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August 22, 2025 58 mins

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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Rudy Stankowitz interviews Q Hales, a prominent figure in pool chemistry and maintenance. They discuss the formation of OnBalance, a collaborative effort aimed at educating pool professionals about water chemistry and sustainable practices. Q shares insights from his extensive experience in the industry, addressing common myths, the importance of understanding pool chemistry, and the role of research in improving practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for knowledge sharing among service technicians and the significance of environmental responsibility in pool maintenance.

takeaways

  • The formation of OnBalance was driven by a need for better education in pool chemistry.
  • Understanding the chemistry behind pool maintenance is crucial for service technicians.
  • Common myths in the pool industry can lead to ineffective practices.
  • Research on acid dosage has revealed significant discrepancies in industry standards.
  • Teaching and sharing knowledge is essential for the growth of the pool industry.
  • Field experience provides valuable insights that laboratory research may not capture.
  • Sustainability should be a priority in pool maintenance practices.
  • Service technicians play a vital role in ensuring pool safety and cleanliness.
  • Encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing can improve industry standards.
  • Addressing long-held beliefs in pool chemistry is necessary for progress.

Sound Bites

  • "What is balance?"
  • "We need to fix this."
  • "I want to hear about it."

keywords pool chemistry, OnBalance, water maintenance, sustainability, pool myths, acid dosage, service technicians, research, environmental impact, industry knowledge

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Mentorship and Industry Insights

09:42
The Journey of OnBalance and Industry Education

12:32
Challenging Myths in Pool Chemistry

15:16
Real-World Applications of Pool Chemistry

18:01
Understanding Water Line Deposits and Their Causes

20:26
The Impact of Chemical Composition on Pool Surfaces

23:19
The Role of Borates in Pool Chemistry

25:41
Balancing Rigorous Research with Practical Application

28:37
The Importance of Field Experience in Pool Management

32:11
Reflections on Learning and Future Research Directions

34:30
Exploring New Ideas in Pool Chemistry

34:31
The Importanc

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