Fire Fallout, Chlorine Generation, and CRMs

When it comes to pool maintenance, understanding both the business landscape and the underlying science can make the difference between thriving and merely surviving. The latest episode of Talking Pools Podcast brings together three seemingly unrelated topics that actually paint a comprehensive picture of today's pool industry: supply chain disruptions, electrochemical processes, and digital transformation.

The Biolab Fire: A Wake-Up Call for the Industry

On September 30th, 2024, a devastating fire at the Biolab facility in Conyers, Georgia sent shockwaves through both the local community and the pool industry. The blaze resulted in the release of chlorine gas and forced over 90,000 Rockdale County residents to shelter in place - a stark reminder of how quickly supply chains can be disrupted.

As the fire erupted at the Biolab facility in Conyers, Georgia on September 30th, 2024, ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of the blaze continue with key updates emerging in the first week of October.

— Rudy Stankowitz, Talking Pools Podcast

Ted Lawrence, VP of sales at Biotech, moved quickly to reassure customers that production would continue despite the setback. The fire was isolated to one building used for storing raw materials and packaging components, while manufacturing buildings and finished goods warehouses remained intact. The company leveraged its Louisiana and California plants to maintain production flow.

However, the incident sparked legal action, with class action lawsuits filed against Biolab for alleged negligence. The company responded by establishing a dedicated community resource website and opening a community assistance center to support affected residents. Environmental monitoring continues, with hazmat teams from multiple states assisting in cleanup efforts.

Understanding Saltwater Pool Chemistry: The Science of Electrochemical Chlorine Generation

While supply chain issues grab headlines, the day-to-day reality of pool maintenance revolves around understanding water chemistry - particularly in saltwater systems, which have become increasingly popular due to their consistent chlorine delivery.

Let's face it, it is a little bit like cruise control as far as chlorine delivery goes in comparison to an erosion feeder where you see more of the EKG line as the tablets erode and dissolve.

— Rudy Stankowitz, Talking Pools Podcast

The heart of saltwater chlorination lies in redox (reduction-oxidation) reactions within the electrolytic cell. When salt dissolves in water, it dissociates into sodium and chloride ions. The system passes direct current through two electrodes - typically titanium coated with ruthenium oxide - creating distinct reactions at each electrode.

At the anode, chloride ions undergo oxidation, losing electrons and converting to chlorine gas. Meanwhile, at the cathode, water molecules are reduced, producing hydrogen gas and hydroxide ions. This process continuously generates hypochlorous acid, the active sanitizing agent in pool water.

The Critical Role of pH in Saltwater Systems

Understanding pH management becomes crucial in saltwater pools because it directly affects chlorine efficiency. The relationship between pH and chlorine speciation determines how much of your free chlorine exists as the highly effective hypochlorous acid versus the less potent hypochlorite ion.

At lower pH levels less than 7.5, the majority of the free chlorine in the water exists as hypochlorous acid, which is approximately 80 to 100 times more effective as a disinfectant than the hypochlorite ion.

— Rudy Stankowitz, Talking Pools Podcast

Maintaining pH between 7.2 and 7.6 ensures optimal chlorine effectiveness. Beyond sanitization efficiency, lower pH levels create an environment less conducive to algae growth, as algae thrives in pH levels of 7.6 and higher. Additionally, at higher pH levels, hypochlorite ions don't bond as strongly with cyanuric acid, making them more susceptible to UV degradation from sunlight.

Digital Tools and Technology Integration for Pool Businesses

While mastering water chemistry remains fundamental, successful pool service businesses are increasingly leveraging digital tools to streamline operations and enhance customer relationships. The industry is seeing significant growth in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems specifically designed for pool service companies.

These digital platforms help pool professionals track customer history, schedule maintenance visits, manage chemical readings, and maintain detailed service records. Mobile apps allow technicians to update customer information in real-time, photograph equipment issues, and generate instant service reports.

The integration of digital tools extends beyond basic record-keeping. Modern pool service businesses use automated billing systems, GPS tracking for route optimization, and even IoT sensors for remote water monitoring. This technological adoption isn't just about efficiency - it's about providing a level of service that meets today's customer expectations.

Maintaining Positivity in a Competitive Industry

Pete the Pool Guy from Coachella Valley Pools delivered an important message about maintaining professionalism and positivity in an increasingly competitive market.

Don't let negative energy weigh you down. Instead, rise above it and keep a positive mindset. Be better people by focusing on your own work and growth, not on how other people, other pool guys, other pool techs do their jobs.

— Pete the Pool Guy, Talking Pools Podcast

This mindset becomes particularly important during challenging times, whether dealing with supply shortages, equipment failures, or difficult customers. The pool industry benefits when professionals support each other rather than engaging in destructive competition.

Industry Personnel Moves Signal Growth

The pool industry continues to show strength with strategic personnel additions. Aquastar Pool Products recently hired Corey Wax as regional sales manager covering Northern California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Utah. Wax brings eight years of experience from Alpha West Marketing Group and recognition as sales rep of the year in 2022.

Simultaneously, Omar Placencia's role expanded to include international expansion into Mexico while continuing to serve the Southwest region. These moves indicate companies are investing in both domestic growth and international expansion, suggesting confidence in the industry's future despite current challenges.

Key Takeaways for Pool Professionals

The convergence of supply chain challenges, technical knowledge requirements, and digital transformation creates both opportunities and challenges for pool professionals. Success requires staying informed about industry developments, mastering the underlying science of water chemistry, and embracing technology to improve service delivery.

The Biolab incident serves as a reminder of the importance of diversified supply chains and emergency planning. Pool service companies should maintain relationships with multiple suppliers and keep adequate inventory during peak seasons.

I hope that they can get this wrapped up quickly. I would love to say inexpensively, but I know there's going to be great cost in having a fire at such a facility. But we all got our fingers crossed that Biolab can get back on their feet and this serves only as a speed bump.

— Rudy Stankowitz, Talking Pools Podcast

Understanding the electrochemical principles behind saltwater chlorination enables pool professionals to troubleshoot issues more effectively and educate customers about proper maintenance. This technical knowledge becomes a competitive advantage when customers face water quality issues.

Finally, embracing digital tools while maintaining a positive, professional approach to business relationships positions pool service companies for long-term success. The industry's growth trajectory remains strong, with companies expanding geographically and investing in new personnel, indicating robust opportunities for professionals who adapt to changing market conditions.

As the pool industry navigates supply chain disruptions, technological advancement, and increasing competition, success belongs to those who combine technical expertise with professional excellence and positive customer relationships. Whether you're troubleshooting a saltwater generator or implementing a new CRM system, the fundamentals of quality service and continuous learning remain the foundation of a thriving pool service business.

Episode Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 02:30 Biolab Fire Update and Industry Impact
• 08:15 Pete's Tip of the Day - Staying Positive
• 10:45 Aquastar Personnel Announcements
• 13:20 Saltwater Pool Chemistry Deep Dive
• 18:40 Electrochemical Reactions and Redox Processes
• 25:10 pH Management in Saltwater Systems
• 30:50 Digital Tools and CRM Systems