The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently updated its water safety and chemical discharge guidelines, which could have ripple effects on the pool service industry. While these updates are primarily aimed at improving public health and environmental protection, they may also change how pool technicians clean, maintain, and dispose of water from pools and spas. Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing—and what your pool service business needs to do to stay compliant, efficient, and ahead of the curve.
New EPA Guidelines Could Affect Pool Cleaning Standards: Here’s What to Know
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently updated its water safety and chemical discharge guidelines, which could have ripple effects on the pool service industry. While these updates are primarily aimed at improving public health and environmental protection, they may also change how pool technicians clean, maintain, and dispose of water from pools and spas.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing—and what your pool service business needs to do to stay compliant, efficient, and ahead of the curve.
What Are the New EPA Guidelines?
The EPA has placed a renewed focus on reducing chemical runoff and improving water quality, especially in stormwater systems. This includes:
- Tighter regulations on chlorine discharge
Pool water that is drained into storm drains must meet stricter dechlorination standards. - Updated best practices for backwashing filters and pool drainage
New recommendations focus on preventing contaminants from entering natural water bodies. - Monitoring and reporting requirements
Businesses may be asked to maintain better records of chemical use and disposal practices.
Why This Matters for Pool Service Businesses
If your technicians are draining pools, cleaning filters, or disposing of water into storm drains, these new rules could mean more paperwork—and stricter operational standards. Violations could result in fines or even service restrictions.
How ProValet Can Help You Stay Compliant
Staying organized and ahead of regulations is easy with ProValet’s automation tools. Here's how we help:
✅ Track chemical usage by technician
Easily monitor and document what’s being used, where, and when.
✅ Service logs and reporting
Generate reports for clients or regulators with just a few taps.
✅ Real-time communication
Use ProValet’s two-way app communication to keep homeowners informed about any drainage or chemical procedures at their property.
✅ Automated scheduling
Ensure filter maintenance and backwashing are always done on time—avoiding violations and protecting your reputation.
What Should You Do Next?
- Stay informed – Read up on your local interpretation of the new EPA guidelines. States and municipalities may implement their own versions.
- Train your team – Make sure all technicians understand proper drainage procedures and chemical handling.
- Go digital – Use ProValet to log activity, automate service reminders, and stay compliant with minimal hassle.
Bottom Line:
These EPA changes are a wake-up call for the industry, but also an opportunity. Smart businesses that adapt early—and streamline compliance—will gain a competitive advantage.
👉 Ready to future-proof your pool service business? Book a demo with ProValet and see how we help you stay one step ahead.