Episode 109: Pool Plumbing Fundamentals and Best Practices with Justin Bowie of JMax Plumbing
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We have noticed over the years, that when you tell someone you work in the swimming pool industry they automatically think that you can answer every question they have about their pool. One of the most commonly asked questions we received was how does inground pool plumbing work. It seems to be one of the more complex things to understand when it comes to swimming pools. We had our generic answers for them, but since this is a podcast for pool professionals we wanted to take a much deeper dive into the world of plumbing. That’s where our guest today Justin Bowie from JMax Plumbing comes in! We have known Justin for several years now and when it comes to the ins and outs of how to plumb a swimming pool he is the man, plus he has an amazing beard! Seriously, check it out when you get a chance.
We asked Justin to explain to us how a pool plumbing system works exactly and trust us, you do not want to miss his answer. We also asked him several other key questions such as how to find air leaks in pool plumbing, what kind of issues can come when plumbing a pool, and even what PVC glue to use for pool plumbing. He also shared some best practices for pluming a brand new pool, replacing equipment, plumbing above and below grade, and fixing a leak on a valve or fitting. When it comes to plumbing, you also need some specialty tools, Justin talks about some of those and what you absolutely need to keep on your truck.
One of our favorite parts of the episode, was Justin’s answer when we asked him what is the best way to go over a complex pool plumbing system? His suggestion and thorough answer are like nothing we have ever heard before! After listening to this, if you follow his instructions, you should never have an issue figuring out what each plumbing line does ever again. We have been working on this episode for quite some time and it definitely did not disappoint! Whatever your title is in the industry, this is an episode that will help you better understand the hydraulics that make the pools we love so much operate.
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Show Notes
[01:35] - Justin Bowie of JMax Story
[08:03] - What’s the difference between plumbing and hydraulics
[09:45] - What are schematics?
[11:53] - How swimming pools have evolved from the beginning
[15:37] - The process of water moving through a pool and system
[16:24] - What does a skimmer weir do?
[18:29] - What is velocity?
[20:30] - Components of a skimmer
[23:36] - Vacuuming pool through skimmer
[26:51] - What does an equipment set look like?
[27:45] - How do you know what type of valve to use?
[30:01] - Valve manifold and Loop manifold
[33:15] - Venturi skimmer
[39:08] - Best practices plumbing new pool
[43:44] - Plumbing issues new construction and built with water
[48:22] - What is a bucket test?
[52:52] - Paramount Paralevel
[56:00] - Assessing complex pool equipment
[01:01:14] - What to make note of during an assessment
[01:02:39] - Best practices for plumbing new pump
[01:08:56] - What tools and supplies do you need on your truck everyday
[01:19:22] - Painting pipes
[01:20:49] - Organizing plumbing suggestions
[01:24:01] - Bend pipe with blow torch
[01:28:12] - Above and below grade
[01:33:05] - What you need on vehicle at all times
[01:38:36] - Leak above ground on fitting or valve
[01:41:37] - Flow meter on plumbing
[01:44:04] - What should you never do
[01:46:44] - Further plumbing education