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Pentair just dropped a bombshell on pool pros: effective immediately through August 31, 2025, they’re capping purchase orders at 30% above your July–August 2024 levels. Anything above that? Denied.

Pentair caps your buying power. The EPA quietly bans sodium bromide. And bonding? Finally, some clarity.

In this episode, we tackle three major updates shaking the pool industry. First, Pentair announces a sudden cap on purchase orders—effective immediately, you're limited to just 30% above your July–August 2024 volume. We unpack why tariffs are likely behind it and what this could mean for your inventory, pricing, and timelines.

Next, we break down the Pool Industry Council’s landmark study on equipotential bonding. Conducted by SunSmart Engineering, the research confirms that both #8 AWG single wire loops and copper bonding grids reduce 120 VAC fault current to safe levels when installed correctly. This could finally settle the perimeter bonding debate with hard data.

Finally, Rudy Stankowitz exposes the silent EPA regulation that outlawed the outdoor use of sodium bromide. No headlines, no warning—just a quiet shift that leaves pool pros carrying the burden. We discuss bromate risks, industry backlash, and what comes next.

This episode is your no-fluff survival guide to navigating shifting rules, shrinking supplies, and the science that still keeps your pools safe.

• Sodium bromide was quietly outlawed for outdoor use.
• The burden of compliance shifted unexpectedly to pool professionals.
• Regulatory decisions were made without consulting industry experts.
• The label change for sodium bromide has significant implications for pool care.
• Bromate, a byproduct of sodium bromide, poses health risks.
• The EPA's decision was based on precautionary principles due to insufficient data.
• Pool professionals need to educate clients about these changes.
• Alternatives to sodium bromide may come with higher costs and longer treatment times.
• Industry voices must unite to advocate for fair regulations.
• Future studies may provide data to challenge the current ban on sodium bromide.

Sound Bites

• "It was bureaucracy doing what it does best."
• "The human cost of silent regulation."
• "You were never considered in this decision."

Chapters

00:00
The Silent Regulation of Sodium Bromide

01:36
Silver Algaecide: Treatment for Black Algae

02:00
Blu-ray Algaecide: How It Works

Support the show

Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

• Facebook
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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Text us a pool question!

In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, hosts Steve and his co-host discuss their personal lives, including upcoming vacations and wedding plans. They delve into the challenges of client communication in the service industry, emphasizing the importance of setting expectations and maintaining open lines of communication. The conversation also touches on product development in the pool industry, highlighting the need for common sense and practical input from users. The episode concludes with insights on managing client relationships and the significance of being proactive in service delivery.

takeaways

• Steve shares his upcoming cruise to Fiji for his anniversary.
• Jury duty can be a tedious experience, as described by the co-host.
• Setting clear expectations with clients is crucial for service success.
• Communication with clients can prevent misunderstandings and service delays.
• Common sense is often lacking in corporate product development.
• Understanding the volume of a pool is essential for proper chemical treatment.
• The importance of having access keys for service technicians is emphasized.
• Product development should involve feedback from actual users.
• Maintaining open communication with clients can enhance service quality.
• Flexibility in scheduling can improve client satisfaction.

Sound Bites

• "I had jury duty this past week."
• "We need to have a key to do our job."
• "You can't fix that because of protocol."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Personal Updates

04:25
Jury Duty and Wedding Plans

08:58
Client Communication and Setting Precedents

16:58
Corporate Experiences and Product Development Challenges

29:21
The Challenges of Pool Equipment Design

31:42
Importance of Accurate Pool Calculations

33:39
User-Centric Product Development

37:11
Innovations in Pool Testing Equipment

42:17
Common Sense in Pool Service Operations

47:09
Communication and Client Expectations

Support the show

Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Tik Tok

Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com