Best Basic Pool Care Podcasts (2025)

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The Pool Bug Survival Guide with Terry Arko 21:57

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5h ago21:57

21:57

Let’s face it — no one wants to swim with bugs. In this episode, I talk with Terry Arko from HASA about one of the most common (and annoying) pool problems: bugs in your pool. From backswimmers to water boatmen, we cover what they are, why they show up, and most importantly — how to get rid of them and keep them from coming back. Terry explains how…

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Phosphates Demystified: A Conversation with Terry Arko 19:20

11h ago19:20

19:20

In this episode, I’m joined again by Terry Arko from HASA to tackle a big topic in pool chemistry — phosphates. We talk about what phosphates are, how they get into your pool, and whether they’re really the enemy everyone says they are. Terry breaks down the science behind phosphates, algae growth, and why managing your sanitizer level is still the…

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Resistant Algae and the Science Behind It with Terry Arko 20:40

1d ago20:40

20:40

In this episode, I sit down with Terry Arko from HASA to dive deep into one of the toughest pool problems out there — chlorine-resistant algae, including the dreaded black algae that laughs at your shock treatments. We talk about why some algae survive even in well-maintained pools, how biofilms protect them, and what steps actually work to beat th…

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Don’t Blow It: Pool Filter Survival Guide 22:02

4d ago22:02

22:02

I’ve seen it all when it comes to pool filters—from the catastrophic blowouts that send water blasting across the yard, to the minor little drips and leaks that slowly waste water and drive you crazy. In this episode, I’ll walk you through the full range of filter issues: how to spot them early, what causes them, and most importantly, what to do be…

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Filter Smarter, Not Harder: Pool Clarity Made Easy 19:39

5d ago19:39

19:39

In this episode, I’m talking about how to filter your pool smarter, not harder. I’ll cover when and why you should replace filter elements, how long you really need to run your pool for proper circulation, and the big benefits of adding a Waterco MultiCyclone pre-filter to cut down on maintenance. By the end, you’ll know how to keep your pool cryst…

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Sand, Cartridge, or DE? Let’s Filter It Out 21:07

6d ago21:07

21:07

Today I’m diving into the world of pool filters and breaking down the three main types every pool owner should know: sand, cartridge, and DE filters. I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each, share what works best for different pool setups, and help you figure out which one is right for your backyard oasis. By the end of this episode, you’ll…

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1776 and the Pool Industry Revolution 20:31

7d ago20:31

20:31

In this episode, I’m exploring the revolutions that have shaken up the pool industry over the years. From breakthroughs in pool design and construction to next-level filtration, eco-friendly chemicals, and smart automation, these changes have transformed how we build, maintain, and enjoy our pools. I’ll break down the big innovations, share stories…

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Diving Into Dollars and Cents 21:31

8d ago21:31

21:31

Running a pool service is more than cleaning and balancing water—it’s running a business. In this episode, I’m diving into the importance of proper accounting. I’ll share how separating business and personal finances saved me a major headache at tax time, why tracking every chemical, part, and mile driven matters, and how simple tools like QuickBoo…

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Chemical Chaos: When Pool Fixes Backfire 20:18

11d ago20:18

20:18

In this episode, I dive into what happens when chemical usage in pools goes wrong. From overdosing chlorine that strips liners to shortcuts with chlorine that leave stains, I’ll share real stories and practical advice on avoiding these mistakes. I’ll also break down the science behind why these mishaps happen and how you can fix them before they sp…

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Safe & Sound: Protect Yourself and Your Customers 20:59

12d ago20:59

20:59

I’ve learned the hard way that rushing through a pool service job can be risky—for me and my customers. In this episode, I’m talking about simple safety habits that protect everyone: checking gates, watching out for pool toys, and never sacrificing care for speed. Safety doesn’t have to slow you down—it just makes your job smarter and your clients …

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Fast Tracks: Speeding Up Your Pool Route 19:01

13d ago19:01

19:01

I’m always looking for ways to make my pool route more efficient without cutting corners, and in this episode, I’m sharing my favorite tips to save time and energy. From tightening up your route to keeping spare parts on hand, these tricks will help you get the job done faster so you can enjoy your evenings instead of running around like a maniac. …

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The Weather-Proof Pool Route: How I Handle Harsh Conditions 18:32

14d ago18:32

18:32

Running a pool service in normal conditions is one thing, but throw in extreme weather—whether it’s desert heat, heavy rains, or freezing winters—and the challenges multiply fast. In this episode, I share how I’ve learned to adapt service routines to keep safe out there and when to cut and run. Send us a text Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Spons…

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The Worst-Engineered Pool Products Ever Made 21:14

16d ago21:14

21:14

Not every product in the pool industry hits the mark. In this episode, I call out some of the worst-engineered pool products I’ve run across over the years. From the awkwardly placed Pentair drain plug that turns a simple job into a wet mess, to the unreliable Hayward NorthStar pump, to costly and failure-prone in-floor cleaning systems, I’ll break…

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Engineering Excellence in the Pool Industry 21:01

19d ago21:01

21:01

In this episode, I highlight some of the best-engineered products in the swimming pool industry—the tools and equipment that really get it right. From the PoolSkim that takes a simple idea and makes it incredibly effective, to the Pentair 4000 Series filter that’s built to last, to the Hayward PoolCleaner that just works day after day without drama…

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Portable Vac Wars: Which Pool Vacuum Reigns Supreme? 20:33

20d ago20:33

20:33

In this episode, I dive into a head-to-head comparison of two powerhouse portable pool vacuums: the WaterTech Precision V10 and the VacDaddy. Both promise to make pool pros’ lives easier, but they take very different approaches — one cordless with long battery life, the other corded with unlimited runtime and suction strength. I’ll break down the p…

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Do You Really Need to Vacuum That Pool? 18:28

21d ago18:28

18:28

In this episode, I break down one of the most common questions pool pros face on the route: When should you vacuum a pool — and when is a skim or partial vacuum enough? I’ll share how to quickly assess debris levels, save time by choosing the right cleaning method, and keep pools sparkling without overworking your filter or wasting energy. From lig…

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When Walking Away Means Winning 18:34

22d ago18:34

18:34

In this episode, I share why learning to say “no” can be one of the most powerful tools in your pool service business. Whether it’s an account that drains your energy, a customer who constantly asks for extra work without paying for it, or cleanup jobs that just aren’t worth your time, knowing when to walk away keeps your business strong and profit…

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DIY Pool Care Disasters (and How to Avoid Them) 18:39

23d ago18:39

18:39

Today I break down the most common mistakes I see homeowners make when they try to take care of their own pool. From dumping in way too much chlorine to ignoring their filters or trusting test strips over a good kit, these errors can cost more in the long run than hiring a professional. I’ll explain the myths behind DIY pool care, why “clear water”…

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Bob Lowry Meets Ben’s Best Guess Chart: Pool Chemistry Unlocked 20:36

26d ago20:36

20:36

In this episode, I’m unpacking one of the most important—and misunderstood—relationships in pool chemistry: free chlorine (FC) and cyanuric acid (CYA). Using Ben’s Best Guess Chart as a foundation, and layering in insights from Bob Lowry, I’ll explain how to find the sweet spot for chlorine levels so your pool stays safe and algae-free. This is poo…

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Doubling Income: The Pool Scaling Playbook 18:34

27d ago18:34

18:34

In this episode, I’ll walk you through the systems, tools, and strategies that helped you expand, and I’ll also talk about scaling outside the business — investing in real estate, side hustles, and other ways to create long-term financial stability. If you’ve ever wondered how to move from just cleaning pools to building a true business and lifesty…

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Out of Business? What Happened to Sutro 23:20

28d ago23:20

23:20

I just found out the Sutro Smart Water Monitor has been discontinued, and I want to dive into why this once-promising pool tech didn’t quite make it. In this episode, I’ll share what Sutro set out to do, where it went wrong, and what lessons we as pool pros and entrepreneurs can take away from its rise and fall. Send us a text Support the Pool Guy …

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Myth vs. Math: The Economics of Pool Ownership 20:55

29d ago20:55

20:55

Today, I’m tackling another set of myths: A pool doesn’t add value to your house. Or how about, It’s cheaper to do it yourself. And of course, Owning a pool is just too expensive to maintain. I’ll share the real numbers, the hidden benefits of professional service, and why these misconceptions keep floating around. If you’ve ever wondered whether a…

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Pool Owner Misconceptions — Debunked 19:19

1M ago19:19

19:19

On this episode, I’m diving into some of the most common myths that pool owners believe. You’ve probably heard these before: If the pool looks clear, it must be safe to swim in. Or maybe you’ve been told, You can’t add too much chlorine. And of course, the classic: A salt pool isn’t a chlorine pool. I’ll break down the truth behind each one, explai…

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Keep It Running: Prevent Pool Equipment Breakdowns 21:16

1M ago21:16

21:16

In this episode, I talk about the most common pool equipment failures I’ve seen over the years—pumps that burn out, filters that leak, heaters that just won’t fire up. I’ll share real stories from the field and explain what caused the breakdowns, plus the steps I take now to prevent them. If you’ve ever wondered how to extend the life of your pool …

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When Pools Go Wrong: My Craziest Emergency Calls 20:26

1M ago20:26

20:26

In this episode, I share some of the biggest pool emergencies I’ve faced in the field—from green water takeovers and sudden equipment breakdowns to dangerous chemical mix-ups and mysterious leaks. These aren’t just wild stories; they’re real situations with real solutions that every pool pro or pool owner should know. I’ll walk you through how I ha…

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Cleaning Pools or Flipping Burgers: Which Pays Better? 20:54

1M ago20:54

20:54

In this episode, I dive into one of the hardest truths in the pool service industry—sometimes you’re working hard but not making a profit. I’ll share real strategies I’ve used to recapture lost income, from re-evaluating pricing to cutting hidden costs, and how to make sure your business is working for you, not against you. If you’ve ever felt like…

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Starting a Pool Service Business: Lessons Learned the Hard Way 24:31

1M ago24:31

24:31

In this episode, I share my personal journey of starting a pool service business from scratch—the wins, the mistakes, and everything in between. I talk about what motivated me to get into the pool industry, how I landed my first customers, and the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way. From underpricing my services to dealing with tough client…

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Before You Dig: Remodeling Tips That Matter 22:06

1M ago22:06

22:06

Thinking about remodeling your pool? In this episode, I’m sharing the real-life pitfalls and lessons learned from pool remodels gone wrong. I’ll cover the big things you need to consider before you start — from design choices and budget surprises to dealing with contractors. If a remodel is in your future, this episode could save you a ton of stres…

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Behind the Buttons: Pool Automation Ins & Outs 20:12

1M ago20:12

20:12

In this episode, I’m breaking down the world of pool automation. From smart controls and apps to pumps, heaters, and lights, I’ll walk you through what’s worth the investment and what might just drain your wallet. I’ll share my insider perspective on how automation can make pool ownership easier — and when it can actually complicate things. Send us…

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Are Salt Pools Actually Cheaper in the Long Run? 22:34

1M ago22:34

22:34

One of the biggest questions I get from pool owners is whether a salt water pool is better than a chlorine pool. In this episode, I’ll break it down in simple terms, go over the pros and cons of each system, and help you figure out which one really saves money and hassle in the long run. Send us a text Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HA…

1
Gear That Transformed My Route 20:40

1M ago20:40

20:40

In this episode, I share the gadgets that have completely changed the way I run my pool service route. From tools that save me time to equipment that makes the job easier and more efficient, I’ll go over what’s actually worth having in your truck and what I can’t live without on the job. Send us a text Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HA…

1
The Hidden Headaches of Infinity Pools 21:43

1M ago21:43

21:43

Infinity edge pools look incredible — they’re the kind of pools you see on Instagram or in luxury resorts. But as a pool pro, I can tell you they come with a unique set of headaches. In this episode, I’m going to share the real troubles that homeowners face with infinity edge pools — from water loss and high maintenance to expensive repairs and hea…

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My Proven Solutions for High pH in Saltwater Pools 23:53

1M ago23:53

23:53

Saltwater pools are amazing, but one thing nearly every pool owner runs into is rising pH. In this episode, I’ll explain why pH tends to drift up in saltwater pools, and more importantly, how you can control it. From aeration and salt cell activity to practical strategies like acid dosing, CO₂ systems, and borates, I’ll share the real-world fixes t…

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The Ultimate Showdown of Automatic Pool Cleaners 22:20

2M ago22:20

22:20

Ever wonder which automatic pool cleaner is right for you? In this episode, I take a deep dive into the three main types—suction, pressure, and robotic. I’ll share how each one works, the pros and cons, and which situations they’re best for. I’ll also give you my personal top pick in each category so you can make a confident choice for your pool. I…

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Europe’s Hottest Pool Tool PoolWaterLab 2.0 (PoolLab 2.0) 17:49

2M ago17:49

17:49

I’m excited to share my experience with the PoolLab 2.0, a powerful water testing tool making waves in the European market. In this episode, I break down what it does, why it matters, and how it changes the game for accurate, on-the-go water testing. Whether you’re already in the industry or just curious about the latest tools, this is a look at wh…

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How to Prevent Burnout in Your Pool Service Business 18:56

2M ago18:56

18:56

Running a pool service business can be demanding, but I’ve learned firsthand that burnout doesn’t have to be part of the journey. In this episode, I share practical strategies I use to keep energy, focus, and motivation high—so the business runs smoothly without running me down. From balancing workload to protecting personal time, this is all about…

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Mindset Matters More Than Marketing 23:08

2M ago23:08

23:08

I’ve seen how much a positive mindset changes not just my outlook, but my business results. In this episode, I dive into why attitude truly matters in customer service, leadership, and even in tackling daily challenges. I’ll share real stories and lessons that prove positivity is one of the strongest tools any pool service pro—or business owner—can…

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Blueprint for Pool Service Success 19:49

2M ago19:49

19:49

Every strong pool service company starts with a clear plan—and I’ll walk you through what that really means. In this episode, I outline the key elements of a solid business plan, from route setup to budgeting, marketing, and scaling. This is the framework I wish I had when I first started, and it’s the blueprint you can use to build a thriving busi…

1
Balancing Pools Like a Pro with James Smith 25:25

2M ago25:25

25:25

On today’s episode, I’m joined by James Smith, Registered Nurse, Certified Pool Operator, and the mind behind the Pool Pro Training Course at Homestead Pool Services. James brings a unique background—combining years of clinical nursing with hands-on pool care—to teach pros how to truly understand water chemistry. We talk about why so many pool tech…

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The Wild World of Pool Service with Terry Arko of HASA 17:22

2M ago17:22

17:22

This one’s just for fun! Terry Arko and I swap some of the funniest pool service complaints we’ve ever heard, along with a few downright scary horror stories from the field. From the outrageous requests to the unbelievable situations we’ve walked into, you’ll laugh, shake your head, and maybe even feel better about your own service calls. Send us a…

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Is Biofilm Killing Your Chlorine? with Terry Arko of HASA 20:13

2M ago20:13

20:13

Terry Arko on Biofilm In this episode, Terry Arko helps me unpack the mystery of biofilm: what it is, where it hides, and why it makes pool care such a challenge. I share some real-world stories about how biofilm has popped up in pools I service and the problems it causes—from cloudy water to sanitizer lock-up. If you’ve ever felt like your chlorin…

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LSI on Salt: Balancing Act in a Salty World with Terry Arko of HASA 19:05

2M ago19:05

19:05

Terry Arko on LSI Water Balancing in High CYA Pools and Saltwater Pools Today, I dig into one of the trickiest balancing acts we face: keeping the LSI in range when dealing with high CYA levels and saltwater systems. Terry Arko joins me to explain why these pools behave differently, what adjustments we need to make, and how to keep everything in ba…

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Bringing Balance to the pH Chase; The LSI and Disinfection with Terry Arko 17:16

2M ago17:16

17:16

Terry Arko on why the LSI is different from Pool Water Safety In this episode, I sit down with Terry Arko to clear up a common mix-up: the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) versus pool water safety. LSI is all about protecting the pool surface and keeping the structure healthy, while water chemistry balance for safety is all about protecting swimmer…

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Blown Away: Dealing with Windy Day Disasters 26:24

2M ago26:24

26:24

The wind doesn’t just blow — it blows everything into your pools. I just had one of those brutal wind events that turned half my route into green soup overnight. In this episode, I’ll walk you through my clean-up plan after a windy day, what I do before the storm hits, and how I talk to customers when their pools are trashed. Whether it’s leaves, p…

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The Route to Ruin: Injury-Proofing Your Pool Career 22:09

2M ago22:09

22:09

Let’s be real — this job is hard on the body. In this episode, I’m talking about the injuries I’ve faced over the years running a pool route — from pulled backs to tweaked shoulders — and what I’ve learned about working smarter. I’ll share my daily habits, tool swaps, and simple adjustments that’ve helped me stay in the game without wrecking my bod…

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YouTube Q& A Vol 24: Fix Your Pool Pumps, Salt Cells & Cleaner Parts—Answered! 18:50

2M ago18:50

18:50

In this episode, I'm diving into the questions you left me on YouTube. From clogged impellers and pumps that won’t prime to figuring out if your Truclear salt cell is the right size and whether aftermarket cleaner parts are worth it—I’m giving you straight answers, pro tips, and a few things most pool pros don’t talk about. If you’ve got a pool pro…

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VacDaddy or Bottom Feeder — Which One Sucks Better? 20:07

2M ago20:07

20:07

I’m diving into a showdown I’ve been asked about a lot lately — VacDaddy vs. The Bottom Feeder. If you're a pool pro, you know how much time and energy your vacuum can save… or waste. I’ve used both of these power vacuums in the field, and I’ll break down what I like, what frustrates me, and which one makes more sense depending on your route and bu…

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Dirt — Here's How I Actually Clean It Up 21:19

2M ago21:19

21:19

Ever look at your pool and wonder how that much dirt even got in there? I do too—and in this episode, I break down the smartest, fastest, and most effective ways to get that junk out and get your pool looking crystal clear again. I share exactly what I do, what tools I use (and avoid), and why some of the newest tech just doesn’t cut it when it com…

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Stain Science with Bob Lowry 15:07

2M ago15:07

15:07

Today, I talk with Bob Lowry about a common and frustrating problem: metal staining in swimming pools. Whether it’s iron, copper, or manganese, stains can make even the cleanest pool look neglected. Bob breaks down where these metals come from, how to identify the stains, and—most importantly—how to treat and prevent them. Send us a text Support th…

1
When Chemistry Collides: Sequestrants and Chlorine 16:16

2M ago16:16

16:16

In this episode, I talk with Bob Lowry about something many pool owners and pros overlook: how certain pool products—like metal sequestrants—can destroy your chlorine level. Bob explains how these common additives, often used to treat stains or metal issues, can rapidly lower or eliminate free chlorine. We dig into how to identify these products, w…