Water Chemistry Archives

Peeing in Pools: The Chemical Reactions

Post author:Rudy
Post published:April 13, 2025
Post category:Water Chemistry

When someone decides "Peeing in Pools" is ok and it's time to take a little "bathroom break" (because apparently, that's just fine), a chain of chemical reactions starts to unfold…

Understanding Sulfates and Sales Tax in Pool Service

Post author:Rudy
Post published:November 16, 2024
Post category:Water Chemistry

Understanding Sulfates and Sales Tax in Pool Service: Key Insights for Pool Professionals As a pool service technician, staying ahead of potential issues and regulatory responsibilities is essential. In this…

ORP Secrets & Niche Profits

Post author:Rudy
Post published:October 26, 2024
Post category:Water Chemistry

In this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Rudy Stankowitz delves into two significant topics for pool professionals: the oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) in swimming pool water and how to identify…

pH Balance, pH Buffers, and Negotiation Strategies

Post author:Rudy
Post published:October 5, 2024
Post category:Water Chemistry

This Friday's episode of The Talking Pools Podcast brought a blend of chilling announcements and practical pool-care advice from host Rudy Stankowitz. Known for his passion for both the horror…

Making Stabilized Chlorine

Post author:Rudy
Post published:August 20, 2023
Post category:Chemicals Pool News

Cyanuric acid is a white, crystalline powder commonly used in the swimming pool industry as a stabilizer. It helps slow chlorine decomposition in sunlight, reducing the amount of chlorine needed…

Iron Bacteria

Post author:Rudy
Post published:June 6, 2023
Post category:Pool News Staining

Swimming Pool Iron Bacteria - The Orange Sludge! Iron bacteria are commonly found in well water and can pose a health hazard in swimming pools. These bacteria are responsible for…

Chelating agents and Sequestering agents

Post author:Rudy
Post published:May 20, 2023
Post category:Staining

the secrets behind chelating agents and sequestering agents. Remember, the dance between metals and your pool's chemistry is a delicate one.

The Brain-Eating Amoeba

Post author:Rudy
Post published:May 18, 2023
Post category:Swimming Pool Safety Waterborne Illnesses

The Brain-Eating Amoeba (Naegleria fowleri) is a single-celled amoeba that can cause a rare and devastating brain infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). While it is relatively uncommon, cases of…

Ammonium hydroxide

Post author:Rudy
Post published:April 7, 2023
Post category:Chemicals

Ammonium hydroxide, or ammonia water, is a common chemical in swimming pool care. It is a colorless solution of ammonia gas in water and has a pungent odor. It is…

Carbonate Alkalinity

Post author:Rudy
Post published:May 17, 2022
Post category:Water Chemistry

You are probably familiar with the effect of cyanuric acid on the effectiveness of chlorine. Or, at least, the myth of chlorine lock. Regardless, we agree that the subject gets…

Talking Pools Podcast

Forget chasing chlorine headaches and battling algae wars alone. The Talking Pools Podcast is your weekly escape from pool purgatory, where 250+ years of combined pro wisdom explodes into actionable hacks, mind-blowing tips, and secrets so ancient they make Poseidon jealous.

Think of it as your weekly poolside braintrust, fueled by eight seasoned pros, each a rockstar in their own aquatic lane. Got a filtration fiasco? Chemical conundrum? Equipment enigma? No problem. We’ve got a host for that:

The Tech Titan: Unravels the mysteries of pumps, filters, and gizmos that make pools tick (without the electrical shocks).

The Chem Crusader: Your personal alchemist, whipping up potion-perfect water balance with a dash of science and a sprinkle of magic.

The Maintenance Maverick: From tile tricks to algae assassins, he’s got the lowdown on keeping your pool looking like a liquid emerald palace.

The Customer Calmer: Smooths ruffled feathers faster than a pool noodle bouquet, turning hangry homeowners into poolside pals.

But Talking Pools isn’t just about technical wizardry. It’s about camaraderie, the shared language of pool pros who’ve seen it all, from exploding filters to synchronized swimming squirrels (no, really, we had an episode!).

Every week, you’ll:

Steal game-changing secrets: Learn pro-grade hacks to make you the “Pool Whisperer” in your market

Laugh until you spit out your piña colada: These guys are as witty as they are wise, turning pool problems into poolside punchlines.

Get ahead of the curve: Stay on top of industry trends and tech before your competitors even smell the chlorine.

Feel the love (and the sunshine): Remember why you got into this business in the first place – the joy of creating backyard oases where memories are made.

So, ditch the Drano, grab your headphones, and dive into the Talking Pools Podcast. It’s your weekly dose of poolside wisdom, laughter, and community. We’ll see you on the flip side!

P.S. Subscribe now and you might just win a case of pool party essentials (floaties not included, sorry squirrels).

P.P.S. Tell your pool-loving friends – sharing knowledge is like sharing sunscreen, it protects everyone!

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Talking Pools Podcast

Pool Filter Media F**k ups: Don’t let this happen to you!

Do you have an idea for a podcast episode?In this episode of Talking Pools, the hosts discuss various[...]

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41:47

Do you have an idea for a podcast episode?

In this episode of Talking Pools, the hosts discuss various aspects of pool maintenance, particularly focusing on the challenges posed by seasonal changes, the importance of filter media, and the signs indicating when maintenance is needed. They also delve into the use of zeolite in filtration systems and share techniques for replacing filter media effectively. The conversation is light-hearted yet informative, with anecdotes and practical advice for pool service professionals. In this conversation, the speakers discuss best practices for filter replacement in pools, emphasizing the importance of replacing the entire filter rather than just the media. They explore the evolution of filter media, comparing traditional sand to modern glass media, and touch on the maintenance of DE filters. The discussion highlights the significance of proper filtration for water quality and concludes with an invitation for listeners to engage in future training opportunities.

takeaways

Connectivity issues can affect outdoor activities.
Seasonal changes bring unique challenges for pool maintenance.
Worms and other creatures often end up in pools during wet weather.
Filter media needs regular maintenance to ensure water clarity.
Pressure gauges are essential for monitoring filter performance.
Clarity of water can indicate filter media issues.
Zeolite requires recharging and can hold onto phosphates.
Proper agitation of filter media can improve performance.
Old filters may still provide clear water despite needing replacement.
Innovative tools can simplify media replacement tasks. Encouraging customers to replace the whole filter is best practice.
The cost of parts often makes a full replacement comparable to repairs.
Filters are becoming increasingly expensive, impacting customer decisions.
Gravel is rarely used in modern filters, with sand and glass being preferred.
Glass media offers better filtration and longevity compared to sand.
DE filters are effective but require more maintenance than other types.
Proper filtration is crucial for maintaining water quality in pools.
The age and condition of filters can significantly affect performance.
Using beach sand in pools is illegal and detrimental to filtration.
Engaging with listeners during training sessions fosters community and learning.