The Pool Technician & Business Start Up Course

What is a Standard Pool Service

At the end of this course, you will have the information and guidance to start your own pool servicing business, from the practical information for ‘the job itself’ and the theory of the ‘good’ business.

Let’s start with the ‘job itself’.

The beginning - What is a standard pool service?

A Standard Pool Service Consists of:

1. Visual inspection of pool and equipment

2. Chemical testing

3. Chemical balancing

4. Scoop leaves and debris out of the pool

5. Vacuum and Brush the pool floor (Only If Needed)

6. Cartridge filter cleaning (Only If Needed)

7. Sand filter backwash (Only If Needed)

8. Emptying basket in the skimmer box and the main pool pump.

9. Acid clean the chlorinator salt cell (Only If Needed)

10. Set and adjusted the clock & timers on the chlorinator unit (Only If Needed)

11. Full equipment check-over of operation and any visual leaks.

Visual Inspection of Pool and Equipment

On arrival at any pool, whether it is a regular pool you have visited previously or a new pool, it is extremely important to visually inspect everything before you begin any physical service.

A visual inspection of the pool and equipment consists of the following:

· Looking at the colour / clarity and water level.

· Check for algae and green, black, or brown spots.

· Check for any debris in the pool and is the pump running?

· Visually inspect equipment for leaks and any damage, while running it.

· For new customers, check age and condition of equipment and if working.

· If there is a sand-filter, visually check if it has been on “Filter”.

· Visually check the filter, look on chlorinator to see if it has been on auto-mode/timer.

Checking Running of Pool

Once a visual check has been made and you are satisfied with your inspection of the pool, an inspection and running of the equipment is needed.

· Switch the pump on manually by chlorinator or whatever system is installed.

· Check the pump to see if there is water running through it

· Check the pool to see if water is moving and coming out of the jets.

· Check the water is being sucked into the skimmer box correctly.

· Put a vacuum plate on skimmer basked to test the suction.

· Checking Operation of Equipment

· Check the pump is running and not leaking.

· Check that there are no unusual sounds when the pump is running and that it primes properly.

Chlorinator System or Chemical Feed System

Check the chlorinator system installed and be aware of its make and type of chlorine production.

Check that the timers and system are working.

Check that the chlorinator is on and it is switching the pump on and off.

If it is a salt chlorinator, make sure the chlorinator salt cell is producing chlorine while switched on.

If it is a chemical feed system, check all components are working correctly.

Filters

Usually, we work with either a sand filter or a cartridge filter.

If there is a Sand Filter

· Check the top multiport valve is working correctly.

· Check that when the system is on filter and water is running through it, the water is not also going down to waste.

· Check pressure gauge on filter but this may not be correct as they can stop working.

If there is a Cartridge Filter

· Check that water is running through correctly and check gauge.

· These get blocked easier than a sand filter, so check pool jets for good water flow and the skimmer box for strong vacuum.

· Switch off and remove the cartridge for cleaning.

·

Please note:

· If there is a Heat Pump, check that it is switches on when water flows through it.

· If there is a Solar Heater Pump, check to see if it works and you can hear water flowing through the pipes going to the house roof.

· Note: the solar pump is not essential to the normal pool operation.

Checking and Adding Chemicals

· When Testing Water, We Test 7 Elements:

• Free Chlorine

• pH level (the balance between alkaline and acid)

• Total alkalinity

• Calcium (water hardness)

• Stabiliser (Cyanuric Acid)

• Salt (if it is a salt water pool)

• Phosphates

It is preferable and extremely valuable for the customer if you do a unique pool service deal, like ‘a pool service including chemicals.’

These ‘included’ chemicals can be the “normal pool chemicals.”

Anything else can be classed as a treatment, which you would charge extra for, eg. $45-$50 per litre. It is recommended to charge separately for added bags of salt.

The ‘included chemicals’ can be bought relatively low priced in bulk so you can put them down as cost, but the marketing advantage is, the value it gives you and the customer will be immense. This is part of your’ good’ business strategy.

PoolServ®

Equipment and Stock Needed to Start Up Business

Pool Cleaning / Service Equipment

Let us look at a basic ‘set-up’ of pool cleaning equipment needed to start off your pool cleaning service.

The equipment listed will be sufficient to start pool servicing and will keep you going from 3 to 24 months depending on its use and good condition. It is recommended you check the condition of your pool cleaning equipment on a regular basis.

As your own unique pool technician, you will find you will add and change things to suit your preference. Also new or improved makes and models are sold throughout the years and are available from different suppliers. This is your development as a pool technician and business owner.

Although you may be tempted to buy cheap in the beginning its extremely advisable to source good quality equipment over cheap as you will unfortunately find that as the saying goes ‘buy cheap buy twice’. Which can also affect the standard of your pool cleaning.

All of this reflects the quality the customer is looking to receive. A professional set of equipment also bodes well to your customers that you are a professional pool servicing business.

The following items are recommended to be stocked on the van.

Item

Description

· Telescopic Pole 8ft – 16ft

· For attachment of vac, brush & scoop

· Super Rake

· Scoop or net

· Multi-Purpose Brush

· To brush pool walls, steps, and pool floor.

· Wire brush / Algae Brush

· To brush stubborn algae

· Flexible Vacuum Head

· To vac the pool floor.

· 13 Metre Hose

· Attach to vac and skimmer for pool cleaning.

· Test Kit 4-in-1

· Chlorine and pH chemical tester.

· Digital Salt Tester

· Salt measure, salt to water ppm.

· Phosphates Testing Kit

· Pool Chemical testing.

· Stabiliser Tester / Cyanuric Acid Plunger

· Pool chemical testing.

· Test Strips for Bromine (50 pack)

· For testing Spas’

· Skimmer Plate – 190mm

· Common size (other sizes available)

· Skimmer Plate – 210m

· Common size (other sizes available)

· Toolbox for Testing Kit

· To carry all your test kits and tools.

· Universal Grip Tool, Red Handle, Rubber Strap

· For opening fittings and pump lids

· 20L Chlorine Opening Tool

· For opening 20 litre drums

· Cell cleaning Jug

· For acid cleaning salt cells.

· Hydra Slip Silicone Grease

· For all rubber seals and fittings.

· Skimmer Socks

· For skimmer baskets and some granular treatments.

· DPD1 tablets

· For chlorine test kits.

· Cyanuric Acid Tablets (250 box)

· For stabiliser test kits.

· Hose Joiners

· For joining vac hoses

· Skimmer Weir Adaptor

· Rubber cone shaped adapter to fit into the skimmer plate

· Universal pvc Elbow

· For vac attachment.

· Lay Flat Blue Hose (50mm x 20m)

· Like a ‘fireman’s’ hose, ideal for running water to waste from the filter.

· Hose Clamps (40mm)

· For fitting the lay flat hose.

· Set of Plastic Jugs

· For liquid chemicals and treatments.

Basic pool Chemicals

The next list is the recommended chemicals you will need to set up and start your initial pool servicing business.

These chemicals can last from 1 week to 12 months. It is recommended you have a stock check of chemicals you have and their shelf date to prevent having chemical stock that is out of date and not performing as it should. This again is important to create a professional standard for your customer as inferior chemicals will mean inferior servicing and potentially chemically unbalanced pools. This can detrimentally affect your work and quality and business.

Aim to be the best in your quality standards in all areas. Especially by the standard of your equipment and chemicals. Therefore, it is important to have a good stock management system in place.

An MSDS material safety data sheet needs to be kept with your chemicals and for your use as these advise the correct usage, storage and disposal of the chemicals you carry.

The following items are recommended to be stocked on the van:

Item Description

· Liquid Chlorine + Drum (20L)

· For added treatment of pools.

· Hydrochloric Acid + Drum (20L)

· For added treatment of pools.

· Algaecide treatments

· For ‘special treatment’ of algae.

· Flocculant treatment

· Liquid or powder treatment.

· Phosphate Remover treatment

· For ‘special treatment’ of phosphates.

· Soda Ash (25kg bag)

· Powder or granular treatment for low pH levels.

· Alkalinity Increaser – pH buffer (25kg bag)

· Powder or granular treatment for low alkalinity levels.

· Stabiliser – Water Sunscreen (10kg bag)

· Powder or granular treatment for low stabiliser levels.

· Calcium or Water Hardener tub or bag

· Powder or granular treatment for increasing calcium.

· Black Spot Algae Killer cartons

· For ‘special treatment’ of black spot.

· Granulated Chlorine (10kg tub)

· Granular chlorine for pool treatment.

· Granulated Spa Bromine (1kg tub)

· For spa treatment.

· Granulated Spa Shock (1kg tub)

· For spa treatment.

· Liquid Chlorine (5L)

· Carry size

· Hydrochloric Acid (5L)

· Carry size

· Water Clarifier cartons

· Liquid clarifying treatment

· Salt (20kg bags)

· Individual 20kg size for application

· 5L containers with lids

· Ideal carry size for granular chemicals.

· 20L Tub Lid Screw Tap

· For decanting 20l drums into  1-litre containers.

Additional Tools

With any manual work, it is important to have the tools to assist you when needed.

Coming across problems and equipment issues is commonplace when pool servicing. Especially when you arrive at a new customer pool and the pool equipment may be old or faulty.

Understanding the process of problem-solving and the quick judgment to rectify a problem is a vital skill in pool servicing and can be your saving grace to winning over a customer from a one-off customer to a loyal regular customer.

The following list is your basic set up and as said before you will add to this list as you develop within your pool servicing business.

It is recommended that these items are always stored in the van:

Item Description

· Spanner Set For pool equipment problems

· set of Screwdrivers (pack of 8) For pool equipment problems

· pair of Pliers For pool equipment problems

· Wire Snips / Cutters For pool equipment problems

· set of Allen Keys For pool equipment problems

· Stanley Knife Opening of salt bags

· large Clamp Tool For pool equipment problems.

· set Vice grips For assisting with opening stiff valves

· Hammer For assisting stiff jammed equipment

· Rubber Mallet For assisting in soft pressure of valves.

· Multi-Meter Testing electrical supply to equipment.

· Tape Measure Assisting pool problems.

· Garden Hose Pipe and Roller Stand 20m If customers’ is faulty

· T-Bar & 10mm Socket set or set of sockets For attaching waste hose

· Wire Brush Cleaning corroded element

· Insulation Tape For exposed wire.

· Funnel Pouring of liquids

· LED Torch Working in dark areas.

Safety Gear and First Aid

Safety is paramount for you and the area you are working in.

A professional pool servicing business will always have these items on the van.

Working outdoors in all environments and working with chemicals, protecting your health and safety will enable you to work continuously without any avoidable accidents.

It is recommended that you seek training in first aid and manual handling also as a development to your business.

You will add and always replenish things on this list, it is advised you regularly check your van supplies to prevent unprofessional accidents.

The following items are recommended:

Item

Hat with Neck Sun Cover

pair Knee Pads

pair Work Gloves

pair Chemical Gloves

box Disposable Gloves

Sun cream

pair Safety Glasses

pair Ear Defenders (ear plugs)

Breathing Mask

First Aid Kit

Eye Wash Bottle

small Fire Extinguisher

Manual Handling Book (course notes)

Pool Chemicals Information Sheet

PoolServ®

How a Basic Pool Operates.

So, before we start to chunk down the parts of this course, it is important to understand the engineering of the pool equipment and water flow.

The diagram below is the usual set up of the basic swimming pool equipment and waterflow.

The usual system equipment (in order of water flow) consists of a Pool Pump, a filter and the Chlorinator salt cell (auto-chlorinator on photo). Some pools may have a pool heater or heat pump which is usually installed between the filter outlet and the chlorinator cell inlet.

There will also be a controller unit which is called the Chlorinator or Controller unit which has many features including a timer. The control unit switches on the pool pump at set times and then while its running, it sends power to the salt cell which makes the chlorine for the pool.

A salt chlorinator system is quite common as its easy to maintain. The pool water has a recommended salt count which when passes through the salt cell, the cell produces chlorine and that chlorine that goes to the pool to sanitise it. Without any chlorine in the pool, the pool would have bacteria, start to form algae, and eventually go green.

Where you see filter in the diagram could be a sand filter or a cartridge filter, depend on what was originally installed. The filter’s job is to clean the water by filtering out particles that are making the water dirty.

When the pool pump switches on, it sucks pool water at a rate of approximately 200 litres per minute (depending on the power of the pump) from the skimmer box, into the pump, then pumps it through the filter, heater if fitted, through the salt cell and then back to the pool where it comes out of the jets.

Some pools may have an adjustable valve after the filter which can make the water go to the pool jets or a water feature if one is fitted.

In some pools, there may also be another pump and smaller controller which is for solar heating. This flows on a separate system to the main system as it has its own ‘in and out’ in the pool and runs to pipes on the house roof. Although it could be essential to the heating of the pool, It’s not essential to the pools normal running, filtering and chemical flow.

Circulation plays a major role in all parts of the process. Circulation of the pool water allows you to filter the water, which is cleaning. It also helps to spread the chemicals that are added to the water, imagine, stirring a cup of coffee after adding cream and sugar.

Every pool should be equipped with a pump and a filter, at the very least.

The return jets in the pool should be multi-directional, which will allow you to direct which way the water is pushed back into the pool. This whole process is circulation of the pool water.

It’s good practice to point the return jet in a direction that will spin the water in the pool, hence, circulate.

If the pool only has one jet, it’s a good idea to point the jet to the opposite side of the skimmer and downwards. This will circulate the water and also mix the water on the bottom of the pool to the surface.

Non circulation areas are spots in the pool that have poor circulation. Some commons spots include:

• Behind ladder(s)

• In and around pool steps

• All cracks, creases, crevices

• Underneath the skimmer(s)

Sometimes these dead areas are unavoidable This is why it is important to always brush these areas on a service.

PoolServ®

A Perfect Day as a Pool Technician

Let us look at a perfect day as a pool technician.

In the morning, you should already have your list of clients printed off from the day before, but double check your phone text messages and emails to make sure if any clients have any special requests or changed their service day.

Check your vehicle and check there are enough bags of salt and chemicals onboard.

Make sure you have your client list for that day via your scheduling program or app (pre-scheduled by text message two days before), EFTPOS payment machine and charged (If you have one) and mobile phone in van ready to go.

Set Sat-Nav or your phone maps and go to the first house on the list. It will be a regular or new customer.

When arrived at the first house, park suitably outside or on their driveway. Please be aware they may need to get out if it's early morning.

Knock on the door, greet the customer, introduce yourself and if it is a new customer, give them a business card or magnet then proceed to the pool. If it is a regular customer and they are not home, let yourself into the pool area as pre-arranged with the customer.

Do pool service: Inspect pool, ask customer questions (if present), check chemicals, check equipment is working, check water flow, clean pool surface, vacuum pool if needed, add chemicals if needed, add salt or treatments if needed.

Remember, if it’s a new customer, all they are expecting to pay is your pool service price they have seen advertised or quoted with you over the phone or via messages. if you are doing a deal with included chemicals, then the basic chemicals will be included in the price, but If the pool needs extras like salt or treatments, then it's respectful to recommend to the customer and inform them of any extra cost before adding anything.

Once the customer becomes a regular, you can then prearrange with them that if on any service the pool needs extras like salt or treatments, then you will just add it and then send them the invoice afterwards.

If you get to the pool and it has bad algae or is green then don’t proceed with a normal service, estimate how much it will cost and then inform the customer of the price before proceeding with the green pool recovery treatment. This process will be covered in another module of this course.

Once finished at the pool, put all equipment back in your vehicle.

If the customer is present, inform them that you have finished and explain what you have done to build trust and repour, then choose whichever payment type is taken, either direct card machine payment or notify them an invoice will be sent to their email, tell them you will contact them and see them in 4 weeks or next month.

Return to your vehicle, write a brief note on your client schedule sheet for that customer detailing what services have been done with prices, how payment was received, and any extra brief notes for your information later or when the next service is booked.

Drive to the next house on the client sheet and follow the same procedure. Remember to take photos of each lovely pool so you have content for your social media and website.

After finishing your last client service, return to your home. If you are around the area of your chemical supplier, check the chemicals and salt levels onboard and purchase the new stock if required.

Once home, if not checked beforehand, check chemicals and salt levels in your vehicle and replenish stock as needed.

Log onto your laptop or computer and connect to your accounting program such as Xero, and send invoices to clients who have not made payment.

Go to your client schedule program and move completed client jobs to 28 days or whatever the timeframe that has been arranged with them.

Double-check and arrange your list of clients on the scheduling program that has been pre-arranged, and check they are on the list and ready for the next day.

Upload photos and posts to social media, answer new enquiries, process emails, and arrange new customers.

Make time in the schedule for the next day to go to suppliers, if needed.

Go onto your client schedule program and text clients on the list who are booked for two days’ time to notify them of their upcoming pool service. This gives them enough time to confirm their booking.

Please note, that some clients may take a long time to reply to your text message, sometimes up to two days, so when arranging your clients for that day, leave space for clients that are late to reply.

Also, be aware that you may get other local enquiries in the day which you could fit in, if in the area.

PoolServ®

The Pool Service Log Sheet

The service log was created by PoolServ as a bonus for regular and membership club customers.

The PoolServ service log is very much within the same concept as a car service log. The value is extremely great for the pool customer, as it is regularly filled out each month or 28 days depending on the schedule, and dated with all the work and chemicals that have been done and used that day.

The added benefits to the customer are as with any service log; a written report to support the history of the upkeep and condition of the pool and its equipment when selling their property. For the pool technician, it is a helpful reminder of the condition of the water previously and any treatments that have been added.

As it lists any new equipment installed on there too, it is a quick ‘check tool’ for the pool’s history. Many real estate agents use it as an extra selling tool for prospective home buyers.

Due to this, it is ‘too good to lose’ for many customers. It is also a great ‘upsell’ tool to new customers who are considering the benefits of signing up for a pool servicing membership with you. This, in turn, can lead them to a long loyal relationship with your business.

The service log is a ‘word document’ with your brand name, address, email, ABN, and any of your social media information. the report needs to look professional.

The service log will be kept next to the pool equipment for availability to the pool technician and pool owner. This may be in a shed or outside, so the paper is laminated to protect it from the weather i.e., rain. A permeant marker is used to fill it out, so the information doesn’t rub off or wash off with the rain and as long as it isn’t left out in direct sunlight it will keep forever.

So, to fill it out, we add the date of the service and from the testing of the 7 chemicals we do on each service, we can enter these test results on the sheet.

From Chlorine, pH, Total alkalinity, Stabiliser, Calcium, and Salt. We add the readings from these.

Next to the chemicals list is a section for ‘Notes’. Here we can fill out the work undertaken and from the keywords at the bottom of the page we can add a code for each job. Also, any chemicals added that day would be listed here.

At the bottom of the page are two sections. One to record the phosphate test results and the other to record any notes by the pool technician.

Phosphates are checked every service, but as it is a seasonal treatment, apart from the initial test we do, we only record the results when there has been a positive result, which then we date, and comment ‘treated’. (as we treat).

The section for ‘pool technicians notes’ is exactly what it is, and the pool technician can add information on any added extras, new equipment installed, broken equipment and any issues that need to be addressed.

It is highly recommended you invest in a service log tool. Not only is it a great pool water quality and chemicals reminder for you, but it is also a great connection for your customer and their pool servicing.

If the customer is not at home when you service the pool, when they arrive home and inspect their pool, they also can read through the service log to check the chemicals added and work done. Then if there is any extra information from you, they may need to discuss and clarify. This gives the perfect customer relationship gained from trust and loyalty.

PoolServ®

Cleaning a Pool and Vacuuming

It is advisable to ask the pool owner to remove the pool blanket before your arrival to let any debris caught on the blanket settle on the pool floor.

On the first inspection of the pool, you will see the condition of the pool floor for dirt and debris.

If the pool water is low, then put the garden hose in and switch it on to top it up. This will be adding water to the pool for the duration of the pool service. Remember to switch off at the end.

This gives you an idea of the course of action you need to take and will save you time in the long run.

Preparation is important to achieve a ‘good job’, done in the time you have allocated.

An average pool cleaning will consist of

· Scooping the leaves and debris off the surface of the pool with your net or leaf rake.

· Giving the water line edging of the pool a brush.

· Scooping out any big items, branches, and twigs off the pool floor.

· Vacuuming.

· Emptying the skimmer box basket.

Be careful when scooping things from the bottom of a dirty pool as it may disturb all the settled dirt and mix it into the water.

It is sometimes best to vacuum first and then scoop any big items out afterwards.

After switching on the system and checking that the water flow and suction are good, set up the vacuum.

· Attach the vac head to the end of the telescopic pole.

· Attach the vacuum hose to the vacuum head.

· Holding the pole with one hand and the hose with the other, lower the vacuum head into the water until it reaches the pool floor.

· Extend the pole as much as possible so the pole doesn’t completely fall into the pool when you let it go.

· Feed the rest of the hose into the water making sure all the hose fills with water.

· Do this near the skimmer box or vacuum point on the pool.

· Make sure the basket is in the skimmer box.

· Fit the elbow adaptor fitting to the end of the hose.

· Fit the vacuum plate on top of the skimmer box basket.

· Feed the hose and fitting through the skimmer box mouth and fit to the vacuum plate.

· It would be ideal to have the pump running when you do this, to make sure that there is adequate suction.

· Before starting the vacuum, make sure the sand filter is set to “Filter”.

· Vacuum slowly and methodically working from the deep end to the shallow end.

When finished.

Once you are satisfied that the pool is clean of any debris and dirt

· Lay the pole still connected to the hose and vac in the pool.

· Do not remove from the water until you have removed the hose from the suction plate as this may cause the pump to suck in air and de-prime the pump.

· It is recommended you switch off the system and quickly visually check the pool for any dirt or debris missed, while the pool is still.

· If there is, switch the system back on.

· Check the suction plate is fitted and hose and return to those areas to clean.

· If happy with the result remove the hose from the suction plate.

· Remove the suction plate to prevent whirlpooling of the water.

· Pull out the pole and vac head and remove the hose and pull in and roll up ready to take back to the van.

· Re-check the pool to see if there is any debris on the surface that needs scooping.

· Using the pole attachment add the brush and give the sides a clean.

· Then scoop any remaining floating debris with your net.

Arrange all equipment ready to return to the van.

Post-cleaning checklist:

· Add chemicals and salt if needed.

· Maintenance of pool equipment i.e., backwash (see backwashing).

· Check pool equipment is switched back to auto.

· The skimmer basket is in and the cover on

· Water hose if used switched off and removed.

· Leaving the property with respect.

PoolServ®

Cleaning a Cartridge Filter Element

The main 2 filter systems you come across during your pool servicing will be sand filters and cartridge filters.

The cartridge filter is visibly slimmer and taller and contains a removable cartridge element.

Both systems filter the pool water from debris and dirt to produce a good clean flow of return water.

So, this is an important part of the pool service and needs to be cleaned to keep the clean filtered water circulating.

How to clean a pool cartridge filter.

Backwashing is not an option.

They are not built for reverse water flow, and hence, you cannot backwash this type of filter.

Instead, you will need to clean them manually.

1. Turn Off the Pump

· You need to turn off the pool pump for safety reasons.

· It would be best if you turn off the power supply as well so that you can work with peace of mind.

2. Remove the Filter.

· Remove the filter cartridge.

· Unscrew the bleed air screw to release pressure.

· Unscrew and remove the cartridge filter housing lid and pull the cartridge out.

3. Wash the Filter.

· Once it is off, inspect for visible damages.

· Look for rips, holes, and tears.

· If there are significant damages, then it is time for a replacement.

· Before you clean the pool filter cartridge with a pool filter element cleaning solution, rinse it with water first.

· This preliminary cleaning will get rid of most of the dirt and debris outside.

· Use a garden hose.

· Use a pool cartridge filter element cleaning solution in a spray bottle and spray it on the element and allow it to soak in for 5 to 10 minutes.

4. Rinse the Filter Housing

· While the filter is draining off.

· Use a garden hose for this procedure.

· Clean the interior of the housing.

· You can also use a filter-cleaning solution for this process.

· A degreaser will also work to get rid of the dirt and grime that you may find in the housing.

5. Rinse the Filter

· Give the filter a final rinse.

· Give the filter the last wash using a garden hose.

· Shake it vigorously to get rid of any dirt or debris that could still be remaining on the filter.

6. Return the Cartridge Filter

· Bring the filter back to its original position.

· Insert the filter and return the cover.

· Lubricate the O-ring in the lid.

· This will make it easier to clean the next time you have to remove the filter.

· Make sure that it is screwed tightly.

· Turn the pump on.

· Switch the main power supply if you have turned it off before cleaning the filter.

· Once the pump is running and the water is flowing fully.

· Turn open the air bleed screw on the filter lid to release the air inside.

· Once the water starts coming through the air bleed screw then close it securely.

How to Backwash a Sand Filter.

An important part of the pool service you provide is the maintenance of the pool equipment.

Maintaining a good water flow is of prime importance to crystal clean water removing dirt, debris, and bacteria. The pool uses a filter system to circulate and filter the water through regular timed intervals.

• We recommend doing a ‘backwash’ after we have removed the debris and impurities you have just vacuumed up from the pool floor.

• When the Vac suction has been lost from heavy cleaning (major debris and dirt).

• When the pressure gauge on the sand filter is reading 8 – 10 lbs above the clean, starting pressure, it is time to backwash the sand filter.

This process involves turning a valve so that the water will flow through the filter backwards, flushing out the dirt – Hence the name “back-washing.”

Pool water normally flows top to bottom in a sand filter, water enters at the top of the tank and pushes down through the sand bed into the laterals at the bottom of the tank.

During backwashing, the water flows in reverse, from bottom to top, out of the laterals and up thru the sand, to flush out the trapped dirt from the sand bed and send it out the waste line.

Sand filters can have either a push-pull valve (also known as a slide valve) or a multiport valve.

• The multiport valve has multiple ports on the valve, usually 6 positions, hence the name “multi-port”.

• Slide valves have only two positions, filter, or backwash, with a plunger being pulled up or pushed down to change positions.

Always shut off the filter pump before turning the filter valve, or it could damage the gasket or internal filter parts!

• It can create a brief deadhead or water hammer effect.

• This could rupture filter tanks, pipe fittings or valves, and possibly injure those nearby.

Multiport head positions:

• FILTER: Keep it here all the time, except when backwashing, rinsing, or waste.

• RINSE: Use this setting for 15 seconds after backwashing to rinse the sand filter tank.

• RECIRCULATE: A filter bypass setting. Use this if your filter’s broken or leaking; at least you’re circulating the water.

• BACKWASH: Use this setting to reverse the flow in the filter and send water out of the waste line. Make sure valves are open and your backwash hose is rolled out.

• CLOSED: Put here to close off flow from the pool, usually to work on the equipment, or prevent backflow of water out of the filter.

Do not operate the pump with the valve in the closed position!

• WASTE/DRAIN: Another filter bypass setting, but this setting sends the water out of the waste pipe (hose), instead of returning it to the pool. This setting is used to lower pool water level or to vacuum to waste, which is best when vacuuming algae or heavy amounts of dusty, silty debris.

To backwash a sand filter with a multiport valve.

• Shut off the pump motor, and roll out the backwash hose (if it has one).

• Press down the handle on the top of the multiport valve (that acts like a clutch).

• Turn it clockwise from filter all the way around to backwash and then release.

• Make sure it is locked in place.

• Then switch on the pump.

• Watch the pressure gauge for back pressure (over 30 PSI) and the hose for kinks.

• Be prepared to shut off the pump quickly if the pressure gauge spikes.

• After the hose fills with water, backwash your sand filter for 1 – 2 minutes or until the water runs clear.

• Shut off the pump motor and push down the handle again and turn it to Rinse.

• Then switch on the pump again and run for around 15 seconds.

• This clears the last of the dirt from the filter and valve.

• Shut off the pump motor and push down the handle again and turn it to Filter.

• Turn the pump back on and note lower pressure.

• Make sure the water is flowing correctly.

• Check whether the water is flowing out of the jets or the water feature.

• Make sure there are no leaks, and no water is running down the waste pipe.

All pool filter systems have different operating pressures, so it may be best to look online for the model and do so research if needed.

Troubleshooting

A properly sized sand filter should, in most cases, be able to operate continuously for 4 weeks between backwashing.

• So, a “Filter Run” of less than 4 weeks may indicate sand problems (or sizing problems), or unusual water conditions being cleaned up.

• Most manufacturers suggest that a filter pressure of 8-10 psi greater than the clean, start-up pressure is when you should backwash.

• However, if your flow seems to diminish considerably at only 5 psi higher, or if pressure rises very rapidly, you may have a sand pool filter that’s a bit undersized, overworked or in need of a sand change.

• Keep an eye on the flow as well as an indication of when to backwash.

• It is common to experience a small amount of dust returning into the pool after backwashing a sand filter, even when using the Rinse setting afterwards.

• If you have a problem with fine dust constantly passing through your sand filter, you can vacuum this out to waste after filling the pool first.

• In areas of high dust or pollution, clarifiers can help by increasing the particle size by coagulating smaller dust into more easily filtered clumps.

• Also, sand filter cleaners or enzymes are helpful products to remove trapped oils and gunk, which gets trapped, mostly in the top 2 inches of the sand bed.

Please note.

Sand pool filters operate a bit more effectively when they are half dirty than when they are fully clean.

Backwashing a sand filter too often could lead to cloudy water.

Assuming that your pressure gauge is functioning properly, resist the urge to backwash a sand filter until it’s climbed at least 5 psi higher than the clean pressure.

Always remember to check that the sand filter is back on Filter when leaving the property.

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Vacuuming to Waste.

Vacuuming to waste can be used for several reasons.

To remove large amounts of debris during vacuuming and prevent the filter from blocking up.

To remove dead algae, dirt and sand after a flocculant treatment, while vacuuming to prevent contaminating the filter and releasing the fine dead particles back into the pool.

Lowering the pool water after heavy rain.

Prepare to vacuum to waste.

Upon arriving at the pool, check if there is a sand filter or cartridge filter.

Ask the owner what type of filter they have:

· If it is a sand filter, make sure when back washing that the water goes away from the pool into a soak well or somewhere else.

· If the customer has a cartridge filter, make sure there is a 3-way bypass valve fitted in the system so you can connect a hose to run the water to waste via a pool hose.

Treatment of the pool

· Some pools that have had a lot of sand in, for example, if the pool deck has been power-washed or just very dirty, the standard green pool treatment is the best way to treat the pool, but you may not need to add chlorine and algaecide, only flocculant.

· If you find a pool that has algae on the pool floor, whether it is a lot or not, live algae are exceedingly difficult to vacuum up as its sticky, once brushed and suspended into the water.

· The chemicals and treatment can kill the algae and will settle back down on the floor which is then quite easy to vac.

· Live algae or dead algae cannot be vacuumed on the “Filter setting” on a sand filter or through a cartridge filter.

· The fine particles of dead algae will end up coming back out of the jets.

· It must be vacuumed to waste.

If you come across a majorly dirty pool to vacuum.

If you vacuum on the filter setting or with a cartridge filter, you may find the filter will clog up fast and reduce water flow pressure.

You will need to vacuum quickly, or you may find the dirt is coming back out of the jets.

If this happens, the only option is to vacuum to waste.

For some pools that always have a lot of dirt or sand in every time you go to them, you may find the best way is to vacuum to waste (not needing flocculants or treatments).

On a sand filter system, if you find a backwash soak well fills up, starting to overflow out of the ground and the water makes its way back to the pool, stop the pump.

You may need to disconnect the waste pipe from the multiport valve on the sand filter and fit a large rubber coupling, so you can connect a hose to run it away to a suitable waste point.

Remember, cartridge filters and sand filters are designed to filter small particles in the water and pretty much purify it.

They cannot take lots of dirt, sand, or algae all at once.

Setting up vacuum to Waste

· Make sure the water level is at its highest (top up if needed)

· Inspect if the waste from a sand filter goes into the ground (preferably to a soak well underground)

· Maybe do a quick test and run water to waste for 5-10 seconds.

· If the sand filter waste pipe does not go into the ground or there is a cartridge filter there, then you will need to connect an additional hose and run it to a suitable waste point.

· If there is a non-suitable attachment on the sand filter or cartridge filter, or pipework to attach waste pipe, then the only option is to connect a runner coupler directly to the pump outlet and then connect a waste hose to that.

· Make sure the pool pump or chlorinator controller or system is switched off.

· Set up the vac and hose and pole as normal.

· Be mindful not to disturb the dirt, sand, or dead algae (if previously had a flocculant treatment) on the pool floor as this will move and float preventing you from vacuuming efficiently.

· With the system still off, turn the multi-port valve to “waste” on a sand filter.

· Switch on the system or pump

· Working quickly attach the vac hose to the suction plate.

· Start methodically vacuuming back and forth across the pool floor removing all the debris/dead algae.

· Watch the water level as you vac to prevent the water level from dropping below the skimmer box.

· Once cleaned, lay the pole still in the water and against the pool edge safety so it doesn’t fall in.

· Switch off the system and then do a backwash for 1-2 mins and then rinse for 20 secs. (if sand filter)

· Then turn the multi-port (if sand filter) back to filter.

· Switch the system back on.

· Remove the vac hose and pole if no more cleaning is needed (any very small particles in the pool will eventually be captured by the cleaned filter when it's back to running normally).

· Remove the fitted waste pipe from where ever you have attached it, whether it be the sand filter, cartridge filter, pipework or pump.

· Add water if the level has dropped with a garden hose.

· Check system time clock is correct, timers and that it is working and then switch to auto.

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Organising and scheduling customers

The smooth scheduling of your customers is important to create a working day that is time managed by grouping these customers into their nearby suburbs.

In the beginning, the number of customers you start with should not affect your rounds and you may find yourself driving 15-30 minutes to each customer.

As your customer base grows you will soon need to group nearby customers by their suburbs to be serviced on certain days and times.

This saves time and money on travelling distances between customers.

Although you aim to be professional and give the best customer service and availability for them to be present if they need to.

It is also vital you can earn a good revenue in your business and the costs of travel and time can consume that. A smooth efficient running business will appear dependable to your customers.

To create a balanced relationship between you and your customer it is crucial to have great communication.

Always be honest and clear with your customer correspondence.

Make sure you have confirmation of agreements between yourselves for the service, date, and time.

Customer Enquiries – Phone, Email or Text

Taking a call or receiving a text or email enquiry requires a minimum standard of response time. This is key to acquiring a great reputation for prompt replies.

There is nothing worse than contacting a business only to not receive a callback or text or email. This is a bad character and will give out the wrong impression that you do not care.

Answering your phone

When your business phone rings, try to let it, only ring just a couple of rings before answering. Do not let it ring off, if possible.

· Answer the phone with “Hello, your business name” and then your name.

· Always ask the customer for their name and use it throughout the conversation.

· If it’s a regular client requiring a service, try to answer any questions on the phone, if needed.

· If you are required to go there, let them know you can go but will need to look at your schedule to work out a suitable time.

· Let them know you will either call or text them back once you have checked your schedule.

· Always make a note that you will call or text them back.

· Good clear communication prevents any misunderstandings later.

· When answering a call move away from another customer for confidentiality.

Text, messenger, and email message

As many of us prefer to message rather than phone it is as important to have the same quality of communication.

If a new customer texts, messages or emails and requires you to do a service.

· Firstly, reply confirming that you will be able to but will need to check the schedule.

· Inform the new customer to text their name and address to your mobile so that you can respond once you have checked your schedule.

· When you receive this text.

· A little tactic that works is, do not open it until you are ready to respond with a day/time. Reason- This keeps the message fresh in your phone otherwise you may forget about the message and customer. (it does happen!)

· Also, you can flag messages to remind you.

· Before responding to the new customer by text, message, or email, add their name and address as a new contact in your phone, using the number that they texted you from.

Always double-check each day that you have answered all texts, emails, voicemails, and Facebook messages.

In the Office

During your working day, while you are out mobile in your vehicle, you will receive calls and texts from customers new and regular.

As just previously stated, the best procedure to deal with these inquiries until you can return to the office and book them into your schedule is to keep the messages unopened or flagged.

Organising and Scheduling Customers

A professional scheduling method will create a strong clear message to your customer that you are reliable.

Organising and scheduling are best managed through software applications like Excel or an online scheduling program.

It is worth finding a schedule application that works for you.

· When saving customers’ information, including their name, address, postcode, phone number, and email address.

· How much do we charge them for a service?

· The frequency of their pool service and any other comments.

· Organise them in order of date of service, with the next day’s services being the first on the list.

· To assist effective scheduling consider that you can move them a few days before their due date of 28 days.

· Schedule customers every 28 days for their services.

· When scheduling customers, try to have 5 – 10 customers per day and try to arrange them in groups by location according to suburb.

Note: Customer service schedules shouldn’t be reduced to 3 weeks but can be moved to 5 weeks to benefit the schedule.

This is due to clients complaining of services being provided too frequently within the 28 days and 5 weeks being the maximum time between services.

· Two days before the due date of the customer’s next service, text each customer advising that their service is due on that particular date and if the day is convenient for them.

· This will give the customer two days to confirm if the time and date are convenient for them or if they need to reschedule it for a different day and time.

· This will depend on what other jobs you have for that day and where you will be working.

· Schedule the day and time according to your scheduled services for that day.

· Confirm this clearly with your customer.

· Never presume they have received their scheduled day and time until you receive confirmation.

· Always use the term “Regards,” and your name at the end of all messages to keep a professional touch.

Keeping your customers on a frequency scheduler will prevent customers from forgetting and you from losing them.

This friendly approach and reminder create a trustworthy and dedicated relationship between you and your customer.

If using Microsoft Excel, You can arrange all your customers in date order and also have their details to hand.

You can also set up another Excel spreadsheet daily route. Copy and paste the customer to this and arrange them by time.

Please make sure you watch our video on this for further details.

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