The last thing any pool owner wants is to have an algae outbreak during summer. Well-maintained pools should be free from algae; however, there are some things that can turn a maintained pool into a green menace at the height of swim season. Summer storms Rainstorms are notorious for bringing nitrogen into the atmosphere, which…
By Lawrence Scofield Fiberglass pools have vastly improved over the past decade. There is rarely a problem with today’s shells. “If it’s installed correctly, you should never have a problem,” says Jason Hughes, vice president of River Pools and Spas in Tappahannock, Virginia. To prevent fiberglass problems, focus on proper installation techniques. “The backfill material…
If it weren’t for the monthly invoices customers receive, most would never know a pool technician had come around. Arizona entrepreneur Herman Gunther figured there had to be a better way for pool technicians to notify customers about pool servicing. Flimsy invoices fluttering across lawns, against pool pumps or soaked in pool water weren’t quite…
Tracking fleet vehicles has become standard operating procedure for many businesses, including the pool service sector. There’s a high-tech name for this technology, too: telematics. You might even have a telematics device in your vehicle and not know it. “Telematics is better than GPS,” says Kelly Frey, vice president of product marketing at California-based Telogis….
Because of affordability and effectiveness, sand filters are among the more popular pool filtration options for consumers, removing dirt as small as 20-40 microns. As a pool professional, there are a few tricks to cleaning sand filters properly, and some choices when it comes to the quality of sand used. Heschmeyer Pools in Leawood, Kansas,…
Testing water quality is a constant for pool service professionals. What is not constant, however, are the testing methods or the results. A few pointers will ensure an accurate reading on the pool water, starting with a reliable test kit. Greg Garrett, director of technical services for the National Plaster Council and Association of Pool…
Do-it-yourself websites and television shows give homeowners the misconception that every project is compatible to their skill sets, including maintaining a swimming pool. Increasingly, homeowners are attempting to clean, chemically treat and even install new equipment on their pool without the aid of a professional. While some individuals can handle this, many soon find it…
If the majority of your workday is spent planning pool service routes, it may be time for a new strategy. Depending on your needs and budget, there are a variety of ways to effectively retool your service routes. What the Process Looks LikeDan Lenz started working for All Seasons Pools, near Chicago, in 1987. He…
With today’s technology, no one should struggle to maintain proper pH levels in salt-water pools. After traveling and listening to pool professionals complain about high pH levels, I’m surprised more people don’t know major manufacturers have pH control systems that test the water as the pool is running and dispense acid as needed for proper…
You’ve been putting off replacing — or expanding — your service-vehicle fleet because of the economy. You’ve been diligent with maintenance and are pretty sure you can get by another season. You’ve had other things to spend money on. But maybe it’s just time: The old rig is on its last legs, theodometer has more…
Maintaining the proper water level for swimming pools has always been a challenge for pool service companies. But with the help of a few products, it doesn’t have to be. Some of the major problems due to low water levels can cost the homeowner big money in repairs, so it’s critical the homeowner and the…
Diving boards are an excellent opportunity for a service business to increase its bottom line. This particular piece of pool equipment is less common than in the past, yet a diving board is a great source of fun and entertainment in the right pool. Many technicians choose not to service diving boards due to liability…