The Pool Guy Podcast Show

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 urge...

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 h...

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 t...

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,...

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! Send us...

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  Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Spon...

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

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...

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  Send us Fan Mail Su...

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 yo...

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...

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 po...

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 f...

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—...

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

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. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Spo...

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—a...

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'r...

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! Send...

In Part 2 of my DE filter troubleshooting series, I’m talking about the pressure side of things — literally. If your filter pressure is running high, this episode’s for you. I break down what high PSI is really telling you, when it’s time to backwash or tear down the filter, and how to properly recharge it with DE powder. I also get into backwash valve problems — from sticky slide valves to intern...

Ever noticed cloudy water or DE powder blowing back into your pool after a backwash? In this episode, I dig into why DE ends up where it shouldn’t — in your pool instead of on your filter grids. I’ll walk you through the common internal failures that cause this, like torn grids, cracked manifolds, or broken air bleeds. I also talk about where and how to properly clean your DE filter so you can ins...

Hey everyone, in this episode I’m diving into everything you need to know about draining your swimming pool — when to do it, how to do it safely, and most importantly, where all that water should actually go. I’ll share tips to avoid damaging your pool, protect your landscaping, and stay on the right side of city codes. Whether your  Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!&nbs...

In this episode, I’m diving into how to use Trichlor tablets the smart way —as part of a combination approach . Yes, they’re powerful and convenient, but relying on them 100% can cause issues with CYA buildup and pH drops. I’ll walk you through how to blend tabs with liquid chlorine, cal hypo, or even a salt system to keep your pool balanced, clear, and healthy all season long. It’s all about usin...

In today’s episode, I’m talking all about those little white tablets we toss into floaters and feeders— Trichlor tablets . They’re super convenient, pack a powerful punch of chlorine, and they’re easy to use—but they’re not without their baggage. From skyrocketing CYA levels to pH issues, I’ll break down the good, the bad, and what you need to watch out for if you're relying on Trichlor to ke...

Ever wonder why your crystal-clear pool still ends up with bugs doing the backstroke? In this episode of Bugs in Your Pool , I’m diving into the creepy crawlers that show up uninvited—like backswimmers, water boatmen, wasps, bees, and more. I’ll break down why they show up, what attracts them, and the exact steps you can take to get rid of them fast. Whether you're just starting your route or...