Talking Pools Podcast

Rudy Stankowitz
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If you’ve ever stared at a test kit like it personally insulted your family… welcome home. Talking Pools Podcast is the pool industry’s “pull up a chair” show—part shop talk, part field manual, part therapy session—built for people who actually live on pool decks: commercial operators, service techs, builders, facility managers, and anyone responsible for water that can’t afford to go sideways. The network was created to level up the pool industry with real-world conversations on water chemistry, filtration, troubleshooting, construction, safety, and the business side of keeping pools open and budgets intact.  Here’s the hook: it’s not theory-first. It’s experience-first—a roster of seasoned pros (with 250+ years of combined “been there, fixed that” wisdom) turning complicated problems into practical moves you can use the same day.  And it’s not one voice, one vibe, one corner of the industry: it’s a network of shows designed to reflect how diverse this work really is—different regions, different specialties, different personalities.  Also worth saying out loud: women aren’t “special guests” here—they’re on the mic as hosts, from the beginning, with an intentionally balanced roster.  That matters, because the best ideas in this industry don’t come from one lane—they come from the whole road. If you want a podcast that can make you laugh and make you better at what you do—without pretending the job is easier than it is—Talking Pools is the one you queue up before the first stop, and keep on when the day starts getting weird. 

  1. That Chlorine Smell? That's You.

    8h ago

    That Chlorine Smell? That's You.

    Send us Fan Mail Should You Shower Before Getting in the Pool? Absolutely. In this episode, Natalie Hood sits down with Jared Madero of The Grit Game to tackle one of the most ignored signs at aquatic facilities: "Please Shower Before Entering the Pool." Together, they explore why a simple 30-second rinse can significantly impact water quality, swimmer health, air quality, and operational costs.  Topics Covered  Why pre-swim showers matter more than most swimmers realize  The biological load every swimmer brings into the water  Sweat, makeup, lotions, cologne, and personal care products in pools  The difference between chlorinated water and sterile water  Why the "chlorine smell" is actually a warning sign  Chloramines and their impact on indoor air quality  Why showering after swimming is just as important  The shared responsibility between swimmers and pool operators  Common misconceptions about public and commercial pools  How swimmer behavior affects water clarity, chemical demand, and overall pool health Key Takeaway A clean pool starts before you ever enter the water. Showering before and after swimming helps reduce contaminants, improve swimmer comfort, lower chemical demand, and create a healthier aquatic environment for everyone.  Connect For more pool industry education, chemistry discussions, and aquatic facility insights, subscribe to the Talking Pools Podcast. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    36 min

  2. 2d ago

    Why the Best Pool Pros Never Enter Awards

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Mondays Down Under, hosts Lee Salisbury, Shane Melrose, and Nick take listeners behind the scenes of awards season, conference travel, industry recognition, and the importance of networking within the swimming pool industry. From award ceremonies across Australia to upcoming conferences and trade shows, the conversation explores how professional development, industry engagement, and relationship building continue to shape successful pool businesses.  Episode Highlights Awards Season Across Australia and New Zealand Lee shares her experience attending both the ACT and New South Wales industry awards ceremonies, celebrating outstanding achievements from pool builders, technicians, retailers, and service professionals. The hosts discuss the significance of industry recognition and the challenges many professionals face when considering self-nomination for awards.  The Challenge of Self-Nomination The discussion explores why many highly qualified professionals hesitate to put themselves forward for awards, despite being deserving candidates. The hosts examine potential alternatives, including peer nominations, and discuss ways industry organizations might encourage greater participation from technicians, retailers, and service professionals.  What Really Happens Behind the Judging Process Lee offers insight into the award judging process, explaining how applications are reviewed, scored, and evaluated by multiple judges. The conversation highlights the extensive effort that goes into ensuring fairness and recognizing excellence across a wide range of industry categories.  Recognizing Excellence in the Pool Industry Several award winners and finalists are recognized throughout the episode, including discussions about the qualities that separate outstanding businesses and professionals from the rest of the field. The hosts emphasize the importance of technical expertise, customer service, mentorship, and industry leadership.  The Value of Industry Conferences The conversation shifts to conference season, with discussions about supplier conferences, trade events, educational opportunities, and networking experiences. The hosts share stories from conferences held in destinations including New Zealand, Fiji, Vietnam, Thailand, Israel, and beyond.  Why Networking Matters Beyond product training and education, the hosts explain how conferences create opportunities to build relationships, exchange ideas, learn from peers, and develop lifelong friendships within the industry. These connections often prove just as valuable as the formal educational sessions themselves.  Looking Ahead to Splash With the upcoming Splash Trade Show approaching, the hosts preview educational sessions, industry forums, awards presentations, networking events, and opportunities for listeners to connect with the Talking Pools team in person.  Winter Recharge Before Summer Returns As the southern hemisphere enters winter, the discussion concludes with a reminder about the importance of rest, recovery, and preparing for the next busy season. The hosts encourage business owners and staff alike to use the quieter months to recharge and invest in professional development.  Key Takeaways  Industry awards recognize far more than popularity—they reward professionalism, technical expertise, and dedication.  Many deserving professionals never enter awards due to reluctance around self-promotion.  Conferences provide education, networking, and valuable business-building opportunities.  Strong industry relationships often lead to better business outcomes and lifelong professional connections.  The quieter winter months offer an important opportunity to recharge before the demands of the next season arrive. Connect With Talking Pools Have a topic suggestion or question for the Talking Pools Podcast Network? Reach out at talkingpools@gmail.com and the team will direct your question to the most appropriate host.  #TalkingPools #MondaysDownUnder #PoolIndustry #SwimmingPoolProfessionals #PoolTechnician #PoolBuilder #PoolRetail #Splash2026 #SPASA #PoolIndustryAwards #PoolBusiness #SwimmingPools #PoolPodcast #IndustryNetworking #ProfessionalDevelopment Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    38 min
  3. ¿Burbujas de Aire en la Piscina? Cómo Encontrar una Fuga en el Lado de Succión

    4d ago

    ¿Burbujas de Aire en la Piscina? Cómo Encontrar una Fuga en el Lado de Succión

    Send us Fan Mail ¿Burbujas de Aire en la Piscina? Cómo Encontrar una Fuga en el Lado de Succión En este episodio, Rudy explica paso a paso cómo diagnosticar uno de los problemas más comunes en los sistemas de circulación de piscinas: las burbujas de aire que regresan constantemente a través de las boquillas de retorno. A través de ejemplos prácticos y técnicas sencillas de inspección, aprenderás a diferenciar entre una fuga en el lado de succión y una fuga en el lado de presión, así como los puntos más comunes donde suelen ocurrir estos problemas.  Temas Principales Cómo identificar una fuga en el lado de succión Las burbujas de aire continuas que aparecen en los retornos mientras la bomba está funcionando suelen indicar que el sistema está aspirando aire en algún punto entre la bomba y la piscina. Rudy explica por qué este síntoma es una de las señales más claras de una fuga en el lado de succión.  Diferencia entre fugas de succión y fugas de presión No todas las fugas se comportan igual. El episodio analiza cómo una fuga en el lado de presión normalmente pierde agua mientras la bomba funciona y puede introducir aire cuando el sistema se apaga, mientras que una fuga de succión suele aspirar aire continuamente durante la operación.  Las primeras verificaciones que debes realizar Antes de pensar en reparaciones complejas, se revisan los elementos más sencillos:  Nivel de agua de la piscina.  Posibles vórtices en el skimmer.  Cestas obstruidas.  Válvulas parcialmente cerradas.  Restricciones de flujo que puedan provocar cavitación. Inspección de la tapa de la bomba y la junta tórica Las tapas transparentes pueden desarrollar pequeñas grietas difíciles de detectar. También se explica cómo inspeccionar correctamente la junta tórica, cuándo reemplazarla y por qué es importante utilizar únicamente lubricantes a base de silicona o teflón.  El sello mecánico de la bomba Rudy describe el funcionamiento del sello mecánico y explica por qué es el único punto del sistema que puede simultáneamente aspirar aire y perder agua. También ofrece consejos prácticos para identificar un sello defectuoso mediante una inspección visual rápida.  Revisión de tapones de drenaje y carcasa de la bomba El episodio cubre la inspección de tapones de drenaje, juntas y posibles grietas en la carcasa de la bomba que podrían permitir la entrada de aire al sistema.  Uso de crema de afeitar para localizar fugas Una técnica sencilla pero efectiva: aplicar crema de afeitar alrededor de uniones y conexiones para observar si se forma un embudo o depresión que indique la entrada de aire.  Cuándo llamar a un especialista en detección de fugas Cuando todas las inspecciones visibles han sido descartadas y la sospecha apunta a una línea subterránea, Rudy explica por qué es momento de contactar a un profesional especializado en detección de fugas.  Lo Que Aprenderás  Cómo diferenciar una fuga de succión de una fuga de presión.  Qué componentes inspeccionar primero.  Cómo detectar problemas en juntas tóricas y tapas de bombas.  Cómo identificar un sello mecánico defectuoso.  Técnicas sencillas para localizar entradas de aire.  Cuándo una fuga requiere intervención profesional. Frase Clave del Episodio "Las burbujas de aire constantes en los retornos no son normales. El sistema te está diciendo exactamente dónde comenzar a buscar." Escucha Más Para más capacitación técnica sobre hidráulica, filtración, química del agua y diagnóstico de problemas en piscinas, sigue el podcast Talking Pools Podcast y mantente al día con nuevos episodios cada semana. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    13 min
  4. The Pool Is Breathing (And Nobody Told You Why) - Friday

    5d ago

    The Pool Is Breathing (And Nobody Told You Why) - Friday

    Send us Fan Mail This week on Floc-It Friday, Rudy Stankowitz takes aim at one of the most misunderstood concepts in pool chemistry: pH drift. If you've ever been told that pH "just goes up," Rudy has news for you. Water doesn't drift. Chemistry doesn't shrug. And carbon dioxide may be controlling your pool far more than you've been taught.  Before diving into chemistry, Rudy opens with a satirical pool industry news segment covering algae in Washington's Reflecting Pool, Leslie's recent financial improvements, private equity acquisitions, above-ground pool recalls, and the growing obsession with smart pool equipment.  Topics Covered Breaking News from the Pool World A tongue-in-cheek look at:  Algae growth in the Reflecting Pool near the National Mall  "Operation Green Freedom" and a fictional crop-duster copper sulfate deployment  Leslie's reporting improved sales and customer activity  Ongoing consolidation of pool service companies through private equity acquisitions  Above-ground pool recalls making national headlines  The industry's growing fascination with app-connected heat pumps and automation Why "pH Drift" Is a Bad Explanation Rudy challenges one of the industry's most common phrases. Water does not mysteriously "drift." When pH changes, chemistry is causing it. This episode explains why saying pH drift is often an observation rather than an explanation and why understanding the underlying chemistry matters.  The Pool Is Breathing One of the most important concepts discussed: Your swimming pool is continuously exchanging gases with the atmosphere. Topics include:  Gas exchange at the air-water interface  Chemical equilibrium  Carbon dioxide movement  Why pools are dynamic systems rather than static containers of water  How atmospheric chemistry influences water chemistry every second of every day Carbon Dioxide: The Hidden Driver of pH Rise Most pool professionals focus on chlorine, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and acid additions. Rudy explains why carbon dioxide deserves far more attention. Learn about:  Carbon dioxide dissolution  Carbonic acid formation  The carbonate buffering system  Why carbon dioxide leaving the water causes pH to rise  The relationship between carbon dioxide, bicarbonate, and carbonate chemistry Eric Knight's Brilliant Cyanurate-Alkalinity Explanation Referencing the June 3rd episode of Rule Your Pool, Rudy revisits Eric Knight's explanation of why cyanurate alkalinity is treated differently depending on the calculation being performed. Discussion includes:  Why cyanurate contributes to total alkalinity  How muriatic acid protonates cyanurate ions  The difference between cyanurate ions and cyanuric acid  Why total alkalinity and carbonate alkalinity are not interchangeable  When to use carbonate alkalinity for LSI calculations  Why total alkalinity is still used for acid demand calculations Does pH Still Matter When CYA Is Present? A detailed review of:  The FC/CYA relationship  Hypochlorous acid concentration  The effects of pH on sanitizer strength  Why maintaining the proper chlorine-to-CYA ratio matters  Pathogen kill times at different pH levels  Giardia and leptospira examples demonstrating how pH can still influence disinfection performance Total Alkalinity Is Not a Chemical One of the central lessons of the episode: Total alkalinity is a measurement, not a substance. Topics include:  Buffering capacity  Acid neutralizing capacity  Carbonate and bicarbonate systems  Why alkalinity gets blamed for everything  The difference between cause and effect in water chemistry Le Chatelier's Principle and Pool Chemistry Rudy breaks down one of chemistry's most important concepts into practical pool language. Learn:  What happens when equilibrium is disturbed  How the carbonate system responds to carbon dioxide loss  Why hydrogen ion concentration changes  The actual mechanism behind rising pH Why Waterfalls, Spas, Bubblers, and Deck Jets Raise pH If your backyard resembles a miniature Bellagio, this section is for you. Topics include:  Aeration and turbulence  Increased gas exchange  Carbon dioxide stripping  Why decorative water features often accelerate pH rise  Understanding the relationship between aeration and water balance Salt Systems and pH Rise A common misconception is addressed: Salt systems do not create pH. Instead, they create conditions that accelerate carbon dioxide loss. Discussion includes:  Hydrogen gas production  Increased turbulence  Gas transfer dynamics  Why salt pools often experience persistent pH rise Acid and Aeration: The Ultimate Demonstration Rudy explains why the classic acid-and-aeration method for lowering total alkalinity proves that carbon dioxide—not alkalinity—is driving pH rise. A practical chemistry lesson every service technician should understand.  Key Takeaways  pH does not mysteriously drift.  Carbon dioxide is often the real driver of pH rise.  Total alkalinity is a measurement, not a chemical.  Aeration accelerates carbon dioxide loss.  Salt systems indirectly contribute to rising pH by increasing gas exchange.  Understanding equilibrium makes pool chemistry easier to predict.  Once you understand carbon dioxide, many long-standing pool chemistry mysteries disappear. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    36 min
  5. Natural Pools, Cheap Customers, and Main Character Syndrome

    6d ago

    Natural Pools, Cheap Customers, and Main Character Syndrome

    Send us Fan Mail In this Thursday edition of Talking Pools, hosts Steve Sherwood and Wayne Ivusich dive into the realities of running a successful pool service company. From referral programs and pricing challenges to difficult customer interactions and the importance of building relationships with manufacturer representatives, this episode offers practical business advice for pool professionals. The conversation also includes an insurance-focused discussion on the growing topic of natural swimming pools and the unique risks they present.  Topics Covered Why Referrals Are Still the Best Marketing Tool Steve explains why customer referrals continue to be one of the most effective ways to grow a pool service business. Rather than chasing online reviews or discount programs, he discusses building trust with existing clients and rewarding long-term customer relationships.  The Reality of Pool Service Pricing Not all pool companies charge the same rates. Steve shares a real-world example of a prospective client comparing prices and why competing solely on price often creates problems. The discussion highlights the importance of communicating value, professionalism, reliability, and service quality.  Managing Difficult Customer Expectations From emergency requests to customers demanding specific service times, the hosts discuss how setting boundaries and maintaining clear expectations protects both the customer and the service company. They explain why not every client is the right fit for every business.  Commercial vs Residential Pool Customers Why are commercial clients often easier to work with than residential customers? Steve shares his perspective on dealing with engineering departments, facility managers, and property owners versus individual homeowners with highly specific expectations.  Insurance Interlude with Pat GranonCan Natural Swimming Pools Be Insured? Pat Granon from the California Pool Association joins the show to discuss insurance considerations surrounding natural swimming pools. The conversation explores whether natural pools are classified as pools for insurance purposes and what coverage options may be necessary for companies servicing them.  Additional Risks of Natural Pools The discussion examines concerns involving:  Communicable disease exposure  Pollution liability  Professional liability risks  Biological filtration systems  Potential legal exposure from waterborne illnesses Pat explains why standard general liability coverage may not always be enough and discusses additional policy options that service companies should consider when working with natural swimming pools.  Is a Natural Pool Really a Pool? The hosts debate where natural pools fit within the industry and whether maintaining biology instead of traditional water chemistry creates a fundamentally different risk profile for operators and service providers.  Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    51 min
  6. The Truth About Pool Furniture with Mike Collins of Tenjam - Wednesdays

    Jun 17

    The Truth About Pool Furniture with Mike Collins of Tenjam - Wednesdays

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, host Natalie Hood sits down with Mike Collins, President of Tenjam, to uncover the often-overlooked realities of in-pool furniture. While most homeowners shop based on appearance and price, Mike explains why comfort, engineering, maintenance requirements, water depth compatibility, and long-term performance matter far more once the furniture is actually sitting in the pool.  From ergonomics and furniture design to pool covers, vinyl liners, fiberglass pools, and maintenance concerns, this episode challenges many of the assumptions surrounding today's popular tanning ledges and sun shelves.  Topics Covered in This Episode Why Two Pool Loungers That Look Identical Can Perform Completely Differently Mike explains how ergonomics, contouring, lumbar support, water management systems, and manufacturing quality dramatically impact comfort and usability. What looks great in a photo may become uncomfortable or frustrating after only a few uses.  The Hidden Problem with Water-Filled Furniture Many in-pool furniture designs rely on trapped water for weight and stability. Mike discusses how some loungers can weigh more than 160 to 260 pounds when filled, creating challenges for homeowners, pool service professionals, and anyone using automatic pool covers.  Pool Covers and Furniture: Friend or Foe? The conversation explores why many service professionals dislike heavy in-pool furniture and how furniture design can determine whether opening and closing an automatic cover becomes a simple task or a major inconvenience.  Does Heavy Furniture Really Mean Better Furniture? One of the industry's biggest misconceptions is that heavier furniture automatically equals greater stability. Mike explains the science of buoyancy, water displacement, and how thoughtful engineering can create stable furniture without excessive weight.  Comfort Matters More Than Most People Realize Not all in-pool furniture is designed with actual human comfort in mind. The discussion examines common design flaws and how proper ergonomics can dramatically improve the user experience for adults, children, and multi-generational families.  The Maintenance Nobody Talks About Furniture left in pools year-round faces constant exposure to UV light, calcium scaling, scum lines, algae growth, and other environmental challenges. Mike explains what homeowners should know before purchasing furniture and why drainage design matters.  Vinyl Liner and Fiberglass Pool Considerations Many pool owners have heard that luxury in-pool furniture isn't compatible with vinyl liner or fiberglass pools. Mike separates fact from fiction and discusses how furniture weight, movement, and construction can affect pool surfaces over time.  Why Water Depth Should Be Part of Every Furniture Conversation One of the most overlooked aspects of pool design is matching furniture to tanning ledge depth. The episode explores how different water depths create completely different user experiences and why builders should discuss furniture plans with homeowners before construction begins.  Pool Furniture Is More Than Decoration Today's in-pool furniture is no longer simply a visual accessory. The right furniture can influence how homeowners use their pools, interact with guests, enjoy tanning ledges, and maximize their outdoor living spaces.  Key Takeaways  Comfort should be evaluated, not assumed.  Furniture weight does not automatically equal quality.  Pool covers and furniture compatibility matter.  Maintenance requirements vary significantly between brands.  Vinyl liner and fiberglass pools require careful furniture selection.  Water depth should influence furniture decisions before a pool is built.  Proper engineering often matters more than appearance alone.  The cheapest option may become the most expensive over time. Memorable Quote "What looks similar online can perform very differently once it's in the water, and understanding the engineering behind the product can make all the difference in long-term satisfaction." Connect with the Guest Learn more about Mike Collins and TenJam's innovative approach to in-pool furniture design, ergonomics, and outdoor living solutions by visiting their website and social media channels.  Revdup Apparel a custom apparel company built for the pool industry. Founded by pool professionalsThe Grit GameThe Grit Game, is not just playing the game, we’re changing it. 500+ years industry experience, Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    1 hr
  7. Mondays Down Under – Finding Pool Leaks: The Art, Science, and Frustration of Leak Detection

    Jun 15

    Mondays Down Under – Finding Pool Leaks: The Art, Science, and Frustration of Leak Detection

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, hosts Lee Salisbury, Shane Sneddon, and Nick discuss one of the most challenging and often frustrating aspects of pool service: leak detection. From simple dye tests and bucket tests to advanced acoustic listening devices, pressure testing, and underground leak locating equipment, the team shares real-world experiences, troubleshooting techniques, and lessons learned from years in the field.  Topics Covered Why Leak Detection Is a Specialized Skill Leak detection often goes far beyond finding a wet spot in the yard. The hosts discuss how locating leaks requires patience, methodical troubleshooting, experience, and sometimes specialized equipment that represents a significant investment for a service company.  Common Leak Sources Every Technician Should Check First Before investing in advanced equipment, technicians can often identify many leaks through basic inspection and process-of-elimination techniques, including:  Multiport valve waste lines  Hydrostatic relief valves  Skimmer box cracks  Skimmer faceplates and gaskets  Return fittings  Suction-side plumbing  Equipment pad leaks  Pump lid cracks and air leaks The hosts explain why many leaks can be found without expensive equipment when a systematic approach is used.  Dye Testing: Every Technician's Best Friend One of the most effective and affordable leak detection tools remains simple dye testing. The discussion covers:  How dye reveals water movement  Why water table levels can affect results  Choosing the right dye color for different pool finishes  Common mistakes when performing dye tests  Creative field solutions using syringes, plasticine, and simple tools The team also discusses fluorescent dyes and situations where standard dye colors become difficult to see.  When the Water Table Changes Everything Heavy rainfall and high groundwater can completely change leak detection results. Shane shares examples where visible holes in vinyl liners showed no water loss because surrounding groundwater pressure equalized the leak. Understanding groundwater conditions is critical when diagnosing suspected leaks.  Vinyl Pool Leak Challenges The hosts discuss:  Large vinyl liner tears  Aging liner failures  Temporary patching methods  When repairs are no longer practical  Recognizing when liner replacement is the only realistic solution Real-world examples illustrate why some repairs become recurring service calls if underlying liner deterioration is ignored.  Fiberglass Pool Failures and Structural Issues Several unusual fiberglass pool failures are discussed, including:  Pool walls collapsing due to improper backfill  Hydrostatic valve failures  Pools lifting out of the ground despite being full of water  Drainage design failures around pool shells These stories highlight why understanding soil conditions and groundwater management is just as important as understanding plumbing.  Advanced Leak Detection Equipment Shane explains the equipment used by professional leak detection companies, including:  Acoustic microphones  Pipe microphones  Pressure testing systems  Underground listening devices  Sonar and sound-based locating systems The discussion includes how these systems work, their limitations, and why training is essential before offering leak detection as a professional service.  Is Leak Detection Worth Adding to Your Business? For service companies considering expanding into leak detection, the hosts discuss:  Equipment costs  Training requirements  Insurance considerations  Break-even analysis  Market demand  Scheduling and labor requirements They emphasize the importance of understanding profitability before investing heavily in specialized services.  Knowing When to Call a Specialist Not every pool company needs to perform advanced leak detection. The hosts discuss the value of building relationships with trusted specialists and recognizing when a problem exceeds your equipment, experience, or risk tolerance.  Real-World Leak Stories The episode features several memorable leak investigations, including:  A pool that only leaked intermittently  A cracked pump lid causing major system issues  Underground plumbing surprises  Faulty underground repairs  Hidden plumbing modifications discovered during excavation These stories demonstrate why leak detection often feels more like detective work than pool service.  Field Tips and Tricks The hosts share practical technician tips, including:  Bucket testing procedures  Using plasticine and Blu Tack for temporary line isolation  Why proper expansion plugs matter  Temporary repair products that actually work  The dangers of underground rubber couplers  Repair materials for emergency situations These small tricks can save technicians hours of frustration in the field.  Key Takeaway Successful leak detection is built on a systematic process of elimination. Start with the obvious, verify assumptions, test methodically, and know your limitations. Whether you're using a simple dye syringe or advanced acoustic equipment, the goal remains the same: gather evidence, eliminate possibilities, and follow the facts until the leak reveals itself.  Connect With Talking Pools Have a topic suggestion or a question you'd like answered on a future episode? Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    46 min
  8. Probablemente Estás Usando Mal la Tierra de Diatomeas

    Jun 13

    Probablemente Estás Usando Mal la Tierra de Diatomeas

    Send us Fan Mail En este episodio, Rudy responde una pregunta que recibe con frecuencia en el campo: ¿cuánta tierra de diatomeas (DE) debe agregarse realmente a un filtro después de una limpieza completa? A través de un enfoque práctico y fácil de entender, explica cómo determinar la cantidad correcta basándose en el área de superficie del filtro y no simplemente en estimaciones o costumbres heredadas.  Temas Principales La importancia de la dosis correcta de DE Muchos técnicos y operadores agregan menos tierra de diatomeas de la necesaria después de limpiar un filtro. Rudy explica por qué esta práctica puede afectar el rendimiento de la filtración y cómo asegurarse de que el filtro reciba la carga adecuada.  Cómo se calcula el área de superficie de una rejilla DE Utilizando una rejilla estándar de 19 pulgadas de diámetro como ejemplo, se revisa el proceso para convertir pulgadas a pies y calcular el área de superficie mediante la fórmula del área de un círculo (π × radio²).  Por qué cada lado de la rejilla cuenta Las rejillas de los filtros DE tienen dos caras activas de filtración. El episodio muestra cómo considerar ambas superficies para obtener una medición precisa del área total de filtración.  Determinando el área total del filtro Una vez calculada el área de una sola rejilla, Rudy demuestra cómo multiplicar ese valor por el número total de rejillas para determinar la superficie completa del filtro. En el ejemplo utilizado, un conjunto de 12 rejillas proporciona aproximadamente 47.28 pies cuadrados de área de filtración.  La regla de la industria para la carga de DE Se analiza la recomendación comúnmente aceptada de agregar aproximadamente 1.25 libras de tierra de diatomeas por cada 10 pies cuadrados de área de filtración. A partir de esta fórmula, se calcula la cantidad total necesaria para el sistema de ejemplo.  Conversión práctica a cucharadas Para facilitar el trabajo en campo, Rudy convierte el peso requerido de DE en cucharadas o paladas estándar, explicando que una palada típica contiene aproximadamente media libra de tierra de diatomeas. Esto permite realizar ajustes rápidos sin necesidad de una balanza.  La regla sencilla para recordar Después de realizar todos los cálculos, Rudy comparte una forma mucho más fácil de estimar la cantidad de DE necesaria en sistemas que utilizan rejillas estándar de 19 pulgadas: aproximadamente una cucharada o palada por cada rejilla. Una regla práctica que simplifica enormemente el proceso para técnicos y operadores.  Lo Que Aprenderás  Cómo calcular correctamente el área de superficie de un filtro DE.  Cuánta tierra de diatomeas agregar después de una limpieza completa.  Cómo convertir libras de DE a medidas prácticas de campo.  Por qué agregar muy poca DE puede afectar el desempeño del filtro.  Un método rápido para estimar la carga adecuada utilizando el número de rejillas del sistema. Sobre el Presentador Rudy Stankowitz, de Aquatic Facility Training & Consultants, comparte conocimientos prácticos basados en décadas de experiencia en la industria de piscinas, ayudando a técnicos, operadores y profesionales acuáticos a comprender no solo qué hacer, sino también por qué hacerlo.  Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    8 min
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4.7
out of 5
114 Ratings

About

If you’ve ever stared at a test kit like it personally insulted your family… welcome home. Talking Pools Podcast is the pool industry’s “pull up a chair” show—part shop talk, part field manual, part therapy session—built for people who actually live on pool decks: commercial operators, service techs, builders, facility managers, and anyone responsible for water that can’t afford to go sideways. The network was created to level up the pool industry with real-world conversations on water chemistry, filtration, troubleshooting, construction, safety, and the business side of keeping pools open and budgets intact.  Here’s the hook: it’s not theory-first. It’s experience-first—a roster of seasoned pros (with 250+ years of combined “been there, fixed that” wisdom) turning complicated problems into practical moves you can use the same day.  And it’s not one voice, one vibe, one corner of the industry: it’s a network of shows designed to reflect how diverse this work really is—different regions, different specialties, different personalities.  Also worth saying out loud: women aren’t “special guests” here—they’re on the mic as hosts, from the beginning, with an intentionally balanced roster.  That matters, because the best ideas in this industry don’t come from one lane—they come from the whole road. If you want a podcast that can make you laugh and make you better at what you do—without pretending the job is easier than it is—Talking Pools is the one you queue up before the first stop, and keep on when the day starts getting weird. 

Information

  • Creator
    Rudy Stankowitz
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    1K
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Talking Pools Podcast
  • Show Website
    Talking Pools Podcast

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