The Pool Guy Podcast Show
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.
What Lies Beneath: The Truth About Pool Surfaces
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In this episode, I'm diving into the world of pool surface types—plaster, pebble, quartz, fiberglass, and vinyl. I break down the real-world pros and cons of each, from durability and aesthetics to maintenance needs and cost over time. Whether you're a pool owner deciding on a resurfacing option or a service pro looking to better understand your clients’ surfaces, this episode gives you the inside scoop.
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Too Acidic to Swim – Fixing Low pH Fast
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In this episode, I’m tackling very low pH in swimming pools—what causes it, how it affects your swimmers, pool surfaces, and equipment, and most importantly, how to fix and prevent it. Whether it's rain, overuse of acid, or just imbalance, low pH is more common than you'd think. I’ll also share how I use 20 Mule Team Borax as part of the solution.
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Grip. Lock. Extend. Meet Gen 2 Primate Pole!
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In this episode, I’m excited to introduce the 2nd Generation Primate Pool Tools carbon fiber poles. I’ll walk you through what’s new, what’s been improved, and why these American-made tools are worth a serious look — especially if you’re in the field every day like I am. From Apex Grips to backwards compatibility with Gen 1, this is the gear evolution we’ve been waiting for.
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Powder or Pour? Cal Hypo vs. Liquid Chlorine
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Today I’m putting two heavyweights head-to-head: Calcium Hypochlorite vs. Liquid Chlorine. Both can sanitize your pool, but their differences might surprise you — from shelf life and dosing to calcium hardness and cloudiness. I’ll share when I use each, and what pool pros often don’t tell you.
cal hypo, calcium hypochlorite, liquid chlorine, pool shock types, chlorine strength, pool sanitizer options, calcium hardness, pool cloudiness, liquid vs powder chlorine, pool service podcast
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Chlorine Smackdown: Tablets vs. Liquid
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In this episode, I’m diving into the age-old battle of Liquid Chlorine vs. Trichlor tablets. I’ll break down the pros and cons of each, what they add to your pool, and why one might be slowly sabotaging your water balance. If you’re relying on tabs alone, you’ll want to hear this before your next trip to the pool store.
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Brush, Net, Repeat: The Essentials You Can’t Skip
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If you’re just starting out on your pool route—or even just curious what it takes to clean a pool right—this episode is for you. I break down the basic tools I’d never leave home without: the brush, the net, the pole, the vacuum head, and a reliable test kit. I’ll share my own starter setup from when I first began, and a few must-have extras that make your job faster and easier. No fluff, just the essentials you’ll actually use. If you’re new and overwhelmed by...
The Little Pump That Couldn’t
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Let’s be honest—some of the equipment we run into on route looks like it’s been holding on since the '80s. In this episode, I’m talking all about undersized and outdated pool equipment—how to work around it, when to push for an upgrade, and how to communicate the value of modernizing without sounding pushy. Whether it’s an old single-speed pump or a tiny filter choking a 25,000-gallon pool, I’ll share tips I’ve picked up in the field to make these tough setups a little easier—an...
Cal Hypo Caution: Tablets With a Twist
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In this episode, I dive into the surprising downsides of Cal Hypo tablets—a pool chemical that seems like a powerhouse at first glance, but can quietly cause some big headaches. I’ll walk you through how Cal Hypo adds calcium to your pool, why that matters more than most people think, and the hidden risks if you’re not careful with storage or feeder compatibility. If you're considering making the switch, or already using Cal Hypo, don’t miss this quick breakdown of what to watch out for.
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Why I Walked Away from Commercial Service
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Let’s get honest—are commercial pool accounts really worth the effort? In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on commercial service from a small business perspective. I’ll talk about the pros, the major pitfalls, and why I’ve chosen to focus on residential work instead. From low margins to endless inspections and payment delays, this is the real talk I wish someone had given me when I started out.
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It’s About Time: Mastering Intermatic Timers
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In this episode, I'm cracking open one of the most iconic tools in the pool service world—the Intermatic mechanical timer. Whether you’re staring at a stuck dial, trippers that won’t trip, or a silent motor, I’ll walk you through how these timers work, what commonly goes wrong, and how to fix it fast. I’ll also share a few pro tips to keep them running smooth and avoid those annoying callbacks.
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Bob Lowry’s Battle of the Algaecides
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Ever wonder whether adding borates at 50 ppm is really better than using a mineral system or an algaecide for algae prevention? I asked Bob Lowry—and his answer was clear, science-based, and surprisingly strong. We unpack the pros and cons of both strategies.
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Start-Up Screwups with Bob Lowry
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In this follow-up chat with Bob Lowry, we shift gears from methods to mistakes. From plaster damage and scaling to cloudy water and chlorine crashes, Bob walks me through the most common problems that happen during a new pool start-up—and how to avoid them before they turn into costly headaches.
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Bob's Blueprint for New Pool Startups
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In part one of our deep dive, Bob Lowry shares the latest techniques for starting up new plaster pools. From traditional approaches to cutting-edge best practices, we break down how to give every new pool the cleanest start possible.
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Bob Lowry’s Chlorine Smackdown
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In this Best of Bob Lowry, I sat down with the legendary Bob Lowry to uncover the truth behind which chlorine type packs the biggest punch. Spoiler alert: it’s not what most pool pros think! We compare Cal-Hypo, Trichlor, Dichlor, Liquid Chlorine, and more—this one might change how you treat your pool.
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Flakes, Fails & Frustration: Real Salt System Issues
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Saltwater pools may sound like the low-maintenance dream, but in this episode, I talk about the real-world problems I see every week with saltwater chlorine generators (SWGs). From customers who refuse to replace failing cells to mysterious white flake blowback, I unpack the chemistry, the challenges, and how I manage expectations in the field. If you work with salt pools or own one, this is a must-listen.
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Summer Savior: Terry Arko Talks Borates
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Tired of chasing pH, battling algae, and burning through chlorine in the summer? In this episode, I talk with Terry Arko of HASA about one of the most underused tools in pool water chemistry: borates. Terry explains how borates can stabilize pH, reduce chlorine demand, improve water clarity, and even make the water feel better. If you’ve been on the fence about using them—or if you’ve never even considered it—this is your guide to what borates can really do for your pools.
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Skynet for Pool Pros? Not Quite—AI Explained
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I had the chance to talk with Terry Arko of HASA about a topic that’s creeping into every industry—including ours: Artificial Intelligence. From automation to route optimization, AI is already reshaping how we work as pool pros. Terry shares his perspective on the opportunities, the challenges, and what the future could look like if tech continues to evolve in our space. You don’t need to be a coder to understand this one—it’s all about how to work smarter.
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Water Wars: The Real Story About Pools and Drought with Terry Arko
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In this episode, I sit down with Terry Arko from HASA to talk about the hot topic on everyone’s mind—droughts and water usage. Are pools really water wasters? Terry breaks down the real numbers and explains why a well-maintained pool might actually conserve water compared to a traditional lawn. We also dig into the evolving drought restrictions and what they mean for pool pros in the field. This one’s full of eye-openers—and a few stats that will surprise you.
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YouTube Q&A Volume #23 – Sunken Treasure, Boric Acid & PoolRx & More
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In this episode, I’m answering your YouTube questions! From the popular Sunken Treasure Tablet Holder to how and why I add boric acid to pools, and even a few clarifications around PoolRx—we're covering a wide range of pool service topics. This is a great listen for anyone who wants real-world answers from the route. If you’ve asked a question in the comments lately, this one might be for you.
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Shock Therapy: When Your Pool Actually Needs It
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Is shocking your pool every week really necessary—or just chlorine overkill? In this episode, I break down when you actually need to shock your pool, how to tell if it’s time, and why doing it too often can backfire. I’ll share what combined chlorine really means, how to reach breakpoint chlorination, and how to avoid wasting money on unnecessary chemicals. Whether you’re a weekend pool warrior or a new owner trying to decode that “chlorine smell,” this one’s for you.
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The Gross Truth: Scum and Foam Demystified
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Ever walked up to a pool or spa and thought, “What is that gross film on the water—and why is it foaming like a bubble bath?” In this episode, I’m diving into the sticky truth behind scum lines and foam. I’ll break down what causes them, how to fix them, and most importantly—how to prevent them from showing up in the first place. Whether you’re a pool tech or just trying to keep your spa guest-ready, this one’s packed with practical advice and a few stories from the field.
Safety First (No, Really): Pool Pro Essentials
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Let’s be honest—how many of us actually wear all the safety gear we should out on the pool route? In this episode, I’m opening up about the safety tools I used to ignore, the gear I swear by now, and the lessons I’ve learned (some the hard way). From eye protection and gloves to sun gear and steel-toe boots, I’m breaking down what works, what’s overkill, and what might save you from a trip to urgent care. If you're out in the field every day, this one’s worth a list...
One Rule for the Route: A Cleaner in Every Pool
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What if every pool you service had an automatic cleaner? In this episode, we dive into the game-changing benefits of installing a cleaner in every pool on your route. From shaving hours off your weekly schedule to reducing manual vacuuming and debris headaches, we share how these little machines can mean quicker days, happier customers, and even less wear and tear on your back.
You'll learn how to demo cleaners the right way—without being pushy—and how to use your spare or refurbished units as trial tools in key problem pool...
The Dirty Truth: Pool Accounts That Aren’t Worth It
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Every pool tech has that account—the one with vicious dogs, unpaid invoices, or a swamp of leaves bigger than your net. In this episode, we dive into the red flags that signal it's time to cut and run from a bad client. Learn how to protect your business, your sanity, and your bottom line by identifying the warning signs early and making the clean break when needed. From chronic late-payers to pool-sized nightmares, we’re giving you the real talk on when to walk.
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Clean Sweep: Vacuum Strategies That Actually Work
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Vacuuming: love it, hate it, or charge extra for it—every pool pro has a take. In this episode, we’re breaking down your vacuuming options on route: when to vacuum manually, when to use a Vacuum System, and when to skip it altogether. Learn how to set client expectations, avoid time-wasting pool traps, and charge appropriately for extra labor. Whether you’re dealing with a leaf jungle, fine dust, or oversized monsters, this episode will help you clean smarter—not harder.
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Hot Tub Hustle: Spa Service That Pays
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Thinking about adding spa service to your pool route? In this episode, we break down the essentials of above-ground spa care — from chemical routines to common maintenance pitfalls — and how to price it profitably. Whether you're servicing fiberglass spas on decks or plug-and-play units, this episode will help you avoid undercharging and overworking. Tune in and soak up the knowledge!
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The Rookie Look: Pool Pro Mistakes, Pt. 2
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In Part 2 of our “Pool Pro Mistakes” series, we shift from physical blunders to professional polish. We’re talking poor communication, sloppy appearance, and chemical dosing disasters. Learn why looking sharp, speaking clearly, and measuring twice can make or break your reputation — and how to fix these mistakes before they cost you clients
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Deck Stains, Pool Dunks, and Rookie Moves Part 1
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Every pool tech has a story — and some are better left untold. In Part 1 of our “Pool Pro Mistakes” series, we dive into the early-career missteps that actually happened: staining a client's deck, forgetting to shut off a fill line, and yes — falling in the pool. Laugh, learn, and level up your awareness so you don’t become the next cautionary tale.
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Starting Strong: Onboarding New Pool Clients Right
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Taking over pool service after a home changes hands isn’t just business as usual—it’s a fresh start with a brand-new client who likely has no idea what goes into keeping their water safe and clean. In this episode, I walk through the key things I always cover with new homeowners—setting expectations, reviewing equipment, updating the service agreement, and making sure we’re aligned from day one. A solid start sets the tone for a long, smooth service relationship.
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Don’t Lose the Pool with the House
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When one of my service properties changes hands, I don’t just watch the truck roll out—I see an opportunity roll in. In this episode, I talk about how I turn new homeowners into loyal service clients before they even unpack. From welcome packets to smart follow-up after escrow closes, I’m sharing the strategies I use to make sure I keep the account and build trust from day one
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Late Checks & Low Patience: Poolside People Problems
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Every pool pro has them — the late payers, the chronic complainers, the ones who “know a guy” who’ll do it cheaper. In this episode, we dive into the world of tough pool service customers and how to handle them without losing your mind (or your margins). From setting clear boundaries to dealing with price hagglers and managing expectations, this is your survival guide to keeping your cool — and your business — afloat.
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Kreeped Out: Saying Goodbye to a Pool Icon
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Dive into the surprising tale of the Pentair Kreepy Krauly — the iconic pool cleaner that defined backyard maintenance for decades. In this episode, we explore how it rose to fame, why its reign is ending, and what comes next in the world of automatic pool cleaners. Whether you loved it, loathed it, or just watched it slowly creep across the deep end, this is the end of an era you didn’t know you needed to mourn.
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Silver Linings & Other Algae Killers
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Algae doesn’t stand a chance when you bring out the silver, polymers, and even ammonia-based reinforcements. In this episode, I take a closer look at silver-based algaecides like Nature2, polymeric options like PolyQuat 60, Skill-It, and the ever-controversial Yellow Out, which uses ammonia chemistry to supercharge your chlorine. Some are subtle, some are powerful—but each has a role in your pool care toolkit.
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Going for the Copper: Algae Control That Shines
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If bromide's out, copper is definitely in. I’ll walk you through the copper-based lineup—from traditional copper algaecides to the PoolRx mineral system, and even the Remington Solar Sun Shock, a unique floating ionizer that releases copper into your water. Whether you're looking for long-term algae prevention or an alternative to chemical overload, copper might just be your new best friend.
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Breaking Up with Bromide: Smarter Algae Prevention
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Sodium bromide may be off the market for outdoor pool use, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. In this episode, I dive into two powerful allies in the fight against algae: borates and phosphate removers. While they’re not technically algaecides, they make your water a whole lot less inviting for algae to move in. If you're looking for smarter, more sustainable ways to manage your pool—this one's for you.
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Ugly Pools, Part 2: When It’s Not the Water—It’s the Run Time
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We’re continuing the ugly pool conversation with some of the most overlooked issues: short pump run times, timers being shut off by customers, and high phosphate levels that feed algae even when the chemistry looks perfect. I’ll also touch on some classic user errors and things we forget to check that keep a pool stuck in the ugly zone.
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Ugly Pools, Part 1: The Ones That Just Won’t Turn Around
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In this episode, I’m breaking down those stubborn, frustrating pools that refuse to clear up—no matter how much chlorine you throw at them. We’ll look at three major culprits: poor filtration, sky-high CYA levels, pool leaks, and the sneaky role of nitrates. If you’ve ever had a pool on your route that just won’t cooperate, this one’s for you.
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The Service Secret Sauce: What Pool Owners Expect and Respect Part 2 of 2
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Part 2 of our SKIMMER 2025 Pool Owner Report breakdown explores the key to standing out in a competitive market: exceptional service. We’ll cover the growing importance of charging for chemicals separately (and transparently), how to handle auto billing feedback, and ways to turn service quality into a customer loyalty engine. Learn how to refine your operations while boosting your bottom line—and why the best pool pros are doing more than just maintaining water clarity.
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Diving Into Value: What Pool Owners Will Pay For Part 1 of 2
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In Part 1 of our special series on the SKIMMER 2025 Pool Owner Report, we take a deep dive into what truly matters to today's pool owners—value, price point, and cost expectations. We’ll unpack the data on what people are really willing to pay for, how perceptions of “fair pricing” are shifting, and how service companies can leverage this to add real value to their business. If you're looking to sharpen your competitive edge and build trust through transparency, this episode is for you.
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Algae? Not on My Watch!
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Algae outbreaks are every pool pro’s nightmare—time-consuming, frustrating, and completely avoidable with the right habits. In this episode, I share my go-to strategies for keeping algae out of your clients' pools before it ever takes hold. From circulation tricks to chemistry tips, it’s all about prevention. Trust me—stopping algae before it starts is way easier than fighting it later!
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