Monday, May 31, 2021

Adding Borates to your Pool with Boric Acid Powder

 Boric Acid Powder is a great way to add borates to your pool to bring it to 50 ppm. The rule of thumb is 2.4 lbs of boric acid per every 1,000 gallons of water. But using the https://www.poolcalculator.com/
Is a very easy way to calculate how much boric acid to use. 




If you are interested in ordering boric acid you can get it here:
https://www.dudadiesel.com/search.php?query=boric+acid+powder

It is pretty easy to add – simply measure the amount of boric acid you will need and broadcast it into the deep end of the pool with the equipment running. 

Here are the proven benefits of having a Borate level of 30-50 ppm:
Lower Chlorine usage: The Borate helps reduce chlorine usage by eliminating Carbon Dioxide and also by keeping the pH stable. Chlorine lasts longer when the pH is right at 7.6-7.8. When the chlorine is in the ideal range the killing element in chlorine the HOCI is at the most balanced percentage so the chlorine in a pool with a pH of 7.4 is 30% more effective than in a pool with a pH of 8.0. This is a big factor in creating the safest swim environment and the borates will keep the pH much more stable and in turn, make the chlorine much more effective.

pH is stable: The pH won't change much in a pool with Borate in it. So, if you have a Salt Water Pool this is a must since the pH tends to rise dramatically. In fact, in a Salt Water Pool the pH can rise to over 8.4 very rapidly. You will find yourself putting tons of acid in each week just to keep the pH below 7.8. With borates in the pool, the pH will be stable and easy to control.  It is a must for a pool with a Salt Water Generator. It also will keep your salt cell from building up calcium rapidly since is sequesters the Calcium in the water. This means the salt cell will remain clean and your salt system will run much more efficiently.

Water is more sparkling: The Borate is more reflective so when the sun hits the pool the water will really sparkle. The fact that it sequesters calcium will give the water an added clarity and you will notice the sparkle is almost blinding. The difference is very marked and noticeable and it is a good bonus benefit of borates.

Softer and less irritating water: The water feels softer and doesn't burn your eyes. It also will keep your skin and hair hydrated so after swimming your skin won't be as dried out. Borax has been used for a very long time as a softener for laundry. You will find it in the laundry aisle and it makes sense that it will also make the water feel softer and prevent dry skin.

Less Algae growth: Boric Acid is a known Biostat. This prevents the algae cell from forming and multiplying. Thus, a pool with a Borate level between 30-50 ppm will prevent algae growth. Since borate prevents the algae cell from growing, algae blooms will be a thing of the past. No more algaecides or shocking the pool, algae just won’t grow in your pool any longer.

Borates in the water also don’t evaporate so the initial dose will not need to be added every season. Simply measure the borate level at the beginning of the season and add a maintenance dose to bring the level back up to 30-50 ppm. It can leave the water through filter backwashing, splash out and it is diluted by freshwater.

In some estimates, you will use 40% fewer chemicals in your pool during the season. Imagine cutting your chemical use and cost in half! This is one of the best benefits of adding borates. Since it buffers the pH you will need less acid week to week. Since it enhances the chlorine by keeping the pH stable you will use less chlorine each week. And since it prevents algae from growing you will not need to add algaecides or add large amounts of a shock to your pool. There really is no good reason not to add borates to your pool.


Thursday, May 27, 2021

Chlorine Armageddon!

 As of today the wholesale price for a #50 bucket of 3” Tri-Chlor tablets is at $190.00. I see it retailing online for as much as $300. If you rely on 3” tablets for your pool route or your personal backyard pool the Chlorine Armageddon is upon us. With prices for Tri-Chlor doubling, it is safe to say that alternatives need to be found.  



Because of 45% tariffs on products from China, importing 3” Tri-Chlor tablets was not an option for US suppliers in 2019. So the tablets were homegrown so to speak and recently the largest US producer of Tri-Chlor went up in smoke literally when Hurricane Laura hit Louisiana.  

“In the Lake Charles region, dotted with chemical plants and oil and gas refineries, trouble began early Thursday at a BioLab plant that manufacturers chlorine for swimming pools and disinfectants.” -Forbes
The Bio-Lab plant produced about 40% of the nation's Tri-Chlor and from some reports, it will be down until 2022 or longer. I read reports that it made over 2 million pounds of Tri-Chlor each year. That is a lot of product that has been wiped off the market. With fewer tablets available and with Tri-Chlor being the main way pool service companies maintain a Free Chlorine level in their service accounts, how we manage pools going forward will be forced to change.

What are some ways to maintain a pool going forward and useless 3” Tri-Chlor tablets and can it even be done? Back In the early ’90s when I first got started in the pool service industry we were not so reliant on 3” Tablets. In fact, they were not used nearly as much as liquid chlorine and gas chlorine in that era and that was a good thing because some of the side effects of overuse of tablets were not present back then.

One of the downsides of using 3” Tri-Chlor tablets is that it will add Cyanuric Acid to your pool, sometimes to levels that are above the recommended 30-50 ppm. For example, if you have a 20,000-gallon pool and use a full 50 lbs. bucket of tablets in one season because about 50% of that bucket was Cyanuric Acid you have effectively added 150 ppm of CYA to your pool. The effects of this are that the chlorine will need to work harder to be effective and you will also need to keep your chlorine level high at all times for it to be effective – around 10 ppm. This is because the Cyanuric Acid molecule will bind and unbind with the chlorine molecule to protect it from the Sun’s UV rays and if your CYA level is over 100 ppm this process will make the chlorine less effective as it is “tied up” in the bonding and unbinding process. This is known in some circles as “Chlorine Lock.”

One way to reduce your reliance on 3” Tri-Chlor Tablets would be to drain those pools with CYA levels of 100 ppm or greater and keep them in the 30-50 ppm range. Then you can switch over to using un-stabilized chlorine (a chlorine product without Cyanuric Acid in it) like liquid chlorine or cal-hypo. If that is not possible another option would be to continue using 3” Tablets but add an enhancer to each pool to extend the life of the chlorine in the water. There are several different types on the market and I cover these in other articles and podcasts. For your reference here they are adding Borates to being the level in the water to 30-50 ppm. Adding a PoolRx to the skimmer or pump basket. Using a combination of Phosphate Remover and Enzymes each week in the form of a maintenance dose. Any one of these will be effective and, in my testing, can cut your 3” Tablet use by 50%.

Back to the early ’90s and I will explain how we were able to get through each week by using liquid chlorine. With the CYA level at 30-50 ppm, the chlorine would stay in the water for quite some time and be very effective against algae. But if the pool was larger and in the peak of Summer, 1-2 gallons of liquid chlorine would burn off before the week was over. In that case, we would leave a case of chlorine (4 gallons) at the customer's house and they would add it mid-week or a few days after you serviced the pool. This worked pretty effectively, and it wasn’t too much to ask the customer to do this each week.

You can also use a chlorine enhancer like adding borates to 50 ppm or using a PoolRx or Nature2 system in the pool. Phosphate Removers and Enzymes also can help extend chlorine in the pool. Any of these methods will make the chlorine more effective and last longer. Meaning you can use less chlorine in a pool and still keep it algae-free.

With less Tri-Chlor available you will have to use this method of enhancers and alternate primary sanitizers like liquid chlorine and Cal-Hypo.

Monday, May 24, 2021

Metals in Your Pool? Try a Culator PowerPak!

 If your pool is showing metal staining or testing positive for metal ions the only product that is proven to remove these metal ions and lift the staining (results vary) is the CuLator Metal Eliminator. They have two different sizes depending on the amount of metals you need to remove based on PPM.





You can learn more about the two different sizes of the CuLator on their website:

To see a photo gallery of pool stains:

CuLator Ultra PowerPak 4.0
SKU: CUL-ULT-1
Categories: CuLator Metal Eliminator, Metal Eliminators & Stain Preventers, Pool & Spa
Patented CuLator Ultra 4.0 removes and eliminates stain-causing metals in swimming pools to non-staining levels.  

CuLator Ultra 4.0 removes 4 ppm total dissolved metals from your pool water, which prevents pool staining and water discoloration.  The goal is to have 0.0 metals in your water.  CuLator eliminates stain-causing metals like copper, iron, manganese, and lead from pool water. CuLator Ultra 4.0 is perfect for pools which have a lot of metals, larger pools, pools on well water, pools which have had a copper coil heater “blow out” and commercial pools. The CuLator Ultra 4.0 may also be used as a seasonal treatment for general maintenance and during pool stain treatment.  CuLator Ultra 4.0 has four times the power of a CuLator 1.0.

Eliminates 4.0 ppm total dissolved metals (staining begins at .3) from 20,000 gallons.
Works in fresh or saltwater
No phosphates
Non-toxic
Free reusable protective “GatorEgg” included
Use in skimmer or pump basket
Works for up to 30 days or much longer depending on your metal level
Made in the USA
Contents change color depending on the metal removed
Here are a few tips to know when the Ultra 4.0 is finished:

The CuLator bag will shrink down to half the size it was when puffed up
The contents will feel watery inside
The contents will feel like sand to the touch

RECOMMENDED USES:
Start-up
Large Pools
Pools with major mental issues
Pools using well water
During and after stain removal
With sequestrants
After algaecides to prevent stains
With mineral purification systems
When pool water is discolored
When a copper heater coil has been “blown out”
Seasonal treatment for general maintenance

CuLator PowerPak 1.0
Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 7customer ratings(7 customer reviews)
$29.95

SKU: CUL-1MO
Categories: CuLator Metal Eliminator, Metal Eliminators & Stain Preventers, Pool & Spa
Patented CuLator PowerPak 1.0 is great for maintaining a metal-free and stain-free pool. Each PowerPak removes and eliminates 1.0 ppm total dissolved stain-causing metals from 20,000 gallons. The goal is to have 0.0 dissolved metals in your pool water.  For best results keep a PowerPak 1.0 in your skimmer and change monthly to help prevent metal stains.  The CuLator 1.0 lasts longer than a month depending on the metal level and the contents change color depending on the metal removed.

Eliminates 1.0 ppm total dissolved metals (staining begins at .3 ppm)
Treats 20,000 gallons
Works in fresh or saltwater
No phosphates
Non-toxic
Works for up to 30 days or longer depending on metal level
Made in the USA
Changes color depending on metal removed

CuLator PowerPak 1.0 is great for maintaining a stain-free and metal-free pool. Each PowerPak removes and eliminates 1.0 ppm total dissolved stain-causing metals from 20,000 gallons. The goal is to have 0.0 dissolved metals in your pool water to prevent staining and pool water from turning green or brown.  For best results keep a PowerPak 1.0 in your skimmer and change monthly to help prevent metal stains.  However, the CuLator will last longer depending on your metal level.

Eliminates 1.0 ppm total dissolved stain-causing metals from 20,000 gallons
Works in fresh or saltwater
No phosphates
Non-toxic
Works for up to 30 days or longer depending on your metal level
Made in the USA

RECOMMEND USES:
Monthly stain prevention treatment
Pools using well water
Saltwater pools
Companion to sequestrants
With algaecides to prevent stains
With mineral purification systems
For pools up to 20,000 gallons (75,000L)
Vinyl, fiberglass, and gunite pools
Screened in pools
Pools with stones or bricks for decking or coping


Thursday, May 20, 2021

Tri-Chlor Shortage and Using Liquid Chlorine Instead

 I asked Industry expert Harold Evans his thoughts on the Tri-Chlor shortage, and in his opinion, this can bring positive change to the industry. He believes the overreliance on Tri-Chlor was ultimately bad for the industry and he offers some ways to get through the current shortage.




Other Podcasts in this series:
Why the LSI is Key with Harold Evans of Orenda Technologies: https://www.buzzsprout.com/110832/8514020
Salt Water Generators and Those White Flakes with Harold Evans of Orenda Technologies:
The Orenda Way with Harold Evans of Orenda Technologies:

About Orenda Technologies:
Harold Evans is the CEO of Orenda Technologies and has run a pool service company, “the Pool Surgeon” since 1983. For many years, Orenda was primarily a specialty chemical manufacturer, building a business on quality, professional-grade products, and reputation. We have since evolved into an education company. We have invested heavily in building the pool industry's leading mobile app and dosing calculator, have a library of helpful videos, and a growing list of educational articles in our blog. In 2019 we released Orenda Academy, which is another free resource for anyone to learn more about pool management.

Here is more about Tri-Chlor tablets themselves:
Tri-Chlor or Trichloroisocyanuric Acid comes in three forms. The familiar 3” tablets that slowly dissolve in your pool, a very fine powder shock and a granular form. About 50% of the Tri-Chlor by weight is Conditioner (Cyanuric Acid). So, a 50 lbs. bucket of tablets is about 25 lbs. of Conditioner. If you overuse tablets your pool’s CYA level can go up rapidly. Trichlor tablets are usually 90% to 99% active chlorine. Tri-Chlor tablets have a very low pH of 2-3 so they will lower the pH in your pool. The tablets contain acid in the form of Cyanuric Acid so if one falls into the pool it is likely to stain the surface by burning it.

Tri-Chlor granular is very powerful stuff. It is basically the Tri-Chlor Tablet grounded up in granular form and is 99% active chlorine. Use with extreme caution as the Conditioner in the granular can stain the plaster. The CYA in the tablet is basically acid and if you let it pile up on the pool surface it will stain the plaster as if you dropped a 3” Tablet into the pool. Never add this to the skimmer and if you do use it for Black or Mustard algae make sure it is evenly dispersed on the pool surface. Not for use in Vinyl, Fiberglass, or color plaster pools.

Pros:
A very strong form of chlorine
Slow dissolving in tablet form so it releases chlorine all week long
Easy to use and affordable
Keeps a good residual chlorine level in your pool all week
Very long shelf life

Cons:
Can stain the pool surface
Contains 50% CYA by weight
Be careful of toxic fumes

So what are some options with the shortage of tablets and the price increases in the current market? I think moving over to liquid chlorine would not be a bad idea. You may need to drain your pool partially to lower the CYA level down to make the liquid chlorine more effective but in the end, switching to liquid chlorine or bleach would be your best alternative. It is readily available, highly effective, and priced less than tablets at the moment.

About Liquid Chlorine:
Liquid Chlorine or Bleach is the tried and true standard chemical of choice for most pool service professionals. It is easy to use and relatively inexpensive and it has the least side effects of any of the chlorine you can choose from. It is usually sold in 12.5% active chlorine per gallon with Bleach coming in at about half that strength at 6.5%. It will raise the pH slightly, but it does not contain any Stabilizer or Conditioner making it ideal for all pool types. This means that when you add a gallon of liquid chlorine and your Conditioner level (CYA) is 50 ppm it will stay at 50 ppm even if you add 20 gallons of liquid chlorine.

Pros:
Fastest acting of all chlorine types
Will not raise your CYA level
Safe for all pool types
Easy to use

Cons:
Breaks down by the Sun’s UV Rays so your pool needs a CYA level of 30-50 ppm
Short shelf life so rotate stock or buy fresh chlorine when needed
The gallons can be heavy compared to a bag of shock
Is seen as weaker than shock based on the low percentage of chlorine but is stronger




Friday, May 14, 2021

How the DOE Regulations on Swimming Pool Pumps Will Impact Your Pool Business

Starting July 19th, 2021 the DOE will begin to regulate which pool pumps can be manufactured. Basically, any pump deemed to be not energy efficient will no longer be allowed. Some of the only pumps that will be sold legally will be Variable Speed Pumps. It can be a little confusing and I invited Scott Petty of Hayward to talk about the new regulations. He has over 17 years of experience with Hayward  in their pump department and is known as “The Pump Guy.” Listen to learn all about the new DOE regulations.




To learn more about the new DOE regulations: https://www.hayward-pool.com/shop/en/pools/regulations

To learn more about Hayward vs pumps: https://www.hayward-pool.com/shop/en/pools/VS

Other parts in this series:
Common Misconceptions on the New DEO Regulations and VS Pumps with Scott Petty of Hayward: https://www.buzzsprout.com/110832/8475549

Hayward VS Pump Line-Up and How to Choose the Right VS Pump with Scott Petty of Hayward: https://www.buzzsprout.com/110832/8475570

Scott mentioned four options for you in the podcast when it comes to pump and motor replacements after the new DOE regulations go into effect. The first option would be to replace the motor with a stand-alone VS motor like Hayward's new XE line-up. You can also purchase other ones like the Century V-green which is compatible with most pumps and come with a round or square flange. It is the most affordable option and if the existing pump is less than 5 years old and I would suggest going that route. These are basically the motor with a VS pump drive on the back which qualifies under the new DOE regulations.

You can also downsize your current pump to a less powerful pump that meets the DOE requirements. But if you currently have a 1.5 hp pump and spa or water features that may not be a viable option. Reducing the pump output can cause these to run poorly and an undersized pump could affect the overall water quality. I think very few customers will be able to downgrade to a lower pool pump hp rating.

Haywards new XE pumps are a middle-of-the-road solution. These are pumps with a VS drive of sorts built into the pump and are fully functional with the ability to change the pump speeds just like a standard VS pump. They are simpler and easy to operate and can easily replace your standard speed pump or motor. They don’t connect to automation but they would be perfect for those pools where the pump is on an Intermatic timer or for pool water features and spa pumps. 

To see the XE pumps: https://www.hayward-pool.com/shop/en/pools/res-in-ground/res-pumps
Hayward VS Pump line-up. With a Hayward VS pump like the TriStar 950 and Smart Pool control, you can control everything on your equipment pad that a stand-alone automated system can. You can turn on the heater, turn it to spa mode, turn on the lights, and much more from your Smart Phone using the Hayward OMNI Logic app. They also off a 3-year warranty on their new VS pumps with the TriStar 950 sporting a 4-year warranty.  So Hayward is back in the game with their VS pump lineup.

All of these pumps require a 230 Volt set up which can be a drawback if you are running your current pump off of 115 Volts. The solution for this is to install the Pentair SuperFlo VS pump which has been designed to work with 230 Volts as well as 115 Volts. It is a 1.5 HP VS pump so it has plenty of power for your older pool set up and it is also very reliable. Hayward has also made the TriStar 950 with Smart Pool Control a dual voltage VS pump. So you can also connect the TriStar 950 to a 115 Volt set up. The pump will throttle down from the 3 HP rating to a 1.5 HP rating and work fine with your 115 Volt equipment.


Wednesday, May 12, 2021

Leslie's Jacuzzi Brand of Pool Equipment Overview

Leslie’s Jacuzzi line-up of products is a great line-up of branded products that were handpicked from major manufacturers for both the retail customers and pool pros. The Jacuzzi name has been around for decades and Leslie’s is trying to take it to the next level with the new lineup of products.




Here are some of the great features of the new jacuzzi line-up by category. Note that through Leslie’s Equipment Protection Plan if you buy the product in Leslie’s store you get an additional extended warranty and pool pros who are part of Leslie’s Pro program also qualify for the extended warranty beyond the manufacturer’s warranty listed here. 

Variable Speed Pumps:
The 1st generation of Jacuzzi pumps lacked a few features such as connectivity to automation and a time-out mode. Two things that were very important to homeowners. The new Jacuzzi Vs Pumps feature all of that and more.

JVS270 is a 2.7 THP VS pump with a DOE rating of 12.9 WEF
JVS185 is a 1.85 THP VS pump with a DOE rating of 10.1 WEF
JVS165 is a 1.65 THP VS pump with a DOE rating of 10.7 WEF

All of these pumps are dual voltage which means they will work with either 115 volts or 230 volts. So if you have an older pool that is wired on a 110 v breaker, you can use any of these three pumps as the voltage is automatically modulated. I would suggest the JVS165 or the JVS185 to utilize the total hp rating of these pumps. The JVS270 will be throttled down to about 1.5 hp when connected at a 110 v breaker. 

All three pumps are also automated ready so all you need to do is connect the Comm wires to your particular automated system. They come factory set to connect directly with Hayward Automation. For the others, you may need an adapter sold separately. But the simple fact that you can connect these pumps to your existing automation is a real game-changer. 

They are also backed by a 3-year warranty and a 4-year warranty for the JVS270 so rest assured you are getting a quality product. 

DE Filters:
The Jacuzzi JDE60 60sq. ft. DE In-Ground Pool Filter and the JDE48 (48 sq ft.) provides superior efficiency and water clarity for in-ground pools and spas of all types.

Includes multiport valve
2-1/2" internal piping
Fiberglass reinforced polypropylene body for superior strength
Multi-Handle design
Heavy-duty tamper-proof clamp
industry-proven D.E. grids
"Start-Service" dial on the stainless steel pressure gauge
1-1/2" bottom clean-out port
2-1/2" hi-temp PVC slide valve available
2-1/2" x 2" Multi-Port Valves - available in Slip or FPT
Convertible to the cartridge by simply changing the internals
Manufactured in the USA
2-Year Limited Warranty

Jacuzzi D.E. Pool Filters are high-performance swimming pool and spa filters manufactured from durable, fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene. They are designed for continuous or intermittent operation, for fresh or saltwater in-ground swimming pools or spas.

Cartridge Filters:
The Jacuzzi JCF425 425 sq. ft. pro-grade cartridge pool filter makes a great option for those wanting long-lasting, efficient equipment that really delivers.

Manufactured in the USA
2 1/2" Internal plumbing is the largest in the industry. Minimizes restrictions and improves water flow
4 cartridge design offers excellent cleaning capabilities and increases the time between cleaning cycles
Pleatco Ultra cartridge filters
Chemical resistant fiberglass reinforced polypropylene tank provides exception performance under the harsh elements
Heavy Duty Handles on the top for easy maintenance
Stainless Steel Oil Filled Gauges
For use with 2.5", 2", or 1.5" Plumbing makes it the most versatile filter on the market
2-Year Limited Warranty

JSC40 Salt System:
Pool salt system and salt cell for pools up to 40,000 gallons
new 15,000 hours extended life plate
Clear cell housing to easily inspect cell plates
Clean with zero acid - cell plates are completely removable for easy cleaning
Easy to read design for the control unit
Heavy-duty custom cleaning tool included
Manufactured in the USA
3-Year Equipment Protection Plan Warranty
 
The metal plates in a Powerclean Salt cell are each individually powered. Competing products have plates crammed close together so that they can “share” electricity.

The improved design lets us spread the plates further apart. This makes them easy to clean by hand. The wider spacing also helps prevent mineral buildup that bridges between plates–mineral bridging can lead to permanent damage.

120/220V
(Ships 220V Ready)
10FT Cell Cord Length

For more on the Jacuzzi line-up: https://lesliespool.com/jacuzzi/


Monday, May 10, 2021

VacDaddy Powerful Portable Pool Vac Review

 The VacDaddy is a pretty solid product. No question that it performs as advertised. Putting it into a category of vacuum systems is another story. It has the same gallons per minute power as a full-size vacuum system like a Hammer-Head but is designed more like a system vac. 




To order the VacDaddy at the discounted price of $895.00 go to their site and log in as a "Dealer" Create an account and buy the VacDaddy for $895.00 Get a FREE EXTRA bag with code: VACBAG at checkout!


Here is more about the VacDaddy from the manufacturer:
The primary benefit of The VacDaddyTM is EASE-OF-USE.

Lightweight and compact. At only 10 pounds, The VacDaddy is easy to operate and maneuver.

Minimal assembly which is easy and intuitive. No special training is required to use. Simply plug in and Just Vac It.

Fast pool cleaning with more vacuuming power than other heavy-duty commercial vacuums.

Eliminates the need to set up and prime a bulky hose.

Perfect for touch-ups between weekly cleanings and to reach areas robotic vacuums can’t easily get to.

The VacDaddy is the most powerful, portable pool vacuum new to the market with a continuous power supply. The VacDaddy’s continuous power eliminates dependency on batteries with limited life. The VacDaddy is lightweight, easy to use, powerful, and requires no poolside assembly or training.

The VacDaddy was invented by a 35-year veteran of the pool service industry who has worked with hundreds of pool owners. He has long believed there should be a better way to clean your pool. Commercial vacuums require 20 minutes to set up and detailed instructions to use. Other options include weak battery vacuums or heavy robots which take hours to clean your pool.

Cleaning your carpets doesn’t require all this setup and weightlifting, why should clean your pool? We have devoted ourselves to perfecting The VacDaddy Pool Vacuum System. The goal was to create a durable, lightweight, powerful cleaner that is easy to use and we have done just that. The VacDaddy system will allow users to clean their pools in less time with less effort. Like your carpet vacuum, plugin, and JUST VAC IT!

So with all that said where would I place the VacDaddy as compared to say a Riptide, Hammer-Head or PowerVac? It does pump a pretty impressive 55-60 GPM so it is not like a Water Tech cleaner, except maybe the Precision 2.0 that pulls about 25 GPM. It has a similar look to the 2.0 but I think the power difference sets the Vac Daddy apart. I mean, it really feels like you are using the pool filtration system with the vacuum connected to the skimmer. In reality, most pool’s will pull about 60 GPM unless they are powered by a 3 hp pump considering the resistance of the plumbing and distance from the skimmer. So having all of that power sitting right behind the vac head is pretty awesome. 

With that said vacuuming spas and steps is a little tricky. You have to tilt the vacuum down so that you don’t shoot water everywhere which is something they are addressing soon with an attachment to reduce the water flow. 

You also need access to a socket for this to work at your customer's home. It comes with a power unit that needs to be plugged in. Most pool owners will have a socket somewhere by their pool or equipment area. It comes with 45 feet of cord that attaches from the power unit to the VacDaddy and it has a look and feel of a robotic pool cleaner cord. For me, the cord was not a big deal as I know that the 60 GPM is only going to be produced by an external power source.

It comes with two bags and they seem relatively small in comparison to a Vacuum System bag. But the VacDaddy is not designed for big leaf debris clean-up but if you have an average amount of leaves and dirt in a pool this will work perfectly. I would say it is suitable for pools with light to medium debris and dirt. 

I would say the VacDaddy is positioned to be a player in the portable vacuum sector. Yes, it is hard to categorize exactly but I think if you are looking for a tool to speed up your day on your route, this is one to consider. 


Friday, May 7, 2021

All About Pool Algaecides with Chemistry Expert Bob Lowry

 Algae in your pool are one of the biggest issues you will face as a pool service pro and as a homeowner. The most common answer to pool algae is to reach for an algaecide and treat the pool with either copper, sodium bromide, or a polyquat. But there are other proven methods to treat algae and preventing algae in the first place is the key.




Other Podcasts in this series:
Are Adding Borates an End All Cure-All? With Chemistry Expert Bob Lowry=
Signs a Swimming Pool Has a Leak with Chemistry Expert Bob Lowry:
What is TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)  with Chemistry Expert Bob Lowry
Color Bodies: Why Your Water Has That Odd Color to It with Chemistry Expert Bob Lowry

Bob Lowry is the author of over 23 books but this has to be one of his most relevant and shortest books coming in at just 19 pages thick. But it is packed with so many essentials on residential pool chemistry that you will want a copy to carry in your service truck. Bob Lowry has been in the industry for over 47 years and is the Lead Consultant at Lowry Consulting Group, leads the Pool Chemistry Training Institute, and has created the Certified Residential Pool & Spa Certification Program. Learn more at  https://pcti.online/

I think the number one cause of persistent algae issues is an improper level of free chlorine in the pool. To make things simple you need 7.5% free chlorine per the Cyanuric Acid level. So if your CYA is testing at 100 ppm you need to maintain your pool at 7.5 ppm to prevent algae. In the case with a CYA level over 50 ppm – 3.0 ppm of free chlorine will not be enough to prevent algae growth. Using this simple equation will help you prevent algae in the first place. Below are two proven ways to prevent and cure algae issues in your pool.

BORATES:
Adding Borates to your pool to achieve a level of 30-50 ppm has many benefits. I have a series of videos on Borates and highly recommend adding Borates to your pool. I have added Borates to my pool and couldn't be happier. The results are well worth it. 

Lower Chlorine usage: The Borate helps reduce chlorine usage by eliminating Carbon Dioxide and also by keeping the pH stable. Chlorine lasts longer when the pH is right at 7.6-7.8. When the chlorine is in the ideal range the killing element in chlorine the HOCI is at the most balanced percentage so the chlorine in a pool with a pH of 7.4 is 30% more effective than in a pool with a pH of 8.0. This is a big factor in creating the safest swim environment and the borates will keep the pH much more stable and in turn, make the chlorine much more effective.

pH is stable: The pH won't change much in a pool with Borate in it. So, if you have a Salt Water Pool this is a must since the pH tends to rise dramatically. In fact, in a Salt Water Pool the pH can rise to over 8.4 very rapidly. You will find yourself putting tons of acid in each week just to keep the pH below 7.8. With borates in the pool, the pH will be stable and easy to control.  It is a must for a pool with a Salt Water Generator. It also will keep your salt cell from building up calcium rapidly since is sequesters the Calcium in the water. This means the salt cell will remain clean and your salt system will run much more efficiently.

Less Algae growth: Boric Acid is a known Biostat. This prevents the algae cell from forming and multiplying. Thus, a pool with a Borate level between 30-50 ppm will prevent algae growth. Since borate prevents the algae cell from growing, algae blooms will be a thing of the past. No more algaecides or shocking the pool, algae just won’t grow in your pool any longer.

Note that with a Borate level of 50 ppm you only need 5% free chlorine per the CYA level. So a pool with a CYA level of 100 pm will require 5 ppm of free chlorine.

POOL RX:
PoolRx is a simple way to keep your pool algae-free all season long. It is also effective in cleaning a green pool and a side benefit of the product is that you will use less chlorine in the pool all season long.  In this podcast, I talk to Fred Schweer VP of Sales at PoolRx Worldwide about using PoolRx in the beginning of the season and to clean up a green pool. He also offers tips to pool service professionals on how to market and sell PoolRx to the customers on your route.

PoolRx is a Mineral Technology  does two very simple things when used in your pool or spa; it eliminates all algae and will allow you to use less chlorine during the pool season. The active ingredient is Copper Sulphate Pentahydrate (chelated).

What Chelated means is that the metals in the PoolRx have been bonded to form two coordinated bonds similar to what Metal Sequestering Agents do. This means that the Metal Ions will remain in the PoolRx unit with no metal ions being introduced into the pool or spa water. PoolRx is Chelated so the metal ions stay within the PoolRx unit itself.

PoolRx eliminates all algae fast. Even microalgae that you can't see but uses up the chlorine in your pool.


Wednesday, May 5, 2021

Jacuzzi JCF150 150sq. ft. In-Ground Cartridge Filter Cartridge with a Pleatco ULTRA cartridge included!

 If you are looking for a well-made and easy-to-clean single cartridge filter the Jacuzzi JCF150 (150 sq ft) cartridge filter would be a perfect filter for you. It comes with Pleatco Advanced ULTRA cartridges installed from the factory which in my opinion is the best cartridge on the market today. 




It is also backed by a 2-year manufacturer warranty and an additional 1-year warranty by Leslie’s through their Equipment Protection Plan – if you purchase it in-store and have Leslie’s install it or a Leslie’s Pro member install it (So 3 years total). You really can’t beat that type of warranty on any filter on the market today.

Here is more from the manufacturer:
Jacuzzi JCF150 150sq. ft. In-Ground Cartridge Filter Cartridge Pool Filter makes a great option for those wanting long-lasting, efficient equipment that really delivers.

Manufactured in the USA
Fiberglass Reinforced lid with UV resistant body for superior performance in the harsh elements
Viton Seal Air Relief Valve
Ergonomic handle makes lid removal easy
Premium Pleatco Ultra cartridge filters
Horizontal stainless-steel oil-filled gauge protected by a recessed pocket
Redesigned lock nut with double locking mechanism provides ease of serviceability
2" unions included
2-Year Limited Warranty

By reducing the pump pressure required for filter operation and using less water to clean, you can keep your pool clean with energy efficiency and prolong the life of your pool's pump. This cartridge filter requires less maintenance than other filter types and features lid lifting handles and an assist locking ring making it easy to clean. No backwashing is necessary with cartridge filters, simply lift the lid, take out the cartridges and rinse them off with your hose. For longevity, energy efficiency, and dependability choose the JCF150 150 sq. ft. In-Ground Cartridge Filter for your pool!

I think the ease of cleaning this filter is the key design feature. The drain plug is easily accessible and removing the locking ring to access the cartridge couldn’t be easier. The fact that the Pleatco ULTRA cartridge itself has no bands makes cleaning the cartridge a breeze. I’ve used other cartridge filters and many are a real pain to take apart and clean. So factor this into the equation when you are looking for a cartridge filter. 

To learn more or to buy:


Monday, May 3, 2021

Periodic Products - CuLator No Drain Metal Stain Kit

 Ever wish there was a kit designed for swimming pool stain treatment? There actually is one. From the makers of just about every metal and stain eliminator product comes the No-Drain Metal Stain eliminator Kit by Periodic Products. 

When you start to see a stain in your pool it can be hard to identify it at first. Is it a metal stain or is it organic in nature? Other times it may be more obvious, like adding too much copper algaecide, or upon opening your pool the surface is completely covered in brown staining. On the Culator website is a helpful gallery of all types of metal staining. You can see the photos here at this link: https://culator.com/identify-your-pool-stains-gallery/



Treating the staining promptly is the key as older stains may not come off easily. Once you see the stain try to jump on things right away and of course this kit is ideal for that reason. Everything you need to treat and remove the stain is in the kit. 

Here is more about the kit from the manufacturer:
The No-Drain Metal Stain Eliminator Kit is the CURE for pool staining!  End the vicious cycle of staining with this easy-to-use kit!  Includes everything you need to eliminate metal stains from your pool or spa, without draining, and keeps them from coming back!  Removes iron, copper, manganese, cobalt, and many other metal stains.  Helps prevent them from returning with CuLator Metal Eliminator Ultra 4.0.  Good for all surfaces work in fresh or saltwater and has no phosphates.  Also eliminates brown water and green water caused by metals!

Includes:
2 Metal Stain Removers
Metal Sequester (Phosphate free/Commercial Grade)
CuLator Metal Eliminator Ultra 4.0
Easy-to-Follow Instructions
Exclusive Leslie’s Pool Supplies

Most pool stain treatments only include a stain treatment and metal sequestering agent.  Well, that is not enough to stop the cycle of swimming pool staining.  To complete the pool stain treatment process, you MUST use CuLator to ELIMINATE the metals from the water, or your stains and discoloration will return.  Stain removers work to take the stains off the surface of your pool.  Sequestering agents suspend the metals in water.  ONLY CuLator Metal Eliminator eliminates the metals that cause the stains on your pool and spa surface.

To purchase you can stop by your  local Leslie’s store or use this link: