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Mondays Down Under – Understanding Pool & Spa Standards in Australia & New Zealand

This week on Mondays Down Under, Lee and Shane dive into a topic that every pool and spa professional thinks they understand—until they don’t: standards, regulations, and the rules that actually govern your work on both sides of the Tasman.

From fencing laws to suction entrapment prevention, from dangerous goods handling to new fiberglass standards, this episode breaks down exactly what service technicians, retail pros, and builders need to know to stay compliant, stay safe, and avoid being on the wrong side of an inspector—or worse, an accident.

What Lee & Shane Cover This Episode:

• Why even Airbnbs and bed-and-breakfast pools count as commercial pools in most regions
• The most commonly used Australian standard: AS 1926 (safety barriers, location, and recirculation systems)
• How New Zealand’s rules differ—and where they mirror Australia
• The growing crackdown on inflatable, portable, and pop-up pools in New Zealand
• Real-world stories of councils interpreting rules their own way
• The often-ignored but critical AS 1926.3 standard: suction fittings, skimmer boxes, and entrapment prevention
• Suction cover flow-rate differences between brands like Waterco and Spa Electrics—and how choosing the wrong replacement can create a hazard
• Why every technician needs to match pump selection to compliant flow-rate limits
• Old but still referenced: the private pool water quality standard AS 3633 and its upcoming rewrite
• Where water quality rules actually come from (hint: your state health guidelines)
• Dangerous goods standards including:
  • AS 3780 – storage and handling of corrosive substances
  • AS/NZS 3833 – mixed classes of dangerous goods (recently updated to 2024)
• Additional niche standards builders and installers should know:
  • AS/NZS 1477 – PVC pressure pipes & fittings
  • AS 3634 – solar heating systems
  • AS 5348 – pool covers
• The massive update to the fiberglass pool installation standard:
  • Former AS/NZS 1838:1994 → now AS/NZS 1839:2025
• Why SPASA is currently seeking industry feedback for the new concrete pool standard under development

The Big Message:

If you work on a pool—service, retail, install, or build—you need to know the standards that govern your work. They protect your customer, and they protect you.

Links & Mentions:

• SPASA contact for contributing to the new concrete pool standard: [email protected]
  
  
• Check your state health guidelines for water-quality requirements
• Remember: Commercial pool rules apply to Airbnb, holiday rentals, and any property where someone is paying to stay—whether the pool is big, small, or inflatable.

Have a Question for Lee & Shane?

Send your suggestions, questions, or episode ideas to:
 📩 [email protected]

Thanks for listening to Mondays Down Under! Stay safe, stay compliant, and stay curious.
 We’ll catch you next week!

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Welcome to an in-depth exploration of leak detection in pools, a topic that often goes unnoticed yet is crucial for any pool owner. In this blog post, we’ll highlight key insights and practical tips from a recent podcast episode featuring industry experts Natalie Hood and Jared Medeiros. Let’s dive in and unravel the myths surrounding leak detection and maintenance.

Section 1: Understanding the Importance of Leak Detection  Leaks can lead to significant water loss and costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Natalie and Jared emphasized the importance of being proactive rather than reactive when it comes to leak detection. As Jared, a seasoned professional in the aquatics industry, points out, understanding the signs of leaks can save pool owners time, money, and headaches in the long run.

Section 2: Common Myths About Pool Plaster  One common myth discussed in the podcast is that plaster lasts forever if maintained correctly. Jared clarified that while proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of plaster, it is not indestructible. For instance, between five to ten years, homeowners may start to notice scaling, staining, and roughness if the pool chemistry is neglected. Jared notes that many homeowners wait too long, often until the plaster is visibly damaged, before considering resurfacing or repairs. 

Section 3: Repairing Plaster Underwater  Another myth addressed is the belief that plaster cannot be repaired underwater. Jared debunked this notion, stating that underwater repairs are indeed possible and often necessary for minor damages. He explained that only in extreme cases, such as structural failures, would a complete drain be required. This insight is crucial for homeowners who may fear costly and disruptive repairs.

Section 4: Differentiating Between Surface and Structural Issues  Natalie shared a personal anecdote about her father’s experience with a pool leak, highlighting the challenge homeowners face in distinguishing between surface cracks and structural failures. Jared advised that if homeowners are losing significant amounts of water, it’s likely a structural issue that needs immediate attention. In contrast, minor water loss might just require a quick repair rather than an extensive fix.

Section 5: The Role of Water Chemistry  The podcast also touched on the importance of water chemistry in maintaining the integrity of pool surfaces. Both Natalie and Jared stress that consistent testing and balancing of pool chemicals are vital for prolonging the life of plaster. Neglecting water chemistry can lead to costly repairs and diminished aesthetics over time. 

Conclusion: Key Takeaways  As we wrap up this discussion on leak detection and pool maintenance, the key takeaways are clear:  1. Proactive leak detection can save you time and money. 2. Understanding the lifespan of plaster and recognizing signs of wear is crucial. 3. Repairing plaster underwater is often feasible, but structural issues require immediate attention. 4. Maintaining proper water chemistry is essential for the longevity of your pool surfaces.  Educating yourself about these aspects can empower you as a pool owner and ensure your investment remains beautiful and functional for years to come.

Tags: pool maintenance, leak detection, plaster repairs, water chemistry, pool care tips, aquatics industry insights, pool myths, homeowner guide.

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Featuring Don Douglas of Revd Up Apparel — Gold Sponsor of the Mentor of the Year Award

Some episodes age like fine wine.
 This one… aged like a perfectly balanced LSI reading.

Andrea and Paulette crack open a legendary conversation from the Talking Pools archives — the day Don Douglas of Revd Up Apparel stopped by and changed the way the pool industry thinks about clothes, branding, and what “professional” really looks like in the field.

This isn’t just an interview.
 It’s an origin story.
 It’s a cautionary tale.
 It’s a fashion show, a chemistry class, and a public service announcement wrapped in laughs and storytelling the way only Andrea and Paulette can deliver.

And yes — Revd Up Apparel is also a proud Gold Sponsor of the Talking Pools Mentor of the Year Award. The company that built chemical-resistant gear for pool pros is also helping build the next generation of leaders. That connection hits different now.

🌊 Episode Overview

Don takes us back to the beginnings of Revd Up Apparel — before the fulfillment center, before the fan-favorite custom jerseys, before they were outfitting half the industry — to the moment he realized pool techs deserved gear that could survive chlorine splashes, muriatic acid droplets, and the occasional “customer who swears their dog doesn’t bite.”

Andrea and Paulette take the conversation into beautifully chaotic territory, weaving together topics every pool pro deals with:

💧 Chemical safety myths that need to die already
💧 The hair-care advice every parent wishes they learned sooner
💧 Why pre-wetting your hair is the unsung hero of avoiding green-tips
💧 Branding as a small pool business: looking legit vs. looking lost
💧 Why your shirt shouldn’t bleach faster than your chlorine does

There’s education, heart, and a little “pool-pro trauma bonding,” the kind that makes our industry one big family.

🔥 Listener Takeaways (Emotion First, Info Always)

• Your uniform matters more to your brand than your truck wrap. Don explains why custom, chemical-resistant apparel can make even a one-person route look like a franchise.
• Revd Up Apparel isn’t just selling shirts — they’re solving problems pool pros have lived with for decades.
• Never, ever mix unknown chemicals. The stories shared in this episode might tighten your stomach. They’re meant to.
• Pool safety is everyone’s job — Andrea and Paulette speak from experience, urging listeners to watch the water, trust their gut, and speak up.
• Hair care isn’t vanity — it’s chemistry. Pre-wetting hair reduces metal absorption and chlorine-related discoloration.
• Parents: listen closely. Your awareness around the pool is the most important piece of safety equipment your child has.
• You can order a single shirt. Revd Up’s fulfillment model is built for both big teams and solo operators.
• Your appearance sets the tone. Pool pros don’t just maintain water — they maintain trust.

🎨 Design Contest Alert!

This episode originally launched the now-legendary Revd Up listener design contest. If you weren’t around then, you’ll understand why it became a fan favorite. Think creativity, bragging rights, and a little healthy competition among pool techs who suddenly discovered they had graphic-designer energy.

🎧 Sound Bites Worth Replaying

“This is the Tuesday show!”
“You can order as little as one!”
“Please watch—everybody be aware!”

Short, sharp, and so very Talking Pools.

💙 Why This Episode Still Matters

Listening today hits differently.
 Knowing that Revd Up Apparel stepped up as a Gold Sponsor for the Mentor of the Year — the first merit-base

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In this episode, Rudy delves into the intricacies of total alkalinity in pool chemistry, explaining its critical role in maintaining pH levels and overall water balance. He discusses the impact of carbon dioxide and borates on pool chemistry, emphasizing the importance of understanding these elements for effective pool maintenance. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by pool service professionals and the need for consistent testing and adjustments to ensure optimal water quality.

takeaways

• Total alkalinity is crucial for stabilizing pH levels in pools.
• High alkalinity can lead to pH drift, making management difficult.
• Carbon dioxide plays a significant role in pH changes in pool water.
• Borates act as a secondary buffer, stabilizing pH against rises.
• Maintaining a balance between alkalinity and borates is essential for water chemistry.
• Regular testing of total alkalinity is important for pool maintenance.
• Understanding the relationship between alkalinity and pH is key to effective pool care.
• The use of borates can enhance chlorine efficiency in pools.
• Pool professionals must adapt to changing chemical dynamics in water.
• A well-balanced pool system leads to predictable water behavior.

Sound Bites

• "Alkalinity is the heart's pacemaker."
• "You're the one keeping families safe."
• "Until next time, be good, be safe."

Chapters

00:00
Understanding Total Alkalinity in Pool Chemistry

04:30
The Impact of Alkalinity on pH Levels

11:15
The Role of Carbon Dioxide and Borates

20:18
Maintaining Balance in Pool Water Chemistry

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🔑 Episode Highlights:

• Wayne’s Health Update & Podcast Direction Wayne shares a personal health update and how it’s shaping the future of the show.
• Celebrating Mentorship: Rich Gallo Named Mentor of the Year A heartfelt tribute to Rich Gallo’s impact on the pool service industry and his dedication to mentoring others.
• Business Wisdom from Rich Gallo Rich opens up about his entrepreneurial journey, lessons learned, and the importance of staying grounded.
• Teamwork Makes the Dream Work A candid discussion on how collaboration and trust fuel business success.
• Sponsorships & Product Shoutouts Highlighting key products and sponsors that support the show and the pool service community.
• Navigating the Pool Industry Insights into insurance, safety, and the unique challenges of managing commercial pool accounts.
• Understanding Bids & Pricing Tips on how to approach bidding and pricing strategies in a competitive market.
• The Role of Distributors Exploring how distributors influence the pool business ecosystem.
• Final Thoughts & Community Engagement A call to action for listeners to stay connected and support each other in the industry.

🛠️ Tools & Resources Mentioned:

• [Product recommendations and sponsors]
• [Insurance and safety guidelines for pool businesses]
• [Mentorship programs in the pool industry]

💬 Join the Conversation:

Have thoughts or questions about this episode? Connect with us on social or send us a message!

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In this powerful conclusion to the two-part episode Clear Water Can Still Kill, Natalie Hood and Dewey Case pull back the curtain on the myths that continue to plague both residential and commercial pool operations. From chlorine “smell” misconceptions to Airbnb water safety, they challenge everything we think we know about clean, safe, and healthy pool water.

Dewey explains why clear doesn’t always mean clean—and why that faint haze, that “smells clean” comment, or that once-a-week test schedule could spell serious trouble. Natalie takes it a step further, sharing real-world stories of visiting family pools that reeked of combined chlorine, and why that chemical sting is the ultimate red flag for poor air and water management.

Together, they break down:

• Why public spas can be a microbiological minefield (and why Dewey won’t get in them)
• The shocking truth about short-term pool rentals and backyard “pool sharing” apps
• Why HOAs testing once a week isn’t just lazy—it’s dangerous
• The right testing frequency for both homeowners and pool pros
• Why water testing at the pool store days later is absolutely not okay
• How education and continuing certification separate the pros from the pretenders
• And why a commercial pool isn’t just a “big backyard pool”—it’s a Ferrari compared to a Ford

Dewey and Natalie wrap with a reality check: certification is just your driver’s license. The real work is what comes after—continuous education, field experience, and doing the job right even when no one’s watching.

Key Quote:

“Be better. Earn more.” — Dewey Case

Next Week:
Natalie returns with The Grit Game’s Jared Medeiros and JD “Positive Vibes” Director to tackle one of the toughest topics in pool care: leak detection. You won’t want to miss this one!

Listen on: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • Amazon Music • Stitcher
#TalkingPoolsPodcast #PoolSafety #MythBusting #PublicHealth #CMAHC #GritGame #PoolPros

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Welcome back to the Talking Pools Podcast — We're opening up the vault and this one snuck out! The real-life challenges and strategies shaping the pool industry. I’m Rudy, here with the always insightful Andrea, and today we’re tackling a topic that every pool pro eventually has to face: how to handle price increases without losing your cool or your margins.

This episode isn’t about confrontation — it’s about confidence and strategy.
Rudy and Andrea open up about their own experiences dealing with chemical price hikes and share smart, professional ways to push back when suppliers raise costs. They unpack the importance of comparing distributor pricing, shopping competitors, and making informed, data-driven decisions to protect your bottom line.

The conversation reminds listeners that questioning a price increase or exploring new supplier options doesn’t make you disloyal — it makes you a smart business owner. It’s not a personal attack on your rep or distributor. It’s simply how responsible professionals keep their companies healthy and profitable.

So tune in as we break down the right way to say “no” to a price hike, when to explore your options, and how to do it with respect, tact, and professionalism.
 Because in this business, just like we say — it’s not personal, it’s just good business.

AquaStar Pool Products
The Global Leader in

Safety, Dependability, & Innovation

in Pool Technology.

POOL MAGAZINE

Pool Magazine is leading up to the minute news source for Swimming Pool News and Pool Features. Ou

BLUERAY XL
The real mineral purifier!

Reduce your pool maintenance costs & efforts by 50%

Jack's Magic
If you know Jack's you'd have no stains!

the 'How to Get Rid of Algae' handbook
The most comprehensive guide on algae prevention and remediation you will ever own.

CPO Certification Classes
Attend your CPO class with Rudy Stankowitz!

Online Pool Classes
The difference between you and your competition is what you know!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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Lee’s back on home turf (and grand-dad duty) and Shane’s in the chair from New Zealand for a lively episode that starts with a wild Guy Fawkes blackout story and lands on a pressing industry issue: two major distributors have exited the NZ market, leaving pros scrambling for parts, warranties, and sensible logistics.

In this episode

• Cold open: A powder-monkey grandad, one huge bang, and parts of Melbourne go dark 😳
• NZ shake-up: Two big distributors stop supplying nationwide—what that means for warranties, spare parts, and service timelines.
• Reality check on freight: When a book of stickers costs $20 to ship, what will a pump or salt cell run?
• What to tell customers: Bulk email blast or handle it case-by-case? Lee explains why targeted, honest comms win.
• Owning the problem: Why suppliers should proactively notify recalls/faults (shout-out to Fluidra for doing it right).
• When brands fold: Lessons from the Poolrite era—who actually carries the warranty, and how pros protected clients (and their own reputations).
• Smart playbook:
  • Vet suppliers for staying power, not just long warranties.
  • Consider buying groups to consolidate freight.
  • Explore becoming a local warranty station to turn pain into pipeline.

Key takeaways

• Don’t panic-email your whole book—inform affected clients individually with options and realistic timelines.
• Push suppliers to own known issues and send parts proactively; it saves everyone’s face.
• Strength in numbers: coordinate orders and freight with nearby companies.
• A long warranty is meaningless if the brand won’t be around to honor it.

Got a topic, tip, or rant?
Email: [email protected]
— Rudy will route it to the right crew.

Happy Monday, and stay safe out there!

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What starts as a casual “round two” turns into one of the most important — and hilarious — conversations pool pros need to hear. Rudy and Andrea dive deep into DOT (Department of Transportation) requirements for pool service trucks, and what every tech should know before hitting the road loaded with chemicals in this #WaybackWeekend thing we've been doing. Spoiler: if you’re hauling 100-pound buckets or 100-gallon tanks, you might be breaking the law — and not in the cool Judas Priest way Andrea sings about.

Rudy breaks down the federal regulations (yep, this isn’t just Florida) including:

• The 440-pound chlorine and acid limit per vehicle
• Why your bucket can’t weigh more than 66 pounds
• The “8-gallon max” rule for liquid containers
• SDS sheet requirements (and why they belong in a binder, not on a tablet)
• Placard rules, shipping papers, and the $10,000 fines waiting for violators

Andrea confesses what’s really on her truck (“way over the limit”), and the two compare real-world setups with what’s actually legal. They talk about EPA pullovers for unlabeled jugs, illegal chemical transfers on-site, and even the torque wrench you’re supposed to carry for chlorine jugs — which Rudy swears a DOT officer once actually checked.

The episode blends serious education with their trademark chaos — green beans, Texas Roadhouse rolls, and Andrea’s eternal battle between hunger and compliance.

Key Takeaways:

• Pool service trucks are subject to DOT hazmat rules — and ignorance won’t save you.
• Overloading your vehicle can lead to massive fines and even business-ending penalties.
• Sodium bromide counts toward your chlorine weight total.
• Never refill or transfer chlorine from bulk tanks in the field.
• Keep your SDS sheets printed and accessible.

Cliffhanger Tease for Next Week:
Andrea brings up a sobering topic — how pool pros handle it when a longtime customer passes away. Rudy turns it into a thoughtful (and very Rudy) conversation starter: “What do you do when your customer drops dead?”
Catch Part Two next week for this emotional and rarely discussed side of the industry.

Special Shoutout:
Huge thanks to our listeners in Lithuania — apparently we’re charting there! No idea why, but we love you.

Want a Free Talking Pools Hat?
Send your pool questions to [email protected]
— if we use it on the show, we’ll mail you an embroidered “What the Flock” hat (U.S. lower 48 only).

#TalkingPoolsPodcast #PoolServiceLife #DOTCompliance #Hazmat #PoolPros #JudasPriest #BreakingTheLaw #PoolGirlPower #RudyStankowitz #AndreaThePoolGirl

AquaStar Pool Products
The Global Leader in

Safety, Dependability, & Innovation

in Pool Technology.

POOL MAGAZINE

Pool Magazine is leading up to the minute news source for Swimming Pool News and Pool Features. Ou

BLUERAY XL
The real mineral purifier!

Reduce your pool maintenance costs & efforts by 50%

Online Pool Classes
The difference between you and your competition is what you know!

CPO Certification Classes
Attend your CPO class with Rudy Stankowitz!

Jack's Magic
If you know Jack's you'd have no stains!

the 'How to Get Rid of Algae' handbook
The most comprehensive guide on algae prevention and remediation you will ever own.

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:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Tik Tok

Email us: [email protected]

Ask a question here

Hey Pool Pros! We’re back with another Talking Pools Podcast episode from the vault, and this time it's featuring your favorite duo — Kelli and Dan — and trust us, this one’s got it all.

Dan’s been burning the candle at both ends with office remodels, travel chaos, and prep for the Atlantic City Pool & Spa Show, while Kelli’s been making the most of the off-season — catching her breath, recalibrating, and enjoying that brief calm before pool season hits full throttle.

But don’t think “off-season” means downtime. These two dive headfirst into what’s next for the industry — from high-end pool builds and sleek control systems to beta testing innovative products that could redefine how tech meets pool care. Kelli even spills details on a new automation system she’s been testing that might just change the game.

It’s part industry insight, part catch-up, and all-around good energy — the perfect mix of laughs, lessons, and a look at what’s shaping the future of pool maintenance.

🎧 Grab your net, your coffee, and tune in — this is one episode you don’t want to miss.

#TalkingPoolsPodcast #PoolPros #PoolTech #AtlanticCityShow #PoolAutomation #OffSeasonGrind

CMAHC
The Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code promotes health & safety at public swimming pools

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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