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The Pool Guy Podcast Show

David Van Brunt

In this podcast I cover everything swimming pool care-related from chemistry to automatic cleaners and equipment. I focus on the pool service side of things and also offer tips to homeowners. There are also some great interviews with guests from inside the industry. 

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  • S10 · E2034
    Yesterday · 18 min

    AquaStar Pipeline Filter—Game Changer or Just Hype?

    A pool filter can look “small” and still be the reason a system runs smoother, cleaner, and with less hassle on the equipment pad. I’m sharing my real-world take on the Aquastar Pipeline cartridge filter, including where it shines, where it takes a little mindset shift, and why it keeps getting compared to the wrong products online. I break down how the Pipeline PLF 35,000 stacks up against a common benchmark, the Pentair Clean and Clear Plus 520. We get into the numbers that matter to pool owners and pool service pros: price, design flow rate, and what “NSF certified” filtration and clarity mean in day-to-day operation. The big surprise is how a compact cartridge filter can be rated up to 200 gallons per minute, and why that can translate into strong circulation even as the cartridge loads with dirt. We also talk maintenance reality. One large cartridge can be faster to clean than a quad cartridge setup, often about five minutes versus a much longer teardown and rinse. I cover debris capacity, how often you might actually clean it in different environments, and why the Pipeline should not be lumped in with cheap single cartridge filters that lose flow fast as PSI climbs. I finish with practical notes on safety, the robust collar ring, depressurizing steps, and what to expect when retrofitting plumbing since the ports are not stacked like many standard tanks. If you’re deciding between a large cartridge filter and a compact high-flow option, listen through and then tell me what you value most: longer intervals or faster cleanings. Subscribe, share the episode with a pool pro friend, and leave a review so more people can find it. I share my real-world experience with the Aquastar Pipeline cartridge filter and why it performs nothing like the typical single cartridge tanks people compare it to. I stack it up against the Pentair Clean and Clear Plus 520 on price, flow rate, cleaning time, safety, and which pools actually benefit most. • why the Aquastar Pipeline filter gets misjudged by size alone • price comparison against premium large cartridge filters • what deeper pleats and a larger core change in real use • design flow rate differences and why flow drives performance • cleaning time reality: one cartridge versus four • how debris load affects cleaning frequency and service planning • why it should not be compared to cheap off-brand 200 sq ft filters • safety features like the robust collar ring and depressurization steps • retrofit considerations: small footprint but offset plumbing ports • when bigger filters still make more sense for convenience Learn more at Summipoollearning.com. If you're interested in the coaching program that I offer, you can learn more at poolguycoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2033
    Thursday · 19 min

    Dealing With Extreme Weather on Your Pool Route

    Weather can wreck a perfectly planned pool route in minutes. One moment the backyard is calm, the next you’re in a wind event where every pass with the net brings in more leaves, the power is out in nearby hills, and the safest move is to pack up and go home. That’s real pool service life, and we want you ready for it, not surprised by it. We break down the extreme weather situations pool technicians run into most: sudden windstorms like the Santa Ana winds, wildfire conditions that dump fine ash into the water, and heavy rain days that turn visibility and driving into a hazard. I share how I think about “workable” drizzle versus shut-it-down rain, why thunderstorms are never worth the risk, and how to communicate realistic recovery timelines when storms hit in waves. We also get practical about cleanup strategy after a fire: fine-bag vacuum options, why ash keeps settling, and why filter cleanouts become part of the weekly rhythm. To keep your business moving, we talk route strategy during multi-day forecasts: stacking pools, shifting days, and focusing on essentials when you simply cannot clean the way you want to. I also share the gear that helps me stay effective, from rainwear that keeps you mobile to cold-weather gloves and waterproof boots that save your hands and feet. If this helps, subscribe, share it with a pool pro, and leave a review so more techs can find the episode. Extreme weather changes everything on a pool route, so we focus on when to work, when to stop, and how to keep customers informed while staying safe. We walk through windstorms, wildfire ash, heavy rain, and cold snaps, plus the gear and route moves that help us get pools back without burning out. • deciding to stop cleaning during dangerous wind gusts • checking nearby accounts and essentials when wind makes cleaning futile • power shutoffs during wind events and the added fire risk • why wind recovery can take two to three weeks • how wildfires create ash problems that take weeks to fix • vacuuming ash with fine bags and accepting repeat settling • cleaning filters repeatedly as part of the ash cleanup process • separating drizzle from heavy rain when planning pool service days • skipping routes during thunderstorms and treating the pool pole like a lightning risk • handling weeks of rain with basic checks and overflow planning • teaching customers simple ways to drain down an overfilled pool • moving pools earlier in the week to avoid forecasted downpours • using cold-weather gloves to keep hands warm on early stops • choosing waterproof boots to avoid wet feet and improve safety Join the pool guy coaching program. Get expert advice, business tips, exclusive content, and get direct support from me. Learn more at swimmingpoollearning.com. And if you're interested in a coaching program that I'll learn more at poollightcoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2032
    Wednesday · 18 min

    Wind Event Coming? Here’s How Pool Pros Should Prepare

    A windstorm can turn a clean backyard pool into a debris-filled mess in a single afternoon and if you service pools for a living, that mess multiplies across your entire route. We talk through what windy weather really means for a pool service business during Santa Ana wind events and other regional wind patterns, including why the first major storm of the season is often the most brutal. The goal is not perfection in one stop. The goal is a repeatable process that keeps circulation going, protects your schedule, and keeps you from wrecking your body trying to leaf rake every pool to the floor. We share the exact “wind policy” structure we use in our service agreement: start by cleaning the filtration system (skimmer basket, pump basket, restoring prime), then skim the surface, then tackle leaves on the bottom, and vacuum only when conditions and time allow. That order matters when baskets are jammed, pumps lose prime, and you’ve got 15 pools in similar shape. We also get into real-world storm hazards like patio chairs, umbrellas, potted plants, and even barbecues ending up in the water and why a simple pre-storm reminder to secure items can prevent hours of chaos. Then we go practical with equipment: why you should carry extra leaf rakes and a backup pole, and why a proper pool vacuum system is a game-changer during severe leaf and dirt events. We compare everyday options to heavier-duty vacuums designed for trashed pools, and we explain how customer education can help too, like leaving a pole and leaf rake onsite so homeowners can skim ahead of your service day without touching anything risky. If you found this helpful, subscribe, share it with a pool pro friend, and leave a quick review so more service techs can find these storm-season strategies. We get real about how extreme wind events can wreck a pool route and why trying to “make it perfect” in one visit burns you out fast. We share the wind policy we use, the cleanup order that keeps pools running, and the tools and customer habits that make storm weeks survivable. • Santa Ana wind season expectations and why the first storm hits hardest • using a written wind clause to protect time and reduce complaints • prioritizing pump and skimmer basket cleanup to restore circulation • skimming first and treating bottom cleanup as a later step when needed • asking customers to secure patio furniture and loose yard items before storms • carrying backup leaf rakes and an extra pole for breakage • choosing a vacuum system that can handle heavy leaves and dirt • leaving a pool pole and leaf rake onsite so customers can help safely • handling pushback by explaining route math and daylight limits Join the pool guy coaching program. Learn more at swimmingpoollearning.com. If you're interested in the coaching program that I offer you can learn more at poolguycoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2031
    Tuesday · 19 min

    Can You Service a Pool Without Doing Repairs?

    You don’t have to be a full-time mechanic to run a real pool service business. We hear the same fear from new and growing pool pros all the time: “I can do weekly pool cleaning, but I don’t know repairs.” Here’s the surprise. Plenty of successful pool service companies build strong routes by focusing on weekly pool maintenance and outsourcing the heavy repair work, as long as they understand equipment well enough to diagnose symptoms, explain the issue clearly, and take smart next steps. We walk through what “enough knowledge” actually looks like in the field. You need to know how pool systems operate, what normal flow and pressure look like, and how to identify common problems like air leaks, cracked baskets, clogged impellers, and equipment that won’t start. You don’t need to rebuild everything yourself, but you do need to recognize the signs, read error codes when they show up, and communicate confidently with the customer. That competence builds trust and keeps your weekly route running on time. Then we get practical about outsourcing pool repairs. We compare partnering with another service company versus working with a repair-only tech, and we share ways to find reliable repair partners through suppliers, manufacturer warranty provider lists, and local reps. We also cover liability and billing decisions, including why direct-to-customer invoicing often protects your business. Finally, we draw the line between small repairs you can handle and major installs you should refer out, plus how to win new service accounts even when a pump is down or the pool is going green. If you want to grow your pool route, streamline your schedule, and cut risk without sacrificing professionalism, hit play, then subscribe, share this with a pool pro friend, and leave a quick review so more techs can find it. We answer the question pool pros worry about most: can you run a pool service business without doing repairs. We break down the minimum equipment knowledge you need, how we outsource major fixes safely, and how this setup can help you scale a weekly service route. • Weekly service only as a viable pool service business model • Basic pool equipment knowledge needed to spot problems without fixing everything • Why repair-only partners reduce the risk of losing service accounts • Practical ways to find trusted repair-only techs through suppliers, reps, and warranty lists • Liability and billing setups that keep us out of the middle • Small fixes we should handle versus major repairs we should refer out • How we land new clients even when the pool needs repairs or a turnaround Join the pool guy coaching program. Learn more at swimmingpoollearning.com. If you're interested in the coaching program that I offer, you can learn more at poolguycoaching.com. And if you're looking for other podcasts, you can find those by going to my website, swimmingprolearning.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2030
    Monday · 19 min

    Are You Building a Future—or Just Working for Life?

    Your pool route might be profitable, but it also comes with a deadline most people ignore until their knees, hands, or shoulders force the conversation. We get real about the physical wear of pool service and why “I’ll figure it out later” can turn into working longer than you ever planned, especially when inflation keeps raising the cost of everything from gas to groceries. We walk through clear, practical retirement planning ideas for self-employed pool service pros: why cash sitting in the bank can lose value, how compound interest works over decades, and what a Roth IRA can do for your future taxes. We also talk about reinvesting profits back into your pool business for growth and deductions, while keeping an eye on the difference between active income and true passive income. And because Social Security may not carry as much weight for business owners, we dig into why outside guidance can help, including what you can learn from a financial advisor seminar. Then we tackle real estate investing, including why some advisors downplay it, and why rental property can be a rare mix of “now” benefits and “later” benefits. We cover tax deductions like depreciation and mortgage interest, how higher interest rates change the math for investors, and why service-minded pool professionals can make strong landlords because they already understand customer service and problem-solving. If you want a plan that helps you step back from the route on your terms, listen through to the end and pick one action you can take this week. Subscribe, share this with a pool pro friend, and leave a review so more people in the industry start planning earlier. We talk about why pool service can be a great career but a tough long-term job for your body, and why planning for retirement gets more urgent the longer you stay in the field. We break down practical ways to invest profits so inflation does not quietly erase your future options. • retirement stats and why many people feel behind • how inflation reduces purchasing power over time • why keeping too much cash can be costly • compound interest and long-term market investing basics • Roth IRA pros and the tradeoff of no tax break now • reinvesting in a pool service business versus building passive income • the physical wear of route work and planning around it • Social Security limits for self-employed business owners • meeting a financial advisor and learning from local seminars • real estate investing as income, deductions, and long-term asset growth • depreciation, interest, and expense deductions for rental property • starting early, adjusting saving and investing percentages by age • executing a plan now instead of “someday” Are you a pool service pro looking to take your business to the next level? Join the Pool Guy Coaching Program. Learn more at swimmingpoollearning.com. If you're interested in the coaching program that I offer, you can learn more at poolguycoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2029
    October 2 · 19 min

    Can DIY Pool Owners & Pool Pros Coexist?

    Your customer says they’re “pretty handy” and offers to handle the filter cleanings to save money. Sounds reasonable until the filter doesn’t get cleaned for weeks, the water starts sliding toward algae, and you discover the clamp was reinstalled wrong. Now it’s not just a service problem, it’s a safety and liability problem. That DIY crossover is getting more common, and we’re breaking down where it helps and where it can seriously hurt your route. We talk through why DIY pool maintenance has always been a major part of the industry, and how modern pool automation and chemical automation make homeowners feel even more capable. ORP systems, acid feed, salt systems, and app-controlled equipment can reduce day-to-day effort, but they don’t remove the need for correct maintenance and consistent oversight. When “helpful” tasks are done late or done wrong, the pool suffers and the pro often gets blamed. You’ll hear real examples of what goes wrong when homeowners clean cartridge or DE filters, including improper assembly and dangerous clamp issues, plus common pump basket and skimmer basket mistakes that can cause loss of prime or equipment damage. We also dig into when chemical-only pool service can be a smart offering for experienced DIY clients, and how to set clear rules so the pool stays clean and everyone stays safe. If you found this useful, subscribe, share it with a pool pro friend, and leave a review with your own boundary rule you won’t bend. DIY pool care is normal, but shared responsibilities can quickly create safety problems, bad water, and finger-pointing. We draw a hard line around high-risk equipment tasks and explain when a chemical-only pool service can actually work. • why DIY homeowners still make up a big part of pool care • how pool automation and chemical automation change the workload • why customers want to clean their own filter and why it fails • filter cleaning risks: timing, poor cleaning, dangerous reassembly • real-world DE filter mistakes: no DE and far too much DE • why homeowners should not touch pump baskets or skimmer baskets • what DIY tasks are genuinely helpful: skimming, brushing, watching the water • when chemical-only pool service fits and how to screen for the right client Learn more at swimmingpoollearning.com. If you're interested in the coaching program that I offer to learn more at poolguidecoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2028
    October 1 · 19 min

    Pool Surface Problems I’ve Seen Over the Years

    That “simple stain” on the pool floor might be permanent, and that fresh coat of pool paint might be a countdown to peeling, cloudy water, and filters packed with chalky dust. We walk through the surface issues we see most often across plaster pools, Pebble Tec finishes, fiberglass pools, and vinyl liner pools, with real-world examples that help you diagnose what you’re looking at before you promise a miracle fix. We get honest about painting plaster pools: why it became popular as a cosmetic solution, what proper epoxy pool paint prep actually takes, and why the second round is so much harder than the first. We also talk about the most common plaster defects like step-area chipping, deep-end flaking, and rust marks caused by metal objects or chemical burns from trichlor tablets, plus why some “rust stains” are really rebar bleeding through the plaster and need a patch repair, not more acid. From there, we shift to Pebble Tec calcium haze that makes the finish look foggy, and the surprising rust spots caused by metal in individual pebbles that usually require a builder or warranty visit to chip out the source. We also cover fiberglass gel coat wear that shows up as white powder when you brush, and why fiberglass and vinyl are so easy to stain with tabs, granules, and metals. If you want fewer callbacks and cleaner service bids, you’ll leave with clear warning signs to watch for and smarter ways to set expectations. Subscribe for more pool service advice, share this with a tech who keeps inheriting “mystery stains,” and leave a review with the pool surface issue you want us to break down next. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2027
    September 30 · 19 min

    Pool Tile Covered in White Build-Up — Can It Be Removed?

    That bright white crust on the waterline and spa spillway can make a pool look old overnight, especially on darker tile. We walk through what’s really happening when water evaporates and leaves minerals behind, why hard water makes it worse, and how to identify the kind of scale you’re dealing with before you waste time scrubbing. If you’ve ever wondered why one pool cleans up fast while another seems permanently “chalked,” the chemistry and the deposit type are the missing pieces. We get practical about removal options, from acid-based tile soap and consistent weekly brushing to more aggressive methods like careful scraping and sanding. We also explain why those approaches may help with calcium carbonate but often fail against calcium silicate, the thicker, stubborn scale that can cling to tile for years. When you need a true reset, we talk about professional glass bead tile cleaning, what the process looks like, and how to frame the recommendation so customers understand the cost and the payoff. Then we zoom out to prevention and pool water chemistry. Using LSI (Langelier Saturation Index) and tools like the Orenda app, we show how water temperature can flip the same pool from balanced to scale forming, why summer is a constant battle, and how a slightly negative LSI can reduce scaling pressure without risking corrosive damage. We also share scheduling tricks like running spillways longer or shutting off after sunset to reduce sun-driven calcification. If pool tile calcium buildup, spa spillway scale, and LSI balancing are ongoing headaches in your route, hit play, subscribe, and share this with a pool pro who’s tired of explaining “that white line.” After listening, leave a review and tell us what tile and water conditions you’re fighting right now. We break down why white calcium buildup shows up on pool tile lines and spa spillways, and why regular weekly service usually can’t erase heavy staining. We share the safest ways to clean it, when to recommend glass beading, and how LSI and water temperature decide how fast scale forms. • evaporation and splash-out leaving dissolved minerals behind • spotting hard water clues on sinks, shower heads, and toilets • calcium carbonate vs calcium silicate and why it matters • when tile soap works and when it won’t touch the buildup • scraping and sandpaper options plus damage and liability risks • using acid-based tile cleaners and gel products more safely • pump run-time tricks to keep spillways from drying out • tracking LSI with the Orenda app and adjusting pH without going too corrosive • setting customer expectations and explaining scale as a natural process Join the pool guy coaching program. Learn more at swimmingpoollearning.com. If you're interested in the coaching program that I offer, you can learn more at poleguidecoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2026
    September 29 · 18 min

    Before You Start an Acid Wash Don’t Make These Mistakes!

    Draining a pool sounds simple until the plaster starts chipping, the customer expects miracles, or someone asks the one question that never goes away: “Will my pool pop out?” We break down the real-world judgment calls behind pool drains, acid washes, and chlorine washes, with a focus on timing, surface risk, and clear customer communication. We talk about why the off-season is the sweet spot for a drain and clean, and why high air temps and direct sun can turn a routine job into cracked plaster, flaking steps, and permanent damage. You’ll hear how we think about full drains versus partial drains for high cyanuric acid (CYA), plus the situations where an acid wash is the wrong answer because the surface already has chips or cracks. From there, we compare acid wash vs chlorine wash for pool stain removal, including when a chlorine wash is the better choice for organic staining, algae, and black algae. We also cover jobsite safety and chemistry: why chlorine and muriatic acid must never mix, how thorough rinsing protects you, and why straight liquid chlorine can leave caustic residue that can wreck a filter. Finally, we share a practical business lens: when these labor-heavy jobs make sense, and when to pass unless it leads to ongoing pool service. If you want the acid wash waiver, email David@Swimmingpoollearning.com, then subscribe, share the episode with a pool pro, and leave a review so more techs can avoid expensive drain-day mistakes. We walk through how to time a pool drain, acid wash, or chlorine wash so you do not damage plaster, trigger cracks, or create a headache you cannot undo. We also talk about setting expectations, choosing the right wash for the stain, and protecting your business from avoidable risk. • why the off-season is the safest time for drains and washes • deciding between a full drain and a partial drain for high CYA • avoiding hot-weather drains that can chip and crack plaster • refusing acid washes on already damaged plaster or pebble surfaces • managing customer expectations and avoiding overpromising • choosing a chlorine wash for organic stains and black algae • explaining hydrostatic pressure and when pool pop-out risk rises • preventing toxic fumes by rinsing thoroughly between chlorine and acid • diluting liquid chlorine to avoid caustic residue and filter damage • using soda ash to neutralize acidic water in the sump basin • making drain and wash jobs fit a smart pool service business model Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2025
    September 28 · 19 min

    Century EVO VS NIDEC: The Best Pool Pump Motor Upgrade

    You can save serious money by upgrading to a variable speed pool pump without cutting pipes, but only if you understand what you’re trading off. We put two popular retrofit options side by side: the Century V-Green Evo and the NIDEC variable speed replacement motor. Both let you keep your existing wet end and swap only the motor and drive, but they feel very different to live with day to day. We walk through the details that actually change the outcome: available total horsepower options, dual voltage behavior, and why a 115V setup can quietly limit what a “bigger” VS motor can deliver. Then we dig into the biggest usability split, programming and control. The V-Green Evo goes with a one-button, preset approach that can be simple for homeowners who want fewer choices. NIDEC sticks to a more traditional back-mounted controller that many pool pros prefer for quick-clean runs and easy speed changes. We also cover a make-or-break feature for many equipment pads: the auxiliary relay. If you need to coordinate a salt chlorine generator or a booster pump, that relay can eliminate an extra timer and simplify wiring. Finally, we share practical sizing guidance, when a full branded Pentair, Hayward, or Jandy variable speed pump is the smarter move for automation systems, and a quick checklist for flange types and installation basics. If this helped you, subscribe for more pool equipment breakdowns, share the episode with a pool owner who’s planning an upgrade, and leave a review so more people can find the show. We compare the Century V-Green Evo and NIDEC variable speed replacement motors and explain what you gain and what you give up when you retrofit a VS drive onto your existing pool pump. We also lay out the real decision points around controls, voltage, auxiliary relays, automation compatibility, sizing, and install details so you can choose confidently. • cost savings versus full variable speed pump replacement • horsepower options and why 2.7 THP can matter • 115V versus 230V limits and how power modulation works • V-Green Evo one-button programming versus a traditional controller • why pros prefer a back-mounted controller for quick changes • auxiliary relay benefits for salt cells and booster pumps • when automation systems make a branded VS pump the better choice • sizing guidance to avoid downsizing flow for spas and features • flange identification tips and practical install steps If you're looking for other podcasts, you can find those by going to my website, swingingpoollearning.com. Clicking on the podcast icon on the banner will give you 2,000 podcasts to listen to. And if you're interested in the coaching program and can learn more at PoolGuyCoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2024
    September 25 · 18 min

    Is Your Pool Route Bleeding Money? Smart Fixes!

    Gas at $6 a gallon can make any pool service pro start eyeing a hybrid truck, but the decision is rarely as simple as “better MPG equals savings.” We walk through the real-world math of keeping a paid-off truck versus taking on a new payment, plus the added costs people forget to count like insurance and registration. If you want a clear way to sanity-check your own numbers, you’ll hear the same framework we use on route. From there, we go after the bigger wins: route optimization that actually cuts miles. That can mean letting go of outlying pools, trading accounts, consolidating supply runs, or getting pool chemicals delivered so you stop burning fuel on errands. We also call out popular “tiny hacks” that don’t move the needle, like tailgate myths and obsessing over small weight reductions, and we replace them with changes that can save serious money over a year. We also get blunt about two common profit leaks: eating out every day and paying for chemical hog pools out of your own pocket. We talk about keeping customers happy with consistent monthly billing while still passing through heavy chemical use, including the practical approach of leaving buckets on site for chlorine demand. If you want more breathing room in your pool service business, plus a plan to cut costs and grow revenue at the same time, hit play, then subscribe, share this with a pool pro friend, and leave a review. We break down practical ways to save real money on a pool route without cutting care quality, especially when gas prices spike and inflation makes every expense louder. We run the math on truck decisions, then zoom out to the bigger levers that protect profit and create time to grow. • running the numbers on keeping a paid-off truck versus buying a hybrid • reducing miles by trading or replacing outlying pools • focusing on big changes instead of tailgate and weight myths • consolidating to a four-day schedule to cut driving and open time for repairs • cutting hidden spending like daily eating out and coffee stops • identifying chemical-heavy pools that quietly drain margins • keeping consistent billing while charging for heavy chemical use with buckets left on site Learn more at SwimmingPoollearning.com. If you're interested in the coaching program, you can learn more at PoolGuyCoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2023
    September 24 · 19 min

    The Honest Truth About Variable Speed Pumps

    Your variable speed pool pump is saving electricity, so why does the pool suddenly feel “different”? That’s the gap we tackle head-on, using real service-world examples that homeowners and even experienced pool pros run into right after a VS pump install. When you drop from a single speed pump at roughly 3450 RPM to lower speeds like 1800 to 2400 RPM, the pool’s surface velocity changes, skimming can feel weaker, and debris may not funnel to the skimmer the way you expect. Nothing is necessarily broken, but the behavior is different and it catches people off guard. I walk through the practical tradeoffs: automatic pool cleaners that crawl at low speed, water features and spillways that look underpowered unless you schedule a higher RPM block, and why a “medium speed” around 2600 RPM is often the real-world setting that makes equipment function the way customers want. We also get into the part that triggers the most pushback, longer runtime. A VS pump may need far more hours to deliver comparable circulation, and I share an easy way to explain that to customers and what I do when they refuse to see a pump running late. Then we go beyond performance into the stuff nobody puts on the box: sticker shock on VS pump pricing, expensive drive replacements, the added programming layer because the pump becomes its own timer, and how Department of Energy regulations have narrowed your choices. If you’re trying to balance energy savings, water quality, cleaner performance, and customer expectations, you’ll leave with a clear framework for setting RPM by pool size and scheduling speeds that actually match how the pool is used. Subscribe, share this with a pool owner or pool tech who’s fighting a “too long runtime” complaint, and leave a review with your biggest VS pump question. We break down the real-world drawbacks people notice after switching from a single speed pump to a variable speed pool pump, even when the energy savings are undeniable. I share the issues that cause the most confusion, from weaker surface skimming to longer runtimes, plus how I program RPM based on cleaner needs and pool size. • reduced surface velocity at low RPM leading to less skimmer pull • why 1800 RPM can be a sweet spot for low speed • automatic cleaner performance limits at low speed and typical RPM ranges that work • water features and spillways looking weak unless you schedule higher speeds • explaining longer VS runtimes to customers and when to stop fighting it • why manufacturer “percentage savings” claims do not fit every pool • programming and scheduling complexity since the pump becomes the timer • higher price point, expensive drives, and why warranty support matters • Department of Energy regulations reducing consumer choice Are you a Pool Service Pro looking to take your business to the next level? Join the Pool Guy Coaching Program. Learn more at swimming poollearning.com. If you're looking for other podcasts, you can find those on my website, swimmingprolearning.com. And if you're interested in the coaching program, you can learn more at pullguycoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2022
    September 23 · 19 min

    The DE Filter Replacement Decision

    That old DE filter on the pad is doing more than collecting dirt, it is quietly adding hours to your workload and choking your pool’s circulation every time the PSI creeps up. We break down what really happens when a DE grid filter ages out, why the “quickest” replacement can be the most expensive choice over time, and what upgrades actually make a difference for water clarity, flow, and weekly maintenance. We use a familiar setup like a Pentair FNS Plus as the reference point and compare realistic replacement paths: swapping to another DE filter, moving to a sand filter, stepping up to a quad DE filter, or making the jump to a high-capacity cartridge filter. The biggest takeaway is surface area. Going from a 60 sq ft DE filter to a 500 to 520 sq ft cartridge filter can multiply filtration area many times over, which translates into stronger returns, a healthier spa spillway, fewer flow-related water quality problems, and far fewer filter cleanings. We also cover the practical retrofit details pool service pros care about, like removing the backwash valve, dealing with reversed plumbing, and choosing a cartridge model that fits the same equipment pad footprint. We also talk safety and compliance: DE dust can be hazardous if inhaled, DE residue can linger around equipment areas for years, and dumping DE into the street or storm drains can lead to fines in places like California. If you want a cleaner pad, simpler cleanings, and steadier circulation, this is the roadmap. Subscribe for more pool service tactics, share this with a tech who still dreads DE cleanups, and leave a review with your go-to filter upgrade and why. We walk through the best options when a DE pool filter finally wears out and why the easiest swap is not always the best upgrade. We make the case for a large cartridge filter to boost flow, reduce cleanings, avoid DE mess, and simplify life for both techs and homeowners. • replacing a worn DE filter with a large cartridge filter for major surface area gains • why DE filters get inefficient as PSI rises and flow drops • what improves when circulation stays strong: returns, spillway, heater performance, chemical mixing • plumbing considerations when converting DE to cartridge, including removing the backwash valve and reversed ports • why sand filters usually make less sense than cartridges for footprint and efficiency • when a quad DE filter is a reasonable choice and why it needs a specific backwash setup • safety and compliance issues around DE dust and disposing of backwash water Learn more at Swimmy. If you're interested in a coaching program, you can learn more at PoolGatcoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2021
    September 22 · 19 min

    Pool Products That Shouldn’t Have Died

    They didn’t just discontinue a few random SKUs. They retired products that pool pros actually relied on, and that raises a bigger question: what makes a manufacturer walk away from a cleaner or filter that still works? We unpack the real-world reasons behind “dead” pool products, starting with Pentair’s decision to discontinue a long list of suction side pool cleaners, including the famous Creepy Crawly, and whether variable speed pumps are truly to blame or just a convenient narrative. From there, we do a practical teardown of the Pentair 4000 series DE filter. We talk about what it got right for serviceability, why the rotor valve became a costly pain point, and how issues like a heavy cracking lid, UV wear on fiberglass, and an old-school clamp design can quietly doom a product over time. This is the kind of equipment history that helps pool service techs troubleshoot older pads and explain upgrade paths to customers with confidence. We also zoom out to pressure-side cleaners, booster pump requirements, and why newer “innovations” sometimes lose to proven classics like the Polaris 280. Finally, we look at the market shift toward robotic pool cleaners and why discontinuing a lead-in product can ripple into pump, filter, and automation sales. If you’ve ever wondered why the pool industry changes so fast, this conversation connects the dots. Subscribe for more pool industry insights, share this with a pool pro who’ll have opinions, and leave a review with the one discontinued pool product you wish would come back. We dig into why once-iconic pool products get discontinued, even when they still perform well in the field. We weigh real-world service experience against manufacturer reasoning and look at how product strategy can quietly reshape a brand’s market share. • Pentair suction cleaner discontinuations and what stayed • Variable speed pumps versus suction requirements in practice • Why the Little Rebel likely disappeared • Pentair 4000 series DE filter strengths and failure points • Rotor valve wear, heavy lids, UV damage, and clamp design • TriVac pressure cleaner relaunch problems including price and performance • Booster pump energy use and why builders moved away • Why the Polaris 280 design keeps winning • Pentair’s missed opportunity in robotic pool cleaners • Why “lead-in” products influence pump and filter buying decisions • Revamp versus scrap and what smart redesign looks like Join the pool guy coaching program. Learn more at swimmingpoollearning.com. If you're looking for other podcasts, you can find those by going to my website, swimmingpoollearning.com. If you're interested in the coaching program, you can learn more at poolguycoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2020
    September 21 · 17 min

    Pool Safety: What’s Your Best Bet?

    A backyard pool is supposed to be fun, but it can also become dangerous in the span of a few minutes. We talk through the safety layers that actually prevent child drowning when distraction, routine, and “we’ll be right back” moments collide with open water. If you’re a pool owner, a parent or grandparent, or a pool service pro who advises customers, this is a practical guide to building real protection instead of relying on hope. We start with the first line of defense: a pool fence. We compare removable mesh fencing and more permanent options, then get honest about the weak points we see all the time, like gates that aren’t locked, installs that drift out of alignment, and kids who figure out how to climb. From there, we add a secondary layer with smart detection, including an AI camera system like SwamCam that can alert your phone with fewer false alarms than older motion devices. Technology helps, but it works best when it backs up physical barriers. Next, we get into the habits and equipment that tighten the system: removing pool toys and floaties so kids aren’t tempted and the water stays visible, and using safety covers the right way. We talk about automatic pool covers for rectangular pools, why leaving a cover open creates liability for service pros, and what to do immediately if a cover jams. We also break down tensioned pool nets, the “Spider-Man” style barrier that can be extremely safe when fully tightened and consistently used, but dangerous when left loose or half-installed. Finally, we round it out with swim lessons, door alarms, self-closing doors, and simple physical door pins to reduce access from the house. If you care about pool safety, share this with someone who has kids around water, subscribe for more pool industry insights, and leave a review with the safety step you’re adding next. We lay out the safety layers that prevent child drowning in backyard pools, starting with the reality that accidents happen fast and quietly. We share what actually works in the field, what fails in real homes, and how pool pros can guide customers toward safer choices with less liability. • why drowning risk stays high for young children • mesh fencing and wrought iron fencing as the first defense • self-latching gates, locked gates, and common fence failure points • SwamCam AI pool camera as a secondary alert system • removing pool toys and floaties to cut temptation and improve visibility • automatic pool covers, when they fit best, and why pros should always close them • what to do when a safety cover jams or will not close • tensioned pool nets as an ultimate barrier when used correctly • swim lessons, door alarms, self-closing doors, and simple door pins as extra layers Join the pool guy coaching program. Get expert advice, business tips, exclusive content, and get direct support from me. I'm a 35-year veteran in the industry. Whether you're starting out or scaling up, I've got the tools to help you succeed. Learn more at Swimmy Pool. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2019
    September 18 · 19 min

    Avoid Liability on Your Pool Start-Ups

    Brand new plaster looks perfect for about five minutes, then reality hits: dust, rising pH, builder timelines, and a homeowner who expects the finish to stay flawless forever. We walk through how we approach a new plaster pool startup using a traditional startup method that is easier to execute, easier to explain, and far easier to defend if anyone tries to pin plaster defects on the startup tech later. We point you to practical resources from the National Plasterers Council, including the NPC startup card and the option to take a startup technician certification course. Then we get into the day-one mindset that keeps you out of trouble: show up as close to fill day as possible, never let the water stop mid-fill, and document everything before you touch the pool. We talk about what “normal” plaster variation can look like, why lighting changes your inspection, and how photos plus written notes protect you when discoloration or mottling becomes a warranty argument. From there we dig into the core water chemistry fundamentals for new plaster pools: tracking pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, metals, and keeping an eye on LSI during the first 28 days. We cover why fresh plaster creates heavy acid demand, how to think about alkalinity targets, and how brushing twice daily with a nylon brush helps manage plaster dust. We also flag common early mistakes like wheeled vacuums, stainless steel brushing, auto cleaners, and adding salt too soon. If you want more startup wins with fewer headaches, subscribe, share this with a pool pro who does startups, and leave a review with your best day-one documentation tip. We break down how to do a new plaster pool startup with fewer surprises and less liability by sticking to a traditional, step-by-step method. We also explain why documentation, photos, and consistent chemistry logs are the difference between getting blamed and being protected when plaster issues show up later. • why many pool pros avoid startups and where the risk really comes from • using National Plasterers Council resources, the NPC startup card, and certification training • traditional startup vs acid or hot startup and why traditional is easier to defend • documenting plaster appearance, lighting effects, and pre-existing conditions • logging pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, metals, and every chemical addition • keeping alkalinity in a safe range and managing pH rise from fresh plaster • dealing with plaster dust and when additives or sequestrants can help • fill day rules like never stopping the water mid-fill • brushing twice daily and avoiding wheeled vacuums, stainless brushes, auto cleaners, and salt early • how disputes usually play out and why records matter even years later Join the pool guy coaching program. Learn more at swimmingpoollearning.com. If you want this, I can send this to you. Just email me at David at Swimmingpoollearning.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2018
    September 17 · 33 min

    FieldPay: Get Paid Before You Pack the Truck!

    The fastest way to create friction in a pool service business is to make good people wait for money they already earned. I sit down with Flavia de la Fuente, creator of Field Pay, and pool pro Brett Murdoch to talk about the messy reality most of us live with: checks piling up in a glovebox, subcontractors billing months late, and “quick” payments through Zelle or Venmo that turn into a recordkeeping nightmare. Try it for FREE at the Growth and Pro with Promo Code: BRETT We break down what Field Pay is built to do: help pool companies pay technicians and 1099 subcontractors quickly after work is completed, with clean logs that make accounting and profitability tracking easier. Flavia explains how the platform supports the ways field teams actually get paid, from per-job and per-stop payouts to performance-based incentives, and how integrations with systems like Skimmer and Housecall Pro can reduce steps even further. Brett shares what changes once approvals become a one-tap habit and payouts are predictable instead of sporadic. We also get specific about W-2 teams versus 1099 vendors. Payroll still handles taxes and remains your source of truth, but Field Pay can accelerate spiffs and bonuses tied to behaviors you want more of, like five-star reviews, lead spotting, route coverage, and holiday calls. We cover safeguards like roster-based access to reduce fraud and mistakes, plus practical touches like reimbursements and a Spanish-language app experience. If you want a tighter back office, better technician retention, and fewer payment surprises, press play. Subscribe, share this with a pool pro who’s tired of chasing invoices, and leave a review so more service companies can find it. We dig into why paying technicians and subcontractors is one of the biggest hidden choke points in a pool service business, and how speed and clarity can change everything from retention to profitability. Flavia de la Fuente and Brett Murdoch break down how Field Pay streamlines approvals, records, and payouts so we can stop chasing invoices and start running cleaner systems. • Brett’s origin story in the pool industry and why process matters for scaling • why cash, checks, and late subcontractor invoices create avoidable risk and wasted time • how instant payouts after job completion change technician behavior and job coverage • handling real-world pay types like per stop, per job, route pay, commission-style earnings • using fast “spiffs” for reviews, leads, referrals, and weekend or holiday coverage • where Field Pay fits with W-2 payroll and why payroll stays the tax source of truth • integrations with tools like Skimmer and Housecall Pro to pull completed-work data • cleaner records for profitability tracking, reconciliations, and year-end reporting • roster-based controls to prevent misdirected payments and reduce fraud • pricing tiers and quick setup at Myfieldpay.com Learn more at swimmingpoollearning.com. Myfieldpay.com. you can learn more at PoolGuyCoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2017
    September 16 · 18 min

    Successful Bidding: Bid Smarter, Not Cheaper

    Most pool service bids aren’t lost because you’re bad at cleaning pools, they’re lost because you were slower, less clear, or less confident than the next company. We walk through a practical, field-tested approach to bidding that helps you win the right accounts without blowing up your schedule or training customers to expect bargain pricing. We talk about when a photo is enough and when you need boots on the ground, why “first contact” matters so much on platforms like Thumbtack, and how to set up your day so you can actually fit estimates into a working pool route. From there we get real about territory strategy: keeping your service area tight, quickly checking addresses, and knowing when a lead is a bad fit even if you want the work. Pricing is the next make-or-break skill. We share how to find your local market range, why lowball bids leave money on the table, and how to position your pool maintenance business around reliability, proactive equipment checks, and clear communication. We also cover the softer skills that close deals: showing up looking professional, having a vehicle that inspires confidence, answering customer interview questions, and avoiding overpromising on stains or special requests. To wrap it up, we explain why walking back a quote or underbidding a green pool cleanup can cost you far more than the job itself through lost trust and lost referrals. If you got value from this, subscribe, share it with a pool pro who’s quoting jobs this week, and leave a quick review with the one bidding mistake you never want to repeat. We break down what actually makes a pool service bid land, from showing up fast to pricing in a way that protects long-term profit. We also share how to handle customer “interview” questions, avoid overpromising, and keep your route tight so new accounts fit your schedule. • choosing boots on the ground over photo-only bids when it matters • responding first and booking fast to beat slower competitors • tightening your territory to protect drive time and route density • checking the address immediately and fitting bids into service days • learning local market rates and staying within a fair range • selling reliability and communication instead of cheap pricing • dressing clean and keeping a professional-looking vehicle and signage • preparing for customer questions about weather, algae, and policies • avoiding overpromising on stains and schedule commitments • never backtracking on a quote and learning from underbidding mistakes • thinking beyond one job to referrals and repeat business Join the pool guy coaching program. Learn more at swimmingpoollearning.com. And if you're interested in the coaching program that I offer, you can learn more at pullgreycoaching.com. And if you're looking for other podcasts, you can find those by going to my website, smoking for learning.com on the banner. Click on the podcast icon. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2016
    September 15 · 18 min

    Pool Guy Tips: Knowing When to Stop Trying

    A single pool can hijack your entire day if you don’t have a line you won’t cross. We’re sharing the kind of “only learned in the field” pool service knowledge that saves hours on a route and keeps you from chasing problems that refuse to cooperate. First, we get practical about one of the most common time traps: a pump that won’t prime after running dry. We talk through quick checks that actually matter, like lubing or replacing the pump lid o-ring, using an attached spa to help establish suction, and knowing when to stop repeating the same steps. The big takeaway is a hard boundary: if it won’t prime fast, shut it down, clean what you can, and come back with time or hand it to a repair tech who can go deeper. Then we shift from equipment to business survival with a clear approach to late payments. We lay out a simple billing rhythm, when to remind, and when it’s fair to pause service so you don’t end up funding someone else’s pool with your own chemicals and payroll. We also cover “mystery algae” that isn’t really a chemistry problem at all. Sometimes the homeowner is turning the system off for noise, cutting variable speed pump runtime to save money, or stopping a standalone VS pump during a party and forgetting to restart it. We finish with a few honest strategies for handling chatty customers so you can stay focused and keep your route on track. Subscribe for more real-world pool pro guidance, share this with a tech who needs boundaries, and leave a review with the biggest time sink you’ve had on a stop. We share field-tested pool service boundaries that save your route when problems, payments, or people start eating your day. We walk through priming failures, late-paying customers, mystery algae tied to pump runtime, and simple ways to keep moving without being rude. • setting a 10-minute limit when a pool pump will not prime • fast priming fixes using spa suction, o-ring lube, and basic tightening checks • recognizing hidden blockages like debris in the suction line • leaving the system off and scheduling a return or referring repairs out • creating a firm billing timeline and stopping service for non-payment • understanding why overdue balances snowball and rarely get “caught up” • diagnosing sudden algae by checking timers, schedules, and customer changes • educating homeowners on variable speed pump electricity use and runtime • preventing shutdowns on standalone VS pumps after parties • using honest exit strategies with chatty customers to protect focus and speed Learn more at Swimmipoollearning.com. If you're interested in the coaching program, you can learn more at PoolGuyCoaching.com. If you're looking for other podcasts, you can find those by going to my website, somethingpoollearning.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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  • S10 · E2015
    September 14 · 17 min

    Is AI Better Than Me? & Other YT Questions Answered

    A pool cleaner that devours acorns can get stopped by something the size of a couple grains of rice, and once you know why, you start diagnosing faster and wasting less time on the deck. I’m digging into the most common YouTube questions I get from pool owners and pool service pros and expanding them into practical, real-world troubleshooting you can use on your next stop. We start with the Polaris Max and Polaris Atlas suction pool cleaners and the big design tradeoff behind the newer Halo engine. It’s far better with long string-like debris than older designs, but small pebbles can jam the mechanism and make the cleaner look “dead” even when suction is fine. I explain what’s happening, where it shows up most often (hello, pebble tech pools), and the simple way to clear it and get moving again. Then we shift to a problem that costs people equipment: trying to drain a pool by backwashing. I break down when backwash is safe, why push-pull piston valves and DE grids can get damaged if you run backwash too long, and why a multiport valve with waste mode is the right approach. From there, I walk through pump priming failures, how to check for impeller clogs, why the lid O-ring is not always the culprit, and what lubricant actually belongs on pool O-rings. We wrap with saltwater chlorine generator troubleshooting using the Jandy TrueClear check cell and the fast “bubble test,” plus a clear explanation of borates at 50 ppm for algae control and pH stability. If you got value from these pool maintenance tips, subscribe, share the show with a pool friend, and leave a quick review so more people can find it. I answer a stack of real YouTube questions with field-tested fixes for cleaners, pumps, salt cells, and water balance. We talk tradeoffs, quick diagnostics, and the little mistakes that quietly damage equipment over time. • Why Polaris Max and Atlas can stop with strong suction • How the Halo engine handles string debris yet jams on tiny pebbles • Why draining by backwashing can damage DE grids with push-pull valves • What to check when a pump loses prime including impeller debris • How to lube a pump lid O-ring correctly with Magic Lube • A simple spa mode test to isolate priming problems • How to confirm Jandy TrueClear chlorine production by looking for bubbles • Why output percentage and pump RPM matter for salt cell activation • Where AI comparisons help and where real-world experience still matters • How borates at 50 ppm help as an algostat and pH buffer • Alkalinity targets and using muriatic acid to keep pH in range Are you a pool service pro looking to take your business to the next level? Join the Pool Guy Coaching Program. Get expert advice, business tips, exclusive content, and get direct support from me. I'm a 35-year veteran in the industry. Whether you're starting out or scaling up, I've got the tools to help you succeed. Learn more at Swimmipoollearning.com. If you don't want to rely on AI specifically and are looking for other podcasts, you can find those by going to my website, swimmingpolearning.com. If you're interested in the coaching program that I offer, you can learn more at poolguycoaching.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA REWARDS App https://hasa.com/hasa-app The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

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Showing 1–20 of 58 episodes