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In this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Rudy Stankowitz dives deep into crucial topics affecting the pool industry, from upcoming trade shows—particularly the National Plaster Council Conference—to the nitty-gritty science of algae, microorganisms, and their impact on water quality and plaster integrity.

Rudy also explores the controversial role of cyanuric acid in pool maintenance, the truth about advertising claims in the industry, and the latest insights into chlorine testing, pH control, and total alkalinity measurements.

Additionally, this episode takes a practical turn as Rudy breaks down how to successfully raise your pool service prices without losing your mind—or your best customers. He explains how to time your price increases, handle customer reactions, and strategically communicate the change to maintain client loyalty and keep your business profitable.

Takeaways

• The National Plaster Council Conference is a must-attend event for pool pros.
• Microorganisms in pools aren’t just a nuisance—they impact plaster integrity and water quality.
• Cyanuric acid: a blessing and a curse in pool chemistry.
• Algae isn’t just ugly—it’s destructive (and Rudy has the science to prove it).
• Expired DPD2 reagents = faulty chlorine readings—don't trust bad data!
• Raising your pool service prices? The right approach makes all the difference.
• Timing is everything—adjust your pricing before peak season.
• Your best customers deserve a personal call when announcing a price increase.
• Don’t let invoices deliver the bad news—own your worth!
• Trade shows are invaluable for networking and staying ahead of industry trends.
• The truth about chlorine testing: Manganese oxidation and expired reagents can throw off results.
• Evaporation affects chemical concentrations, which can mislead pool pros on water balance.

Sound Bites

• "We made it to another Friday."
• "We're going to do a deep dive."
• "Raise your pool service prices—the right way!"
• "Microbial acid secretion—it’s real, and it’s coming for your plaster."
• "If the drop has a purple hue, it has expired."
• "The ideal pH range is 7.4 to 7.6."
• "High levels of metal can affect test results."

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Pool Talk and Industry Events
04:36 – Upcoming National Plaster Council Conference
10:01 – Deep Dive into Algae and Microorganisms
17:23 – Cyanuric Acid: Friend or Foe?
20:53 – Advertising Truths in the Pool Industry
23:09 – Understanding Chlorine Testing and Measurement
26:39 – Raise Your Pool Service Prices the Smart Way
28:10 – The Importance of pH Levels
32:22 – Chlorine Levels and Their Impact
35:28 – Total Alkalinity Testing Explained
38:18 – Calcium Hardness and Leak Detection
42:45 – Managing Metal Contamination in Pool Water
46:22 – Strategies for pH Control in Saltwater Pool

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