🔥 Episode Summary:

In this laugh-out-loud yet surprisingly helpful episode, Roy “Al G” Free dives deep (but not deeper than 8 feet — OSHA says no) into the gritty world of pool tile cleaning. Whether you’re dealing with crusty calcium deposits, waterline slime, or mysterious gunk that may or may not be alive, this episode has got you covered.

From classic brushing and vinegar scrubs to soda blasting and bead bombing like you’re power-washing the Sistine Chapel, Roy explains it all — with a healthy dose of dad jokes, absurd humor, and just enough useful product knowledge to make your pool sparkle like it's on a dating app.

🧼 What You'll Learn:

• The traditional “tried-and-true” methods of tile cleaning (and why your grandma would approve)
• How to use vinegar, baking soda, and pumice without accidentally scrubbing a hole into the space-time continuum
• Why bead blasting sounds intense (and kind of is)
• How soda blasting differs (spoiler: it’s not the diet version)
• Tools & gadgets Roy recommends — including The Wall Whale, which sounds fake but absolutely isn’t
• Why chlorine and candlelight don’t mix
• How to tell if your tile needs cleaning or just a good cry

🛠️ Tools & Products Mentioned:

• The Wall Whale Classic Pool Brush
• Tile Scrubber with Quick Connect
• Blue Torrent 360° Brush
• Pumice Stone with Pole Adapter
• Poolife Tile Cleaner Rx
• Clemco Pool Pal Bead Blaster (for folks who like to clean aggressively)

💬 Quotable Moments:

🤪 Dad Joke of the Episode:

“Why did the pool tile call in sick?
 Because it had a scaling issue.”

🔗 Links & Resources:

• Full tool list at cpoclass.com/tools
• Learn more about professional blasting methods at dustlessblasting.com
• Roy’s favorite brush? It’s the one that whales on algae. Available at yardandpool.com

Phosphates are everywhere—in your pool, your tap water, even your chemicals—and they’re feeding algae while making your chlorine work overtime. In this episode, we take a deep dive into what phosphates are, where they come from, why they matter, and how to get rid of them.

We’ll bust some myths, explain why test kits don’t tell the whole story, Oh—and yes, there are dad jokes. Because what’s a pool podcast without a little chlorine-soaked humor?

🔬 Topics Covered:

• What phosphates are (and why algae love them)
• Why phosphates increase chlorine demand
• The hidden phosphate sources in your pool:
  • Tap water
  • Leaves, pollen, soil, and swimmers
  • Certain pool chemicals
• The difference between orthophosphates, polyphosphates, and metaphosphates
• Why most test kits only tell part of the storyg
• Why “just add more chlorine” is not a real solution
• Real-world phosphate removal strategies
• Products that help reduce or eliminate phosphates
• Our favorite pool-related dad jokes (you’ve been warned)

🧴 Products & Tools Mentioned:

• PR-10,000 Phosphate Remover
• SC-1000 (phosphate-free scale/stain preventer)
• Natural Chemistry Pool Perfect
• Taylor K-1106 Phosphate Test Kit
• Clorox Pool&Spa Phosphate Remover
• And more available through AquaTech, Walmart, Amazon, and professional suppliers

🧠 Key Takeaway:

You can’t stop phosphates from getting in your pool—but you can kick them out. If you want predictable water and fewer green pool disasters, phosphate removal isn’t optional—it’s smart.

🤣 Dad Jokes of the Day:

• What do you call a pool tech who never removes phosphates?
  Algae’s favorite person.
• Why did the pool water go to therapy?
  Because it had too many underlying issues—and phosphates were just the surface tension.

In this episode of Pool School, host Roy "Al G." Free dives headfirst into the sparkling world of borates — what they are, why you need them, and how to properly add borax to your pool water. Roy walks you through dosing tips, balancing pH and alkalinity with muriatic acid, and explains how borates help stabilize pH, stretch chlorine supply, reduce UV degradation, minimize scaling, and even make your pool feel silky-smooth. Plus, he dishes out a healthy serving of lame dad jokes along the way. (You’ve been warned.)

Whether you're a new pool owner or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with practical advice, chemistry insights, and laughs to keep your water (and your mood) crystal clear.

Topics Covered:

• Why pH drifts upward in pools — and how borates put the brakes on it
• How to use borax to establish a 50 ppm borate level
• Why you must add muriatic acid after borax to rebalance pH and alkalinity
• How borates act as an algaestat, helping chlorine last longer
• Borates’ bonus role in protecting chlorine from solar UV degradation
• How borates reduce calcium scaling and extend equipment life
• Making your pool water feel softer and more luxurious
• Why borates are a set-it-and-forget-it solution (no constant re-adding needed)
• Pet safety considerations when using borates
• Dad jokes so bad they’re almost good

Key Takeaways:

• Dosage Guide: Add 2.5 pounds of borax per 1,000 gallons to achieve ~50 ppm borate
• Acid Balance: Add ~12 ounces of muriatic acid for every 2.5 pounds of borax
• Testing: Always test and adjust pH and Total Alkalinity after additions
• Maintenance: Only re-dose after significant water loss (splash-out, backwashing, leaks, draining)

Memorable Quotes:

Dad Joke Highlights:

• Why did the pool water feel depressed? Because it had low self-‘steam.’
• What’s a pool’s favorite type of music? Anything with a ‘current’ beat.
• Why did the chlorine break up with the algaecide? Too clingy.

Links Mentioned:

• CDC Pool Chemical Safety Guidelines
• Detailed Borate Chemistry Resource (external)

Connect with Us:

• Subscribe to Pool School Podcast wherever you listen!
• Leave a review if you enjoyed today's dive into the science of borates.
• Got pool questions or joke submissions for Roy? Email us at: [email protected]
• Follow us on Instagram: @PoolSchoolPodcast

In this episode, we dive deep into the science behind swimming pool algaecides—what they are, how they work, and which ones are worth your time and money. Whether you're dealing with green gunk taking over your deep end or just looking to keep your pool looking crystal-clear all season long, understanding these chemicals can give you a serious edge.

We’ll break down the 7 main types of pool algaecides—from quats to copper, polyquats to PHMB—and explain exactly how each one kills or prevents algae. Spoiler alert: not all algaecides are created equal, and more isn’t always better.

If you’re a pool pro or just a pool nerd, this episode will help you level up your chemical game and make smarter choices for your clients or backyard oasis.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• 💧 What quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) are and why they sometimes cause foaming
• 🧪 How polyquats are the non-foaming upgrade to traditional quats
• 🔬 Why copper and silver algaecides kill algae at the cellular level—but come with staining risks
• ⚡ The surprising truth about sodium bromide and how it supercharges chlorine
• 🚫 Why PHMB works without chlorine—and why it can’t play nice with other systems
• ⏱️ How hydrogen peroxide shocks algae into oblivion in chlorine-free setups
• 🎯 Which algaecide to choose depending on whether you're preventing or fighting an outbreak

Who This Episode Is For:

• Pool service techs who want better results without wasting chemicals
• Pool company owners training new hires on chemical treatments
• Homeowners maintaining their own pools who are tired of green surprises
• Anyone who wants to understand why one product works when another fails

In this episode of the Pool School Podcast, Roy "Al G" Free tackles the ever-present challenge of algae growth in swimming pools. Algae, whether it's green, yellow, or black, can quickly turn your pool from a refreshing oasis into a green, slimy swamp. Roy dives into the world of metallic algaecides, specifically copper, silver, and zinc, and explains how these powerful metals work individually and synergistically to prevent and control algae blooms.

Key topics covered include:

1. What are Chelated Metals?
   Roy explains the process of chelation, which involves binding metal ions to molecules to keep them stable and effective in the pool. Chelation ensures that the algaecides remain active longer and reduces the risk of staining pool surfaces.
2. Copper: The Algae Killer
   Learn how copper works to kill algae by causing cell lysis, breaking apart algae cell membranes. Roy also discusses how copper disrupts the Calvin cycle, a crucial part of algae's photosynthesis process, preventing them from producing the energy they need to survive.
3. Silver: The Stealthy Biocide
   Roy delves into silver’s unique method of causing oxidative stress inside algae cells, damaging their internal structures and ultimately leading to cell death. Silver’s ability to weaken algae internally makes it an effective and silent killer.
4. Zinc: The Supportive Player
   Zinc's role is more subtle but no less important. Roy explains how zinc affects algae's ability to metabolize energy and photosynthesize, weakening them and making them more vulnerable to copper and silver.
5. Synergy of Copper, Silver, and Zinc
   When combined, these three metals create a powerhouse algaecide. Roy explains how they work together, each targeting different aspects of algae biology, ensuring a more comprehensive and long-lasting algae control solution.

By the end of the episode, listeners will understand how these metallic algaecides work, why chelation is crucial for their effectiveness, and how to use them together to keep pools clear and algae-free. Whether you're a pool owner or a professional, this episode offers practical insights into using copper, silver, and zinc for algae control.

Key Takeaways:

• Copper, silver, and zinc work together to attack algae on multiple fronts.
• Chelation helps metallic algaecides remain effective for longer without staining.
• By understanding the science behind these metals, pool owners can make smarter decisions to maintain clean, clear water.

Tune in and learn how to keep your pool free from the dreaded green swamp water with the power of metallic algaecides!

In this episode of Pool School Podcast, host Roy "Al G." Free takes a deep dive into one of the most crucial, yet often overlooked, aspects of pool care: the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI). If you've ever wondered why your pool water sometimes feels off, or why scale builds up in your pool equipment, this episode is for you.

Roy breaks down the science of LSI in an easy-to-understand way, explaining how it helps you maintain the perfect balance in your pool water. He’ll cover how LSI can prevent scaling and corrosion, ensuring your pool and equipment stay in top condition.

But LSI isn’t just another pool chemistry term—it’s a game changer when it comes to keeping your water crystal clear and your maintenance costs low. Roy will also discuss how LSI fits into your overall pool care routine, along with the vital roles of pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness.

Whether you're a seasoned pool owner or just getting started, this episode will give you the knowledge to fine-tune your pool chemistry and keep your backyard oasis running smoothly. Tune in for an engaging mix of chemistry, practical tips, and a touch of humor to keep things light. You’ll leave this episode feeling more confident in managing your pool and understanding exactly what makes your water tick.

In this episode of the Pool School Podcast, your host Roy "Al. G." Free dives deep into the often-overlooked yet crucial aspect of pool maintenance: Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and Its Effect on Swimming Pool Maintenance.

Al. G. begins by explaining what TDS is—basically, everything dissolved in your pool water that isn’t water, from salts and minerals to sunscreens, oils, and even sweat. It's a combination of all the substances in the water that can directly affect the overall water quality.

As TDS builds up, it can lead to a series of headaches for pool owners, such as reduced effectiveness of chlorine, scaling on pool tiles and equipment, and even cloudy water. Al. G. explains how these issues arise when TDS levels go above the ideal range of 500 to 1,500 ppm and what that means for your pool. He also shares some practical tips for controlling and managing TDS, including regular testing, proper chemical use, filtration maintenance, and the ultimate fix—water replacement (yes, sometimes you’ll need to dilute your pool!).

And of course, what would a Pool School Podcast episode be without some dad jokes? Al. G. drops one or two zingers to keep the mood light, including one about a pool with a “bad attitude” due to “too many dissolved issues” (you’ll get it when you hear it!).

Tune in to get all the essential info you need to keep your pool TDS in check and ensure a sparkling, healthy swimming environment.

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Pool School Podcast with your host, Roy "Al. G." Free! In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most crucial aspects of pool maintenance: Understanding pH in Swimming Pools

Maintaining the proper pH balance in your pool is key to not only ensuring the water is safe and inviting for swimmers, but also to protecting your equipment and enhancing the effectiveness of your pool chemicals. Al. G. Free walks you through the ins and outs of pH, explaining why it’s so important in pool care, how pH impacts chlorine efficiency, swimmer comfort, and even your pool’s equipment longevity.

Whether you're a seasoned pool professional or just starting your pool ownership journey, this episode covers the essential techniques for managing pH. Learn how to adjust your pool’s pH using a variety of chemicals, including muriatic acid, sodium bisulfate, CO2, sodium carbonate, and sodium bicarbonate. Al. G. also provides tips on how to prevent common pH-related issues like scale formation, cloudy water, and corrosion.

Tune in for practical advice and expert insights that will help you maintain a properly balanced pool and make the right adjustments when needed. Don't miss out on Al. G.'s expert guidance on optimizing pH levels for the cleanest, safest, and most enjoyable swimming experience.

Catch this episode of Pool School every Wednesday – because a properly balanced pool is a happy pool!

In this episode of the Pool School Podcast, host Roy "Al. G." Free dives into the often-overlooked yet crucial aspect of pool water chemistry: Understanding Carbonate Alkalinity in Pool Care. While most pool owners are familiar with total alkalinity, the specific role of carbonate alkalinity and its importance in stabilizing pH often goes unnoticed. This episode breaks down everything you need to know about carbonate alkalinity, from its definition and how it’s calculated to its vital role in maintaining a balanced and comfortable swimming environment.

Al. G. explains how carbonate alkalinity is a subset of total alkalinity, excluding the influence of cyanuric acid, and why this distinction matters for effective pool care. The episode provides step-by-step guidance on calculating carbonate alkalinity and demonstrates how proper levels can serve as a buffer to prevent pH from fluctuating, which can cause discomfort for swimmers and damage to pool surfaces and equipment.

Listeners will learn how to manage carbonate alkalinity by adjusting it through chemicals like sodium bicarbonate and muriatic acid, and how these adjustments can help keep pH stable. The episode also highlights the importance of carbonate alkalinity in saltwater pools, where it plays a significant role in maintaining pH stability and preventing issues like CO2 outgassing, which can otherwise destabilize pH levels.

Whether you're a pool professional or an owner managing your own pool, this episode will provide practical advice on maintaining proper carbonate alkalinity, ensuring your pool stays balanced, efficient, and safe for swimming. Tune in to learn how to optimize your pool chemistry for the best performance and long-term health of your pool!

In this episode of the Pool School Podcast, host Roy "Al. G." Free takes a deep dive into the critical yet often misunderstood aspect of pool care: Calcium Hardness in Pool Care. While many pool owners focus on pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels, maintaining proper calcium hardness is just as essential to ensure the longevity of your pool and its equipment.

Al. G. breaks down what calcium hardness is, why it’s important, and how it directly affects pool water chemistry. Learn how proper calcium hardness levels can prevent both scaling and corrosion, two common issues that can cause long-term damage to your pool surfaces, tiles, equipment, and plumbing. Al. G. also explains how to test for calcium hardness, interpret the results, and adjust it when necessary to keep your pool in top condition.

The episode covers practical advice on how to raise or lower calcium hardness, including the best methods and chemicals for making adjustments. Al. G. also discusses how different types of pools—concrete, plaster, vinyl, and fiberglass—can be affected differently by calcium hardness levels and why it’s crucial to manage it properly.

Whether you're a pool service professional or a first-time pool owner, this episode will equip you with the knowledge needed to manage calcium hardness effectively. Tune in to learn how maintaining the right balance of calcium hardness ensures a clean, safe, and efficient pool while protecting your investment in the long run!