine. But here’s the reality:  This is not just about chlorine  It includes 100+ chemicals (bromine, acids, hydrogen peroxide, etc.)   It spans gases, vapors, dusts, and airborne residues  It affects multiple industries—not just pools Spiros emphasizes that the proposal is broad, complex, and still lacking the evidence needed to justify sweeping changes. 🔹 Air Quality, Ventilation, and the Limits of Control The conversation shifts into something most techs never think about: 👉 You can control what you add to the water  👉 You can’t fully control what ends up in the air From HVAC systems in aquatic centers to chemical off-gassing, there’s an entire layer of engineering happening behind the scenes—especially indoors—that most service pros never see.  🔹 The Reality Check: Regulation vs Practicality If these proposals were implemented as-is, the implications could be massive:  Retail pool stores may require advanced ventilation systems   Many locations (especially leased or strata properties) may not be able to comply   Costs could outweigh benefits—with no guaranteed improvement in outcomes Bottom line: There’s still a long road ahead before anything becomes enforceable. 🔹 Chlorine Smell, Chloramines, and Misconceptions That “pool smell” everyone talks about? It’s not just chlorine—it’s often chloramines and other byproducts. The discussion highlights:  Why some facilities don’t smell like chlorine   What corrosion inside buildings can reveal about air quality   How environmental factors (like salt air) complicate everything  🔹 Australian Standard 3633 — A Major Update Coming One of the biggest takeaways: 👉 The 40-year-old Australian pool water standard is being completely overhauled What’s coming:  A unified standard for residential and public pools  A performance-based approach (focus on results, not rigid methods)   More scientific and technical depth  A document designed to become the industry benchmark Public review is expected soon—and industry participation wil Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here This episode explores the complexities of pool chemistry, legal considerations, industry trends, and the importance of understanding over following instructions blindly. Rudy Stankowitz shares insights on how industry control, product formulation disputes, and safety regulations impact pool professionals and consumers. Keywords pool chemistry, pool industry, pool safety, chemical regulation, pool maintenance, pool education, legal cases, industry trends Key Topics Pool chemistry complexities and safety Legal cases involving pool chemicals Industry trends towards simplification and control Guest Name Rudy Stankowitz Sound Bites "Follow the label, protect yourself legally." "Chemistry doesn't forgive mistakes." "Your knowledge is your best defense." Chapters 00:00 Understanding Label Instructions in Pool Care 10:50 The Importance of Testing Over Following Rules 14:23 Legal Implications of Chemical Labels 27:48 Industry Trends: Simplifying Pool Care AquaStar Pool Products The Global Leader in Safety, Dependability, & Innovation in Pool Technology. POOL MAGAZINE Pool Magazine is leading up to the minute news source for Swimming Pool News and Pool Features. Ou BLUERAY XL The real mineral purifier! Reduce your pool maintenance costs & efforts by 50% Jack's Magic If you know Jack's you'd have no stains! Service Industry News CPO Certification Classes Attend your CPO class with Rudy Stankowitz! the 'How to Get Rid of Algae' handbook The most comprehensive guide on algae prevention and remediation you will ever own. Online Pool Classes The difference between you and your competition is what you know! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here In this episode, Steve Sherwood interviews Pat Grignone from California Pool Association to explore how pool service professionals can optimize their business operations, partnerships, and insurance strategies to grow profitably and sustainably. Keywords pool service, business growth, partnerships, insurance, pool renovation, subcontracting, liability, pool industry Key Topics Business capacity and scaling in the pool industry Partnering with subcontractors and specialists Managing insurance and liability for large projects Streamlining operations for profitability Best practices for pool renovation and startup Guest Name Pat Grignone Sound Bites "Control the entire renovation and startup process" "Talk to your insurance agent before big projects" "Check in with your insurer when business changes" Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:15 Steve's Personal Pool Industry Story 01:09 Challenges of Scaling a Pool Service Business 02:01 Balancing Service, Repairs, and Billing 02:54 Strategies for Managing Growth and Capacity 04:02 Partnering with Subcontractors and Vendors 08:31 Pricing and Profitability in Renovations 09:23 Managing Renovation and Startup Processes 10:45 Controlling Quality and Long-term Service 11:37 Partnerships with Leak Detection and Plaster Companies 12:35 The Cost of Equipment and Building a Large Company 13:45 Controlling the Entire Pool Renovation Process 14:25 Advice for Companies Outsourcing Jobs 15:16 Financial and Insurance Considerations for Large Jobs 16:11 Tax and Insurance Implications of High-Value Jobs 18:01 Monitoring Revenue and Insurance Changes 18:55 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here In this episode, industry expert Spiros De Sarkis shares insights on professionalizing the swimming pool and spa industry, emphasizing safety, legislation, and business growth strategies. Discover how to elevate industry standards, manage risks, and build a credible, compliant business. keywords Swimming Pool Industry, Business Safety, Legislation, Professional Development, Industry Standards, Risk Management, Pool Safety, Business Growth, Compliance, Industry Advocacy key topics Industry professionalism and standards Legislation and compliance in pools Risk management and safety protocols takeaways Professionalism in the industry is crucial for credibility and safety. Understanding and complying with legislation can save businesses thousands. AI and technology are transforming risk assessment and management. Continuous education and community involvement strengthen industry standards. Proactive safety measures prevent costly accidents and legal issues. guest name Spiros De Sarkis Sound Bites "AI can cost you thousands if you're not careful." "Safety is paramount for clients and technicians alike." "Good systems and training can prevent disasters." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 00:55 Spiros De Sarkis: A Key Figure in the Industry 04:23 Upping the Ante: Professionalism in the Pool Industry 08:47 The Importance of Industry Support and Advocacy 11:38 Navigating Challenges: Seeking Help in the Industry 16:50 Safety First: Addressing Risks in Pool Management 24:47 Regulations and Standards: The Need for Licensing Resources NextGen Experts SafeWork Australia Australian Standards SPASA Australia Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here This Friday episode blends industry culture, community engagement, and high-level water chemistry into one unapologetically direct conversation. Rudy challenges a foundational assumption in pool care—that water can be “captured” and tested as-is—and dismantles it by exposing the dominant role of temperature in every chemical interaction. Along the way, he introduces new listener giveaways, reinforces the importance of mentorship in the industry, and delivers a mix of humor and hard truth that defines the Talking Pools voice. 🎁 Listener Giveaways Announcement  New recurring giveaway: Talking Pools Podcast shirts (by Revved Up Apparel)   Format:  A hidden “buzzword” will be placed in select Friday episodes   Listeners must submit the buzzword when prompted on the podcast’s Facebook page   Winners selected at random   Previous winners and prizes included:  Sunglasses   Blu-ray XL product packs   Jack’s Magic swag  👉 Designed to reward loyal listeners and increase engagement within the community. 🏆 2026 Mentor of the Year Award  Nominations open now through May 15, 2026  Submit at: mentoraward.com  Focus: Recognizing individuals who have mentored and elevated others in the pool industry  Selection process:  Merit-based (not popularity-driven)   Top 10 finalists recognized   One winner receives a custom championship belt Sponsors include: Blu-ray XL (Title Sponsor)  Revved Up Apparel (Sponsor)  👉 Core message: The industry grows faster when knowledge is passed forward, not rediscovered. 🧠 Main Topic: The Temperature Illusion in Water Testing Key Thesis: You are not testing the pool—you are testing a changing sample removed from its original environment. 🌡️ Temperature: The Dominant Variable  Temperature doesn’t just influence chemistry—it redefines it  Every test result is condition-dependent  Once a sample is pulled:  Gas exchange begins immediately   Chemical equilibria shift   Results begin drifting  👉 The number you read is not what the water is—it’s what the water became ⚗️ Core Chemical Impacts of Temperature 1. Gas Solubility & pH Shift  Higher temp → lower gas solubility   CO₂ leaves water → carbonic acid drops → pH rises  This is not an error—it’s natural equilibrium behavior 2. Reaction Speed  Hot water:  Faster chlorine consumption   Faster oxidation   Cold water:  Slower reactions   “False stability”  👉 “Fast” doesn’t mean broken. “Slow” doesn’t mean stable. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here This week on Talking Pools, Steve and Wayne deliver a brutally honest, real-world breakdown of what happens when subcontractors, miscommunication, and poor oversight collide on a job site. From a leak detection company altering valve positions and walking away, to costly chemical miscalculations by technicians, this episode dives into the operational chaos that pool professionals face—and how to protect your business from it. The conversation also expands into liability, insurance strategy, and the hidden risks of stepping outside your normal scope of work, especially when dealing with commercial properties or unconventional client use cases like pool rentals and swim instruction. 🔧 Key Topics Covered 💥 Subcontractor Nightmares  Leak detection company alters system valves and leaves them incorrectly set   Result: stagnant water, algae growth, and emergency return visits   Lesson: Always supervise or verify subcontractor work before they leave   The importance of being listed as additionally insured  🧪 Chemical Mismanagement & Costly Mistakes  Technician adds 12 gallons of chlorine + 6 gallons of acid without testing   Why “guess dosing” is financially reckless and chemically unsound   Real-world example of saving $30,000 annually through precise dosing   The overlooked value of acid demand testing (and why most pros ignore it)  📊 The Business of Precision  Why “what worked last week” is not a strategy   How small dosing errors scale into massive financial losses   The discipline of testing before treating—every time  ⚖️ Insurance, Liability & Risk Exposure  When to call your insurance agent before taking on new work   Commercial vs residential gray areas (multi-dwelling properties, Airbnb pools, etc.)   The legal exposure of pools used for business purposes (e.g., swim lessons, rentals)   “Hold harmless” agreements and their real-world limitations  💼 Commercial Accounts: Bigger Money, Bigger Problems  Payment delays, “payment freezes,” and cash flow risks   Understanding contract terms and insurance requirements before signing   Evaluating whether the risk is worth the reward  🧠 Key Takeaways  If you didn’t witness the work, assume it needs to be checked.   Never add chemicals without testing—precision protects profit.   Subcontractors can expose you to liability you didn’t create.   Insurance isn’t optional—it’s your last line of defense.   Every “small mistake” scales across a route—and drains your bottom line.  🎧 Listen & Subscribe Catch the full episode and stay ahead of the chaos:  Listen now on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. 📬 Have a Question or Topic Idea? Email the show: TalkingPools@gmail.com Your topic might be featured—and earn you a shoutout and a thank-you gift. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here Andrea shows up soaked, slightly unhinged, and absolutely done with your circulation system’s bullsh*t.  We’re talking pools so flooded they look like they’re trying to return to the ocean, equipment gasping for air, and homeowners acting like water movement is optional. 🫀 The Heart of the Pool (And Yours Is Probably Failing) You’ve got:  filtration (kidneys)   chemicals (liver)  …but today? 👉 We’re talking about the heart And if your circulation sucks… your whole pool is basically a stagnant, lukewarm petri dish with commitment issues. 🌊 Circulation: The Thing Nobody Talks About (Because It’s Not Sexy… Until It Breaks) Andrea breaks it down: 👉 Pumps move water  👉 Water movement = EVERYTHING  👉 No movement = congrats, you own a decorative swamp You can dump all the chlorine you want in there… If it’s not moving? 👉 It’s just sitting there like a drunk guy at a bar doing absolutely nothing useful. 🧠 Why Your Pool Keeps Looking Like Trash Dead spots. You know… those little areas where:  debris hangs out   algae sets up a summer home   and your dignity goes to die  If you keep seeing the same pile of crap every week? 👉 That’s not coincidence  👉 That’s your circulation system flipping you off 🤢 Let’s Talk About What’s Actually in Your Water Surface water = the nastiest part of the pool Andrea said it. Not me. That’s where:  body oils   sunscreen   spit (yeah… spit)   and whatever that kid just sneezed  all hang out together like a disgusting little party. And you’re swimming in it like:  👉 “Ahh, refreshing.” No.  No it’s not. ⚠️ Then It Gets Dark… Like REAL Dark We go from “dirty water” to: 👉 suction entrapment  👉 hair getting wrapped up like a horror movie  👉 limbs getting stuck  👉 and yeah… evisceration This episode goes from pool tech to:  👉 “why this industry should come with therapy” REAL fast. 🧰 Meanwhile, On Your Equipment Pad… Your pump is over there: 👉 screaming  👉 cavitating  👉 sounding like it swallowed a bag of gravel And you’re ignoring it like: “Eh… it’s probably fine.” It’s not fine. That’s your pump begging for help before it dies a violent, expensive death. 🧪 The Math You Hate But Need Turnover rates, flow rates, formulas… Andrea hits you with the reality: 👉 One turnover doesn’t clean sh*t  👉 You need multiple passes  👉 This is a PROCESS, not a one-night stand 🤬 Pool Owner Reality Check You don’t:  clean your baskets   check your flow   fix broken drain covers  …but you DO: 👉 complain about cloudy water  👉 question your pool tech  👉 and act shocked when things go sideways Pick a struggle. 💀 Final Thought This episode is a wake-up call. Your pool is not:  👉 self-cleaning  👉 self-circulating  👉 or magically maintained by vibes It’s a system. And if the heart isn’t pumping? 👉 Everything else is just slowly dying. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here Welcome to the episode where three seasoned pool pros from opposite sides of the planet casually admit… 👉 nobody does floccing the same way  👉 everyone thinks they’re right  👉 and somehow… they all still get paid Yes, this is the “we’ve been doing this for 60+ years combined and still argue like it’s day one” episode.  🌏 What You’re Walking Into: Lee is holding it down in New South Wales, Nick is on vacation but somehow still talking shop, and Shane is over in New Zealand ready to throw powdered alum at anything that looks remotely green, brown, black… or emotionally unstable. There’s rugby rivalry. There’s mild political comparisons. There’s a toaster in a service truck.  Yes… a toaster. Priorities. 🧪 Today’s Topic: FLOCCING POOLS Or as this episode proves: “Three techs. Three methods. Same result. Total chaos.” 🧨 What Gets Unleashed:  Shane goes full “dump it in the skimmer and let God sort it out”  Nick mixes it like he’s crafting a potion in a backyard cauldron   Lee shows up with a watering can like she’s baptizing the pool into clarity And somehow… 👉 All of it works  👉 None of it matches the label  👉 The label contradicts itself anyway (Seriously… one product says pH 6.5–7… then immediately says 8.2. Pick a lane, chemicals.) 🧠 Key Takeaways (If You Can Call Them That):  Floc doesn’t care about your feelings… but it does care about pH, alkalinity, and whether your pump is garbage   Dead spots in circulation will ruin your day faster than a customer saying “it was clear yesterday”   You can underdose floc… or overdose it and create a science experiment that fights back   Sometimes the best method is:  👉 brute force  👉 blind scooping  👉 and emotional detachment  🧟‍♂️ Real Field Horror: One pool described as: “You couldn’t see your fingertip in it.”Another featuring: “a new species growing out of the skimmer.”Congratulations. You’re not a pool tech anymore.  You’re a biological researcher with a net. ⚡ Rapid Fire Chaos:  Floc floating instead of sinking? Congrats, you broke physics.   Cartridge filter + alum tablet? Enjoy your new brick.   Customer vacuuming after floc? Say goodbye to all your hard work.  🧬 The Unspoken Truth: There is no single “right” way. There is only:  👉 what works  👉 what you think works 👉 and what you’ll defend in a Facebook argument at 2AM 🏁 Final Thought: This episode isn’t about floc. It’s about the reality that in this industry: Experience beats instructions.  Results beat theory.  And everyone secretly thinks their way is the best… even when it’s not. 📬 Got a better method? Email it in. Rudy will route it to the appropriate host… …and they will absolutely argue about it on air. 🎧 Listen. Learn. Disagree aggressively. Welcome to Talking Pools. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here In this episode, Rudy Stankowitz breaks down two industry staples—breakpoint chlorination and enzymes—and explains why what’s commonly taught doesn’t fully match the chemistry happening in your water. This isn’t about being wrong.  It’s about going one level deeper. ⚗️ Breakpoint Chlorination – The Reality  The 10x rule is not how breakpoint is defined in chemistry   True breakpoint is based on ammonia (as nitrogen), not combined chlorine   Pools measure combined chlorine (as chlorine) → not a direct match  👉 Result:  You’re applying a fixed rule to a variable system 💡 Key Insight  Oxidation starts immediately   Breakpoint is not a moment—it’s a process  Real demand depends on:  Organics   Nitrogen compounds   pH   reaction conditions  ⚡ Salt Systems Reality Check  Salt cells produce chlorine slowly  They are built to maintain, not spike 👉 In high demand situations:  External chlorine is often required  🧬 Enzymes – What Actually Happens  Enzymes break down organics (true)   But they are proteins in an oxidizing system 👉 Chlorine can chemically alter and deactivate them ⏱️ Why Enzymes Still Work It’s a competition for reaction:  Chlorine reacts with everything in the water   Enzymes survive temporarily because chlorine is “busy”  👉 They work within a limited time window  Higher chlorine = shorter window   Less time = less impact  🧱 Enzymes & Biofilms  Enzymes do not remove biofilms  They weaken the protective matrix 👉 This allows chlorine to penetrate more effectively  Best results require:  Proper chemistry   Physical disruption (brushing)  AquaStar Pool Products The Global Leader in Safety, Dependability, & Innovation in Pool Technology. POOL MAGAZINE Pool Magazine is leading up to the minute news source for Swimming Pool News and Pool Features. Ou the 'How to Get Rid of Algae' handbook The most comprehensive guide on algae prevention and remediation you will ever own. BLUERAY XL The real mineral purifier! Reduce your pool maintenance costs & efforts by 50% CPO Certification Classes Attend your CPO class with Rudy Stankowitz! Online Pool Classes The difference between you and your competition is what you know! Jack's Magic If you know Jack's you'd have no stains! Service Industry News Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here What looks like algae… isn’t always algae.  And what looks like “clear but weird” water? That’s where things get expensive. In this episode of Talking Pools Thursdays, Steve and Wayne break down one of the most misunderstood issues in pool service: metals in the water—how to identify them, where they come from, and what actually works when you’re dealing with them in the field. It starts with a simple truth:  👉 Water has no color. So when it turns green, blue, brown, or something that just feels “off,” something else is driving that change—and metals are often the culprit. They walk through the key differences between algae vs. metals, including:  Why algae presents as cloudy, opaque, or “carpeted”   Why metals (like copper) often show up as clear, tinted water   A simple field test using your brush to tell the difference instantly  From there, the conversation goes deeper into where metals actually come from, including:  Source water (especially wells)   Heater corrosion and heat exchanger failure   Overuse of copper-based algaecides   Aging infrastructure and legacy municipal systems  They also cover the thresholds where metals become a real problem:  Copper above ~0.2 ppm   Iron above ~0.3 ppm   And how rising pH (above ~7.6) triggers precipitation, staining, and discoloration  Then comes the part most techs get wrong—treatment strategy. This episode breaks down the difference between: Sequestering agents (hide the metals, prevent staining)  Chelating agents (bind metals into larger particles for filtration/removal)   Why most modern products attempt to do both   And why you’re still often vacuuming to waste or cleaning filters after treatment  They also get real about the operational side:  Why chelation jobs can take multiple visits   Why sequestering requires ongoing maintenance dosing   And why metals are “not a problem… until they’re a problem”  There’s also a candid discussion on:  The risks and realities of acid washing   Why vinyl and fiberglass pools present different limitations   How improper dosing in small bodies of water (like spas) can trigger metal precipitation instantly   And why no two metal situations ever behave exactly the same  The episode wraps with a broader industry conversation on rising costs—fuel, materials, and equipment—and how those pressures are forcing service companies to rethink pricing, efficiency, and long-term profitability. Because whether it’s metals in the water or money in your business…  👉 Ignoring the problem doesn’t make it go away. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here This Myth-busting episode reveals how pool pros can maximize their relationships with manufacturer reps to grow their business, increase margins, and avoid costly mistakes. Laci Davis (Grit Game) shares practical tips on finding, evaluating, and leveraging reps effectively. Keywords pool industry, manufacturer reps, business growth, sales strategies, industry relationships Key Topics Types of industry reps and their roles How to identify a good manufacturer rep The importance of follow-up and relationship-building Strategies for leveraging reps to increase sales and margins Practical steps to find and connect with reputable reps Sound Bites "Good reps have real industry experience" "Follow-up shows a rep's diligence" "Don't treat reps like transactions" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Grit Game and Pool Pros 03:50 Understanding the Role of Reps in the Pool Industry 06:37 The Importance of Building Relationships with Reps 08:50 Identifying Quality Reps and Their Impact 11:32 Maximizing the Value of Reps for Business Growth 13:41 Finding and Connecting with Reps 15:07 Conclusion and Call to Action The Grit Game The Grit Game, is not just playing the game, we’re changing it. 500+ years industry experience, Revdup Apparel a custom apparel company built for the pool industry. Founded by pool professionals Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here In this episode of Talking Pools Podcast, Andrea wraps up her multi-part deep dive into pool chemistry with a no-BS breakdown of what actually matters when it comes to testing, dosing, and not screwing it all up. And yes… she’s cooking chicken while recording. 🔍 What This Episode Covers This isn’t textbook chemistry.  This is real-world, boots-on-the-ground pool service knowledge—the stuff that actually saves you from making expensive mistakes. 📊 Testing Frequency (What You Should Actually Be Doing) Andrea breaks down what needs to be tested—and how often: Weekly: Free chlorine, combined chlorine, pH, total alkalinity  Bi-weekly (max): Total alkalinity (don’t push it further)  Monthly: Cyanuric acid, calcium hardness, salt  As needed: Phosphates, metals, TDS  And one big reminder: If you’re not testing combined chlorine… you’re missing half the story. ⚠️ Test Kit Lies (Yes, They Lie) Ever get a reading that makes zero sense? It might not be you. This episode dives into: DPD bleaching → false zero chlorine readings  MPS interference → false high readings  High chlorine messing with pH tests Metals affecting calcium hardness results 👉 Translation:  Your test results can absolutely betray you if you don’t know what you’re looking at. 🧠 The Dilution Trick (That Most Techs Don’t Use) When your test maxes out… You don’t guess. You dilute. Andrea explains:  How to properly dilute samples   When to multiply results   Why guessing high readings is a mistake  Including real-world examples of CYA levels hitting 300+ ppm in Florida. 💣 Chemical Dosing (Where People Go Off the Rails) This is where things get dangerous—and expensive. Andrea walks through:  Proper dosing based on 10,000 gallons   Why dumping “a gallon of acid” is a terrible idea   How to actually adjust pH and alkalinity correctly  And the reality: Most chemical mistakes aren’t accidents… they’re impatience.⚙️ Feeders, Automation & Salt Systems From manual dosing to full automation, this episode covers:  Stenner pumps & peristaltic systems   Tab feeders vs erosion feeders   Ozone, UV, and gas systems   Salt cells and how they actually generate chlorine  Including a key reminder: 👉 Salt is not the sanitizer  👉 The cell produces chlorine gas → which becomes hypochlorous acid  🔥 The Real Problem with the Industry Andrea calls out a growing issue: Conflicting information between:  CPO materials   Manufacturers   Field experience  And the result? 👉 Confused techs  👉 Bad chemistry decisions  👉 Arguments in comment sections Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here In this episode of Talking Pools Podcast, the Mondays Down Under crew takes on a topic that doesn’t get nearly enough honest discussion: building a swimming pool from the perspective of the people who actually have to service it later. Because here’s the truth… 👉 Builders don’t always think like service techs  👉 And homeowners don’t always know what to ask That’s where things go sideways. 🔍 Inside This Episode Lee and Nick pull back the curtain on what really happens during pool construction—sharing real-world stories, mistakes they’ve seen firsthand, and the kind of advice that only comes from years in the field. From backward installations to impossible-to-service equipment setups, this episode highlights a simple but critical concept: Always think about the next person who has to work on it.⚠️ The Biggest Problems They See  Equipment installed with zero service access  Pumps and filters placed where maintenance becomes impossible   Chlorinators and plumbing configured so they can’t even be removed  Builders choosing products based on convenience—not performance  And the worst part? 👉 Many of these issues are completely avoidable. 🧠 Advice for Homeowners (and the Pros Guiding Them) If you’re building a pool—or advising someone who is—this episode delivers some of the most practical guidance you’ll hear: 💡 What matters most: Shape, size, and color → You can’t easily change these later   Equipment? You can upgrade that anytime  💡 What to question:  Filter type (cartridge vs media)   Plumbing size and flow design   Future upgrades (heater, automation, sanitation systems)  💡 What to avoid:  Choosing the cheapest builder without due diligence  Overcomplicated designs that create long-term headaches  🌊 Real Stories from the Field This episode isn’t theory—it’s reality.  A deck built directly over a filter… with no access   A pool with no skimmer and constant circulation issues   An infinity edge pool that drained a homeowner’s water supply—twice   A brand-new pool left untouched for weeks… resulting in severe scaling  These aren’t rare cases. They’re happening every day. 🔥 The Big Takeaway Building a pool is easy. 👉 Building one that works long-term? That’s the challenge. And if you don’t think about:  Maintenance   Hydraulics   Access   Water chemistry startup  You’re not building a pool… You’re building a future problem. 📩 Got a topic? Send it in: talkingpools@gmail.com Rudy will route it to the right host 👀 Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com