Episode 115: Pool Closings & Winterizations with Chas Bogardus of Budd's Pools & Spas
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In this episode, we asked Chas Bogardus of Budd’s Pools & Spas back to discuss the pool closing season with us. Winterizations may not be something we deal with much here in Arizona, but we know a large portion of the country enters their closing season after Labor Day and we wanted to discuss them. Being from the New Jersey area and on the board of directors of NESPA, Chas has a ton of experience on this topic and has taught many pool closing classes over the years. When it comes to closing a pool, it is critical that it is done correctly so that the lines do not crack or burst when it gets to freezing temperatures. That’s why it is so important to understand what you are doing. Throughout the episode, we discuss Budd’s closing process, some best practices, common mistakes, balancing the water, blowing out lines, pool covers, scheduling, and more.
Budd’s Pools & Spas began with the vision of one man, Herb Budd, Jr. He founded the company fresh out of college in 1958, working side by side with his wife Phyllis. That same year, Budd’s Pools & Spas became a member of the National Spa and Pool Institute, where Herb later served as one of the National Directors. With continued service and dedication, Herb and Phyllis grew Budd’s Pools & Spas to become an award-winning business, highly respected by its peers in the industry. In 1998, Budd’s Pools & Spas became one of 13 pool and spa dealers nationwide to be inducted into the AQUA 100 HALL OF FAME. The Aqua 100 Hall of Fame recognizes companies selected as the top 100 Pool and Spa dealers in the industry for five or more consecutive years.
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Show-Notes
[02:47] - When do swimming pool closings start
[03:32] - Why do you need to winterize a swimming pool
[04:34] - The process
[08:59] - Dealing with repairs during process
[10:44] - Open pool right after closing
[13:33] - Balanced water before closing
[16:18] - Selling pool covers during pool closing
[20:00] - Storing pool covers
[21:30] - Taking notes and using checklist
[23:34] - Raising the anchors up
[25:05] - Different types of covers
[30:59] - Shutting down pool equipment
[33:57] - Storing pool equipment
[36:36] - Acid washing DE grids
[38:45] - Homeowner closing pool themselves
[41:22] - Renting blowers to homeowners
[43:43] - Most common mistakes when closing pool
[46:11] - Turning off water-leveler
[50:34] - Wrapping the diving board
[52:44] - Coordinating and scheduling closings
[54:26] - Prioritize VIP customers
[57:30] - Tips during winter months
[01:00:51] - Unemployment for team after pool closings