The Pool Guy Podcast Show

It’s brutal out there! In this quick solo episode, I share some practical ways to stay safe and cool during extreme heat while servicing your route. From hydration hacks to time-saving tricks, this one’s all about keeping your cool when the temperature’s anything but.  Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA  https://bit.ly/HASA The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 wit...

Accidents happen — and when they do, general liability insurance can save your business and give your customers peace of mind. In this episode, I explain what general liability really covers, how it protects you personally, and why it’s not just for big companies. I also share why UPA’s plan is a fantastic, affordable option for pool pros. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsor...

I’m back with Glen Heffernan for part two of our deep dive into the future of pool cleaning. We cover the brand-new Shrimp cleaner, talk product safety, and look at smart design updates like the new handle, the mystery of the thrust ring, and how you can charge right from your truck.  Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA  https://bit.ly/HASA The Bottom Feede...

In this episode, I sit down with Glen Heffernan, the creator of The Bottom Feeder, to dive deep into how this incredible pool vacuum keeps evolving. We talk about the fascinating history behind it and break down all the latest features — from the brand-new cord connector and magnetic switch to upgraded wheels, flaps, and smart solutions for battery and motor issues. We even discuss ways to extend...

Everyone talks about aiming for that perfect 7.4 pH—but what if a pH of 8.0 isn’t actually too high? In this episode, I break down how LSI (Langelier Saturation Index) changes the conversation. We’ll look at how water balance isn't just about one number, and how a slightly higher pH might be healthier for your pool—and maybe even easier to manage long-term. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool G...

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...

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. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy P...

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. Send us Fan Mail Suppo...

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 opti...

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. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA ...

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...

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,...

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 makin...

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 star...

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 callbac...

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. Get UPA General Liability Insurance for $64 a month! An even lower rate if you join my coaching group!  https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA...

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.  Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA  https://bit.ly/HASA The...

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. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA  https://bit.ly/HASA The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebott...

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. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA  https://bit.ly/HAS...

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 m...

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...

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...

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 yo...

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...

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-rea...