🔥 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 he...
May 14, 2025
6 min
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 ...
May 7, 2025
6 min
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...
Apr 30, 2025
9 min
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...
Apr 23, 2025
8 min
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: What are Chela...
Apr 16, 2025
8 min
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 pr...
Apr 9, 2025
10 min
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...
Apr 2, 2025
5 min
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 calc...
Mar 29, 2025
9 min
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