The Pool Guy Podcast Show

We dive into the unique journey of James Smith, founder of Homestead Pool Services, who swapped stethoscopes for skimmers and never looked back. James shares how his background as a Registered Nurse gave him an unexpected edge in the pool industry—especially when it comes to chemistry. We explore his path from healthcare to pool care, and his latest project: a Zoom-based Chemistry Course for Pool...

Guest: Scott Roberts, National Pool Route Sales (NPRS) Is the pool industry still worth diving into? Scott Roberts returns to discuss the current state of the pool business and why it remains one of the most accessible and resilient industries for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA  https://bit.ly/HASA The Bottom Feeder....

Guest: Scott Roberts, National Pool Route Sales (NPRS) Thinking of buying or selling a pool route? Scott Roberts from NPRS shares essential do’s and don’ts from both sides of the deal. Learn how to spot red flags, ask the right questions, and avoid common (and costly) mistakes in your pool route transaction. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA  https://bit....

Guest: Scott Roberts, National Pool Route Sales (NPRS) What exactly is a pool route sale? In this episode, Scott Roberts of NPRS demystifies the process. From how these sales work to who’s buying and why, this episode lays the foundation for anyone curious about entering or exiting the pool service business.     Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA  https://...

In this timely episode, Terry Arko breaks down how tariffs on imported goods—from chlorine to equipment—could impact the swimming pool industry. Learn what to expect, how to prepare, and why staying informed could be your biggest business advantage this season. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA  https://bit.ly/HASA The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code:...

Terry Arko returns to explain what really affects water clarity—and to talk about his history in the industry, writing technical bulletins and articles. Dive into the science of clean water, common clarity myths, and how to troubleshoot problem water conditions. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA  https://bit.ly/HASA The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code:...

In this eye-opening episode, Terry Arko of HASA breaks down what pool pros need to know when wildfires hit close to home. From ash fallout to water contamination, we explore how fire affects pool chemistry and whether that water is truly safe to swim in. A must-listen for anyone servicing pools in fire-prone areas. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA  https...

In this episode, I’m talking about something that can seriously make or break your pool business—professional conduct and how to talk to your customers the right way. I’ll share what’s worked for me out on my route, from setting clear expectations to handling tough conversations with confidence and respect. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your communication skills, this epis...

In this episode, I’m diving into one of the biggest myths I hear from homeowners: “Saltwater pools are maintenance-free.” Not even close! While salt systems are a great alternative to traditional chlorine, they still need regular love—like checking salt levels, cleaning the cell, and keeping an eye on pH and scaling. I’ll break down what you really need to know so your salt pool doesn’t end up cos...

In this episode, I share my personal experience navigating the challenges of injuries and sick days while managing a pool route. I'll talk about how I handle unexpected setbacks, what strategies have worked for me in staying on track, and how I ensure my business keeps running smoothly even when I'm not feeling 100%. Whether it's dealing with a sprain or catching a cold, I’ve got so...

In this episode, I’m comparing some of the top smart pool water monitors on the market. I’ll break down the pros and cons of each, share my personal experiences using them out in the field, and help you figure out which one might be the best fit for your route or your own pool. If you’ve ever wondered whether these devices are worth the investment, or which one actually delivers on its promises, t...

How long does PoolRx+ actually last—and when should you reach for a booster ? In this episode, Fred Schweer of PoolRx joins us once again to clear the water (and the confusion). Fred breaks down the 4–6 month lifespan of the PoolRx+ unit depending on pool conditions, and explains how the booster keeps your system in the kill zone without needing to replace the entire unit. Plus, we revisit the pow...

High cyanuric acid (CYA) and metal contamination can wreak havoc on pool water—and on your sanity. In this episode, Fred Schweer of PoolRx returns to talk about how PoolRx+ handles the tough stuff . We dive into what happens when CYA levels are sky-high, and how metals like copper and iron sneak in from source water or equipment. Fred explains how PoolRx+ can help manage algae and sanitizer demand...

In this episode, we chat with Fred Schweer of PoolRx to get the full scoop on PoolRx+ . Learn how one unit properly sized to your pool can cut your chlorine use by up to 50% , while eliminating all types of algae —green, mustard, even black. Fred breaks down how PoolRx+ works, the importance of sizing it right, and why it's a smart addition for residential and commercial pools alike. If you’r...

In this episode, I'm diving into the world of digital pool water testing ! Digital testing tools make it easier than ever to get accurate readings in seconds. I’ll walk you through the different types of digital testers , how they work, and why some are “must have” while others you may want to pass on. If you’re tired of trial and error and want fast, reliable results, this episode is for you...

Wondering how to get the most out of your VS (Variable Speed) pool pump ? In this episode, I’ll share my top tips for setting the right run time and scheduling your VS pump for maximum efficiency. From understanding your pool’s needs to saving on energy costs, I’ll walk you through how to determine the best run times for low and medium speeds, and how to set up a schedule that works for you. Wheth...

Testing your pool and spa water doesn’t have to be a hassle. In this episode, I’ll walk you through the best ways to test your pool and spa water , focusing on the most effective methods: test strips , reagent testers , and photometers . Whether you’re a DIY pool owner or just looking for accurate results without the guesswork, I’ll break down how each method works, their pros and cons, and which...

In this episode, I dive deep into the essentials of chlorine chemistry—breaking down the roles of Free Chlorine (FC), Combined Chlorine (CC), Total Chlorine (TC), and the all-important concept of Breakpoint Chlorination . Learn how to keep your water crystal clear, safe, and odor-free by mastering the delicate balance that keeps your pool running smoothly. Whether you're a new pool owner or a...

In this episode, we dive into the fundamentals of pool chemistry—everything from essential chemical ranges to adjusted alkalinity and the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI). Whether you're a new pool pro or a seasoned service tech, you'll find practical tips to keep water safe, balanced, and crystal clear. Learn how each element works together, what to watch for, and how to fine-tune your...

Dogs—they’re lovable, loyal, and sometimes the wild card on your pool route. In this episode, we talk about what pool pros need to know when working around our four-legged friends. From the escape artist pups who bolt through open gates to dealing with dog waste and shedding in the pool, we cover it all. Plus, tips for staying professional while protecting yourself, your gear, and the pool’s chemi...

Being a pool service business owner isn’t just about skimming leaves and balancing chemicals—it comes with serious perks! From setting your own hours to scaling your income, this episode dives into the benefits of entrepreneurship in the pool industry. Whether you're looking for more freedom, better work-life balance, or financial growth, we’ll break down how to make the most of being your ow...

In this episode, I dive into another round of your YouTube questions! We’ll break down Mikey’s Quick Couplers and why they’re a game-changer, explore what muriatic acid is used for in pool care, compare the Pentair SuperFlo VS pump programming options , and discuss vacuum system battery sizes to help you make the best choice for your setup. Lots of great questions this week—let’s get into it! Send...

Thinking about adding borates to your swimming pool? In this episode, we cover everything you need to know! We’ll discuss popular borate products , how to dose them correctly , the best testing methods , and the many benefits —from improved water clarity to better algae resistance. If you want softer water and a more stable pH, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! Send us Fan Mail Support th...

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Crystal Smart Water Monitor , an innovative device designed to keep your pool's water chemistry in check with real-time updates and automated tracking. I’ll share my thoughts on its features, usability, and whether it's worth the investment for pool owners looking to simplify maintenance. Is this the future of hassle-free pool care? Tune in t...

Tired of battling old, failing pool equipment that customers refuse to upgrade? In this episode, we discuss how to navigate these tricky conversations, set realistic expectations, and protect your business from the headaches of aging systems. Learn when to push for replacements, how to offer solutions, and when it’s time to walk away. Don’t let outdated gear sink your business—tune in now! Send us...