What does it take for a small business to achieve success? Whether you’re already in business, or preparing to start a business, it takes hard work, tenacity and drive to achieve a high level of success. Lori Greiner, star shark of ABC’s Shark Tank says, “Entrepreneurs are willing to work 80 hours a week to avoid working 40 hours a … Read More
How to Overcome Price Resistance and Make a Profit
Like any good businesspeople, most pool and spa service providers try to do everything right. They hire service people with a good aptitude and attitude and give them distributor- and manufacturer-sponsored training. They promote their companies to the local community and make considerable investments in various marketing initiatives. Having put their best foot forward, a customer calls to make a … Read More
The Intricacies of Automated Chemical Controllers
Proper water balance in commercial pools and spas can be the difference between a safe, attractive facility and a disastrous one. Advances in chemical automation, disinfection methods, and better education on the problems associated with water chemistry have made the aquatic facility operator’s job easier when ensuring pool and spa water is safe for bathers. Oxidation reduction potential (ORP)/pH controllers … Read More
Embracing Green Technologies Can Make a Difference
Adopting a socially responsible approach to green initiatives can help take the pool and spa industry to the next level. By committing to sustainability strategies and embracing newer technologies, pool and spa professionals can pledge to change their attitudes toward waste reduction and develop an energy conservation plan, opening the doors to new revenue opportunities and a positive, “green” public image. … Read More
Educating Outdoor Workers on the Dangers of Sun Exposure
A new infographic released by Deb Group underlines the risk of skin cancer for outdoor workers, particularly those in construction, and offers best practices for protection. The company, which works to establish skincare regimens for all types of workplace and public environments, made the infographic available as part of its annual ‘Sun Protection for Outdoor Workers Campaign.’ The graphic explores … Read More
Outsourcing Specialized Labor: Why Professionals Are Subcontracting Automatic Pool Cover Services
Automatic pool covers are quickly becoming the preferred option in today’s marketplace. In addition to allowing homeowners to open and close their pools with ease, these covers offer an extra sense of safety and security when a pool is not in use. Unlike pumps and filters, however, the installation of an automatic cover varies from project to project. Thus, these … Read More
How to Train and Hire Temporary Employees
Certain things are inherent to the role of operating a business: meeting with vendors, picking out a POS system and, of course, hiring that all-important staff. But before an employee is deemed fit for face-to-face customer contact, or even to spend days logging inventory in the stock room, he or she must be trained in the ways of the store. … Read More
Improving Pool Maintenance Department Efficiencies with Smart Service Routes
Service is the backbone of the aquatics industry. Once a pool and/or spa/hot tub is installed, it needs to be serviced so homeowners continue to enjoy their backyard investment. In most cases, the service technician is the face of the business and is the customer’s regular contact; therefore, they should be punctual and exemplify professionalism on all levels. For some … Read More
Prevention is the Best Strategy Against Pool Stains
Getting the Stains Out The key is to take action before problems appear The causes of pool stains are no mystery: organic material, such as algae and tannins from plants, or inorganic material, such as metals, has become attached to the pool surface. Additionally, plaster pools can have grayish staining caused by occluded water (sometimes called hydration staining). But while … Read More
Pool and Spa Push-Button Control
Technology Makes Backyard Operation and Maintenance Easy Swimming pool and backyard automation systems have come a long way in the last 10 years not to mention what they once were-basic timers similar to what homeowners used to turn a lamp on/off when they were away on vacation. Fast forward to today and now there are various systems on the market—from entry-level … Read More