One of the most memorable hot tub water care questions this author has ever received involved the topic of filters. Years later, the conversation is just as relevant today partially because it not only highlighted the importance of proper filter care, but also the integral role they play in helping keep hot tub water clean and the jets flowing at … Read More
A Case for Borates: Maintaining Water Chemistry in Pools Using Salt Chlorine Generators
Electrolytic chlorine generators (ECGs) or salt chlorine generators became extremely popular about 15 years ago and have continued to grow throughout the U.S., simply because pool owners love them. However, as most in the industry know, some pool owners believe that after installing a salt chlorine generator nothing else is required in terms of water maintenance. In the short term, … Read More
A Microscopic Look at How the Pool Environment Affects Cartridge Filters
A child drinks 44 mL (1.4 oz) of water every hour they play in a pool; therefore, it is crucial to ensure the water is clean. One major component to the cleanliness of pool and/or hot tub water is the filter. Today, one of the most popular media used to cleanse water are filter cartridges, which are typically made with … Read More
Putting Pools on Cruise Control: From Cleaners to Chemicals, Technology Simplifies Maintenance
Today, the word ‘automation’ is often heard and is one that seems to drive innovation in many markets. Everyone looks to automate certain tasks in their life as a way to make them simpler, as it allows one to focus on things that really matter to them like family, friends, and fun. To put this in perspective, think of certain … Read More
A Look at the Trends in Heat Pump Technology
Heat pumps have been the go-to pool heating option in certain geographical locations for years. An increasing number of pool owners are opting for heat pumps over propane, natural gas, oil, and electric heaters for a number of reasons, including operating costs, environmental impact, and overall efficiency. As summer ends, some pool owners who were attracted to the low price … Read More
Communication Skills 101: How to Stay Cool When Things Heat Up
When things go awry on a job, industry professionals may blame the heat and their reaction on a tiny part of the brain. Called the amygdala, it is one of two almond-shaped groups of nuclei located deep and medially within the temporal lobes of the brain. The amygdala holds emotional memory (e.g. fear, anger) and ‘helps’ one to react without thinking. … Read More
Combining Education and Experience to Address Combined Chlorine
Effective education incorporates the elements of sound data and practical application. While neither is effective in isolation, when combined, data and experience create solutions with dynamic impact. The advantage of employing education and experience in tandem is illustrated by one of the most commonly taught pool and spa water chemistry topics: combined chlorine and breakpoint chlorination. Field experience has proven … Read More
Understanding the Internet of Things in the Backyard
This is not another Internet article on some new crazy technology or app. The Internet of things (IoT), also known as the network of things or the Internet of everything, is not the next big gadget, it is already here. Chances are many are already using it without even knowing so. This technology affects daily life on every level (i.e. personal, professional, health, … Read More
Water Care Basics to Prevent Biofilm Formation
After many years working in the water chemistry field, this author still gets the same question: What is the most important aspect of hot tub water care? In speaking to hot tub customers, service technicians, water care sales teams, retailers, and store owners from all over the world, the answer remains the same: The best way to enjoy the hot … Read More
Pump Efficiency 101: Getting Back to Basics and Benefitting from Energy-Saving Incentives
Pumps are the heart of a pool circulation system—not only are they the vehicle that moves water through the various systems, but also now the focus of substantial rebates which can drastically reduce the costs of owning and operating a pool. That said, it is important to get back to basics and understand the significance of hydraulics on residential and … Read More