What is a CPO Certification?

There are about 309,000 public pools across the US. If you are looking to own or operate one, online CPO certification can ensure that you get all the opportunities that you’re looking for.

Here, we’re going to discuss the basics of Certified Pool Operator certification and how you can get certified. Read on to learn how CPO certification works and what training you will need to undergo.

What Is a CPO Certification?

A Certified Pool Operator (CPO) is someone who operates a public swimming pool or spa. These professionals are responsible for pool safety, maintenance, cleaning, management, expansion, and more. To become a CPO, you must gain a CPO certificate from an accreditated instructor through the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA).

CPO certification provides training that is essential for those operating a pool. You will receive training in:

  • Pool safety
  • Water chemistry
  • Water circulation
  • Disinfecting water
  • Chemical testing, feed, and control
  • Heating/air circulation throughout the water
  • Mechanical operations
  • Filtration
  • Hot tub/spa problems (and troubleshooting)

This knowledge will help you operate a pool safely and keep it sanitary.

You will learn about:

  • Pool and water quality management
  • System components and maintenance
  • Pool and spa design features
  • Special maintenance and design needs of hot water spas

Those who get CPO certified will also learn how to keep written records regarding the pool(s) that they operate. Operators understand how to record maintenance tasks, problems and troubleshooting, and replacements for filters, lighting, and more.

Why Get CPO Certified?

Certified Pool Operators (CPOs) are a requirement for mostl publicly-operating pools and spas. This means that CPOs are in high demand. On average, they make around $20 per hour, but they also have opportunities to become public pool owners and entrepreneurs that run their own pool businesses.

In some states, no one without CPO certification can operate commercial pools or spas. Non-certified individuals can work at pools for cleaning/lifeguarding/recording purposes, but they cannot be operators. This means that getting CPO certified is a basic requirement for those looking to do this.

This means that you will need a CPO certification if you’re looking for a career in this industry. It isn’t an optional add-on but a baseline requirement. It must be completed in addition to on-the-job training and fieldwork that helps you gain experience.

What Are the Benefits?

The CPO course is a nationally-recognized certification program. Its prestige makes it a good accomplishment to boast about to potential employers.

Certification opens up limitless possibilities for employment in buildings that contain public pools. Some such facilities may include community centers, hotels, gyms that have attached pools, and university recreation centers. Being a pool technician is a great way to propel yourself toward several different careers.

If you are interested in running your own pool business, being CPO certified means that you can succeed in the aquatics industry. You will not only be legally allowed to run this business, but you also will be able to better reduce risks and hazards in your facility.

This is a great way to build a reputation for excellence and safety. People will be more likely to come to your pool when they feel that they can do so safely. Since CPOs also understand sanitation requirements, your business will stand out as clean and reliable.

How Can You Get CPO Certification Online?

Luckily, getting CPO certified is easier than ever before with online classes! 

The first thing you need to do is sign up for an online class. Choose a review-exam date that works for you. Make sure that you give yourself enough time for the online course that serves as an exam prerequisite.

At this point, you will need to select the state you’re looking for certification in. The CPO certification cost is $350 (or $370 for those in Florida). Pay this fee and immediately begin your online class.

Take a look at the CPO learning outcomes so that you know what to expect at the end of the course. These guidelines give you objectives to work toward during the course. You also will want to look at the CPO certification takeaways to better understand what you will understand post-exam.

PoolCerts offers an e-learning class that’s completely self-guided. This course, the Pool Operator Primer (POP) class, will take you 8-10 hours to complete online. Make sure that you retain all of the information- you will need it later.

You then will complete the CPO review via Zoom with your Certified Instructor. This is also the person who will administer your exam. Once you pass the exam, you will be certified to operate pools across your state.

Residential Pool Certification

In addition to public pool certification, PoolCerts also offers residential certification courses online. This is an even simpler process than those who want full public-pool operator certification!

All you need to do is sign up for an online pool chemistry class. Choose the class and exam date before paying your course fee.

You can then complete your online education experience and take your exam. Like traditional CPO certification courses, this exam will be conducted online with a certified PCTI instructor.

Get Online CPO Certification Today

While CPO certification may sound like a challenge, it’s simple when you take the right online class. PoolCerts offers a fully online course for those looking to operate both commercial and residential pools.

Our experts will provide you with self-paced coursework so that you can get all of the knowledge you need to run a safe, sanitary, and well-maintained pool. Sign up for a CPO certification class to take the first steps down the path to a wonderful career.

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