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 genre and swimming pool maintenance, Rudy shared some exciting news about his latest ventures outside the world of pools, pH buffers, and water chemistry.
Stankowitz, a horror enthusiast, announced his involvement as an associate producer in a new horror-comedy movie, Bunker Heights, written by Drew Fortier and starring Hannah Fierman. “I’m excited about it. There’s a trailer out for it. It’s called Bunker Heights. Take a look at it. Let me know your thoughts,” Rudy said, clearly thrilled about the project. Fans of horror movies can find the trailer on YouTube and dive into the twisted world of Bunker Heights, which includes familiar faces from independent films.
In addition to his foray into film, Rudy also revealed that he’s rewriting his psychological thriller, Blades of Glass. “I wrote a psychological thriller a few years ago. Well, I’ve pulled that and I’m rewriting it as a second edition, and it’s almost complete,” Rudy shared. Fans of his previous work can expect a new and exciting version of the book by the end of the year, which will be available on Amazon.
Despite his excitement over his creative projects, Rudy quickly shifted gears back to his primary passion: pool maintenance. The bulk of the episode focused on the crucial topic of pH balance in swimming pools. Rudy explained the science behind pH, buffers, and the importance of keeping the water chemistry in check.
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“Maintaining the pH in a swimming pool is important for several reasons. First and foremost, the comfort level of the swimmers,” Rudy emphasized, driving home the point that proper pool maintenance ensures not only the longevity of the equipment but also the comfort and safety of those who use the pool.
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He delved into the complexities of pH levels, explaining that a lower pH promotes chlorine effectiveness, while a higher pH can lead to issues such as algae growth and equipment damage. Using his signature straightforward style, Rudy guided listeners through the science of buffering systems, PKA values, and the delicate dance of adjusting water chemistry.
In a particularly insightful segment, Rudy discussed how using sodium bicarbonate as a buffer can prevent drastic changes in pH levels, commonly referred to as pH “bounce.” He offered practical advice on how pool technicians can avoid such issues, pointing out that understanding the science behind pH balance can help them maintain optimal water conditions.
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Rudy’s deep dive into pool chemistry didn’t end there. He also discussed the impact of borates and bicarbonate buffer systems, explaining how they work to neutralize acids and bases, and why pool technicians should care about pKa values. “There are things we can do to keep the pH from moving about,” Rudy noted, adding that this knowledge can help extend the life of pool chemicals and reduce the frequency of adjustments needed to maintain water balance.
Toward the end of the episode, Rudy touched on an often-overlooked aspect of running a small pool service business: negotiating better pricing with suppliers. “This is your business. The better your price, the more profitable your company,” Rudy advised, encouraging pool service professionals to build strong relationships with distributors and negotiate for the best deals on supplies. He emphasized the importance of understanding the market, tracking price fluctuations, and using data to support requests for better terms.
By balancing his love for horror with practical advice on pool care, Rudy Stankowitz continues to engage his listeners, offering valuable insights into both the pool industry and his creative passions. As he wraps up each episode with his trademark sign-off, Rudy reminds us to “be good and be safe.”
The Talking Pools Podcast delivers a unique mix of pool care expertise and personal passion, making it a must-listen for professionals in the industry and anyone who enjoys learning something new—whether it’s about water chemistry or the latest horror film.
Stay tuned for more episodes of The Talking Pools Podcast and don’t miss Rudy’s upcoming projects, including the release of Bunker Heights and the revamped edition of Blades of Glass.
