AUGUST 2015
POOLS SPAS HOT TUBS SAUNAS CHEMICALS ACCESSORIES & MORE
OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE UK INDUSTRY
HEATSTAR
Celebrating 35 years of innovation
WATER PLAY
Bright, vibrant and entertaining ideas
WATER TESTING
Technology that’s revolutionising the testing process
THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH Treatments and systems that are reducing the use of chlorine
COMMERCIAL POOLS
10 product ideas that will improve efficiency and save money
PLUS SPN_Aug_15_Cover.indd 3
STA Pool Plant – Summer Challenges | Commercial Service & Maintenance Contracts European Awards Shortlist | Opinion | What’s New Online | 19 Pages Of Industry News 23/07/2015 18:16
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EDITOR’S LETTER
Editor’s
letter
SPN incorporating Pool & Spa Industry is the official trade magazine for the UK wet leisure markets and is the only trade publication that invests in the industry it serves.
Efficiency And Save Money’ feature which should be of interest to anyone that owns or operates any kind of swimming pool that isn’t a domestic one. There’s a feature on Service & Maintenance Contracts too – a crucial service that ensures the doors of commercial facilities are kept open so that revenues and reputations are not affected. There’s also a piece from the STA’s Pool Plant Team on two of the challenges that many commercial pools will face this summer due to the change in temperatures.
Editor and Co Publisher: Jon Wadeson Features: Karen Witney Features & Subeditor: Andrea Hartshorne Co Publisher and Sales Director: Tony Weston Production: Cathy Varley Accounts: Sam Bartholomew For editorial enquiries contact Jon on: T: +44 (0)20 8306 8150 E: jon@aqua-publishing.co.uk For advertising enquiries contact Tony on: T: +44 (0)1474 813433 E: tony@aqua-publishing.co.uk For production enquiries contact Cathy on: T: +44 (0)1823 432416 E: cathy@aqua-publishing.co.uk For accounts enquiries contact Sam on: T: +44 (0)1823 430639 E: accounts@aqua-publishing.co.uk Design: Colin Halliday & Kellie Mills
To subscribe or amend / cancel an existing subscription, please visit our website. Annual subscription rates (6 issues): UK £30, Europe £50 and ROW £60 SPN is published by W: www.aqua-publishing.co.uk Printed in the UK by The Manson Group Ltd Aqua Publishing Ltd accepts no liability for any insert, display or classified advertisement included in Swimming Pool News. While every reasonable care is taken to ensure that all advertisers are reliable and reputable, Swimming PoolPNews can UBL I Sgive H I no NG assurance they will fulfil their obligations under all circumstances. The views expressed in the articles in Swimming Pool News are the contributors’ own. All rights reserved. Copyright for all materials published in SPN remains with the publishers. Material contained in this publication is not to be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior permission of Aqua Publishing Ltd.
Three amazing summers in a row was, I guess for here in the UK, a little too much to ask for! Still, despite the weather being more than a little stop/start, it could be significantly worse. Encouragingly, even the absence of the prayed for continuous sunshine doesn’t seem to have had an effect on the industry with many companies still reporting being ‘flat out!’ Certainly getting hold of many people has been a challenge over recent weeks which is always a great sign. In this summer issue of SPN, we’ve our usual wide range of features which cover a number of subjects across the wet leisure industry. They include the latest products within the fast moving water testing sector and water treatment products and systems that are reducing or even eliminating the use of chlorine in treating pool and spa water. There’s an opinion piece from Golden Coast’s Jamie Adams which highlights the downside of the increasingly price comparison way in which we purchase products plus a look at Heatstar – the specialist British manufacturer of heat recovery and humidity control systems for pools – who are celebrating their 35th anniversary. Congratulations! With Leisure Industry Week (LIW) taking place in September at Birmingham’s NEC, our August issue traditionally carries more information for the commercial sector and inside you’ll find our ‘10 Products To Improve
In addition to these features, we have our regular stories from the British Swimming Pool Federation (BSPF) which this issue includes some interesting views on the role of the contractor, plus information on the UK’s entries into this year’s EUSA European Pool & Spa Awards – the winners of which will be announced at Piscina & Wellness Barcelona. In addition, there’s our usual roundup of all the latest news and views from across the UK wet leisure industry and around the world. Unfortunately, and going back to the subject of LIW, we haven’t included our usual preview of the show due to the falling numbers of wet leisure companies that had confirmed their attendance at this year’s event. However there is still time for this to change so do check out the LIW website which will be kept up-todate with the latest companies that will be exhibiting come September. With new owners running the event for the first time, SPN will still be attending to see how it goes – so maybe we’ll see you there! One final note. Make sure you’re a regular visitor to the SPN website as there is always exclusive content published within its pages that doesn’t appear within the pages of the magazine, including the latest jobs. If you’re into social media, why not follow us on Twitter or Facebook too. Many have already and it’s a great way to be alerted to our online stories. Here’s to a great summer!
Jon Wadeson – Editor You can follow SPN on:
Aqua Publishing also publishes: What Pool & Hot Tub magazine – our sister publication – is the only consumer magazine in the UK that provides the complete and crucial information that potential buyers are looking for! For more information visit the What Pool & Hot Tub website at www.whatpoolandhottubmag.co.uk
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CONTENTS
Inside This 45
51 42
65 COVER
FEATURES
WATER TESTING
45
THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH
51
A sector that doesn’t stand still, we take a closer look at what’s available
Low and no chlorine water treatment
WATER PLAY 60
A look at the wet and wonderful world of water play equipment
COMMERCIAL POOLS
Our look at 10 product ideas that will improve efficiency and save money
65
HEATSTAR 74
The British manufacturer celebrates 35 years of innovation
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NEWS
POOL & SPA INDUSTRY
37
The industry’s associations dedicated pages
INDUSTRY 04-17
The latest industry news, info, projects and gossip
PRODUCTS 21
Highlighting challenges that will be faced by many commercial pools this summer
STA POOL PLANT
42
Innovations and new products on the market
COMMERCIAL SERVICE & MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS
57
A roundup of environmental and ‘green’ stories
A closer look at keeping commercial facilities running and their revenues flowing
OPINION 84
Jamie Adams explores the down side of the price comparison culture
ECO 26 HOT TUBS & SWIM SPAS
Dedicated news for this important sector
29
WORLD 76
All the latest news from around the world
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CONTENTS
Issue Of SPN 74
57 84
60 READER SERVICES DIGITAL EDITION Read this and previous editions online at www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk
BUYERS GUIDE For suppliers of products and services in the pool, spa and sauna market turn to page 78
SUBSCRIPTIONS Ensure you receive a regular copy of SPN (Swimming Pool News). Subscribe online today at www.aqua-publishing.co.uk
FORWARD FEATURES For our forward features, please visit our website at www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 2-3_SPN_Aug_15_Contents.indd 3
Next Issue
• Safety flooring • Tiled spas and swim spas • Hot tubs – high end models above £10,000 • Enclosures • Dehumidification • Aqua exercise equipment • Show previews
Plus much, much more! SPN August 2015 3 23/07/2015 18:14
NEWS
NEWS
All the Latest News, Info, Products and Gossip From the UK Pool and Spa Industry and Beyond
Olympians Celebrate Opening Of UK’s First Sub £1m Demountable Pool
Around 100 local school children from Radcliffe, Bury, took to the water with a host of Olympic swimmers, including World Champion Mark Foster, on Friday 19 June to celebrate the opening of a brand new pool at Radcliffe Leisure Centre. The new pool, which is the UK’s first sub £1m, 25m demountable public swimming pool, was the result of a collaboration by Total Swimming and Bury Council and represents a significant investment in the town’s leisure facilities. Total Swimming Managing Director and co-founder Steve Parry, welcomed the excited school children as they took the plunge in the new pool and enjoyed an action-packed morning of aquatic activities. These included mini water polo, synchronised swimming and the chance to race Olympic swimmers including 5x Olympian and World Champion, Mark Foster, Olympic Bronze Medallist, Jo Jackson, 3x Commonwealth Champion, James Goddard as well as members of the London 2012 Waterpolo and Synchro Olympic teams. Steve Parry explained: “Nearly 750,000 people stopped swimming in the last decade and lack of access to facilities clearly plays a role so it is essential that people have access to pools like this one. Together with Bury Council we are bringing swimming back to the heart of the local community and the new pool at Radcliffe Leisure Centre is expected to welcome over 200,000 swimmers over the next three years. Since 2009, British Gas and the ASA have helped fund 31 pools as part of the British Gas Pools 4 Schools programme. Radcliffe is the final pool of this nationwide initiative which has provided swimming opportunities for over 60,000 people so far. Jon Glenn, Head of Learn to Swim at the ASA, said: “Learning to swim is the first step to enjoying a host of water-based activities that can help to maintain physical fitness, but it is also an incredibly important skill that can mean the difference between life and death. “We want everyone to be able to swim, which is why the British Gas Pools 4 Schools™ programme has been so important. They have done a fantastic job in providing not only the facility, but also highly qualified teaching staff that have delivered swimming lessons to thousands of children across the country.
Steve Parry (left) with Mark Foster and local school children at the new pool
“Seeing the programme develop from a small pool to a full 25 metre swimming complex has been incredible and we’re extremely pleased to be supporting the event here today at Radcliffe Leisure Centre.” The new pool, operated in conjunction with the existing leisure centre, offers a range of facilities including male and female changing villages with shower, toilets and lockers as well as a spectator viewing area. At 1.2m deep, with four lanes, the pool can accommodate up to 80 people at one time and will not only be used for public swimming and lessons, but will also house school lessons and clubs from the local community who wish to make use of the facilities on offer throughout the day. Total Swimming 0161 764 2224 www.totalswimming.co.uk
Take The Plunge This Summer With BTU PoolServices At BTU PoolServices in Woking, summer has got off to an amazing start. With temperatures having already hit the thirties, above-ground pools and accessories have been literally walking out the door! Managing Director Norman MacMillan said: “This was an unprecedented start to the summer season with the hottest July day ever recorded and with a virtually rainfree Wimbledon, the indications are that we should have a tremendous summer season. To keep up with demand for accessories,
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consumables and above-ground pool sales, we are taking the plunge and are opening our Woking pool shop on Sundays for the rest of the summer. “Of course, with good weather comes more demand, so we are suggesting to our customers that they stock up on everything they need now, so that they can have a great season too. To soften the blow, we have some great offers on a wide range of stock from inflatable and framed pools through to chemicals and accessories. Call our sales line
for details, or go direct to our website and order online – we deliver next day on all orders received before 2pm. We can answer trade sales enquiries on Sundays too – it is a good idea to call then, as lines are incredibly busy during the week.” Looks like summer 2015 is already shaping up to be a real sizzler for BTU! BTU PoolServices Ltd 01483 727444 www.btupoolsupplies.com
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NEWS
IN BRIEF CHILDRENS POOL PARTIES LAUNCHED IN KIDLINGTON Youngsters can soak up the party atmosphere at a new water disco being launched in Kidlington on Friday nights. Cherwell District Council has teamed up with the Oxfordshire Sports Partnership to launch the weekly party sessions at Kidlington and Gosford Leisure Centre. Children aged between 11 and 16 are able to party in the pool from 7pm – 8pm and receive a free goody bag which includes a one-month free swim pass. Cllr George Reynolds, deputy leader for Cherwell, said: “We have deliberately targeted these sessions at pre-teens and teenagers who want to spend their Friday nights socialising with their friends and having fun. At this age children often don’t want their parents supervising them but equally mums and dads want to know their children are safe. “These sessions will tick all the boxes for everyone as the youngsters will be able to party with their friends while their parents can relax knowing their children are in a safe environment under the watchful eye of lifeguards.”
INVESTIGATION TO BE HELD AFTER POOL CHEMICAL INCIDENT AFFECTS DOZENS An investigation is being held into a chemical leak at a holiday park swimming pool which left around 40 people requiring treatment. The pool was busy with families when complaints of itchy eyes and breathing problems from swimmers raised the alarm at Wild Duck Holiday Park near Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. The Health and Safety Executive, fire and rescue service, police and the local authority are all expected be involved in the investigation. Tom Cassidy, a spokesman for Haven Holidays, which runs the resort, said: “They won’t rush it, they will look at everything and at the end of it there will be an official report.”
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Outdoor NIVEKO Showroom Now Completed NIVEKO is pleased to announce the completion of an outdoor showroom, which provides the manufacturer with an opportunity to demonstrate its range of quality pool products clearly. Located on the company’s own premises, the new facility showcases a swimming pool from their EXCLUSIVE line. The ‘Evolution’ features an overflow gutter and the pool is a great example of minimalist design and detail, in which luxury and functionality are the central aims. The ‘beach’ rest zone, which is complemented with unique ‘Milano’ steps, is an integral part of the pool and is expected to feature on most implementations and should appeal to sophisticated
customers. The attraction of these steps lies in their distinctive and ingeniously simple design which combines pure lines and a massive stainless-steel structure. With the new facility, customers are able to view and test a fully functional overflow pool which features automatic filtration, are able to examine the quality and individual details and can even experience the feeling of what it would be like to have a pool in their own garden. NIVEKO s.r.o. +420 572 693 246 www.niveko-pools.com
Demand Surge For Recycled Glass Products grant from Let’s Grow – a WRL Glass Media Ltd, part of £30m Regional Growth Ward Recycling, has experienced Fund programme operated in a significant 81% rise in sales partnership with Trinity Mirror for the first four months of 2015 Group, BE Group and UNW LLP. for its specialist recycled glass To meet demand, the products. company has already built The Teesside-based company an additional 5,000 sq. ft. delivered more than 7,000 tonnes £450,000 glass clean up of processed glass between extension, which was opened by January and April, which is Gareth Godwin, Manager of WRL Glass the former Business Secretary used for a range of applications Media Ltd Vince Cable earlier this year. including shot blasting and water WRL Glass Media Ltd has also worked with filtration. Teesside University to achieve the European As a result of this growth and increasing recognised Reg 31 (DWI) and PAS 102 quality demand for its products, the company is creating accreditations as well as gaining £59,000 in four new plant operations roles and implementing R&D tax credits, which has been reinvested to a four-day-on, four-day-off rota to enable 24-hour demonstrate its commitment to producing quality operations. and environmentally friendly products. Further jobs are expected to be created later this Gareth Godwin, Manager at WRL Glass year to provide additional administrative support Media, said: “Our innovative glass processing for the business. products are really gaining traction across our The growth is part of WRL Glass Media Ltd’s target markets as customers see the quality and strategy to establish itself as the premier supplier environmental benefits of utilising glass media of recycled glass media in the UK and Europe. for their operations. The company’s more refined processed glass, “We have invested in our facilities, which is used as a cost-effective and cleaner accreditations and people to improve and replacement to silica sand in swimming pool maintain quality alongside creating the ability to filtration systems, is enjoying strong export growth scale up our operations, which is enabling us to with more than 30% of its products sold to meet rising demand. customers in countries including Spain, Greece, “We are particularly proud of our growth in Cyprus, France and Iceland. export markets where our highly refined glass The ability to meet this substantial growth product is becoming increasingly popular as a in sales has been made possible by WRL Glass safe and environmentally friendly media for the Media’s investment in its facilities in South Bank, filtration of swimming pool water.” Middlesbrough. Its 32,000 sq. ft. Glass Beneficiation Plant, WRL Glass Media Ltd located adjacent to Ward Recycling’s main 01642 458666 household recycling facility, is part of a £3.2m www.wardrecyclingltd.co.uk investment that was supported by a £500,000
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NEWS
Crowdfunding Campaign Launched For Community Pool The Friends of Perranporth Pool have turned to crowdfunding to bring their heated pool project to life. Organisers are reaching out to the community to raise the remaining £110,000 of the £250,000 they need to upgrade the dilapidated outdoor pool into a heated indoor swimming pool. The team behind the project, made up of volunteers including teachers, parents and children, are working with sponsors energyshare and local installer Natural Generation, to raise the money needed to install solar panels and two air source heat pumps. The project, which is expected to benefit over 9,000 people, will enable the pool to be run sustainably, significantly reducing the costs of swimming lessons, effectively passing on the benefits to the local community. Commenting on the campaign, Rebecca Mathews project co-creator said: “Creation of the pool will bring much needed access to swimming for local people, providing lessons, recreation and fitness and we know crowdfunding can help make this happen. We have had massive community support for this project, demonstrating how much a swimming pool is needed in this area and we believe that the whole community will benefit from this amazing facility.” A recent study showed that only a third of Perranporth’s youth had regular swimming lessons and that 60% of the girls that didn’t have swimming lessons had no participation in any other form of sport. The new facility, which was provided with technical support and advice by Natural Generation, aims to ensure mums with younger children will have somewhere affordable to exercise locally, it is also expected to attract teenagers who don’t currently participate in any sporting activity.
Mark Holmes, energyshare Project Manager said: “It’s great to be able to launch our first project with Natural Generation, which demonstrates what can be accomplished when a community comes together, with the support of local businesses. This is an example of how the hard work of the local community to develop vital facilities for their health and wellbeing can be supported by the income received from the generation of renewable energy for years to come.” energyshare 01637 817417 www.energyshare.com
National Pool Plant Operator Courses When you think about swimming, people like teachers and coaches are the first that spring to mind. What many people don’t think about, is what goes on behind the scenes to make sure that the water that the public is swimming in is clean and safe and who is responsible for maintaining this. Pool Plant Operators are the people who are required to test the water and understand what needs to be done to restore the water to ideal conditions. They monitor things like the circulation, disinfection, pH correction, heating and filtration. The National Pool Plant Operators Courses are a suite of qualifications which are professionally recognised by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), and
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are ideal in supporting an individual’s personal and professional development within the industry. IoS Training now organises and delivers the full suite of CIMSPA qualifications after entering into a partnership with CIMSPA and the Institute of Qualified Lifeguards (IQL) in September 2014. Under the terms of the three-year agreement, CIMSPA will work with both organisations to review and develop the qualifications to ensure their qualifications remain the best in the industry. Ian Nicks is a trainer and consultant who is a member of the Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group (PWTAG) and has managed swimming pools and sports facilities for 20 years. He says: “Pool Plant Operator Courses
are aimed at operatives who have any responsibility for operating pools and who need to know how to test water, backwash filters and administer chemicals and why procedures are carried out. “As an individual, it provides you with all the knowledge mentioned above, which makes you more employable. As an employer, sending your staff on the course shows professionalism and a commitment to ensuring the highest quality training and it helps problem solving should issues arise with the pool water. “It also makes the running of a business more efficient and enhances the confidence of operatives.” For more information about Pool Plant Operator courses, please visit http://j.mp/PoolPlantOp IoS 01509 640640 www.theiosonline.com
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NEWS
IN BRIEF COUNCIL FOUND NEGLIGENT IN POOL ACCIDENT A judge in a multi-million pound compensation case has ruled Northampton Borough Council is liable for damages after a boy “nearly drowned’ unnoticed at a town swimming pool. The boy, aged six at time of the incident in February 2002, was represented by Bill Braithwaite QC and Catherine Howells from Exchange Chambers. He sustained catastrophic brain injuries after he slipped unnoticed under the water at Danes Camp Pool in Northampton. Judge Sir Colin Mackay backed a negligence claim saying two lifeguards had “failed in their duty of care” and “failed to identify him as a child at risk” even before the non-swimmer got into the water. They also neglected to “continue to scan the water and pool bottom to satisfy themselves that he was not in difficulties”. The court saw CCTV footage of the entire incident and experts agreed the boy had been underwater for more than two minutes and 40 seconds. Whilst poolside first aid and paramedics managed to save his life, the boy was left with “significant brain damage due to oxygen deprivation”. The amount of the boy’s payout will be assessed at a later date.
LEGACY POOL OPENED IN BATH Olympic swimming medallist Michael Jamieson has officially opened a newly refitted £1.6m London 2012 Legacy swimming pool at the University of Bath. The university’s £30m training village is one of only two in the country and is the base for some of the UK’s top ranking elite swimmers. The Sport England-funded 50m pool includes 24 underwater cameras to record and analyse stroke technique. Along with the £30,000 camera system, the redevelopment included new changing room facilities, modernised plant room and refurbished ventilation system.
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Greenvale Receives First Poolmark Award Greenvale Leisure Centre has been presented with the inaugural Poolmark certificate and plaque. The centre in Magerhafelt, Northern Ireland, is the first swimming pool in the UK to receive the already highly-regarded PWTAG Poolmark award. This signifies that its swimming pool technical operation complies with the PWTAG Code of Practice. The award was recently presented to Centre Manager Robert Byrne and Swimming Pool Duty Officer David Lowry, at the Greenvale Leisure Centre. Robert is responsible for managing all the facilities and staff at the new Greenvale Leisure Centre. With more than 15 years’ of experience working in the leisure industry, he has a strong
DaleSauna Earns Prestigious Quality Mark DaleSauna are thrilled to announce that they have secured the prestigious industry quality standard ISO9001 for meeting customer expectations and delivering customer satisfaction. The company achieved the certification after demonstrating clear quality standards and a focus on continuous improvement to ensure the best quality products and services for their customers. “This is a huge achievement for DaleSauna. Being ISO9001 certified shows that we have the quality systems in place to deliver a consistently high performance in all areas of our business from product manufacture to after-sales care,” said Gerard McCarthy, Sales Director at DaleSauna. The company is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of heat experiences, having specialised in the design and development of spa and wellness areas for more than 40 years. Working in the commercial, residential and education sectors, the company provides bespoke solutions for a diverse range of clients from luxury private residences and hotels through to premium day spas and health and fitness facilities. DaleSauna works closely with clients to guide them through all stages of a project from initial planning and design with its in-house design team to the final installation. “We have always taken pride in delivering service and product excellence to meet our clients’ objectives and this has now been formally demonstrated with this ISO9001 certification,” added McCarthy. DaleSauna 01423 798630 www.dalesauna.co.uk
commitment to delivering exemplary health, fitness and leisure services and the challenge of a new centre, coupled with the kudos of being Northern Ireland’s first 50-metre pool, appealed as a new career challenge. Robert is also the Founder of Brio Training, which has been awarded accredited training organisation status with PWTAG, which means that they can deliver and assess training and qualifications in swimming pool technical operation in line with the PWTAG Code of Practice. PWTAG 01379 783678 www.pwtag.org
Golden Coast Named Finalist For Regional Business Awards Golden Coast, the UK’s biggest independent distributor of wet leisure products to the trade, has been named as a Finalist for medium-sized business of the year in the prestigious North Devon Journal Business Awards. The honour recognises Golden Coast’s commitment to its core principles: innovation, knowledge and customer commitment, which have allowed the company to identify gaps in the market – responding with new products and services to meet those demands. Always looking for further opportunities for growth, the last two years have seen the company enter into exclusive deals with industry leading names, including Darlly Europe – a leading manufacturer of filter cartridges – and EVA Optic – young, innovative lighting pioneers from the Netherlands. Alongside this, Golden Coast has developed and nurtured a network of trade customers which has expanded beyond the wet leisure industry. Hearing news of being shortlisted for an Award, Golden Coast Managing Director Jamie Adams said: “Our greatest strength is being able to adapt quickly to ever-changing market conditions. But our success lies in our ability to give our customers the opportunity to do exactly the same and take advantage of new opportunities as they develop.” In recent years, the wet leisure sector has been under pressure from decreased discretionary spending. By diversifying its product offerings and customer services, Golden Coast has successfully driven consumer sales throughout. For example, in 2013, the company introduced a new sales tool: the retrofit brochure. Not for their customers, but for their customers’ customers. Professionally designed by Golden Coast’s in-house design team, the artwork was made available to customers – fully branded with the individual pool company’s logo and details – at no cost. “In just the first few months of 2015, no fewer than 40 companies have benefitted from this service… and that number continues to rise,” said Jamie. Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com
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NEWS
The Only Way is Essex Certikin! Situated on Canvey Island on the south coast of Essex, Waterside Farm Leisure Centre recently underwent a multimillion-pound refurbishment to enable the seventies-built facility to last at least another 20 years. Energy efficiency was at the heart of the renovation, so it’s no surprise that Certikin equipment featured strongly when it came to the renovation of the swimming pool. Castle Point Borough Council enlisted the services of water leisure specialists, World Leisure UK Ltd who ripped out the outdated and inefficient plant room with its old horizontal steel filters. Automatic backwash valves and control panels were installed along with 1.4m Certikin SLX Filters (two for the learner pool and four for the main pool). The Certikin SLX range of commercial swimming pool filters are available in diameters from 1,050mm up to 3,000mm, and with a variety of filtration rates: 11-30 m3/m2/hr; 30-40 m3/m2/hr; 40-50 m3/m2/hr. The filter is manufactured from bobbin wound fibreglass
and polyester resin and the distribution and collection system from PVC/polypropylene. Media sight glass and sand service hatch are available as optional extras. Each filter was installed with a Besgo automatic valve controlled through a control panel. The Besgo automatic backwash valve is simple in operation but completely transforms the operation of commercial and domestic pools. Distributed exclusively in the UK by Certikin International, the highly versatile Besgo valve can be connected to all customary types of filter; the connecting unions can be turned through 90 degrees (with a further fine tuning of +/- 4 degrees) making it easier to install and it can be closed in one to two seconds. The valve is completely silent in operation with no risk of pressure hammer or low pressure loss. Certikin’s Commercial Manager, Steve Nelson, said: “You don’t need to turn the water pump off while the valve is adjusting position. Its adjustable connections mean that it is
adaptable to most plant room configurations. In the event of power failure the valve will return to its normal filtration position, so there is no chance of accidentally emptying the pool. For commercial applications it will replace the front valve pipe battery sets making it simple and extremely cost effective.” Director of World Leisure UK, Simon Smith said: “With it being an existing site we had to work around access and egress restrictions dictating the size of filters the building could accommodate. Fortunately, the lighter GRP SLX filters worked perfectly. The specification was for an automatic backwash system, and after discussions with Certikin, the Besgo was
the preferred option because of use of ease, and only having to control one valve per filter rather than a typical four or five valve pack system. The backup and support, as usual with Steve Nelson and his team, was second to none.” Certikin International 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk World Leisure UK Ltd 01772 284883 www.worldleisureuk.co.uk
DaleSauna-designed Spa On The Breck Launches
Spa on the Breck, a new spa designed by DaleSauna for Wyre Council, has officially launched in Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire. Working for contractor ISG, the brief for the sauna and steam specialists was to create a modern spa with the wow factor that clients could use on a daily basis. The new spa is situated inside the transformed YMCA Poulton Health & Fitness Centre. As the only spa of its kind in the area, the holistic retreat offers a range of thermal experiences designed to relax and revitalise. DaleSauna supplied and installed a 3m spa pool, pine sauna, tiled steam room, tiled aromatherapy room, tiled salt room, two monsoon showers, an ice feature and tiled, heated benches. The design of the spa has been influenced by its thermal experiences with warm, earthy tones used for the aromatherapy room and the relaxation bench area. Bolder colours, with an emphasis on blue, grey and monochrome hues that suggest a sense of drama, have been employed for features with more extreme temperatures such as the ice feature, salt room and steam room. “To be successful, the spa has to serve a wide spectrum of the public and have a high turnover of clients, so it’s imperative that the finishes are hardwearing, easy to maintain but don’t compromise on aesthetics and style,” said Lynn Russell-Hanson,
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interior designer at DaleSauna. “We are delighted to have worked with ISG and Wyre Council on this prestigious project. This development is part of a growing trend amongst local authority and trust operators, who are broadening their health and fitness services to provide a wider wellness offering, which has a much broader appeal across the age ranges,” says Gerard McCarthy, Sales Director at DaleSauna. DaleSauna 01423 798630 www.dalesauna.co.uk
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AQUANALE
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New venue: Now located in Halls 6 & 7 / Entrance North New: 8th International Swimming Pond Congress
International Business Media Services 42 Christchurch Road Ringwood BH24 1DN, United Kingdom Tel. +44 1425 48 68 30 Fax +44 1425 48 68 31 info@koelnmesse.co.uk
NEWS
Golden Coast Open All Hours To The Trade For the busy staff of any pool, spa or sauna installation and maintenance company, returning back to the office late after a day working on site and finding the item you need can’t be ordered because the supplier’s office is now closed, is an all-too-familiar experience. To overcome this frustration, and to make product information and advice easy to access, Golden Coast operates a 24-hour web shop geared up to trade needs. Visitors to GCTrade.co.uk will find all of the product details in Golden Coast’s 344page catalogue and price list – and much more. To gain maximum benefit from the Web Shop, trade customers are invited to open up an online account. Once logged in, they can view trade prices and other trade-only content, as well as placing orders quickly and easily at any time.
While Golden Coast’s team is always delighted to give further advice during office hours, answers to many questions can be found in a comprehensive range of downloads available from GCTrade.co.uk. – including sales brochures, product manuals and safety data sheets, as well as exploded diagrams to identify spare parts. Regular web shop visitors will find special offers and clearance lines, and will see exciting new products and concepts highlighted. The site’s current content includes a free Golden Coast e-book advising pool and spa businesses on why and how to expand into sauna. There is also an opportunity to sign up for e-news from Golden Coast, to help avoid missing important developments. “Good information gives wet leisure
businesses the advantage, as does the ability to order products without any delay,” says Golden Coast’s Managing Director Jamie Adams. “GCTrade.co.uk addresses both of those needs – providing the essential support to the trade, and – in turn – to its customers. I would urge everyone to go there and discover a better customer experience.” Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.GCTrade.co.uk
Pleatco Launches Search For 2015 Perfect Pool Guy/Gal Pleatco, LLC, a leader in pool and spa filtration products and co-sponsor Genesis, have announced the launch of their 2015 search for the best of the best pool and spa service technicians across the US, Canada and Europe. Now in it’s eighth year, the Pleatco Perfect Pool Guy/Gal contest, is an innovative way to honour the hard-working men and women of the pool service industry. With over 200 contestants, last year’s entrants were as impressive as ever and the contest was coined by an industry reporter as the ‘Oscars of the Pool and Spa Service Industry’. “Over the seven years that Pleatco has sponsored this contest, we’ve learned that being a professional pool or spa service technician is more than a job… it’s a passion. Many homeowners treat their service guy or gal like family – it’s a special relationship,” said Pleatco CEO, Howard Smith. “A pool or spa is
an integral part of a home – a way to relax and it’s a place for a family to share time together. Homeowners trust their service professional to keep their ‘backyard-oasis’ safe.” Both winners receive a trip for two to the International Pool, Spa, & Patio Expo hosted in Las Vegas at the Mandalay Bay Resort in November 2015. Most important, both winners receive a $5,000 continuing education scholarship from Genesis to attend the G3 Certified Service Professional Program. “The service industry is extremely important when it comes to helping owners fully enjoy and appreciate their pools. Genesis Co-founder Skip Phillips and I started in pool service and it has always been near and dear to our hearts. We are proud to help honour our hard working service professionals!” remarks Brian Van Bower, President, Genesis 3, Inc. “This year’s theme is ‘A working class hero is something to be’ – an expression penned by John Lennon,” says Pleatco’s CMO, Battista Remati, adding: “This speaks to the very spirit of the contest and we will be specifically focusing on Pool Gal nominations in particular in 2015. We are looking forward to an amazing contest and urge everyone, even if they have entered in previous years to nominate either themselves or a colleague and reward them with the recognition they so duly deserve.” The contest opened on 17 July and all entries are accepted via the Pleatco website. Pleatco LLC 001 800 886 5160 www.Pleatco.com
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NEWS
IN BRIEF F T LEISURE APPOINTED FOR BRIDLINGTON Development of a new £25m leisure centre is rapidly taking shape. East Riding Leisure Bridlington will bring together wet and dry sports and leisure activities under one roof and provide accessible health and fitness facilities that can serve the varying needs of local residents and visitors to the town. F T Leisure has been appointed to design, supply and install the water treatment and filtration systems for the 25-metre, six-lane swimming pool, a 13m x 7m learner pool with moveable floor, a freeform pool with water features and two water slides. The facility, which is due for completion in 2016, will include a health suite with a steam room, sauna, spa, showers and foot spa plus other fitness and sports facilities. The building will also have a café with access for both centre users and non-users. The new leisure centre is being built on the ageing and outdated Leisure World site and has been partly funded by Sport England and the Coastal Community Fund which awarded East Riding of Yorkshire Council £2.1m for the project. The main contractor is BAM.
Huddersfield Leisure Centre Launches A £36m leisure centre has opened in Huddersfield to replace Huddersfield Sports Centre. Operated by Kirklees Active Leisure (KAL) on behalf of Kirklees Council, the new Huddersfield Leisure Centre offers a wide range of facilities designed to appeal to all members of the community. In addition to climbing and other sports facilities, the new centre also has one of the most comprehensive swimming offerings in West Yorkshire with a 25m, eight-lane competition pool; a 20m training pool with moveable floor and a family leisure water facility with a flume, water slide, lazy river and other water features. As the first 25m competition pool in the Kirklees area, the pool will be able to host major regional and even national short course competitions. Huddersfield Leisure Centre was built by BAM
construction. Designed to be as inclusive as possible, it includes a variety of access to the swimming pools, disabled changing rooms and toilets, hoists located throughout the centre, mobility scooter for ease of access, waterproof wheelchairs and wheelchair-friendly lockers. David Heddon, KAL’s Chair of Trustees, said: “This is an amazing facility that the people of Kirklees will be very proud of for many years to come. It’s an outstanding facility and a clear demonstration of both Kirklees Council’s ambitions to improve the health and wellbeing of local people, while also helping KAL continue to realise our vision of helping more people, become more active, more often.” The centre has been funded by a combination of cash from the sale of the existing site, funding from KAL and other council funds that would have otherwise been spent on repairs to Huddersfield Sports Centre, which has now closed.
SWIMMING NUMBERS DOWN IN SPORT ENGLAND SURVEY
Anniversary SPATEX Gains Momentum!
The number of people engaged in regular physical activity in England fell 1.4% between October 2014 to March 2015 with swimming being the standout casualty. This was despite it being the most popular participation sport in England – with more than 2.5 million adults taking part in 30 minutes of moderate intensity swimming at least once a week. The figures showed 144,200 fewer people taking to pools in the last six months and 390,700 in the last year. The long term trend is even more concerning, with 729,000 people stopping swimming in the last decade.
SPATEX 2016 is attracting ever-wider industry support as the esteemed Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport & Physical Activity (CIMSPA) lends its gravitas and considerable support to the UK’s longest running wet leisure event. With over 75% of exhibition space already sold, the big 20th anniversary SPATEX looks like being an impressive early sell out! Show Organiser Michele Bridle says: “Yes, we are anticipating a barnstorming industry-wide event. Well over three quarters of space sold in the first four months speaks for itself! We are over-whelmed by the industry’s tremendous backing and I am delighted that we can number the much-respected CIMSPA in our growing list of supporting partners. Aside from our legion of loyal exhibitors, we have received a lot of interest from new sectors allied to the wet leisure industry, which have hitherto not been represented, so we are predicting a large and enriching Exhibition.”
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Michele adds: “News on all the exciting new seminars we are currently planning will be released in the autumn, and we strongly predict that this will attract an even broader cross section of visitors than previous years. A big anniversary demands a special SPATEX edition and rest assured it’s in the planning! The Exhibition’s smart rebranding (at the hands of an award winning design agency), with a stunning new website and logo, launched in June, has already received much praise and this is just the first part of our campaign.” SPATEX 2016 takes place Sunday 31 January to Tuesday 2 February at the Jaguar Exhibition Hall, the Ricoh Arena, Coventry CV6 6GE. SPATEX 01264 358558 www.spatex.co.uk
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NEWS
Celebrating The Stars Of Water Safety The leisure and aquatics industry turned out in force to celebrate the stars of water safety at the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) and IQL UK National Awards 2015. With seven new categories, the ceremony was the largest to date recognising the vital contribution made by individuals and organisations in pool safety and drowning prevention in the UK. Now in their third year, the awards are the most important in the water safety industry and give those responsible for water safety – Lifeguards, Trainer Assessors, National Trainer Assessors and Approved Training Centres – the opportunity to recognise and celebrate those who continually raise standards and make such a valuable contribution to pool safety and drowning prevention. The awards were hosted by the renowned sports scientist, Olympian and physical activity expert, Professor Greg Whyte OBE, at Chesford Grange in Kenilworth on Friday 12 June. Martin Symcox, Director of IQL UK, said: “We introduced seven new awards this year to recognise best practice across the wider industry and have been overwhelmed by the quality of entrants. These awards showcase some of the fantastic work being done to save lives in and around pools and the standards get higher each year. “I’d like to congratulate the winners of this year’s awards who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to water safety and to protecting those who use our pools.”
This year’s winners were: Category: Single Site Approved Training Centre of the Year Winner: Totton Health and Leisure Category: Multi-Site Approved Training Centre of the Year (2-15 sites) Winner: Leeds City Council Category: Multi-Site Approved Training Centre of the Year (15+ sites) Winner: Places for People Leisure Management Ltd Category: Trainer Assessor of the Year Winner: Steve Carter, Wellington Civic & Leisure Centre Category: National Trainer Assessor of the Year
Winner: Mark Hutchison, Glasgow Life Category: Lifeguard of the Year Winner: Douglas Herd, Everyone Active, Bedworth Leisure Centre Category: Lifeguard Team of the Year Winners: Kirkby Leisure Centre Category: Outstanding Contribution to Lifesaving in the Community Winner: Val Hardy, Impulse Leisure Category: Special Recognition Winner: Cheryl Clark, Nottingham City Council RLSS UK 01789 773994 www.rlss.org.uk
The Mosaic Company’s Expanding Range Builds On Success The challenge facing the new owners of ‘The Mosaic Company’ was to build on the success of the former owners who had established an unparalleled reputation for professional service and who had over many years assembled a comprehensive range of products. After relocating the business to premises in Bristol and after a period of consolidation, the company has set about expanding its product offering specific to the UK swimming pool and spa industry. Of particular interest to the spa builders will be the introduction of new ranges of glass mosaic, including iridescent and metallic glazes along with a range in a contemporary hexagonal format. Circular mosaics in 15 colours have also been introduced to great acclaim. The range with six colours is available in a grade ‘C’ anti slip option and looks set to be a best seller. For the larger scale in-ground pool builders, a comprehensive range of pool surround products from Rosa Gres
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of Barcelona is now available. These products offer the complete solution to any project and include all the special pieces required to complete the most ambitious project. In response to feedback from customers a range of affordable anti slip porcelain pool surround tiles has also been introduced. Available in 24 colours and in sizes from 300 x 300mm to 450 x 900mm, most are also available in an R10 grade ‘C’ anti slip option too. SPATEX was a great success for the company and planning is already in hand for next year’s show, where further expansions to the range will be shown. Great strides have also been made in merchandising the new products with bespoke sets of wallets now available to show all aspects of the range and the company’s representatives are always keen to visit new customers and furnish them with all the samples they need. The Mosaic Company 0117 955 6224 www.mosaiccompany.co.uk
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NEWS
IN BRIEF ‘ONE MORE DROWNING IS STILL ONE TOO MANY’ The latest figures on UK drownings have shown an encouraging decrease, says the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) – the UK’s Drowning Prevention Charity – but one more drowning is still one too many, it warns. The Water Accident and Incident database (WAID) statistics revealed recently that 338 people lost their lives to drowning in 2014, falling from 381 in 2013 and is the lowest figure since records began in 1983. However, drowning is preventable and the charity says there is still much work to be done to educate and save lives. RLSS UK’s Chief Executive, Di Steer, said: “Although it is encouraging that the numbers of accidental water related deaths has reduced - our aim as a charity is to see a year-on-year reduction in drownings –this figure is still, tragically, too high. “We must still continue to educate people in water safety and work tirelessly to equip people with the skills to know how to save a life, whether it be their own, or someone else’s, in an emergency. “We will continue to commit to ensure everyone of all ages can enjoy water safely but know the dangers and act accordingly.”
WATERPARK PLANS REVEALED FOR COVENTRY Coventry City Council has revealed plans for a £36.7m indoor waterpark and has appointed Faulkner Browns Architects and Water Technology Inc (WTI) to design the development. The project will include flumes, slides, wave pools, rapids and wet play equipment and is in addition to a leisure centre which will boast a 25m swimming pool and numerous other facilities. Construction on the new complex is set to start in 2017 and should be completed by 2019.
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Hough End Leisure Centre Up And Running The new Hough End Leisure Centre in Manchester opened its doors on 15 June 2015. It replaced old facilities at Withington and Chorlton and includes swimming pools, a gym, squash courts, a sauna and a steam room, a community room and a dance studio. F T Leisure was the principal subcontractor responsible for the water treatment and filtration systems for the 25-metre, 6-lane main pool and a separate learner pool. Each pool has a dedicated water treatment and filtration system based on traditional medium rate sand filtration with disinfection, pH correction and UV sterilisation. The client for the Hough End project was Manchester City Council and the main contractor was Laing O' Rourke. F T Leisure specialises in the provision of innovative products and professional technical services to the commercial, municipal and private swimming pool industries and have worked with Manchester City Council on a
number of projects including the Beswick Community Hub, Wythenshawe Forum and the Manchester Aquatics Centre. They are also currently working with the council on the new Levenshulme Leisure Centre, which is due for completion in autumn 2015. F T Leisure 0161 494 5785 www.ftleisure.co.uk
CPC Expect Full Compliance As Countdown To New Biocide Regulations Begins As some readers may know, Complete Pool Controls (CPC) is partly owned by leading European Pool and Spa Chemicals distributor Chemoform AG, based in Stuttgart, Germany. Since CPC’s inception in 2007, Chemoform has been helping the Gloucestershire based business supply its customers from its stores in Stuttgart, its warehousing in Rotterdam and through its worldwide contacts. Together both companies have been working hard to bring new solutions to both pool and hot tub users, including Top Tablets (Two- colour), convenient to use sachets and Aquablanc®. However, the important relationship has become even more in focus recently as two key developments from the European Chemical Agency (ECHA) now approach. ECHA has stated: 1. ‘From 1 September 2015, a biocidal product consisting of, containing, or generating a relevant substance, cannot be made available on the EU market if the substance supplier or product supplier is not included in the Article 95 list for the product type(s) to which the product belongs.’ 2. ‘As specific Biocides products become listed (or annexed) each individual annexed substance, will
require full support toxicological packages to be registered and ECHA approved, to remain on the European market. Already copper sulphate is an annexed product, under this scheme.’ These new regulations could have a major impact on the supply chain and now they are round the corner, there are real demands and pressures that are bringing like minded serious players to consider the necessary investment of both money and time into ensuring compliance, as we move forward. Through working closely with Chemoform, CPC is preparing itself to ensure most of its key Biocide products are supported through both the demands of Article 95 this September, and more crucially through the process of Biocide Product annexation, as and when these become listed. Whilst CPC customers can be assured that the company expects full compliance, they strongly recommend to all in the industry to ensure that their chemical supplier is also preparing to meet these new enforceable Biocide regulations, by supplying appropriately registered product(s). Complete Pool Controls Ltd 01242 662700 www.cpc-chemicals.co.uk
SPN August 2015 17 23/07/2015 18:06
PEOPLE NEWS
Changes At Certikin Include Commercial Team Expansion
Selwyn Mindel Hangs Up His SPATEX Hat A founding director of the SPATEX exhibition, Selwyn Mindel recently announced his retirement from the Board after 20 years of loyal service. Managing Director of the BSPF, Chris Hayes said: “The SPATEX Board would like to thank Selwyn Mindel for his contribution and commitment over the past two decades to ensuring the success of the Show, both in Brighton and more recently in Coventry. He has been a strong advocate for the industry running its own show and has also been a loyal exhibitor. His decision to step down as Director from the SPATEX Board is acknowledged by the other Board members who will assume responsibility for ensuring that SPATEX’s legacy is carried forward.”
James Fleming has recently joined the Commercial team in Technical Sales. He is working across the whole Commercial portfolio but his area of specialism is tiled spas. James will bring his understanding of technical drawings and bespoke project coordination to add additional support to manage your tiled spa projects. At the helm of the Commercial division is Manager Steve Nelson and he is assisted by Technical Sales Advisors Jeff Hawkins, Hannah Blow and Emma Brown. In other changes, David Steptoe has been appointed Certikin’s South East Sales Executive so customers in the South of England (everywhere south of the M4 from Kent to Cornwall) will soon be seeing a lot of this face. He joined Certikin in 2013 and latterly has been working in Sales and Technical Support for the UK Caldera Hot Tub, Endless Summer Enclosures and one-piece pools division. David is from a technical and customer focused background having working in the component supply industry and completed a plumbing apprenticeship before moving to Certikin. Christie Darnton has been appointed Project Co-ordinator for site lining projects at Certikin North in Leeds. Christie manages the process of on site lining installations including producing customer quotes, managing the diary of their installation teams, ensuring installations are completed on the required dates, arranging kit deliveries, maintaining stock, liaising with customers and making sure any issues are dealt with quickly and effectively.
Meanwhile at Certikin in Witney, Oxfordshire, Tom Dundson takes up the post of Project Co-ordinator for the Endless Summer division. Tom’s role focuses on carrying out site surveys – equipped with a van and laser equipment, he is able to ensure that a site is ready for installation work to begin. He is also responsible for overseeing enclosure and one-piece pool installations as well as final handovers. Certikin International 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk
Christie Darnton
David Steptoe
Tom Dunsdon
James Fleming
Martin Symcox Appointed Director Of IQL UK Di Steer, Chief Executive of RLSS UK, said: The Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS UK) “I am delighted to welcome Martin into his new is pleased to announce the appointment of role as Director of IQL UK. We are experiencing Martin Symcox as the new Director of its an unprecedented period of growth and with training subsidiary, IQL UK. his extensive knowledge and experience, and Martin has overseen IQL UK as Interim after his success as interim director, Martin Director since January 2014, when the is ideally placed to provide strategic direction former director Tara Dillon was seconded to the Chartered Institute for the Management of for all aspects of our training division as the business continues to expand.” Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA). IQL UK is the leading provider of professional lifeguard training in the UK, training around 95% of all pool lifeguards. It also provides pool management and first aid qualifications. Commenting on his appointment, Martin said: “I’ve been involved in the leisure industry since graduating in 1997 and having worked in numerous operational environments, I’ve know the importance of relationship management and delivering a consistently high level of service. I’m looking
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forward to bringing my commercial experience to the new role and helping strengthen IQL UK’s offering and position in the aquatic training and safety market.” Martin joined the organisation in 2009 as Business Development Manager and has been instrumental in ensuring the delivery of high quality products and services. Over the last 12 months, he has been closely involved in the introduction of IQL UK’s full suite of first aid qualifications. “The uptake has been extremely encouraging. It provides an excellent opportunity for leisure centres and similar organisations to realise savings and provides the potential for additional income streams,” said Martin. RLSS UK 01789 773994 www.rlss.org.uk
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PRODUCT NEWS
A Novel Approach To Protecting Slatted Covers Always looking for ways of bringing pool ownership and maintenance within range of the widest possible customer base, Golden Coast is introducing DEL’s IVERNEA winter shield to the UK market. Available exclusively through Golden Coast, this unique and economical approach to protecting slatted covers is compatible with all of DEL’s in-ground and above-ground models and can also be fitted to those of other manufacturers. Designed for use between October and April, the IVERNEA shield keeps slatted covers clean and defends them against damaging UV radiation, while helping to maintain water quality. It consists of a robust polyethylene fabric sheet with a peripheral screen which filters rainwater and traps dirt and leaves. Easy to attach using its clip and
elasticated cord system, the shield fits directly onto the cover slats with no need for unsightly fixtures on the pool surround. Golden Coast notes that IVERNEA is only suitable for use with solid colour PVC or polycarbonate slats, but that these form the basis for most slatted covers. IVERNEA comes in a choice of two colours, green or blue, which blend discreetly into their surroundings. “We think IVERNEA is an excellent practical and highly affordable addition to the DEL range,” says Golden Coast’s, Managing Director Jamie Adams. “Although at the moment outdoor pool owners’ minds are on making the most of their summer enjoyment, it’s always worth planning ahead for the necessary autumn and winter precautions to keep pools and their accessories in tip-top shape.”
Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.GCTrade.co.uk
Mineralpools – The Perfect Mineral Solution Mineralpools is a mineral enriched salt that delivers two benefits in a single product: in addition to taking care of your pool water, it takes care of your body and soul too. The new enriched salt by Mineralpools will give users the feeling of mental relaxation and physical wellbeing that they have always craved, whilst keeping their skin and hair soft and healthy. Bodies can absorb up to 500ml of water during an hour in a pool. Using Mineralpools, users will be treated to an extra indulgence thanks to its healthy ingredients. There are infinite benefits to water rich in minerals: the sensations that nature has afforded man since time immemorial and that are used to maximum effect today for health, beauty and general wellbeing. Thanks to Mineralpools, users can find out what it’s like to swim
in odourless, taste-free water and forget all about sore eyes. The salt electrolysis system disinfects pools naturally thanks to the salt dissolved in the water. In addition to the healing powers of Mineralpools, users will enjoy cleaner, healthier water. Mineralpools is suitable for most salt electrolysis systems. It dissolves easily in water and its ingredients help prevent staining and the build-up of lime scale on the various pieces of pool equipment, such as chlorinator cells, heaters and stainless steel components. AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpooluk.com
Tylö Launches Elysée Steam Bath Range For Hotels And Spas Responding to a surge in British interest in steam baths, Golden Coast, the UK’s leading supplier of wet leisure products to the industry, has announced the launch of Tylö Elysée, its luxurious new steam bath range for public bathing facilities. Available exclusively through Golden Coast, Elyseé brings together style and function – meeting the high standards demanded by hotels, spas and corporate hospitality settings. The new range, which is available in 11 different sizes, is made from a hightech, vacuum-formed special grade white plastic – ensuring a sturdy, seam-tight construction. The robust design’s door is made from tinted, tempered safety glass and its sturdy
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frame features anodised aluminium handles for long use. An optional door, which provides an opening of 900 mm, ensures good wheelchair access. Easy to install, the Elyseé kit is supplied in ready-to-assemble, pre-fabricated wall and ceiling sections – with integral seating, complete with a recessed downlight above each seat. Kits also include lighting, air outlet vent and all assembly hardware required. Elyseé has been designed with flexibility in mind. For example, its wall and seat modules
can be replaced with glazed wall sections – allowing more light in – at no extra charge – as part of a complete Tylö steam room. Rooms can also be equipped with a service wall, shelf compartments and fittings for the mixer tap, shower head and riser rail. In addition, steam rooms with a floor area less than four square metres can be supplied with a vacuumformed white plastic floor tray – except when fitted with its optional glass front. Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.tylolife.co.uk
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PRODUCT NEWS
Award Winning Underwater Technology At the recent Seawork International Expo, hosted in Southampton Docks for members of all of the marine and shipping industries, Fairlocks had a stand in the Diving & Underwater section of the exhibition. Now you may think that’s an unusual show for the company to attend, however the product being showcased was the Nemo underwater drill which is ideal for the shipping industries as it can go to depths of 50m and has buttons to re-pressurise to ensure the larger depths are reached safely. As demonstrated at the show, the divers took the cordless drill to carry out some work in the dive tank situated outside on the waterfront. The drill weighs around 3kg and has a wrist strap and lights for ease of use. The chuck is 13mm and has 16 torque settings on each setting. The drill is supplied with an 18V 3ah battery and replacement batteries can be purchased. Depending on the workload the battery life lasts for many hours and the recharging takes place in a matter of 30 minutes or so. Not only was the product widely received in the market, the show recognised the innovative technology involved in the
underwater drill and awarded it a winner in the Seawork International Innovation Awards. Paul Webb, Director at Fairlocks Pool Products Ltd collected the award on behalf of the team, and was proud of what the award brought to the status of the Nemo drill in the industry. “This show has been a great opportunity to showcase our underwater drill in a new industry and although swimming pools is our main business, the marine engineering trade can benefit from the innovative technology used in the Nemo. We have sold many drills at the show, based on the additional gravitas the award has brought us,” commented Paul. The show took place 16-18 June 2015 and rebooking has already started for next year, in the new venue at Mayflower Park, Southampton. Fairlocks, along with some new innovations from the Nemo range, will be attending in 2016. “On the basis of the
awards for 2015, we are hopeful that new products in the same range will be received with the same vigour,” said Paul. Fairlocks Pool Products Ltd 01865 988346 www.fairlocks.co.uk
Selling The Dream – New Brochure Drives Pool Kit Sales A new brochure from Golden Coast is helping installers across the country inspire homeowners looking to take the plunge into pool ownership this summer. An ever-rising interest in health and well-being, combined with more and more homeowners looking to invest in their homes, means the time has never been better to promote liner pool kits from Swimmer to your customers, according to Golden Coast. Golden Coast Managing Director Jamie Adams explains the thinking behind the new 12-page brochure. He said: “Owning a pool is an investment in your health, your family and your home, but, for many people it’s the fear of a long, expensive and complicated project which puts them off making the dream of ownership a reality. “But the fact is, having your own pool has never been easier. It’s as affordable as another car, a loft conversion or a new kitchen… and this new customer-facing brochure explains how – whatever their requirements – Swimmer Pool Kits provide an easy-toinstall and affordable customised pool which will provide years of enjoyment.” Modular Swimmer Pool Kits contain everything necessary to create a ‘dream’ pool – including all the heating and water filtration equipment, fittings and pipework required. Developed with ease in mind, everything in the kit works together and, importantly, will arrive at the same time – avoiding delays during installation. Elegant engineering and advanced construction methods allow installers to create customised pools that are quick and easy to fit.
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The pool itself, for example, is constructed from modular side panels that lock together quickly and are supported by X-frame buttresses. Installation is so easy that, within just the space of a few short hours, the actual walls of the pool can go up. Available in 24 different sizes, ranging from 20’ x 10’ to 40’ x 20’, pool side walls are four-feet deep. However, the water depth can be increased by incorporating a hopper floor to produce an area of the pool deep enough for safe diving. Pool liners can be chosen from a range of finishes, including classic mosaic, traditional marble or a modern monochromatic finish. A waterline border can be added as a distinctive touch. Recognising the value of the little details that make a pool truly exceptional, Swimmer Pool Kits from Golden Coast are available with a range of finishing touches, including LED lighting, countercurrent systems, solar thermal panels and automatic pool cover systems from DEL. Designed to keep pools clean and safe, solar slat systems are available – keeping the water even warmer. Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.GCTrade.co.uk
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PRODUCT NEWS
10 Years Of Pentair Intelliflo® Has Transformed Pool Market
SASHA – An Oasis Of Wellness, Luxury And Relaxation
Pentair’s IntelliFlo® variablespeed pump, which can cut energy bills by as much as 90% compared with conventional single-speed pumps, has disproved initial theories that its cost might discourage potential customers. At its launch in 2005, Pentair backed IntelliFlo® with extensive publicity and trainings towards the pool trade, all in order to demonstrate the long-term benefits of the new pump, and also outlining the business opportunity in new and retrofit installation for the millions of in-ground pools worldwide. As a result of its foresight, Pentair maintained the industry’s only integrated variable speed pump for five years in a row. In fact, pool owners have been quick to grasp the concept of true cost of ownership – that the cost of owning energy-consuming equipment is not the cost of the energy it consumes, nor its capital cost, but the sum of amortised capital cost, energy and maintenance costs. The largest of these items is always the cost of the energy the equipment uses over its lifetime. Thanks to IntelliFlo’s® ability to reduce its speed and therefore energy consumption when the pool is not use, Pentair managed to introduce the pump effectively to the residential market. Since 2005, Pentair’s IntelliFlo® pool pumps have saved over 4.2 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh), equivalent to the energy used by 147,000 homes in a year. At €0,12/kWh, estimated savings range from €170 to €440 per year. Hundreds of thousands of units of the IntelliFlo® have been sold worldwide since 2005, showing this is a proven and reliable concept. The power saved by all these units is equivalent to the output of four nuclear power stations. IntelliFlo® variable-speed pumps equal high efficiency!
Jacuzzi® the global leader and manufacturer of hydromassage products and hot tubs, has launched SASHA, a true wellbeing centre for body and mind that comprises three modules in a single space for the first time. Designed for home or professional use, the SASHA comprises Sauna, a Shower and Hammam (steam room) experiences to create a haven that provides the essence of professional spa treatments that can be translated to a more private and intimate setting. SASHA offers all the benefits of Jacuzzi® wellness technology in just eight square metres, making it an ideal escape from any busy schedule. Contemporary clean lines and minimal aesthetics from architect and designer Alberto Apostoli enhance the elegance of SASHA. Constructed from pure materials, including Abachi wood, Corian®, chrome, glass and high quality finishing touches, the product is capable of integrating with any style of surrounding décor. The three SASHA modules have been created to stand alone or in combinations, allowing different configurations that are adaptable to any space. Each module is equipped with a user-friendly touchscreen control system, which enables you to select three programmes that have been developed together with the consultancy of experts to obtain maximum therapeutic benefit. For optimum stress relief and muscular relaxation, the sauna offers three valuable programmes: Bio Sauna (60°C), Roman Sauna (70°C-75°C) and a traditional Finnish Sauna (90°C), with humidity ranging from 30% to below 12%. An adjustable chromotherapy colour sequence assigned to each setting and a sound system (MP3/MP4) is available as an option for the Sauna and Hammam modules. Illumination is also supplied by LED lights inside the bench and sections of the SASHA’s woodwork.
Pentair Aquatic Systems +32 (0) 1425 9911 www.pentairpooleurope.com
Jacuzzi Spa & Bath Ltd 0113 272 7430 www.jacuzzi.co.uk
Doubling Up On DURAbility Responding to rising demands for its popular DURA and DURA+ heat pumps, Golden Coast has significantly increased its stock – to avoid disappointing the growing pool of customers choosing Duratech’s efficient, quiet performance and durability. Both ranges, which are covered by a two-year warranty, benefit from titanium heat exchangers, which ensure that they are highly resistant to corrosion by salt, chlorine and bromine. “They’ve quickly become a top choice for installers because of their very high specification and unmatched reliability,” says Golden Coast Managing Director Jamie Adams. “Created in Belgium by Propulsion Systems, their design makes good use of titanium, PVC and other durable materials – ensuring they’ll have a long and reliable product life.” The pumps boast high coefficients of performance, and by
24 August 2015 SPN 21-24_SPN_Aug_15_Prod_News_rev.indd 24
extracting heat from the environment they run much more economically than conventional heating and cooling systems. For each kW consumed by the heat pump, 5kW or more can be returned to the pool. Meanwhile, the design of their compressors, fans and ventilators keeps noise levels down to little more than a whisper. In the UK, Duratech DURA and DURA+ heat pumps are available exclusively through Golden Coast, the country’s biggest independent distributor of wet leisure products to the trade. Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.GCTrade.co.uk
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onee With over 30 years of experience, PoolLock is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of automatic and manual safety covers, automatic slatted covers and heat pumps for swimming pools. Thousands of satisfied customers in Britain over the past 10 years bear testament to the quality, service and reliability of PoolLock products. In 2013, PoolLock opened its first UK production facility in Gatwick, London, with installation teams that are available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week. The result: even better service and faster delivery times for our UK customers.
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ECO NEWS
Community Swimming Pool Venture Invests In Green Future A community-run leisure centre has invested in its long-term future by using a biomass boiler to heat the water in its swimming pool. Stocksbridge Leisure Centre is looking forward to a busy summer with its 12.5m-long swimming pool and showers heated by a 50kW boiler which burns wood pellets from sustainable sources. Run by the 4SLC trust, the leisure centre had its boiler installed by renewable energy experts Regional Energy six months ago. The pool has been in public use since then and was officially opened in June by Mayor of Stocksbridge, Jack Clarkson. The not-for-profit trust has now launched a fundraising campaign to restore and reopen its second larger swimming pool – with plans to install a second biomass boiler to heat that too. 4SLC invested in biomass through the Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme, which means it will get quarterly reward payments for the next 20 years – creating a valued source of income for the
community venture. Trevor Fowler, of the 4SLC Trust, said: “Our biomass boiler has been an excellent investment as it has enabled us to heat our small pool cheaply and effectively plus, through the Government’s incentive scheme, we expect to get back what we paid for it within three years, then after that our continued payments will be a welcome income stream for us. “We are a voluntary-run facility and have to think long and hard about how we spend our money for the long term viability of our leisure centre.” Stocksbridge Leisure Centre has been run by the 4SLC voluntary trust on a 25 year long lease since September 2013 when the local authority withdrew support for the community facility. Regional Energy, based in nearby Penistone, was called in to provide a cost-effective heating solution for the family pool using cash raised through fundraising and donations. The pool, heated to 30°C, is now used for children’s lessons, parent
and baby and over 50s swimming sessions, beginners’ scuba, aquafit, zorbing and kids’ parties. Regional Energy Business Development Director Gary Hague said: “It has been great to be part of Stocksbridge Leisure Centre’s strategy to get their community-run asset onto a viable long-term footing. “Biomass heating is becoming an increasingly important option for people running all sorts of public buildings faced with the rising costs of fossil fuels and the growing need to develop sustainable alternatives.
“And biomass is a particularly wise option now because, as well as providing a reliable long-term heating solution, people can also earn money through a generous government incentive scheme to encourage people to develop green technologies. “We forecast the Stocksbridge Leisure Centre’s biomass boiler will save them nearly £250,000 in comparison to mains gas over the next 20 years.” Regional Energy 01226 693151 www.regionalenergy.co.uk
Trevor Fowler of 4SLC (left) and Gary Hague of Regional Energy at Stocksbridge Leisure Centre pool
Gibbons Provides Swimming Pool AHU Replacement When a council-run leisure pool in Suffolk was faced with an inefficient, failing air handling system, Gibbons HVAC Services were commissioned to perform a smooth upgrade with minimal disruption. The air handling units (AHUs) in question served as the main supply and extract equipment and, having been installed approximately 30 years prior, had reached the end of their economic life and were in need of replacement. The project formed part of a £4m upgrade, which focused on energy-efficient operation and greater control over the conditions within the pool building. The council wanted the facility to be at least partly operational while work was carried out, so Gibbons planned the project meticulously to ensure half of the pool complex remained open to the public at all times. Work commenced with the decommissioning and disassembly of the original AHUs, each one cut down to sections small enough to be safely removed from the plant room before being taken away for recycling. Getting the AHU into the plant location presented a challenge as the only entry Original AHUs in the cramped plant point was via a standard single doorway. room To overcome this problem, Gibbons
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designed and manufactured each part of the AHU, fans, dampers and coils to be in component form and assembled them inside. New plug-type fans were fitted to energy-efficient motors, which were paired with ABB HVAC variable-speed drives for additional savings during non-peak times. The new units were built on the existing concrete slab and matched as closely as possible to the original duct connections. Upon completion, each AHU was tested and the fans dynamically balanced. This turnkey package was fully managed by Gibbons Engineering Group and delivered to programme and on budget. Gibbons Engineering Group Ltd 01621 868138 www.gibbonsgroup.co.uk
Completed AHUs, constructed on site
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HOT TUB & SWIM SPA NEWS
Caldera Adds Holiday Feel-good Factor Hot tubs, along with four poster beds and log fires, is the most searched term when people are booking holiday cottages. So when Jenni and Andrew Thomas opened the doors of their idyllic 300-acre working farm, Castle Pren, in glorious rural mid-Wales to holidaymakers the first thing on their shopping list was two Caldera Vacanza hot tubs. Boasting panoramic countryside views from their idyllic setting in Llandrindod Wells, this boutique collection of brand new, uniquely designed eco–friendly lodges is part of a farm diversification project. The high quality lodges offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And what could be more relaxing than lapping up these beautiful views from the vantage point of a Caldera hot tub! Jenni and Andrew called on the services of Will and Emma Welch of Three Counties Pools & Spas in Hereford who recommended the stunning Caldera Vacanza Vantos. Will said: “The brief was to supply a robust hot tub to meet the demands of a steady stream of holiday makers and, of course, comply with exacting Heath & Safety requirements. Andrew was very specific on his colour choice (coastal grey and white sands) as he wanted the tubs to complement the brand new lodges. “The Caldera Vantos were located on a decked area outside each lodge to take advantage of the surrounding views. The lodges are based in an area of outstanding natural beauty so it is a perfect setting for them – great for walkers, pony trekkers and mountain bikers and a Caldera hot tub is the perfect way to sooth aching muscles after a long day of exercise.” Jenni said: “In the two months that we have been open, the Caldera hot tubs have proved a wonderful business asset – the customers absolutely love them! The first thing they do on arrival is jump in! No matter what their ages or the weather (it can be pouring down and they are still in use), or time of day (yes, even midnight) they are in use! They are a great investment.” Will added: “The hot tubs were easy to install with no access issues. We have installed numerous Caldera spas for holiday park settings
now and they have all proved highly successful. As soon as the tub is in the correct position, the water fill is started so that by the end of the install, the tub is full and heating and full instruction can be given on tub operation, water chemistry etc. Three Counties Pools & Spas offers fully installed package prices on our Caldera Spas (to include tub, cover, cover lifter, steps, chemicals, delivery, installation, commissioning and instruction) – with no hidden extras so the customer has total peace of mind. The Caldera range is ideal as it’s a good robust product so can take heavy use.” Caldera Spas 01993 777200 www.calderaspas.co.uk Three Counties Pools & Spas Ltd 01432 273636 www.tubland.co.uk
L.A. Spas UK Seminar A Resounding Success Aqua Warehouse Group (AWG) held its first UK seminar for their recently acquired L.A. Spa brand at the Bosworth Hall Hotel & Spa in Warwickshire. The event was hosted by AWG Managing Director Richard Hart, Jim McClure, Director of Business Development for Maax Corporation the manufacturer of L.A. Spas, along with Sean Aldred UK representative for L.A. Spas. The seminar was the first for over six years for the brand and brought together all existing L.A. Spa dealers from across the UK, eager to find out the direction that the brand would be taking. “It was very important that we hit the ground running and get to know all the dealers and likewise for them to get to know us at Aqua Warehouse,” said Richard, adding: “It was also imperative that the L.A. dealer got to view the newly arrived product tangibly from the factory and understand the difference in our manufacturing processes.”
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The full day Seminar started with an in-depth talk from Jim McClure on who Maax Corporation are and why they purchased L.A.Spas, as well as plans for improving and moving the brand forward. The rest of the day was spent covering a variety of important subjects from new product knowledge and a new on-line stocking system, to marketing ideas and pricing. All in all the day was a great success and the interaction from the dealers showed their passion for the L.A. product. “It was very
noticeable that the dealers were impressed with where and how we would like to move forward with the brand,” commented Richard. “It’s now important we implement what we have said and we continue to work closely with the dealers and move forward together,” added Richard. The day was rounded off with a lovely meal and large quantities of wine where attendees got to know each other further and dealers exchanged ideas. L.A. Spas UK 01245 477400 www.laspas.co.uk
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HOT TUB & SWIM SPA NEWS
Euphoria Explore Digital Marketing Opportunities Exceptional brands keep evolving and Euphoria Lifestyle, one of the UK’s largest, multi-award winning hot tub and sauna retailers, is no exception. In an exciting joint venture with UK digital agency MediaVision, Euphoria is set to expand its marketing efforts significantly by launching massive Digital PR and SEO campaigns later this year, proving that even the most established brands still have unexplored territory to claim in digital. Having already gained mass industry recognition with its installation, design and
high service standards, Euphoria’s strong focus on the customer experience has given the brand a strong foundation in the UK retail and lifestyle market. Now things are set to expand even further. “We are delighted to be working in partnership with MediaVision in this exciting phase of our development, and look forward to adding first class Digital PR and SEO to our marketing effort this year,” said Mike Robinson, Managing Director of Euphoria Lifestyle.
“Euphoria Lifestyle has grown year on year since its formation in 2006. As winners of 25 industry awards encompassing brand dedication, customer service, innovation, installations and best website three years running, we are hugely excited about where Euphoria and MediaVision are going in 2015 and beyond.” Euphoria Lifestyle 0800 023 2215 www.euphoria-lifestyle.co.uk
Jacuzzi® Is First Hot Tub Brand To Win Prestigious Award At Hampton Court Palace Show Jacuzzi®, a global leader and manufacturer of hydro massage products and hot tubs, has been awarded a prestigious Best at Show award at the Royal Horticultural Society Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 2015. This is a particularly special achievement for the brand as Jacuzzi® is the very first hot tub brand to receive this accolade for its presence at the popular RHS Hampton Court Palace show. Achieving high scores for creativity, presentation and design, Jacuzzi® Spa & Bath Ltd scooped a 3 Star Tradestand Award. Situated within David Domoney’s Celebrity Theatre, the Jacuzzi® stand features tropical plants and palm trees, to create a mini oasis at the renowned UK flower show. The stand also features a brand new J585 model, part of the popular J500 hot tub series.
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Jacuzzi® is a regular exhibitor at the RHS show, to demonstrate the added impact that its products can bring to garden design. Paul Farrell, Jacuzzi® UK Marketing Manager, Spa and Bath, said of the brand’s win: “To be recognised within this category at such a prestigious outdoors event is a huge achievement for us. It demonstrates the team’s hard work, dedication and commitment, as well as David Domoney’s expertise in creating a unique exhibition of a tropical paradise. We’re proud to be taking this award home and look forward to next year’s event.” Jacuzzi Spa & Bath Ltd 0113 272 7430 www.jacuzzi.co.uk
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HOT TUB & SWIM SPA NEWS
Essentials From Golden Coast Keeps Customers Coming Back Hot tubs have seen a surge in popularity in recent years and, in the UK, they’ve become a common sight in gardens. Earlier this year, a 2,000 strong study for TSB Insurance revealed that hot tubs are a feature in up to 1 in 10 homes. New hot tub sales continue to rise, but, according to Golden Coast, having the right choice of accessories and products is key to profiting from this growth. Golden Coast Managing Director Jamie Adams explains: “The wide range of entry level tubs on the market, combined with growing promotion in the media, means that we are seeing a lot of first-time buyers entering the marketplace. They have made a significant investment, so will be keen to find ways to make their hot tubs easier to look after, cheaper to run and much more enjoyable. “The most successful retailers will be prepared to signpost new owners to the wide range of products available which will make ownership a breeze.” Establishing and maintaining a good chemical balance is a challenge for every new spa owner. For first-time buyers, there’s the Essentials Spa Starter Pack which offers good value.
Available for chlorine or bromine, it provides day-to-day treatment of spas and hot tubs. Each kit includes: foam remover, two Spa Refresh sachets, 50 InstaTest 5 strips and a water treatment guide. Alongside this, Golden Coast offers a comprehensive range of Essentials Spa Chemicals to meet every eventuality – from raising and lowering pH to clarification, cleaning and scale removers. AccuWeigh, a scoop that measures in both ounces and grams, provides an easy and accurate solution for adding powdered chemicals to a spa. Supplied complete with on/ off and reset buttons, it features an easy-toread LED display. The Essentials catalogue offers a wide collection of products which add value to spa ownership: from underwater light shows and cleaners to drinkware and floating bars. According to Golden Coast, the greatest opportunities for growth lie within its ‘Outdoor Living’ collection. Jamie explains: “If you’re looking for the most profitable add-on products, look no further than high-end parasols. Our
Hot Spring® Aria™ Spa Named Consumers Digest® Best Buy for Third Time
For the third time in a row, the Highlife® Collection Aria spa from Hot Spring has been named a Best Buy by Consumers Digest magazine, who called it “an exceptional value in today’s highly competitive marketplace”. Hot Spring is the only hot tub brand that has been recognised by the ratings magazine all eight times the category has been reviewed. The ratings magazine stated, “The Aria is a repeat Best Buy selection because the manufacturer made a rock-solid spa even better than it was before”, and specifically highlighted the quality and positioning of the Aria’s jets. With ample seating for five adults and a total of 35 jets, the Aria is designed to provide the right amount of relaxing pressure and massage for different muscle groups. The Aria model features the unique and innovative Moto-Massage™ DX Jet that delivers two powerful streams of water that sweep up and down the back for an unparalleled hydromassage experience. Consumers Digest also recognised the Hot Spring brand for industry-leading innovations like the new touchscreen wireless control panel available on top of the line models. The magazine said the control panel is “as easy to navigate as a touch screen on a smartphone or tablet” and is “just as responsive when it is wet... as it is when it is dry”. Hot Spring Spas 0800 849 8111 www.hotspring.co.uk
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Spa Side Umbrella offers a great alternative to a traditional gazebo and is quick to install.” The nine-foot diameter design uses a crank and tilt mechanism for easy operation. It is available in three colours (crème, navy or rust) and can rotate a full 360-degrees – offering complete protection from the elements. Importantly, it can be easily removed from the base for storage. A protective cover is also available which keeps the parasol protected and secure when not in use. Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.GCTrade.co.uk
£200k Payout In Hot Tub Legionnaires’ Case The family of a Staffordshire man who died after contracting Legionnaires’ disease from an infected hot tub is among those to share in a £200,000 payout. Richard Griffin, from Clayton, suffered hallucinations, headaches and fever before collapsing at home in July 2012, and later dying in hospital. Richard, a 64-year-old lorry driver, had contracted the disease from the infected hot tub whilst delivering meat to a café at the JTF Warehouse in Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent. Three people died after the outbreak and a further 14 people became ill. A report by the Health Protection Agency said the warehouse hot tub was the ‘probable source’ of the outbreak, as it had not been filtered or cleaned for weeks. This caused the water to stagnate, leading to the formation of bacteria and build-up of Legionnaires’ disease droplets. Inquests into the three deaths are due to be held later this year and the Crown Prosecution Service is considering whether to pursue criminal charges. JFT Warehouse Ltd declined to comment on the settlement.
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ONLINE
What’s New Online A new regular item for SPN, every issue we will look at new or updated company websites and new companies that have started within the industry
Monopools producer NIVEKO has developed a new, online application for automatic pool configuration and price creation. The ‘NIVEKO Pool Configurator’, allows users to assemble a customised NIVEKO pool easily from the comfort of their own home or office. In just a few steps, you can clearly define the relevant lines, equipment and optional pool accessories. Where possible, the system automatically calculates and proposes the combinations of the individual options available and upon completion of each of the selection steps, a detailed price is calculated, containing a breakdown of the individual items along with descriptions and their prices.
Waterco are pleased to announce that their new look website is now live. The updated version has been optimised for all web browsers and devices and is set out into clearly segmented userfriendly sections. An easy to navigate news section has been incorporated so all the latest product and business news can be posted, along with a wide range of installation examples and case studies showing the versatility and scope of the Waterco range. The site is simple to use and offers further information on all of the products currently in the Waterco catalogue and includes downloadable leaflets, manuals, spare part listings, exploded diagrams and videos.
www.niveko-pools.com
www.waterco.eu
Elecro’s new website has been enhanced by a sleek, fresh new look, and improved navigation that will allow you to find the information that you need at the click of a button. The responsive design has been created to reflect the new Elecro branding. The aim was to make the website more interactive and it now includes useful guides and articles, all relevant product information, brochure and image downloads plus technical support. The addition of a blog ensures that visitors are regularly updated with current work activity and useful information while a distributor section allows users to locate their nearest Elecro wholesaler or retailer stockist.
The SPATEX exhibition have launched their new website following a rebranding of the annual UK show which celebrates its twentieth consecutive year in 2016. The modern and easy to navigate new site allows access to key content straight from the home page and further information is conveniently broken down for visitors or exhibitors. In addition, there’s all the latest news from the show plus those that will be exhibiting and a handy search option makes pinpointing specific information a breeze. The revamped site is also responsive meaning information can be easily viewed across a variety of devices and a multi-lingual option will prove useful for overseas visitors and exhibitors alike.
www.elecro.co.uk
www.spatex.co.uk
If you have a new website that you would like to promote, get in touch with SPN today! Email: info@swimmingpoolnews.co.uk
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Sauna, the most active sector in wet leisure “Businesses that reported an extremely good year in 2013 shared a common view of sauna, the importance of sauna had grown for them by almost 50% from last year.”* With 35 years experience in the sauna market, we can help you break into that growing sector.
*Source: Wet Leisure Industry Survey 2014
Phone: 01271 378100 | Web: www.goldenc.co
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e: info@fairlocks.co.uk w: www.fairlocks.co.uk
POOL & SPA INDUSTRY
Safety And Participation BSPF Managing Director Chris Hayes looks at a number of the key themes that the various industry associations are currently working on
F
ollowing the last issue of SPN regarding Drowning Prevention Week, it is important to note that SPATA has subsequently met with the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) to discuss a response to an Assistant Coroner calling for safety fences to be installed around domestic swimming pools. Since the meeting, SPATA has agreed to work with RoSPA on raising the profile of the key messages regarding water safety, especially for children under the age of five years old. The safety messages will be aided by the imminent publication of the European standards on domestic swimming pools (EN 16582) that SPATA has been working on for the past five years with colleagues from across the continent. One of the main thrusts of the joint work will be to improve the quality and consistency of the point of sale information given to consumers, particularly with regard to terminology and risks. We know our products are safe and we also know that the industry can provide safety devices, not only for pools, but also for swim spas and hot tubs. The recent release of the sports participation figures by Sport England show that swimming participation is still in decline. The statistics, covering the six month period from October 2014 to March 2015, show 15.5 million people did some kind of sport once a week, every week – 222,000 fewer than six months ago. But swimming, the country’s most popular sport with over 2.5 million people taking part weekly, has seen 144,200 fewer people taking to the pool in the last six months and 390,700 in the last year. Collectively, the pool industry should still celebrate the fact that swimming has the highest figures compared to other sports, but we need to continue providing the right atmosphere for people to enjoy swimming. There is a multi-agency Swimming Advisory Group that meets several times a year in Loughborough to discuss the latest information that may impact on swimming participation. SPATA is represented by the BSPF and are proud
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to be part of the team and the BSPF will continue to seek ways of working with others to promote swimming participation. BISHTA continues its work of assisting with the rewrite of the Management of Spa Pools’ publication. A redraft is anticipated before this autumn and BISHTA’s Technical Committee have been discussing the possible changes and the industry will have an opportunity to comment on the revised document once it is ready. A final reminder that Richard Carrington and Lisa Hall are looking forward to welcoming those people that book to attend Richard’s President’s Weekend, which is being held in London from 18 to 20 September. Highlights will include a Friday evening in Goddard’s, which has been serving pie and mash in Greenwich for over 60 years! The menu will be traditional beef pie and mash or cheese and onion pie, soya and onion pie (veggie options) and don’t worry… there are eels if you would like them! On the Saturday evening, there will be a visit to the House of Magic, a genuine Victorian mansion with its enchanting garden and it is one of London’s top entertainment venues (and also one of the city’s best kept secrets). This is most definitely not like a night out at your local, prepare to be amazed! Please note that the Saturday evening entertainment is not suitable for any persons under the age of 18. All BISHTA and SPATA members will be officially notified this month of the annual conference for each Trade Association. This year, with so many important topics to cram into the day that will affect the members, it has been decided to have one full day for each Trade Association, with BISHTA hosting their day on Tuesday 29 September and SPATA hosting theirs on Thursday 8 October. BISHTA’s topics include the latest updates on the European standards for domestic hot tubs and also the latest news on the workforce qualifications. There will also be research from Public Health England on their investigation into the aerosol created from an inflatable hot tub. SPATA will be focusing on the various changes affecting our industry including Building Regulations, BIM and European standards. Leisure Industry Week (LIW) and SPATA will be renewing their partnership again this year. This partnership highlights LIW’s
dedication to support all aspects of the leisure industry and ensures the show provides relevant and useful content for the wet leisure sector. Partnerships such as this, allow LIW to continue to develop its offering to visitors and exhibitors, therefore ensuring the shows benefit to their business. Ollie Upton, Marketing Director of Leisure Industry Week said: “We are thrilled to announce this partnership with SPATA, who will also be exhibiting at the LIW, and can’t wait to see them and their members at the show.” LIW 2015 will not only cater for all sectors of the leisure industry but every role and position within the industry too, incorporating tailored educational streams aimed at all roles and positions within a leisure centre to benefit an entire team. The show will feature a custom built Spa & Wellness area which will cover all aspects of wet leisure including hydrotherapy, rehabilitation and HIT. LIW will also include seminars on topics including maximising revenue opportunities from your pool and creating the perfect atmosphere for your spa. Finally, I would like to wish my colleague Jan Hardy a speedy recovery from her recent heart attack. Although it was a complete shock for her and everyone who knows her, we were all reassured to hear the prognosis by her medical advisor and it’s great to see her back at work. 12 August
SPATA Technical Committee – WebEx 20 August PIP Committee – WebEx 3 September BSI SW16 / WG8 Swimming Pool Meeting – London 9 to 10 Sep EUSA Meeting – Paris 18 to 20 Sep President’s Weekend – London 22 to 23 Sep LIW – Birmingham 29 Sep BISHTA Conference (inc AGM) – Andover 8 October SPATA Conference (inc AGM) – Andover 10 November SPATA Technical Committee
A full list of Diary Dates is available on www.spata.co.uk / www.bishta.co.uk – look under the Trade heading
SPN August 2015 37 23/07/2015 16:36
POOL & SPA INDUSTRY
Best Of British In The European Spotlight In this edition, we reveal the British entry shortlist for the 2015 European Pool & Spa Awards
S
ince 2013, the European Pool & Spa Awards has been shining a light on the most innovative domestic pools, spas and hot tubs on the continent. The third European Awards, hosted by EUSA (European Union of Swimming Pool and
Spa Associations), are set to take place this autumn at Piscina & Wellness Barcelona. These awards have increased from three to five categories, with entries expected across the 13 countries that comprise EUSA. The domestic award categories are: Outdoor Pool,
Domestic Spas – London Swimming Pool Company
Domestic Spas – Rigo Spa
Indoor Pool, Spa, Hot Tub and Above-Ground Pool. Leading the way for Britain, the following companies are all winners from the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards hosted by SPATA and BISHTA, which makes them eligible to be put
Domestic Outdoor Pools – XL Pools
Domestic Outdoor Pools – Deep End Pools
Domestic Outdoor Pools – Portrait Pools & Enclosures
Domestic Outdoor Pools – Tanby Pools
Domestic Outdoor Pools – Gillingham Pools
Domestic Outdoor Pools – Home Counties Pools & Hot Tubs
Domestic Outdoor Pools – Oasis Pool Products
Domestic Outdoor Pools – Rio Pool Construction Co
Domestic Indoor Pools – Rigo Spa
Domestic Indoor Pools – Origin Leisure
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e
POOL & SPA INDUSTRY forward for the EUSA European Pool & Spa Awards shortlist.
Background The primary purpose of EUSA is to support the development of a stronger and more successful business community throughout Europe. Firstly, to lobby on behalf of the industry, on topics such as European standards. Secondly, EUSA has a major role to play in promoting the industry and the EUSA Awards provide a fantastic opportunity to highlight the work being done across Europe. Success in the EUSA Awards is recognition from the industry for the quality of the work being entered and also celebrates the excellence within the wet leisure industry. The EUSA Awards are open to all National
Associations that are EUSA Members, to send in their entries. Each entry submitted by a EUSA member must comply with the relevant National Association Standards, where applicable and may be disqualified if this is not the case. In future, the entries will be expected to comply with the new European standards for domestic swimming pools (EN 16582 and EN 16713). All entries are checked for technical merit, eligibility for the category and their aesthetic appeal. For the UK, entries are submitted from winners of the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards hosted by SPATA and BISHTA. Judges for the EUSA Awards will assess the entries on their visual impact, innovation and aesthetic appeal. The identity of each entrant is witheld from the judges, creating
an impartial process. The EUSA judges will aim to award a Gold, Silver and Bronze award in each category, subject to there being sufficient entries, of a suitable quality.
Representing Britain The BSPF wish the shortlisted entries from BISHTA and SPATA ‘good luck’ in this year’s competition in Spain. BSPF Managing Director Chris Hayes commented: “The BSPF is proud to be a member of EUSA and supports the EUSA Awards as a practical way of raising the profile of the great work being done in the UK and across Europe. The competition is extremely fierce and so if there are any British winners this year, they can be sure that they have achieved something worthy as an accolade from their peers in Europe.”
Domestic Indoor Pools – Portrait Pools & Enclosures
Domestic Indoor Pools – London Swimming Pool Company
Domestic Indoor Pools – Alba/SB Pools
Domestic Indoor Pools – Asher Swimpool Centre
Domestic Indoor Pools – Fowler Swimming Pools
Domestic Indoor Pools – John Preston Pool & Spa Services
Above-ground Pools – Home Counties Pools & Hot Tubs
Domestic Hot Tubs – Oyster Pools & Leisure
Domestic Hot Tubs – Welsh Hot Tubs
Domestic Hot Tubs – Falcon Pools
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BSPF Managing Director Chris Hayes commented: “The BSPF is proud to be a member of EUSA and supports the EUSA Awards as a practical way of raising the profile of the great work being done in the UK and across Europe” SPN August 2015 39 23/07/2015 16:46
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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY
The Importance of ‘Buildability’ Michael Hiscock of commercial law firm Wright Hassall takes a closer look at the role and responsibilities of the contractor
I
t is important to realise that when a contractor quotes for a job, he is accepting the technological challenge that goes with it. The contractor is saying that he can do that particular job and that he can deliver the end product on that particular site in that particular location. It follows from this that the defence of ‘non-buildability’ is not a runner. The contractor cannot simply say, “I tried but it was impossible”. A contractor could, of course, include a special term in the contract saying that he does not promise that the job can be done and that he relies on somebody else, such as a professional designer. However subject to this, he promises that he can do the job. Buildability is not to be confused with the separate issue of ‘frustration’ or impossibility of performance, where subsequent events conspire to make the original scheme impossible (such as an indefinite stop on work due to a war or a local authority or government order). This responsibility for buildability goes hand in hand with another duty of the contractor – the duty to warn. The contractor is responsible for the ‘how’ of the construction process. This applies equally to finishing trades such as decorators. If there is a problem with the feasibility of the works, then the contractor should warn of this. In one famous case, a contractor was asked to knock out a number of walls. He was given a drawing which showed load bearing and non-load bearing walls. He knocked out the walls which were shown as non-load bearing and the building became structurally unsafe. The judge concluded that any competent builder should have known that the drawing was incorrect and warned that what was being asked to do was unsafe. The contractor is responsible for the temporary works such as scaffolding and all enabling works which lead to the permanent finished result. These works are his ‘province’. Whereas the ‘province’ of architects and engineers and other professional designers is normally the design of the permanent works.
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So generally speaking, the contractor does not have a defence that the architect or other designer did not warn or tell him how to go about his works. The contractor also does not have a defence that the architect or any of the client’s agents did not detect a defect at an early stage and save him money by requiring him to put it right early on. The good news is that the contractor generally does have a defence that he complied with the specification provided or that he did what he was told to do. There is a general rule that if plans and specifications are provided to a contractor to work to and especially if the building owner employs an architect, then the contractor will not have to do more than carry out the work according to the plans and specifications in a workmanlike manner and using proper materials. The owner will be unable to complain if the unsuitability of the final result is due solely to exact compliance with that design, subject to the duty to warn. However virtually no contract completely defines the work to be done. In the majority of cases there is an element of choice to be exercised by the builder over the use of materials and the nature of the work. For example, the contractor may be responsible for the mix of plaster or paint. If he is not told exactly what to do and he makes decisions for himself, then he takes on a design responsibility. It is often said that, “design is choice”.
Therefore the argument, “I did exactly what you asked me to do” is not always the cast iron defence that it appears to be. Contractors must be careful not to intermeddle in the design process where they have not agreed to take on design under the contract. This is a trap that the very good contractor often falls into. In order to help, and relying on his experience, he suggests that something could be done in a different and better way. If he doesn’t want to accept design responsibility, then he must get the client or his architect to give a clear instruction accepting responsibility for the revised method. Otherwise, by interfering in the design, the contractor will have taken on design responsibility. So there are a number of specific lessons here: • Contractors will accept responsibility for buildability unless they exclude it. • Contractors are responsible for the temporary or enabling works such as scaffolding. • Contractors may be able to rely upon the defence that they followed the specification precisely. • This is subject to their having a duty to warn that what they are being asked to do is not practical. • “Design is choice”; so if you choose what to do where the contract is silent, or if you suggest better ways of doing things, try to get a clear instruction accepting your choice and agreeing to accept responsibility for it. Michael Hiscock is Senior Associate in the Construction and Engineering Department at Wright Hassall and he can be contacted by phone on 01926 880739, or via email at michael.hiscock@wrighthassall.co.uk
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COMMERCIAL POOLS IN SUMMER
Summer Pool Plant Tips Robbie Phillips and Richard Lamburn, STA’s Technical Pool Plant Team, look at two conditions that will be faced by many commercial pool operators this summer
W
ith the summer now in full swing, schools, colleges and universities will be closed down for the summer break and usage of swimming pools will hit annual highs. In this issue of SPN we will look at two of the challenging conditions that result from the summer sun and increased participation; this includes a close look at temperatures both inside and outside of the pool water plus the sun’s impact on the effectiveness and use of disinfectants.
POOL TEMPERATURE One of the most important elements to a swimming pool user is temperature. However, the varying demands of bathers often make it nearly impossible to provide a temperature that is satisfactory to all pools users. For example, gala competitions will require temperatures to be between 25-28°C, while recommendations for babies and younger children will be to operate the pool in a range between 28-31°C. Therein lies the challenge for pool operators. The warmer the water, the more attractive the conditions become for bacterial growth. A great example of this is that the optimum temperature for Legionella growth sits at 37°C and keeping temperatures down will make conditions less attractive for bacterial growth. Also, as one increases the water temperature so does the air temperature, which does equate to substantial revenue costs. Air temperature is essential and to provide satisfactory air conditions a pool hall air’s temperature must aim to be
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the same temperature as the pool water, or up to 1 degree above, going to a maximum of 31°C (for a conventional public pool). Furthermore we should be aiming to keep humidity levels between 50% and 70%. Keeping temperatures down can often be difficult especially in summer and air circulation can assist in doing so. The air within a pool hall must be turned over constantly and operators should aim to circulate the air 3-4 times in an hour and in doing so, they should also replace air in the pool hall with around 30% of fresh air on each turnover. Evaporation by not adhering to these basic parameters can result in very costly: • Revenue implications • Uncomfortable lifeguard and staff conditions • Possible building fabric damage
OUTDOOR POOLS: USING THE RIGHT DISINFECTANT Applying sun cream is essential to many of us during the summer months and our pool water requires a similar method in protecting our disinfectants. Free chlorine is highly susceptible to degradation by UV light, so pools exposed to sunlight therefore require a sun block in order to protect and prevent this happening. Within outdoor pools we often achieve this by adding cyanuric acid, which provides a barrier of protection for the free chlorine – preventing this degradation occurring. The most common form of obtaining Cyanuric acid for the protection against UV
degradation is by using stabilised chlorine. This is most commonly found in a tablet form that contains both the chlorine donor and cyanuric (known as dichlor and trichlor). As the products dissolve they release free chlorine and cyanuric acid. cyanuric acid can be dosed separately using conventional pool sanitisers. We must though be very careful when increasing levels of cyanuric acid. Ultimately, yes, it will protect the free chlorine from the effects of the sun, but at levels outside recommended parameters it will also prevent the free chorine from disinfecting any potential bacteria. Even low levels of cyanuric acid will reduce the effectiveness of the free chlorine killing potential bacteria; so a proportional higher level of free chlorine is recommended. Also those indoor pools that are not susceptible to direct outdoor UV light are strongly advised against using stabilised chlorine. We also advise cyanuric acid levels are kept between 50 and 100ppm and should not be allowed to rise above 150ppm. The importance of effective backwashing filters and dilution cannot be over emphasised. For more advice or details on all STA’s Pool Plant Operator training courses call the STA, visit their website or email richard.lamburn@sta.co.uk STA 01922 645097 www.sta.co.uk
Take care when using stabilised chlorine. If it becomes wet, it will release chlorine gas. If mixed with a hypochlorite, it will explode. It will also react if mixed with many organic materials.
www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 23/07/2015 16:37
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WATER TESTING
Testing Times
Thanks to the latest technology, the testing of water has become more sophisticated, accurate and convenient than ever before. Over recent years, it is a sector that has been one of the most innovative within the wet leisure industry with technology literally revolutionising the testing process. It’s a sector that doesn’t stand still for long and we take a closer look at what is currently available By Andrea Hartshorne
T
he selection and ease of use of the water testing systems available to all nowadays means that there are absolutely no excuses for not testing pool and spa water correctly, regularly and precisely. “You put sunscreen on your children. You don’t let them jump in the pool right after eating. But do you test the pool water first to make sure it has been sanitised properly? “What does it mean when your pool water has a strong chlorine smell? What happens if the pH of the water is too low? How often should you be testing the water in your spa?” says Jessi Papke of Hach. Her point being, like most things in life, it’s a case of education, routine and having the right tools to do the job easily and conveniently. Thankfully, today’s accurate pool water testing products offer a solution for everyone’s pocket and as manufacturers continue to develop, refine and improve systems the ease of ensuring safe water for recreational needs continues. Human error
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will always exist but these fantastically easyto-use systems mean that the chance of these errors is now minimal.
All collected results can be viewed on a smart device and the user can then send these results via email to be hosted for any potential auditing requirements. Domestic
ACCURATE WATER TESTING MADE EASY For most public pool operators, accurate water testing is part of everyday life. When servicing a public pool, it is critical not only to read (with extreme accuracy) but also to record and react to those results. For the maintenance engineer, traceability is vital so accurate log keeping (whether manually or electronically) is paramount. New technology in the industry has now made this even simpler. The Lovibond® PM 630 multi-parameter instrument has been designed to reduce the possibility for human error. Equipped with Bluetooth® to enable data management and data exchange with a tablet or smartphone, the instrument interacts with the Lovibond® AquaLX® App, available to download free of charge in Android™ and iOS® versions.
The Lovibond® PM 630 multi-parameter instrument has been designed to reduce the possibility for human error
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WATER TESTING
For most pools, the water should be in balance if the pH value is kept within the recommended range. However, there are other factors that can have an effect on the condition of the water”
The award-winning Scuba II enables home owners to benefit from the entrusted Lovibond® technology used in public pools at a cost suited, of course, to private gardens
users can also benefit from App technology. The award-winning Scuba II enables home owners to benefit from the entrusted Lovibond® technology used in public pools at a cost suited, of course, to private gardens. The Scuba II is a small, compact, easy-touse digital water tester for the five most important tests: free chlorine, total chlorine, pH, alkalinity and cyanuric acid. Results can be programmed in PoolM8 (also free to download for Android™ and iOS®) where balanced water readings (or the Langelier Index) can be calculated, saved and likewise mailed. For most pools, the water should be in balance if the pH value is kept within the recommended range. However, there are other factors that can have an effect on the condition of the water. Regularly monitoring and maintaining alkalinity within the proposed range keeps the pH stable and helps the effectiveness of disinfectant used in the pool. High alkalinity levels reduce the effectiveness of adding acid or alkali to the water: low alkalinity levels increase their effectiveness: either way, pH levels are more difficult to change. Changes in calcium hardness levels can affect fixtures and fittings within the pool. Low levels often result in the loss of grout around the tiles, as the water tries to satisfy its need for calcium. High levels can lead
WaterLink Spin in-store lab is run from a laptop or desktop computer, using either DataMate10 or the Cloud based DataMate Web software
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to build up of calcium, leaving deposits in the pool structure and pipe work. This can reduce the efficiency of the filters, increasing maintenance, labour and time. High levels can also affect other tests, including the DPD test for chlorine. An ideal, slightly positive balanced water will leave a thin layer of calcium which acts as protection against corrosion.
The WaterLink Spin photometer is a revolutionary professional water analysis laboratory that can achieve a full suite of water analysis, with just one water sample
MOBILE WATERLINK SPIN FROM LAMOTTE The WaterLink Spin photometer is a revolutionary professional water analysis laboratory that can achieve a full suite of water analysis, with just one water sample, in just 60 seconds. Each unique reagent disk contains the exact amount of reagent to measure, pH, total chlorine, free chlorine and seven other parameters of water chemistry. Designed to make pool and spa analysts’ lives easier, the WaterLink Spin is available as an in-store lab or mobile lab that can be taken pool-side in its sturdy waterproof carry case. The in-store lab is run from a laptop or desktop computer. Using either DataMate10 or the Cloud based DataMate Web software; a recommendation based report is generated. Relevant customer information, details of their pool or spa and a history of previous tests are stored on the software making for a quick, easy and customer centric approach to in-store water testing. Utilising the latest Bluetooth® technology, the mobile spin lab can be run wirelessly via the WaterLink Spin Android™ app. Once the test is complete, the app presents the results on screen as PPM readings within seconds. Add an internet connection and you can generate a full recommendation based report via Cloud based DataMate Web software. The pool can then be treated there and then. No more guessing at colour changes with comparators and no more waiting for reagents to react, the WaterLink Spin is faster, simpler and more accurate than anything that has gone before in the pool and spa water testing market.
PRIMELAB – A POPULAR CHOICE IN WATER TESTING The PrimeLab 1.0 Multitest Bluetooth® photometer from Pool-i.d. is a portable and easy to use device for testing pool and spa water, utilising latest technologies and is a popular choice when it comes to water testing. Available through Certikin International and Complete Pool Controls , the handheld PrimeLab 1.0 Multitest is the only photometer with just one JENCOLOR multispectral sensor; it is possible to measure all water parameters where the water sample is visibly discoloured after the addition of a reagent. The excellent accuracy of the JENCOLOR sensor even allows selfcalibration of the system at the press of a button and one LED to cover 400 different wavelengths simultaneously.
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WATER TESTING The eXact iDip® App when used with the handheld eXact iDip® Smart Photometer allows testing for over 35 pool water quality parameters
Each PrimeLab photometer is supplied preloaded with essential parameters for the pool and spa user – free chlorine/bromine, total chlorine/bromine, calcium hardness, pH, alkalinity and cyanuric acid. The full version of PrimeLab 1.0 Multitest can be expanded for a multitude of tests for the professional user. The expandability of the PrimeLab ensures that even after the device has been purchased, the user can activate more and new parameters to meet the needs of water testing requirements. Due to wireless Bluetooth® technology of the PrimeLab as well as free PC software and App with free Cloud service; reports and dosage recommendations can be defined by the user and even connected to GPS coordinates by just a click on a map. Doing so, you can always keep track of test results, related to user defined accounts. “If, for instance, your engineers are maintaining the pool, you can programme the PrimeLab with the jobs that they need to visit during the week, then download the data to the central database when they return to base. It could not be easier! Each PrimeLab can be given a customer’s pool. This also allows you to offer advice on the chemical condition of the pool and helps you to sell more chemicals,” said Steve Cooper of Pooli.d. UK, adding: “The PrimeLab is the most sophisticated photometer in its class and can assist on a regime of accurate control and measurement of any type of water. The PrimeLab is able to measure any colorimetric test method from Aluminium to Zinc with the use of reagents (mainly tablets but powders or liquids can be used if the customer
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prefers). It’s very different from the current products that use several LEDs at specific wavelength or interference filters and then use ‘transmission or absorption’ to get the result.”
EXACT IDIP® – TWO WAY APP COMMUNICATION
THE IMPORTANCE OF TESTING AND HACH’S SOLUTIONS Regular testing of water chemistry in a pool or spa can help maintain a healthy and attractive aquatic environment. First of all, a proper level of sanitiser, such as chlorine or bromine, helps to protect bathers from potentially harmful microorganisms. Water that is out of balance can cause burning eyes and irritated skin and can potentially lead to a serious illness. Pool and spa water should be tested frequently to ensure that it will be fun and comfortable for everyone. Having the correct water balance can also save you money by protecting your pool or spa equipment. If pool water is corrosive, it may cause etching and pitting of concrete and plaster-lined pools, and may cause the vinyl liner to wrinkle. Corrosive or acidic water can also damage the heater, pump and filter, leading to hundreds of pounds in costs for unnecessary repairs. If water is oversaturated with mineral content, it will deposit excess minerals on the pool and equipment in the form of scale. AquaChek® is a leading brand of recreational water testing products for the swimming pool and spa industry. AquaChek® maintains the highest quality standards for its products and has achieved a 5+ Sigma Quality Rating for its most popular test strip products. AquaChek® offers a diverse product line that includes digital test strip readers and sensor based testers – for residential, in-store, service and commercial applications. For those working in the field, Hach Pocket Pro and Pro+ are engineered to deliver accurate results you can be confident in. Reliable performance is ensured with a stabilisation lock that helps users take the correct sample, ongoing calibration for select models, and a performance diagnostic for pH. Users can go into every testing location trusting the tester is operating at peak performance. Pocket testers have to be usable on the go which means they should operate when users need them. The Hach Pocket Pro and Pro+ testers are powered by AAA batteries that are quick to replace in the field so owners don’t get caught without power when they need it. If users are in the field they are also on the move and that means they need a clear and easy display to
The eXact iDip® App when used with the handheld eXact iDip® Smart Photometer allows testing for over 35 pool water quality parameters through a simple 4-step process. The App uses 2-way wireless communication with the Photometer’s built-in device Bluetooth® Smart allowing for instantaneous software updates, market versatility, and customisation. Through the eXact iDip® App, testing location data and test results are stored with its GPS enabled feature allowing for efficient data management and sharing. Testing data is shared via email or exported to a spreadsheet. The built-in GPS feature allows for easy retrieval of water locations. The eXact iDip® App utilises technology that harnesses the processing power of smart devices (both iOS and Android) and priced at just £124.99 makes the eXact iDip® Smart Photometer an affordable option. With the ability to customise the App and download only the tests you need, pool technicians will also appreciate the ability to store customer data, eliminating repetitive data entry tasks while saving time and money. The eXact iDip® Smart Photometer is The AquaChek family of testing products waterproof (IP-67), durable, and is from Hach are designed to keep water clean and balanced, as well as being affordable and easy to use backed by a 2-year warranty.
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WATER TESTING capture accurate readings regardless of the conditions. The Pocket Pro and Pro+ are both designed with a large, easy-to-read LCD screen to ensure users accurately capture readings on the go.
WATER CONFIDENCE FROM GOLDEN COAST Golden Coast’s complete range of testing solutions ensures water quality. The comprehensive range of water testing products from Golden Coast allows commercial and domestic pool and spa owners – whatever their budget – to keep aware of their water quality. For home pool and spa customers looking for a simple testing method, there are InstaTest products. These testing strips provide an affordable solution. Simply place in the water to assess chlorine or bromine concentration, alkalinity, pH and hardness. Tablet reagents from Lovibond also offer simple and affordable handling in domestic pools and spas. A key benefit of this product is rapid and accurate dosage, together with safe, easy storage and a guaranteed shelf life of up to ten years. Meeting the challenge of commercial water testing requires much more sophisticated systems. The simple, intuitive Pooltest 25 Photometer Kit delivers complete pool testing in an easy-to-use photometer. It was used at both Beijing 2008 and London 2012 and offers the most comprehensive range of tests available –
The simple, intuitive Pooltest 25 Photometer Kit delivers complete pool testing in an easy-to-use photometer and was used at both Beijing 2008 and London 2012
including Langelier Saturation Index and water balance. Suitable for use anywhere, its USB port is bi-directional, allowing data download without the need for specialist software and remote control via proprietary pool software programmes. The vast and sometimes confusing array of chemicals, solutions, processes and treatments can be dazzling for the new pool or spa owner so, with that in mind, some companies produce free guides to assist with
ADVANCES IN WATER TESTING Andrew Roberts, Assistant Sales Manager for Industrial Test Systems Inc. explains the developments and advances in safe water testing systems. As computers and digital processors were created, so were digital methods for water quality testing. The first machines were expensive to manufacture and keep calibrated, and were limited to only one parameter. As the digital era expanded and the costs associated with production were lowered, digital testing methods became more accessible and more capable, opening up digital testing to more applications, such as the recreational water market. Today, multiple manufacturers make photometers and/or colorimeters that can test anywhere from one to 250 parameters, and range in price from less than £30 to more than several thousand pounds. These devices are typically either handheld units for field use, or bench-top units that stay inside the store and are fully self-contained when it comes to testing and displaying results.
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With the development of smartphones, tablets and computers came the birth of smart digital water testing. Now there is no need for a digital testing meter to have a built-in processor, as long as it can communicate with a smart device. All the testing instrument needs to be able to do is determine the colour development created by the addition of a reagent and send this value to the smart device. From there, the smart device can process, convert and display the results. Added capabilities include saving results digitally; keeping history of tests; adding date, time and GPS location; and exporting, e-mailing results instantly. This also creates accountability for the company that is in charge of providing accurate testing. As the digital era continues to flourish, so will water analysis, and in turn the safety of our water, regardless of market or requirement.
maintaining and treating pool or spa water to keep it within a safe and comfortable level. A pool or hot tub is a major investment and it needs to be kept in the best condition possible and having the correct products to monitor and dose as and when required is paramount. Each year brings new equipment and products and as suppliers and providers of pools and spas we must ensure we are at the forefront with the knowledge and expertise to move with the changing market.
FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin International 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk Complete Pool Controls 01242 662700 www.cpc-chemicals.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.GCTrade.co.uk Hach + 800 227 4224 www.hach.com ITS Europe/Sensafe 01722 717911 www.itseurope.co.uk LaMotte Europe 01926 498203 www.lamotte-europe.com Lovibond Tintometer 01980 664800 www.lovibond.com Pool-i.d. + 49 (0) 721 7820 2910 www.primelab.org
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leak detection service will have your customers splashing
Our
about in no time Don’t drown under the pressure of finding swimming pool pipe leaks. Working in collaboration with swimming pool companies and engineers our nationwide team of experienced and expert technicians are fully equipped with the latest technologies, including tracer gas, to identify the source of the leak quickly, efficiently and cost effectively. To find out more, call today on 0845 600 4306, email uk_leakdetection@polygongroup.com or visit www.polygonleakdetection.com to use our live chat service.
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tthe he ppower ower ooff AAOP! O P! Tel: Tel: +44 +4 4 11355 355 2220 20 5598 98 w www.triogen.com w w.triogen.com info@triogen.com info@ triogen.com
THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH
Alternative Action Whether it’s chemicals products or systems such as UV and Ozone, when it comes to low and no chlorine options, there’s no shortage of solutions on offer. The alternative approach for treating water with zero or reduced amounts of chlorine shows no signs of slowing up as people seek an alternative way to treat water. We look at some of the available options to reduce chlorine usage in pools and spas By Karen Witney
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or a number of years the industry has been put under pressure to come up with pool and spa disinfection that does not rely solely on chlorine or bromine to sanitise and is safe and trustworthy. There are now many alternative treatments available that are just that. Low to no chlorine, it would seem, is the way forward in both domestic and commercial situations and is a welcome alternative for indoor pools to eradicate chemical smells. Chlorine will always have its place in pool sanitation but the alternatives are fast gaining ground.
LO-CHLOR CHEMICALS NEW STARVER X® FROM TOTAL WATER PRODUCTS For many years Lo-Chlor Chemicals has been recognised as the global leader in phosphate removal, which began in the mid 1990’s with the launch of Starver®. Advancements in this area have changed the way we treat algae in both domestic and commercial swimming pools. By reducing phosphates and eliminating algae we reduce the demand for chlorine as a sanitiser – therefore pools can operate over a season with much lower levels of chlorine consumption. Starver® technology is now sold in over 50 countries worldwide and its popularity has become recognised as the most revolutionary and effective speciality chemical to reach the pool and spa market to date. Developed in Australia in 2013, Revolutionary phosphate neutraliser Starver® from Total Water Products enhances water clarity and increases sanitiser efficiency
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This attractive leisure centre pool is effectively and continuously protected with HydroXan® from Gaffey Technical Services
and now manufactured in the UK, StarverX® efficiently reduces high levels of phosphates before switching back to using the original Starver® as the ongoing preventative maintenance treatment. The proprietary blend of rare earth compounds effectively acts as a ‘shock treatment’ for high levels of phosphate (above 1.5ppm) and will neutralise and remove dissolved phosphate within 24 hours. This highly concentrated, unique formulation removes higher levels of phosphate than any other product and is compatible with all pool treatments and equipment.
HYDROXAN® FROM GAFFEY TECHNICAL SERVICES Protect water hygiene and reduce the energy demand of the pool with HydroXan®, a patented non-hazardous liquid TCDO compound producing a safe, controlled residual of chlorine dioxide in chlorinated
pool water. Chlorine dioxide is well known for its efficiency as an oxidiser, being particularly effective in destroying biofilm, known to harbour pathogenic bacteria such as Legionella and Pseudomonas species. Chlorine dioxide is also effective in destroying Cryptosporidium, with HydroXan® being used successfully in the clean-up of several high profile outbreaks in the UK and Europe. HydroXan® is dosed into the pool flow continuously in very small quantities to produce a constant low-level chlorine dioxide residual throughout the pool, allowing a significant reduction in the consumption of chlorine whilst providing an additional boost to disinfection throughout the whole pool. Irritant chlorine by-products and odour are also significantly reduced, improving the comfort and health of bathers and pool-side staff. The advantage of HydroXan® is that chlorine dioxide
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THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH yield increases when organic pollution is introduced to pool water by bathers, unlike free chlorine which is depleted, providing a robust water treatment system. A compact HydroXan® dosing station can be installed and operated at a fraction of the cost and carbon footprint of UV systems, bringing advanced disinfection within the reach of any commercial pool or spa facility. HydroXan® is safe to handle and easy to dose using accurate equipment which requires no technical intervention by pool staff. A typical 25m community pool will require less than one litre of HydroXan® per day.
CPC’S LUXURIOUS BATHING OPTIONS The innovative Aquablanc range of chlorinefree pool and spa products is seeing a rapid growth in its popularity. Domestic pools and spas using Aquablanc, benefit from pure, gentle and safe water without the accompanying odours and sometimes harsher bathing conditions that are associated with traditional halogen (chlorine and bromine) based sanitisers. There are two easy-to-use options for swimming pools. Traditional Aquablanc Combi Tablets are based on a double tablet system, usually applied on a weekly basis to achieve safe, crystal clear water. Aquablanc O2 Gentle is offered as a truly multifunctional twin sachet system. Based on active oxygen with a powerful liquid algaecide, the innovative formula also comprises scale prevention and pH buffers. This gentle approach to pool care is soft to the skin and eyes and convenient to dose, usually on a weekly basis. This really does offer the ultimate luxurious bathing environment. Hot tubs and spas are well served also. Aquablanc Spa provides an easy to use, soft and gentle sanitising system for domestic hot tubs. Supplied as a comprehensive starter kit or individual products, the two Aquablanc spa components work in synergy for safe and gentle spa water. Aquablanc as a system is very flexible, so can also be used in conjunction with regular balancing, oxidising and speciality products.
SUREX 002 OXYSURE™ NON CHLORINE ACTIVE OXYGEN The UK’s favourite chlorine alternative for hot tubs and spas, Surex OO2 Oxysure excels itself year by year and has become increasingly popular for spa showrooms and hot tub dealers. Surex OO2 Oxysure is Active Oxygen and has no smell or no taste. It can be used in spas, hot tubs, above-ground pools, swimming pools and baths. Surex OO2 basically replaces the daily application of chlorine granules leaving a clean, no smell, no taste, almost natural feeling water in the pool or spa. The product is ecologically friendly and suitable for those with asthma, ezcema and similiar complaints. Surex OO2 Oxysure is a peroxygen, it liberates oxygen and is as powerful as any chlorine donor and more powerful than bromine. Surex OO2 Oxysure is the ultimate in swimming comfort . Additionally Surex OO2 Oxysure is more conductive to a safer ecology – no CFC’s are given off into the atmosphere and the compound cannot affect the environment when the pool water is backwashed down the drain, thus can be named ‘green friendly’. Surex OO2 Oxysure cannot produce the wheezes associated with the use of chlorine in indoor applications and rashes often experienced with bromine. It is also far more gentle on the fabric of the pool, liners and ancillary equipment especially covers and pool cleaners. The compound has much less effect on the degradation of air conditioning systems than chlorine substances and gives a superior atmospheric environment.
HYDROCHLOR SALT WATER CHLORINATOR FROM WATERCO Ocean water has a salt content of around 35,000 parts per million (‘ppm’). Humans have a salt taste threshold of around 3,500 ppm. The Hydrochlor requires a salt content of 4,000 - 6,000 ppm. Swimming in a mild saline solution is like taking a shower
Hydrochlor from Waterco maintains a constant sanitiser level and water feels smooth and soft on the skin
in soft water. In a salt-water pool (one with Hydrochlor) water feels smooth, skin feels smooth and many people feel more refreshed. The Hydrochlor will automatically maintain the chlorine level of the pool and eliminate problems associated with periods of very high or low chlorine levels. Consistently maintained sanitiser levels in the pool water will prevent the growth of all common algae. A salt-water chlorinated pool requires less attention than a chlorine pool. Salt water feels better and is less irritating than standard chlorinated water. The Hydrochlor is plumbed directly in-line with the pool equipment, typically after the heater. Hydrochlor consists of a power pack (to supply power to the cell) and a Salt Cell (where chlorine is produced). The Power Pack monitors and controls chlorine production by regulating the amount of electrical energy supplied to the salt cell. The Hydrochlor’s salt cell consists of a series of titanium electrodes with opposite charges. Hydrochlor’s clear salt cell housing allows visual inspection of the salt cell plates and enables monitoring of chlorine production. The cell housing is constructed using clear UV stabilised acrylic. Both anode and cathode of the self-clean chlorinator are made from uniquely coated titanium plates for extra durability. Once a Hydrochlor is installed and the desirable salt level is achieved, salt needs only to be added occasionally to replace any water loss. A battery backup is incorporated to save the settings in the event of electrical power disruptions.
TOPLINE’S ULTRAVIOLET GENERATION The Aquablanc range of chlorine free pool and spa treatments from CPC give users the ultimate experience in luxurious bathing
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When discussing the alternatives to chlorination of a pool, ultraviolet generation (UV) is most likely to be suggested. It’s important to be clear that UV generation is not an alternative to chlorine. With ten years’ of experience in the manufacturing of low pressure UV, Topline Electronics, of Hailsham in the UK, are very well placed to explain the overall benefits of UV, but are quick to point out that UV is not a
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THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH Hanovia’s new SwimLine Splash range is specifically designed for treating smaller water flows and will reduce the amount of chlorine used
replacement for chlorine. In terms of minimising chlorine use UV can reduce the amount of free chlorine that is measured in a pool by up to 50%, but since UV has no residual effect outside the UV chamber the pool requires an additional residual disinfectant to minimise cross infection between bathers. Photooxidisation through UV generation reduces the amount of dilution required to remove unwanted combined chlorine compounds from the pool and will also inactivate the microorganisms that chlorine cannot easily remove, such as Cryptosporidium. A typical pool can reduce the free chlorine residual from 1.5ppm to around 0.8ppm, resulting in an increased user experience, both in the pool and the pool surround atmosphere. The benefits of the Topline Low Pressure UV, when compared to a medium pressure UV system, are much lower energy consumption and reduced spares requirements. A 7kW medium pressure system will typically use around £6,000 of electricity per year. A Topline low pressure unit will use only £500 of electricity in a year, and requires only a lamp and quartz sleeve change each year, minimising the spares requirements many UV units require. The Topline ultraviolet treatment system offers a unique full flow design to eliminate dead spots and areas of poor flow within the chamber, and can be configured to treat any size of system and is used widely for all types of swimming pools, spas, hydrotherapy pools, interactive play structures and water features.
HANOVIA’S ‘SWIMLINE SPLASH’ DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR SMALL FLOWS
From hydrotherapy spas to full-sized competition pools, UV is now a wellestablished method of swimming pool water treatment. This growth in popularity has been largely due to UV’s reliability and ease of use, combined with the reduced reliance on traditional chemical treatments it affords. Another major benefit of UV is that it significantly reduces the need for backwashing and dilution, saving hundreds of pounds a month for pool operators. There are two main types of UV technology based on the type of UV lamps used: low pressure and medium pressure. Low pressure lamps have a monochromatic UV output (limited to a single wavelength at 254nm), whereas medium pressure lamps have a polychromatic UV output (with an output between 185-400nm). Owners and operators of small pools and spas don’t need large UV systems to treat their water. What they do need, however, is high quality, reliable UV technology designed for smaller water flows. Hanovia’s medium pressure UV technology virtually eliminates the need for chlorination (except for small residual amounts) – so sore eyes and the unpleasant ‘chlorine smell’ are a thing of the past. In countless Hanovia installations around the world, bathers and staff always comment on how much better the air quality around the pool is. Added to that, UV-treated water is demonstrably clearer and there is less wear and tear to building structures from unwanted chlorine by-products. The SwimLine Splash is economical to operate, very compact and easy to install, service and maintain – all important considerations for small operators and if required, UV output can also be optimised with an optional UV intensity monitor. Commenting on Hanovia’s technology, one pool operator in Auckland, New Zealand summed up the benefits of UV by saying: “When you take into account the increase
Certikin's CUV Systems are ideal for most domestic pool applications and provide brilliant water clarity
When you take into account the increase in visitors we’re now getting (the pool was losing visitors prior to switching to UV because of chloramines), combined with the reduction in costs for water, lost energy and chemicals, the savings have been considerable” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 51-54_SPN_Aug_2015_Alternative_Approach_Feature_rev.indd 53
in visitors we’re now getting (the pool was losing visitors prior to switching to UV because of chloramines), combined with the reduction in costs for water, lost energy and chemicals, the savings have been considerable.”
CERTIKIN UV SYSTEMS BRING WATER TO LIFE New for 2015 is the Certikin CUV systems for domestic pools. A Certikin UV system will enable a pool to run hygienically with a low level of disinfectant. Just 0.5ppm minimum free chlorine is required for background sanitation. Certikin’s UV range consists of 30, 55 and 110 Watt systems and are ideal for providing the benefits of ultraviolet treatment to most domestic applications. CUVs ensure that the swimming pool water will have amazing clarity, by killing the single cell algae that causes green water. All CUV units have been designed using the latest technology to ensure that the water will flow effectively within the unit, allowing the ultraviolet light to destroy the algae as it passes through. It also breaks down chloramines (combined chlorine), which are a major factor in chlorine odour and bather irritation. Not only do they look very stylish, making it a fantastic addition to any pool, but it has been designed with a fully UV stabilised, tough outer casing. This means that the CUV can withstand the recommended operating pressures of 2 bar. The CUV has a low energy, electronic ballast that is positioned in a fully water tight compartment, fused with full thermal overload protection on the 55W and 110W systems. Certikin’s CUVs are built with both safety and low running costs in mind. The systems are simple to install, and are supplied with pre-fitted stainless steel mounting brackets that allow the unit to be fixed horizontally or vertically. Every unit comes complete with a two year guarantee and are compatible with salt chlorinators.
GOLDEN COAST AND TRIOGEN BRING HOME THE ADVANTAGES OF UV AND OZONE DISINFECTION Golden Coast and Triogen Ltd have announced an exclusive distribution agreement for Triogen’s systems in the UK. Golden Coast’s Managing Director Jamie Adams says: “We are very keen to bring the benefits of Triogen’s technology to more pool and spa owners, particularly in the residential sector,” adding: “But while affordability is key for owners, the main benefit of switching to UV disinfection is improved water quality.” The essential principle of Triogen’s TR2 Ultra low-pressure UV disinfection systems is that they use radiation from UV lamps to inactivate the cells of undesirable organisms in the water. Medium-pressure lamps are often used for large swimming pools,
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THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH but low-pressure lamps are more than sufficiently effective for residential pools and spas – and have the advantage of consuming less energy. Other cost-saving features of the TR2 Ultra range include automatic shutdown to conserve power in the absence of flow, as well as a robust, low-maintenance construction. Their reactor bodies are made from UV-inhibited polymeric materials, which are totally resistant to corrosion, and their UV lamps have a life of 18 months. The TR2 Ultra UV systems have a two year warranty, including a pro rata warranty for the lifespan of the UV lamps. The compact units have been designed for quick and easy fitting. Each comes complete with union adapters, a pressure gauge and a pressure switch, ready for simple connection to a suitably protected power supply. TR2 Ultra units are available in three sizes, to treat flows of 11, 22, or 32 cubic metres per hour. They are equipped with one, two, or three high-output UV lamps and can deliver UV irradiation at a powerful dose of 30mJ per square Golden Coast offer the robust and energy saving Triogen TR2 Ultra low pressure UV system for residential pools
Triogen’s compact ozone generators have been supplied to private and hotel swimming pools for over a generation
centimetre at the end of lamp life. When it comes to ozone, Triogen’s compact generators have been supplied to private and hotel swimming pools for over a generation. Ozone is regarded as one of the most powerful water treatment solutions, providing disinfection, oxidation and flocculation, resulting in significant improvements to both air and water quality. With its innovative ceramic corona discharge module, which reduces the build up of nitric acid, the Compact TOGB2 ozone generator is designed to operate for 10-15 years without maintenance parts. Well proven in the pool market it offers consistent
EXPLOITING THE SYNERGY BETWEEN ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT AND OZONE Combined treatment techniques are increasingly used in industrial water and effluent treatment plants to deal with the most difficult pollution reduction problems. Triogen has developed the technique for use in spas and swimming pools and have harnessed the combined power of ozone and UV light in the unique UVAZONE process to improve the quality of pool water significantly. The UVAZONE system has been developed and tested in a municipal swimming pool and comparative results show that the process efficiently oxidises chloramines, organic and chloro-organic materials without the generation of hazardous by-products in the water or atmosphere. In addition, excellent bacteriological results were consistently achieved with lower free-chlorine residuals. The UVAOZONE unit is installed on a by-pass from the return line, downstream of the filters. The chlorinated water is pumped through a venturi injector which draws the necessary vacuum though an air-fed, corona discharge ozone generator
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and efficiently mixes the ozone with the water flow. The mixture passes through one or more contact vessels with sequential UV reactors which allow the oxidation and disinfection to occur. Residual ozone is photochemically destroyed before water leaves the contact vessel. Air and unreacted ozone is vented from the contact vessel through the activated carbon to destroy remaining ozone. The synergy between ozone and UV in this process leads to the generation of highly reactive free radicals. Hydroxyl radicals enhance the decomposition of organic pollutants in a powerful but shortlived reaction, which can only occur in the photoreactor. Because ozone in the water is photochemically destroyed, no carbon is required for deozonation. This removes the risk of bacterial growth under a carbon bed. In all, the UVAZONE system offers excellent pathogen control and a reduction in irritant chloramines levels with no risk of accumulation of reaction by-products, together with easy installation, operation and maintenance.
high ozone outputs to allow the clients safely to set reductions in the residual disinfectant dose, with minimal maintenance requirements and running costs. The vacuum system eliminates risk of ozone leakage during ozone production and it is supplied with a complete range of ancillaries which are required for installation including contact tanks and degassers for the removal of excess ozone gas.
FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin International 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk Complete Pool Controls 01242 662700 www.cpc-chemicals.co.uk Gaffey Technical Services 01254 350180 www.gaffey.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.gctrade.co.uk Hanovia Ltd 01753 515300 www.hanovia.com Surex 0845 260 0555 www.surex.co.uk Topline Electronics Ltd 01323 440760 www.topline.uk.net Total Water Products 01639 823233 www.totalwaterproducts.co.uk Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu
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THE POWER IN UV TECHNOLOGY FOR POOLS & SPAS
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COMMERCIAL SERVICE & MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS
Keeping Facilities Running For pool and spa owners, nothing provides more peace of mind than a service and/or maintenance contract and for commercial facilities, these contracts are quite literally an essential. After all a swimming pool or spa that’s out of action equals a loss of revenue and often reputation too. We take a closer look at some of the companies providing these crucial contracts around the country By Jon Wadeson
I
t goes without saying that most car owners get their cars serviced on a regular basis and by doing so, they ensure their vehicle maintains optimal performance and the chances of problems are reduced. For this reason, it’s become part of a routine for the vast majority and it’s the same for most swimming pool or spa owners too. However should you have a problem with a domestic pool, spa and to a lesser degree car too, it’s generally accepted that it’s not a major problem for there to be some down time as there are normally alternative plans that can be arranged. However in a commercial setting, the importance is greatly increased as the expectations of a paying public demand that facilities are useable as and when needed and if they are not, a facility’s reputation is at stake. And with other leisure options often on offer, it doesn’t take too many instances of disappointment for the public to vote with their feet and take their spend elsewhere. Many pool builders around the country
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provide maintenance contracts as part of their service offering but this issue we highlight just some of the companies that keep commercial pools’ reputations intact and ensure those allimportant revenues keep on flowing.
DEDICATED TO REDUCING DOWNTIME AND OPERATING COSTS Award winning, JC Leisure Solutions, is a leading specialist in leisure facilities management, water hygiene and swimming pool and spa service and engineering. Based in Witham, Essex, but operating throughout the UK and Ireland, JC Leisure Solutions use only in-house, qualified, commercial swimming pool technicians, M&E operatives and water consultants. They specialise in providing reliable support in a cost effective and efficient manner and design turnkey FM programmes to suit the needs of each client via a consultative approach where you can be sure to see maximum value, every day. They are a company that is dedicated to
raising the standards of the nation’s leisure facilities and reducing leisure operator’s facility downtime and operating costs. They offer the full spectrum of facilities management provision, some of which include: • a 24 hour FM helpdesk • Reactive fabric, M&E and wetside maintenance • Planned preventative maintenance • Compliance testing & inspection • Project works – refurbishment, new build, dilapidations • Grounds maintenance, cleaning & security • Water hygiene & maintenance programmes – Legionella control • Swimming pool filtration refurbishment and enhancement • Automatic chemical dosing systems • Balance tank cleaning • STA approved pool operations training JC Leisure Solutions find working in ‘partnership’ with their clients to be very
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COMMERCIAL SERVICE & MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS
Breakdowns and sudden failures cause facilities to close temporarily leading to loss of revenues, customer dissatisfaction and potential reputation damage
important when creating and executing a plant room maintenance programme. Director Nicole Lester says: “We make it a priority to take the time to identify what the customer wants to achieve in their business. Whether it is to reduce facility downtime, operating costs or energy efficiency. We then match their objectives with a tailored and relevant plant room package.” The company’s client base includes hotel chains, health clubs, public and state pools, NHS and private hospitals and school pools.
THE KEY TO SAFE, CLEAN AND EFFICIENT POOL OPERATION Drawing from over 25 years’ of experience in the commercial pool sector, Combined Leisure Solutions (CLS) are fully aware of the challenges faced by pool operators. From national corporate multi-site operations to local community trusts, including hotels, gym spas, schools and healthcare facilities, they appreciate the particular needs of all types of installation and how to get the best out of them. According to CLS, the key to safe, clean and efficient swimming pool operation is regular structured maintenance. All pool plants are different with various factors impacting water quality and operational costs, therefore it is imperative that a personalised maintenance schedule is established. CLS can perform detailed analysis of the plant and its operation, taking into account the personal environment of the pool and its facilities. The company will then construct a personalised maintenance plan/pack that will ensure the highest water quality is achieved. Scheduled checks and tests can be completed by their team at the facility, providing a detailed risk assessment of the health of the
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plant including identification of upcoming maintenance tasks to assist in financial forecasting. CLS can also complete the day-to-day management of a pool, by outsourcing the operational control of the plant/ tank environments – consolidating all the associated activities (servicing, maintenance, cleaning) often resulting in cost savings in both core services (water, gas, electricity) and chemical orders. CLS can complete seasonal maintenance for a site, which can include winterisation for outdoor pools as well as commissioning and decommission of the plant operations. The company also highlight that inefficient operation of any commercial pool will result in a loss of profits that can often be higher than operators may realise. For example, some of the costs of maintaining a pool are obvious and up front. Everyone is used to ‘shopping around’ to getting the best deal possible on things like chemicals, utility bills and parts – it would be crazy not to. But have you considered that inefficient operation – the hidden costs of running a commercial pool – could be costing more than all of those things combined? Poor staffing rotas, irregular maintenance and complacency with suppliers can all add unnecessary costs and undermine good practice in other areas. CLS can help businesses carry out an operational analysis to identify key areas of improvement. By taking an independent, broad view of all aspects of a business – including staffing levels, supply chains, chemical management and working procedures – they will provide an improvement plan designed to identify the areas where a business could be losing profit through ineffective operation. What’s more, they can help to implement it and measure the results.
CLS are also able to work with operators to help identify the most cost efficient upgrades that suit an operation. They can help plan out upgrade options, plot the expected returns and complete a full return on investment evaluation to see when the savings and improvements will be realised.
MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS AND BALANCE TANK SPECIALISTS Pool Maintenance Ltd have been in the water treatment industry for more than 35 years and have accumulated a vast amount of expertise and experience enabling them to guarantee the operational performance and upkeep of even the most demanding water treatment applications. They deal with swimming, leisure and hydrotherapy pools and as you would expect offer servicing and maintenance contracts, however one of their specialist areas is balance tank cleaning. Balance tank cleaning along with filtration and chemical dosing is an integral part of keeping the pool water well balanced, making it safe and clean for bathers to use. Body fats, moisturisers, false tans, perfumes, salts, etc are substances which bathers bring into the pool on their person. These substances adhere to the water particles causing bio-films to form on the water’s surface. As the water enters the balance tank (and also the filters) the bio-films form a membrane on the balance tank walls and ceilings giving bacteria, Legionnaires, Pseudomonas and E-Coli a platform on which to grow. They grow at an alarming rate and thrive in such places as balance tanks and filters. PWTAG advise balance tanks to be cleaned and inspected every 12 months however, due to balance tanks and filters being classed as confined spaces it should be noted that only
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COMMERCIAL SERVICE & MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS fully qualified personnel are allowed entry. All Pool Maintenance Ltd’s operatives are confined space trained and are fully equipped with the relevant emergency rescue equipment such as tripod, winch, harness, 10 min escape sets, gas detectors etc. Method statements and risk assessments are issued prior to any works carried out and an acceptance note signed upon completion. It’s also worth noting that Pool Maintenance Ltd can carry out these works overnight, causing minimum disruption to a facility.
PLANNED PREVENTATIVE AND REACTIVE MAINTENANCE FROM HYDROSPEC Hydrospec carry out planned maintenance for all types of swimming pools and water-related leisure facilities to give peace of mind that such events will be, if not eliminated completely, a very rare event. They fully appreciate that maintaining a swimming pool and leisure facility is of paramount importance, particularly in the commercial sector. Breakdowns and sudden failures cause facilities to close temporarily leading to loss of revenues, customer dissatisfaction and potential reputation damage. The company’s planned preventative maintenance is designed to keep the pool plant in first-class condition and reliable, efficient working order. Hydrospec maintenance contract customers also benefit from privileges like their 24/7 advice service and, if required, emergency on-site engineer attendance, normally within 24 hours. This service is further backed-up by their engineering department, for the repair of equipment in their own workshops which, in the vast majority of cases, means an almost immediate turn around on damaged or broken equipment. Their service vehicles are fully equipped with comprehensive stocks of spare parts, fittings and sundry consumables for all plant and equipment specified and installed by Hydrospec, as well as those for other commonly encountered industry products, thus minimising call-backs and return visits.
A BUSINESS FOCUSED ON COMMERCIAL POOLS Established in 1988, Derbyshire based filtration and water treatment specialist Sterling Hydrotech have a network of Technical Support and Service teams operating regionally, backed up by their head office management and administration team and stores. With a business focus on commercial pools,
CASE STUDY: WATERGATE SCHOOL
IN LEWISHAM, LONDON When J C Leisure Solutions (JCL) were approached by Nick Frost of Watergate School in Lewisham, they understood that the swimming pool was very important to their school and the pupils. Nick said: “When we needed to replace our previous pool contractor, we had to make certain that we picked an efficient and effective company. We cannot afford for our children to miss out on vital therapy or swimming sessions.” Watergate School is London Borough of Lewisham’s school for children with severe learning difficulties at primary age. They have 90 pupils aged between 3 and 11. Some have profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD), and are wheelchair users who have motor needs. The hydrotherapy pool is particularly good for their development. “As you can appreciate the swimming pool is very important to our school and its pupils. The majority of our pupils have severe learning difficulties (SLD) and they use the pool for swimming sessions which are delivered by our teaching and other staff. Many have an Autistic Spectrum diagnosis, and simply do not understand if we have to close the facility because they can see that it is still there! This causes much anxiety when it occurs,” said Nick.
spas and hydrotherapy pools, their service and maintenance agreements are tailored to suit the client’s needs and they are able to offer a variety of contract and maintenance agreements with frequencies matched to an operator’s requirement. They also offer fixed price three year contracts and multiple site discounts. The company’s service vehicles are well stocked with spares to ensure equipment can be serviced to the highest standards and all work reports are completed electronically on ‘tablets’ and are automatically uploaded to their server for fast data transfer. Of course, we don’t live in a perfect world, so although the company aims to minimise equipment problems through, effective preventative maintenance, there will be times when you need an emergency response. Telephone technical support is at hand, engineers will attend as required and the
All pool plants are different with various factors impacting water quality and operational costs, therefore it is imperative that a personalised maintenance schedule is established” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 57-59_SPN_Aug_15_Service_Contracts_Feature_rev.indd 59
JCL built a planned maintenance schedule that would ensure that a JCL engineer was on site regularly, attending to the small faults which could turn into big, expensive and inconvenient problems. Coupled with this, it was important for the school to be able to obtain instant support and guidance over the phone. JCL has a technical helpline where staff are directed straight to the technical director and given real time, instant information. Watergate School also invested in a JCL bespoke pool operations training session. “The trainer turned what could have been a dull session into a very entertaining one. I shall be using this service again,” said Nick. Nicole Lester executes the JC Leisure Solutions pool operations training programme and said: “Having fully trained staff who understand the functionality of the plant room is also key. A well maintained pool plant is a more efficient pool plant, the more staff training/ awareness the better.” Summing up, Nick said: “JC Leisure Solutions have been like a breath of fresh air. The service provided has been excellent, from the people that deal with our phone calls, through to the engineers who come to maintain the equipment/ plant.”
company has an out of hours call out facility. In addition, the company’s service vehicles are fitted with trackers to maximise utilisation and minimise response times. All of the company’s engineers are confined space trained and have CCNSG Safety Passports.
FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Combined Leisure Solutions 01903 785495 www.combinedleisuresolutions.co.uk Hydrospec Ltd 01277 225416 www.hydrospec.co.uk J C Leisure Solutions 01376 533606 www.jcleisuresolutions.com Pool Maintenance Ltd 01457 765533 www.poolmaintenanceltd.com Sterling Hydrotech Ltd 01246 857000 www.sterling-hydrotech.co.uk
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WATER PLAY EQUIPMENT
The Wet And Wonderful World Of Water Play
Ustigate’s Tamworth Farm Recreation Centre Splashpad installation has a large variety of water play features incorporated into the design, including a range of sequenced ground water jets and a splash pool for toddlers. The Splashpad also integrates the fun and innovative ‘Spider’ water play feature, standing 3 metres high
Bright, vibrant and entertaining, water play equipment is one factor that can increase the popularity of swimming pools and bring in much needed revenue to leisure centres. We look at the appeal of this exciting age targeted sector for commercial pools across the country and cover everything from water slides, water games and play structures through to simple pool toys By Karen Witney
K
ids of all ages love to play, especially where water is involved. There is something about running through water jets or rushing down flumes that shouts fun and freedom. No other play area can rival a well designed water play area, and the popularity of these areas never diminishes with new designs of play equipment continuously coming to the fore. Anything ranging from a water canon to a dumping bucket that releases water down onto a Splashpad to a small hand held water pistol actively stimulates the imagination so that kids can be anything they want to be whilst in the zone!
USTIGATE WATERPLAY EQUIPMENT STANDS OUT For the past ten years Ustigate Waterplay have partnered and sourced their products from world leading designers and
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manufactures of exceptional water play features; Vortex Intl of Canada. Ustigate Waterplay’s standard product index consists of over 300 benchmark unrivalled aquatic structures that are designed to push the boundaries of creativity and inspirational play spaces. The company provides water play products ranging from simple misting jets to super soaking buckets which create tidal waves soaking everyone in its splash zone! Ustigate Waterplay believe their aquatic equipment stands out from the rest as their vast array of water play products can be broken down into many categories to create memorable themes such as a jungle. Furthermore, their water play products use a range of sleek or abstract geometric shapes and colours, which incorporate a range of misters, jets and sprays. Careful selection and placement of water products
create water play installations that promote imaginative and creative play and ensure their user’s experiences are always different every time they visit. Additionally, their aquatic products provide technologies which are unique only to Vortex Intl, such as Turntec™, Seeflow™, Tri-flowt™ and finally Funflow Actuator™ - which encourages physical and collaborative play and allows users to learn the cause and effect of water. One of the many installations that achieves this is Tamworth Farm Recreation Centre Splashpad. Installed in 2014, the Splashpad has a large variety of water play features incorporated into the design, including a range of sequenced ground water jets and a splash pool for toddlers. The Splashpad is also the first water play installation to integrate the fun and innovative ‘Spider’ water play feature, standing 3 metres high and consisting of
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WATER PLAY EQUIPMENT
Centrepiece of the newly refurbished Bicester Leisure Centre in Oxfordshire is the Certikin water play gear in the children’s teaching pool. The interactive, colourful features include a frog, rainbow slide and mushroom water fountain
Vortex Seeflow™ and Funflow Actuator™ technologies. The multi-functional product cultivates collaborative play, integrating ten laminar jets on each leg as well as water gushing from the front and rear of the body once it has been activated using eight ground activators.
AN INTERACTIVE GAME FACTOR FROM ROIGK Roigk’s Sales Director Rémy Perron states: “Splash pads are getting more and more popular, as they are a key factor to the popularity of pools and water parks.” They attract children and their parents and bring life, games and laughs into the leisure area. The game factor together with its interactivity is the first criteria; children will create new games together with their friends again and again. Then, an appealing design fitting with the age category is very important. The more children identify themselves with the single toys, the more they will like the place. Last but not least when children discover the medium of ‘water’ with all senses and remember the new gained experience, an attraction is well conceived. Remy continues: “I remember my son coming home after his first time at the spray park calling ‘Papa, I want you to buy the water dragon for our garden’.” Roigk, who, for many years, have offered well designed toys predominantly to swimming pools operators, continuously develop and launch new water toys along three core principles. An attractive design which creates the difference, products availability at best costs of ownership and highest fun, game and learning factors for the children. Roigk is pleased to announce through SPN a ‘news preview’ of a totally new range of interactive water attractions for
the beach area of swimming pools for water depths between 0.40m and 1.30m. Swimming pools can now receive a real alternative to the traditional mushrooms aging in their middle, losing each year a little more of their colour. This is ‘fresh oxygen’ in the water of European swimming pools and this reality has given the name of that range as ‘OXY’ which will be launched at the Aquanale and FSB Exhibition which runs from 27 – 30 October 2015.
SLIDING AROUND THE WORLD WITH COUNTRY LEISURE Country Leisure is a British manufacturer of water slides and water play attractions and has been producing high quality GRP mouldings since 1985 for the leisure industry worldwide. The company has been exporting for 29 years and has supplied goods to more than 50 different countries. In that time they have manufactured over 40,000 kilometres of water slide which if joined together would span further than the circumference of the earth. They are a member of the World Waterpark Association (WWA) and offer a complete design, manufacture and installation service. All new water slide installations are designed and manufactured in accordance with the latest industry standards to produce the very best quality products which are manufactured in-house under strict quality control procedures. Site work is carried out by their own experienced and qualified installation crews with the backup of specialist laminators and highly skilled finishers. Other services available include theming and refurbishment of existing installations and service maintenance contracts. Country Leisure also offers a free quotation service and can carry out inspections on existing installations.
Toys and games add enjoyment to any pool, but more than that, it inspires and nurtures water confidence in younger swimmers” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 60-62_SPN_Aug_2015_Water_Play_Feature_rev.indd 61
Van Egdom’s interactive play equipment from Certikin will captivate the children’s imagination and provide hours of fun
A TAILORED SERVICE FROM HIPPO LEISURE Plymouth based Hippo Leisure are a full service swimming pool and interactive water play company whose services and expertise reach from the plant room to putting smiles on childrens’ faces. Their team’s experience spans over 20 years of working within the swimming pool, leisure and water fun industry. Hippo’s focus on the design, manufacture and installation of interactive water play projects has been developed through the close study of their Little Hippo Kid Consultants, by investigating how different age groups behave in the swimming pool environment. Hippo’s detailed research has proven the impact new water play equipment has on increasing revenue, attracting new customers and retaining existing customers. Studies have helped the company develop inclusive play products to encompass the whole family and all abilities and ages. Hippo Leisure have spent time developing products that will improve water confidence, encourage swimming activities and provide centre managers with versatile and flexible products. Providing a service that is tailored to suit each customer’s needs from the supply of a strainer box to the development of a multi-flume slide installation is at the heart of Hippo’s core values. They are proud of the partnerships they hold with some of the UK’s premier leisure facilities and management companies and are always looking for ways to extend their innovative approach to more like minded businesses.
CERTIKIN PLAYS UP “Our team can provide design expertise for projects of any size, and work around a chosen theme or suggest ideas. Our product range is extensive. Whether it is custombuild or off-the-shelf features you are after, we can supply the lot!” says Certikin’s Commercial Manager, Steve Nelson. Slides and play structures, in the shape of mermaids, giant taps and pirate
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WATER PLAY EQUIPMENT ships, are just some of the fun play features that Certikin has to offer. In fact, Certikin boasts one of the most advanced in-house design departments, complete with computer generated graphics and 3D imagery, of anywhere in the UK. “Playing with water is a vital part of a child’s development,” says Steve. “Although the primary aim of the equipment is to allow kids to have fun in a safe environment it allows them, at the same time, to learn through play. Kids’ play equipment needs to be strong and durable especially when coupled with the harsh environment of a swimming pool.” Fortunately, all of Certikin’s range of products including Van Egdom and Aqua Drolics are made from a combination of UV stabilised GRP, Marine Grade stainless steel and chemically resistant rubber, making them tolerant of kids and chemically treated water! Steve adds: “All the interactive features are very easy to install. There’s no need for additional plumbing because most of the water features have built-in mechanical hand pumps that children operate manually. There’s no need for buried pipework and costly electrical pumps as the features use the existing swimming pool water. Retrofitting is a breeze – in most situations the only requirement is to lower the existing pool water level to allow small anchors to be installed in the pool floor. This can be done at night so that the facility can open for business in the morning. “Our features are suitable even if you have no underground plumbing thanks to the Polybloc pool,” explains Steve. “This is a free form bolt-together paddling pool made entirely of glass reinforced polyester (GRP) building blocks. It can be installed almost anywhere and requires no ground excavation. The pools are designed to accommodate any of the Aqua Drolics water features.” Aside from offering a large range of interactive children’s features, Certikin’s portfolio includes bespoke installations of the quality Fluvo range of water jets and air bubble systems.
GOLDEN COAST INSPIRES WATER CONFIDENCE Toys and games add enjoyment to any pool,
Country Leisure’s ‘Splashtastic’ Project CASE STUDY:
Country Leisure Fibreglass has recently completed the design, manufacture and installation of two water slides at the brand new Washington Galleries Leisure Centre in Tyne & Wear. The company worked closely with Watson Batty Architects and Pellikaan Construction to agree upon a suitable design so that the new flume rides coordinated satisfactorily with the building and in particular the glulam beam roof construction. The majority of both flumes are supported off the building steelwork and glulam beams, both of which were manufactured off site by different suppliers, therefore it was crucial that drawings produced by Country Leisure clearly identified the correct positions and setting out for any brackets required. Of the two slides one consists of a 42 metre long black hole ride complete with light rings manufactured directly into the slide body, a ride time sensor system and a ‘Splashtastic’ interactive touch pad scoring
but more than that, it inspires and nurtures water confidence in younger swimmers. Golden Coast’s 2015 Toys and Games brochure features a wider variety of simple but effective ways of developing water confidence through play. Seal Flips, which are suitable for users of any age, is a new product designed to encourage children to breathe forcefully into the water to ‘flip’ their seal. Each pack contains five seal flips – including the Zoggy and Miss Zoggy characters. For children aged two and up, Golden Coast have introduced Gobble Gobble Guppies, which lets children race to gobble up guppies before they float up to the pool’s surface. Clam Dive and Hunt, for children three and up, is a set of three clam shells designed to
Young children will love these colourful ‘Gobble, Gobble, Guppies’ new for 2015 from Golden Coast
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build confidence under water. Featuring soft flexible construction for safety, each clam is split into two and thrown into the pool so it sinks to the bottom. Swimmers must then dive down and retrieve matched characters to win.
FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin International 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk Country Leisure Fibreglass Ltd 01980 629555 www.countryleisure.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.co Hippo Leisure 01752 771740 www.hippoleisure.com
Roigk provide interactive and creative water play enjoyment at the Erlebnispark, Germany
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game where riders compete to get the highest points tally in the fastest time with scores displayed on the large LED wall mounted display at the end of the ride. The second slide is a 48 metre long family body flume complete with water-proof speakers mounted into the roof of the slide and an interactive flume music system allowing riders to select from a choice of genres at the start of the ride.
Roigk GmBH 49 (0)2332 969999 www.roigk.de Ustigate Waterplay 01322 424445 www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk
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Tel: 0161 969 0660 Fax: 0161 969 0661 Mobile: 0780 320 4417 www.tilingandpoolprojects.co.uk email: tilingandpool@btinternet.com
TILING Complete Swimming Pool Re-Tile Pool Surround Tiling Changing Rooms and Shower Areas Expansion Joint Replacement Pool refurbishments and repairs
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SPECIALIST SERVICES Underwater Surveys and Repairs Channel Grating, Manhole Covers and Frames Marbline/Pacelite Coloured render systems Stainless Steel Handrails, Steps, Gates, etc. Acid cleaning of all Areas Aquabright Thermal Powder Coatings for pools Rendering, Screeding & Pool Concrete repairs
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COMMERCIAL POOLS
Products To Improve Efficiency And Save Money Products to help improve the way a pool runs and that reduce costs are important for all owners, but none more so than those in a commercial setting. This issue, we take a look at ten ideas that will have a substantial impact on the operation of a commercial pool. It’s a must read for anyone working in the sector and probably beyond too! By Jon Wadeson
D
uring the times of austerity, spending decisions were subjected to microscopic examination like never before. That was true for both businesses in the leisure sector and for the general public and its hard earned disposable income. The good news is that thankfully the pressure on spending seems to have lifted somewhat, certainly for the wider working population and in comparison to previous years. This will hopefully mean that more people spend again on leisure activities including swimming. I really hope that is the case because the bad news is that in a recent Sport England survey, swimming was highlighted as a sport that was seeing its number decline at a worrying rate. Of course, austerity and the need to watch the pennies may have caused this drop rather than people no longer enjoying a swim and I’m sure this is largely the case. If not, the concerning trend will without question put more pressure on commercial pool operators around the UK, making the need to run more efficiently and save money even more of a priority. Saving money is easier said than done though and Golden Coast Managing Director Jamie Adams offers a few words of caution to those involved in the decision making process, advising them to think very carefully about their choice of equipment and systems so as to avoid costly repercussions in the future. “As we have learned through 38 years in the business, there is much more to choosing pool equipment than looking at its catalogue price,” says Jamie. “Firstly, you should consider its effectiveness. Will it deliver paying customers with the levels of enjoyment, health and safety that will keep them coming back? Can you avoid the cost and reputational damage that comes with poor customer experience or even tragic accidents?
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“Then think about other expenses. How easy will it be to install? What will be its ongoing costs in terms of energy consumption and maintenance? Does it have the build quality to provide long-lasting service with minimal spending on repairs and replacements?” It’s advice that should be seriously noted, especially as many commercial pools are looking to take the plunge and make the investment in new equipment with the hope of realising savings. False economy can create issues further down the line, often negating any initial savings and sadly usually costing more in the long run. Running a successful commercial swimming pool has never been an easy task or cheap task, but thankfully we live in times where technology, innovation and choice are helping more than ever. So with the right advice and with countless products available to help pool operators improve their facilities, efficiency, ‘green’ credentials and bottom lines, this issue, we take a look at ten product areas that can help commercial operators this year.
01
Having A Pool Cover Will Dramatically Increase Profitability Adding a pool cover to a commercial swimming pool will dramatically reduce running costs, or to look at it another way, adding one will dramatically increase profitability. Whichever way you view it, there’s no doubt that a pool cover is an absolute must for any commercial site and operators are often amazed at how much money this can equate to. All pools are of course different and have varying factors but using a cover when the pool is not in use is important as commercial cover manufacturer Aquamat estimates that a 20m x 10m pool which is covered for 8 hours per night will make savings of £40 per night – that’s £14,600 per year! For a 25m x 12.5m pool the annual saving would be £22,800 per year! In both cases the savings in just one year are more than the cost of an Aquamat cover including installation. Of course there are many other great suppliers and brands providing cover solutions and you should get estimates and comparisons but there will be savings to be
Commercial cover manufacturer Aquamat estimates that a 20m x 10m pool which is covered for 8 hours per night will make savings of £14,600 per year!
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COMMERCIAL POOLS had whoever you turn to. It’s worth bearing in mind that the savings are not as a result of the pool being insulated, they are down to a reduction in heat loss due to evaporation – of about 98%. That reduction is important as high evaporation leads to greater water top up and the cost of replacing and heating the new water. The more water that is displaced, the more energy required to heat it and therefore the greater the cost. Worse still is that if it is an indoor pool, an effective dehumidification system is essential in controlling humidity within the pool hall and if evaporation rates are high, then it’s got to work even harder, costing even more! In addition, if evaporation rates are high, chlorine laden water often affects the structure and surfaces of the pool hall building leading to yet more costs due to increased maintenance. The bottom line is, if you have a commercial pool, or any pool for that matter, then cover it as there are savings to be made in a variety of ways. Aquamat 01453 884411 www.aquamat4seasons.co.uk
02
Any Pool Can Make Savings With A Liquid Pool Cover There are a number of liquid pool cover options on the market and each enables any swimming pool to reap the unquestionable energy saving benefits of a pool cover without any of the aesthetic or practical disadvantages. Heatsavr, is the original liquid cover and was developed by Flexible Solutions of Canada over 16 years ago. It’s a product which is the ideal solution where capital expenditure is limited, where there is limited space for a traditional cover or where the pool shape and water features prevent a manual cover from being installed. Heatsavr is a non-toxic and biodegradable liquid, which forms a transparent monomolecular layer over the surface of a swimming pool whenever it is calm, trapping water and moisture much in the same way as a traditional pool cover does. However, unlike traditional covers, Heatsavr will reduce evaporation not only at night, but also during the day when bathers are present in the water, albeit to a lesser degree. Because it is always present, it is also well suited to pools which face periods of ‘down time’ during the day, when drawing a traditional cover to reduce vital heat and moisture loss is simply not practical.
Savings of 20% up to 50% are possible, depending on variables pertaining to the operation of the pool. Fully monitored energy savings have exceeded 40% but in any event expected savings should be between four and seven times the cost of the Heatsavr liquid, thus representing an extremely high return on investment. Implementing the use of Heatsavr shouldn’t require any special budget since the cost of the liquid should be paid for several times over by the achievable savings in each utility bill. The only capital outlay, which is minimal, relates to the installation of an automatic dosing system but even this is normally paid for by the savings on the first utility account. Brenntag UK Ltd 0113 387 9200 www.heatsavr.com
03
Moving Pool Floors – A Real Depth Investment One obvious downside to many pools is the lack of flexibility they often offer and the amount of single purpose space they occupy, but that has been changing. Moving swimming pool floors vastly increase the versatility of the pool environment and the provision of one opens
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up a whole new world of exciting possibilities. Commercial facilities are now benefitting from multi-use pools with better access for the young and disabled, aquatic therapy possibilities and even additional sports halls. Once in position, they also provide the added benefit of being a fully safe and secure heat retaining cover, which reduces humidity and running costs. Available through Barr + Wray, Variopool’s movable floors are custom manufactured in all sizes and are specifically designed for all types of professional competition One of the specific and recreation leisure trademarks of a centres, hospital and Variopool movable floor is its floating rehabilitation therapy pools. system which was One of the specific introduced and trademarks of a Variopool patented in Holland in 1968 movable floor is its floating system which was introduced and patented in Holland in 1968. This innovative concept allows a buoyant floor to be pulled down hydraulically to its desired depth via a cable and pulley system located under the floor, providing flexibility and maximum safety. The movable floors are manufactured from grade 316L stainless steel and synthetic materials that are fully resistant to long term submersion in treated water. The floating platform is connected to a hydraulic actuating system pulling on a series of stainless steel cables. The construction and materials are researched and selected with extreme care. They allow high loadings and offer maximum safety and durability. As a result the Variopool movable floors have a proven lifespan of more than 20 years. The Variopool movable floor is available in three formats: • Stainless steel frame with buoyancy packs and a synthetic panel top deck • Stainless steel frame with buoyancy packs and a GRP polyester panel top deck • Large GRP polyester elements with integrated buoyancy. Maintenance is kept simple as all the hydraulics and electrical components are located outside the pool tank. Service visits need only be done once a year and are performed by a certified Variopool engineer together with a team of certified scuba divers. This can be done in a full pool without having to drain the water out as well as in the evening to eliminate any downtime to the pool. Barr + Wray 0141 882 9991 www.barrandwray.com
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A STA STA Level Level 3 Award Award in in Pool Pool Plant Plant O Operations perations (QCF) (QCF) recommended recommended for for ALL ALL personnel personnel responsible responsible for for pool, pool, sspa pa o orr interactive interactive water water features features STA S TA is TA is the the lead lead awarding awarding b body ody and plant ffor or pool pool a nd sspa pa p lant management m anagement training training Industry-led Industry-led Level Level 2 and and Awards LLevel evel 3 A wards available available for all for a ll ssectors ectors
COMMERCIAL POOLS The new Delta from Calorex is the ultimate environmental control system and now features a Touch Screen Control
04
The New Touch Screen Delta - For Total Environmental Control For commercial pools, it’s important to create an environment that’s comfortable for users whilst being energy efficient for the operator. In these energy conscious times, that means recovering and recycling heat. The Delta from Calorex is the ultimate environmental control system. It’s designed specifically to take full control of the whole indoor environment and pool water heating and models 1-8 are now available with the new and much talked about Touch Screen Control. The state-of-the-art technology on these models, allows the customer to control the temperature and humidity levels of their pool hall straight from a smartphone, laptop or tablet. The same technology will also be available for the larger Deltas, models 10-16, towards the end of 2015. The package includes a colour touch screen with Ethernet connection port that can be connected to an internet hub (not supplied), thus allowing the client to read actual conditions on site and even adjust set points from their computer or smartphone. Manager of Certikin’s H&V division, Jo Catterall, says: “The new Delta was hugely popular and well received by customers at the SPATEX trade show earlier this year and so we are delighted now to be rolling it out. It’s rare nowadays for anyone to be further than a few metres away from a laptop or smartphone so this new development is in keeping with the busy lives we all lead.” As well as this exciting development, the Delta range has undergone a number of significant upgrades including: • Speed controllable EC/inverter fans in all models • Increased pool water LPHW heat exchanger sizes • Lower power consumption, creating increased efficiency
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05
Particularly suitable for small commercial pools such as hotels, clubs and schools, the Delta features on the Government approved Energy Technology List and offers 100% tax relief in the first year of purchase. Plus of course, it is fully compliant with ERP (Energy Reduction Programme).
LED Lighting Offers Significant Savings While underwater lighting is not mandatory in most swimming pools, it is often used to improve safety in the pool. Powerful underwater lighting greatly enhances visibility in the basin and is therefore a very effective tool for lifeguards. For years, Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting was overlooked due to low power and reliability, but with new advances in technology, power and controllability, it has rapidly become the pool lighting option of choice and there are a number of brands available in the UK. When it comes to underwater lighting, Golden Coast’s favourite manufacturers include LED specialist EVA Optic. Jamie Adams says: “While this company’s LED lights are more expensive to buy than their halogen equivalents, this investment soon pays back through its lower energy usage, greater reliability and longer life. What’s more, they are easy to fit – whether you prefer flush or surface mounting. And because of their unique, airtight design, they can be placed at depths of up to 25 metres.” EVA Optic underwater lighting also scores highly on safety, as the lamp’s wide beam ensures an evenly lit pool with no dark corners. There are many different options for lighting effects, depending on the combination of lamps chosen. For some, constant Warm White or Daylight White is most appropriate. Others may choose a mix of colours and use one of EVA Optic’s DMX controllers to create a variety of customised, fast or slow changing colour scenes.
Certikin H&V 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk
Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.GCTrade.co.uk
• Outside air damper installed within cabinet. Plus, the Delta now incorporates a number of features as standard that previously were optional extras including: • Party Mode (models 4 and upwards) • Summer Mode Switch (to heat pool water only) • Fire Alarm Override.
When it comes to underwater lighting, Golden Coast’s favourite manufacturers include LED specialist EVA Optic
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COMMERCIAL POOLS
06
Keeping Pools Clean With An Army Of Robots The very monotonous but very necessary task of cleaning a swimming pool is thankfully no longer the chore it once was thanks to an ever-expanding army of increasingly sophisticated pool cleaning robots. As one of the leaders in robotic cleaners, Certikin is introducing new state-of-the-art cleaners from market leader Maytronics. Dolphin’s Pro range of commercial pool cleaning robots consists of four models – the Wave 30, 50, 100 and 300XL – and offers professional water cleaning for small public pools to the largest, professional and Olympic-sized pools. They provide heavy-duty pool and pool water cleaning performance
with exceptional reliability. Dolphin commercial robots are electronic pool cleaners that promise and deliver long-term, cost-effective operation. For pools up to 15m, the Dolphin Wave 50 is a ‘plug and play’ pool cleaner that cleans the pool floor, walls and water line. Advanced software enables efficient cleaning and maximises pool coverage. A large self-contained inner filter bag collects dirt and debris. It disperses chemicals evenly in the pool and reduces the use of chlorine and other chemicals and comes with 24 months’ warranty on all parts.
Triogen’s Uvaray medium-pressure UV systems are rapidly gaining popularity for the treatment of large pools
Certikin International Ltd 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk
07
Dolphin’s Pro range of commercial pool cleaning robots consists of four models including this, the Wave 50, and the Wave 300XL
Reducing Costs And Chemicals – Not Water Quality Golden Coast is drawing attention to the very latest super-efficient, environmentallyfriendly, energy-saving industrial pool products designed and built in Great Britain. The company is the UK’s exclusive distributor for Scottish manufacturers Triogen, a worldleader in Ozone and UV water treatment systems. Managing Director Jamie Adams says: “Disinfection is a top concern in commercial facilities and we’ve seen great advances made by Triogen and its ozone and UV water treatment systems. Ozone is well known for its disinfectant properties, and in systems like Triogen’s M7 range the
The very monotonous but very necessary task of cleaning a swimming pool is thankfully no longer the chore it once was thanks to an ever-expanding army of increasingly sophisticated pool cleaning robots” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 65-72_SPN_Aug_2015_Commercial_Pools_rev.indd 69
efficiency of ozone generation is particularly impressive.” UV irradiation not only kills unwanted organisms but destroys chloramines – often responsible for skin and eye irritation and pool odour – and leaves no by-products in the water. Jamie explains: “Triogen’s Uvaray medium-pressure UV systems, which are rapidly gaining popularity for treatment of large pools, make use of a specially tuned, broad-spectrum mercury lamp, housed within a robust reactor constructed from polished stainless steel. “So how do you save money? Well, ingeniously, when usage is low, the UV lamp power can automatically adjust to its lowest setting, providing efficient disinfection with a 50% reduction in energy consumption. “For even greater hygienic protection, Triogen offers the Uvazone Advanced Oxygen System, which combines UV irradiation with ozone treatment in a compact, selfcontained unit which can be fitted easily in any plant room and which promises low maintenance requirements and running costs.” Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.GCTrade.co.uk
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COMMERCIAL POOLS
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Commercial MultiCyclone Saves Water And Reduces Maintenance The MultiCyclone MC70XL is the commercial model of Waterco’s highly praised MultiCyclone pre-filtration device, a product which has continued to impress the world since its launch in 2008. Like its domestic cousin, the MC70XL’s unique filtration system works on the basis of centrifugal water filtration and is designed with no moving parts and no filter media to clean or replace. It saves water and reduces the need for frequent backwashing and is ideal as a pre-filter to extend the life and improve the performance of existing filtration. An ultra compact system, the MC70XL is an evolution of Waterco’s MultiCyclone technology. Waterco has specially created the commercial version by increasing its number of hydrocyclones to cater for the higher flow rates and redesigned it to cope with the demanding requirements of commercial installations. The MultiCyclone MC70XL pre-filters up to 80% of the filter’s incoming dirt load prior to the main filter, reducing the load on the filter and therefore reducing the frequency of filter maintenance by up to 80% and saving backwash water. As the MultiCyclone MC70XL intercepts more and more sediment, the flow rate remains unchanged, improving pool water circulation. Maintenance is simple with the unit’s sediment chamber easily cleaned by opening its purge valve. It is easy and quick to install in new or existing facilities. It has a minimum flow rate of 36m3 / hr and a maximum of 90m3 / hr and a maximum working pressure of 3.5 BAR.
Conventional laterals are not suitable for larger sized commercial filters. ‘Dead legs’ exist between the laterals and water flow is not optimised through the filter bed...”
The MultiCyclone MC70XL is the commercial model of Waterco’s highly praised MultiCyclone prefiltration device
legs’ exist between the laterals and water flow is not optimised through the filter bed. Waterco’s ‘Fish Bone’ lateral configuration eliminates any ‘dead legs’ by improving water flow distribution through the filter bed, thus increasing water circulation and reducing backwashing, saving water and chemicals. Manufactured in their ISO 9001:2008 certified production facility, Waterco’s digitally controlled filament winding machine faultlessly winds continuous strands of fiberglass filament to create a filter vessel with refined consistency and superior quality. Micron commercial fibreglass filters offer proven quality and longevity and are available in top mount, side mount and horizontal configurations with filter areas of 0.87m² to 10.0m² with both the option of nozzle plate or lateral underdrain available, designed and built for many years of troublefree operation. Waterco also offer Glass Pearl and EcoPure Glass filter media, both of which offer many benefits over traditional sand and will further optimise the filtration process and reduce operating costs whilst providing superior water clarity. Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu
Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu
09
Optimising Filtration For Commercial Pools Manufactured from the highest grade of non corrosive materials and employing the latest in fibreglass winding technology, Waterco’s Micron fibreglass filters are designed and built for many years of trouble free operation. These filters embody the latest in fibreglass winding technology and consist of an inner shell of fibreglass reinforced polyester resin over wound with fibreglass filament and feature Waterco’s unique wlateral system. Conventional laterals are not suitable for larger sized commercial filters. ‘Dead
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Waterco’s Micron fibreglass filters are designed and built for many years of trouble free operation
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COMMERCIAL POOLS
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Ceiling Solutions Provide Pool Halls With Numerous Benefits Commercial operators who in the past have faced large renovation bills for deteriorating structures have been quick to seek out and adopt stretch ceiling systems. The material membrane is waterproof, prefinished and provides each pool with a complete vapour barrier that ensures that no corrosive vapours pass through the ceiling to damage the structure above. In addition to their use as a ceiling, these systems can be used as a wall covering to create light diffusers, floating panels and creative shapes. Its versatility allows the incorporation of light fixtures, grilles and fixing points by using a proprietary background support. There are many good stretch ceiling brands available from Europe for example, BARRISOL®, Extenzo, New Matt, DPS, Saros, etc. but there are also excellent stretch ceilings being manufactured here in the UK. Creative Ceilings (UK) Ltd offer all the benefits of the European manufacturers but with the added benefits of being manufactured in the same country they are installed plus speed of supply, lower supply costs, etc. The company have developed a superb blown air distribution system that removes the need to duct the air around the room and have released a unique system of heating using the ceiling and radiant heat principle. Radiant heat is the transfer of heat from a warm surface to a cooler surface via infrared rays, travelling through the air without heating it – the most recognisable radiant heat source is the sun, heating the Earth from millions of miles away. Radiant heating is highly efficient, offering a minimum of 25% energy savings against standard types of heating systems and it’s instant, simply switch on and you start to feel the warmth. It converts virtually 100% of the electricity to heat output too (100W in = 100W out). In addition, radiant heating does not create dust and is ideal for Asthma suffers and environments affected by dust movement. Humidity levels are unaffected by the system and it is digitally controlled and fully programmable to optimise heating performance – for each 1°C of reduction = 8% savings. Importantly, for the environment and your customers’ pockets, the system provides room insulation preventing heat loss through the ceiling and radiant heating can show 0% Carbon emissions. The complete Creative Ceilings’ heated stretch ceiling system is 100%
Creative Ceilings worked on the stretch ceiling above the fantastic swimming pool at Bilston’s Leisure Centre
Below: The Aquatic Centre in Stratford, London features BARRISOL® solutions
maintenance free and comes with a 15 year manufacturer’s warranty. Creative Ceilings (UK) Limited 01902 452668 www.creativeceilings.co.uk Of course, these are just a few examples of products that can assist any commercial pool operator. The good news is there are more options available than ever from these and many other suppliers so with money to be saved and efficiencies to be made, it’s worth spending some time investigating what is available. SPN
Commercial operators who in the past have faced large renovation bills for deteriorating structures have been quick to seek out and adopt stretch ceiling systems” 72 August 2015 SPN 65-72_SPN_Aug_2015_Commercial_Pools_rev.indd 72
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COMPANY PROFILE
Heatstar – 35 Years Of Innovation
Launched in 1983, the E200 ‘combined system’ marked a significant milestone in the evolution of swimming pool climate control systems
Heatstar, the specialist British manufacturer of heat recovery and humidity control systems for swimming pools, celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. A significant milestone for any company and an opportunity to look back at how it started, how it developed and where it goes from here
H
eatstar have pioneered the innovative design and development of modern highly energy efficient climate control systems and continue to be a renowned market leader in this field. The history of Heatstar over the last 35 years is the history and development of climate control systems in the UK.
HEATSTAR – A TRADITION OF INNOVATION Heatstar’s tradition of innovation can be traced right back to its founder Tony Andrews – the father of Heatstar Director Jackie Scott. The company was always an innovator creating much needed new products for the UK pool industry – many of which were genuine industry ‘firsts’ which arguably laid the foundations for today’s climate control systems. The new products and innovations designed and manufactured by Heatstar over the last 35 years collectively have taken climate control systems into ground-breaking levels of energy efficiency which are the envy of many industries. The heat pump as a heating method for swimming pools was particularly pioneered in the 1970’s by Tony Andrews. His involvement was in response to increased energy awareness resulting from the 1973 oil crisis. Tony was previously chief design engineer at a large air conditioning manufacturing company where he was latterly responsible for creating fresh air and ground source heat pump design concepts
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for general heating applications. He possessed the vision to appreciate the potential future market for energy saving products that could literally ‘produce heat out of thin air’ and also possessed the expertise to design and produce a successful product. Tony, subsequently started his own business venture, designing the first fresh air source heat pumps for dedicated application on a swimming pool. Heatstar was chosen as an appropriate name under which to market these early units and the Heatstar ‘brand’ was created Tony then expanded the company’s products to create swimming pool dehumidifiers, initially small, simple models which were mounted upon the pool room wall. Progressively, through the latter part of the 1970’s, these dehumidification products rapidly evolved and developed to encompass heat recovery to pool water and ducted air distribution. A significant proportion of these early units are still in successful operation today.
THE HEATSTAR PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT TIMELINE
The Heatstar product brochure from 1978
1980: The Heatstar brand name was formerly incorporated as a company in its own right. 1983: E200 combined heat pump – dehumidifier. Launched in 1983, the E200 ‘combined system’ marked a significant milestone in the evolution of swimming pool climate control systems, being the first product to offer ‘Total Environmental Control’ from
a single, easily installed, unit. 1987: Completion of a new, purpose built Heatstar factory at Newport on the Isle of Wight. 1988: ‘Packaged’ Environmental Control units. Launched in 1988, the E205 and E207 systems were added to the E200 to offer a full range of ‘packaged’ environmental control units. The E205 incorporated LPHW pool water heat exchanger and air heating coil, complete with motorised heating control valves. The E207 incorporated electric resistance heating for air and pool water heating. The concept of the ‘packaged’ unit made on site installation much easier, neater and removed any potential for error. The concept of the packaged unit is still utilised today and is now accepted as the norm. 1989: Andromeda ‘flexible’ Environmental Control unit. Launched in 1989, the Andromeda concept is still utilised today. The Andromeda was a packaged unit, but with the added benefits of the flexibility of a multitude of different positions for the supply air discharge and likewise for the position of the control panel, pipes and maintenance access. 1991: Following a long battle with cancer, this year marked the untimely death of Tony Andrews. 1993: Heatstar Orion introduced. The Orion was launched as a direct response to the restrictions contained in new electrical regulations and offered an alternative and convenient approach to dehumidification. The Orion is plant room based and uses a system of flexible ducting to draw and supply air from and to the pool room. 1994: Heatstar Taurus introduced. The high capacity Taurus type units were introduced as a natural progression for the
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COMPANY PROFILE demand for increased capacity products for larger municipal pools and leisure centres. 1995: Heatstar Phoenix introduced. Launched in 1995, the Heatstar Phoenix was a clever concept which offered increased fresh air ventilation using two separate methods of heat recovery. Initially a dehumidification heat pump and, secondly, a plate air-to-air heat recuperator. 2002: Heatstar Pegasus ‘designer’ dehumidifier launched at SPATEX. 2003: Heatstar launch a special range of environmental control units specifically designed for use in conjunction with high efficiency condensing fuel boilers, operated at lower primary temperatures than conventional boilers. 2004: Heatstar launch the first UK manufactured swimming pool heat pump equipped with a titanium pool water heat exchanger. 2005: Heatstar launch the first swimming pool heat pump equipped with a ‘heat booster’ to ensure effective early season pool water heating. 2006: Heatstar launch special range of environmental control units specifically designed for use in conjunction with ground source and air source heat pump boilers, operated at much lower primary temperatures than conventional boilers. 2007: Heatstar launch the ‘Auto-fan’ concept, a system which can save significant electrical energy by only operating fans on full power when there is an actual demand. 2008: Heatstar Gemini introduced. Launched as a response to ever increasing energy costs, the Gemini represented the most revolutionary system the industry had witnessed in over 15 years. The Gemini embraced all the latest developments in heat pump, fan and compressor technology to offer remarkably low operating costs and energy consumptions. 2009: EC ‘low energy’ fan technology
Launched in 2008, the Gemini represented the most revolutionary system the industry had witnessed in over 15 years
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introduced. With another industry first, Heatstar incorporated the latest ‘EC low energy’ fan technology. These fans combine brushless ‘Electronically Commutated’ (EC) motors with a frequency inverter. When coupled to a backward curved impeller, astonishingly low power consumptions can be achieved with 100% speed controllability. 2010: Heatstar celebrated its 30th anniversary and Orbital Scroll ‘high efficiency’ compressors were introduced. 2011: UK Building Regulations compliant Phoenix EC launched at SPATEX. In direct response to the changes in legislation affecting indoor pools and the required efficiency of environmental control systems, Heatstar were the first in the industry to bring to market a dedicated new system able to pass the stipulations now affecting all newly designed projects. 2012: ‘Blue EC On-Demand’ ventilation. Building on Heatstar’s pioneering EC fan technology, a new system was introduced which maximised the benefits of the concept of ‘On-Demand’ ventilation, offering significant energy savings over comparable systems by only utilising increased fan power when a confirmed demand was sensed. 2013: Andromeda EC launched at SPATEX. The introduction of the Andromeda EC represented the expansion through the product range of Heatstar’s energy saving ‘Blue EC’ fan technology, providing on-demand ventilation. As a demonstration of the effect of the fan technology, the efficiency exceeded the requirements of the newly introduced EU ERP directive for fans by many years. 2014: Pisces EC, equipped with ACD, launched at the NEC. Representing another industry first, the Pisces is a close control ventilation system
showcasing the unique Heatstar invention of Ambient Conductive Dehumidification (ACD). The ACD achieves a dehumidification effect upon the recirculated pool room air, so reducing the quantity of fresh air introduction necessary for humidity control. 2015: Heatstar reaches its 35th year and the Hydrus AC, system for moving floor pools, was launched at the NEC. Again, a first for the industry and a response to the increased popularity and availability of moving floors, the Hydrus has the capability to tackle the strenuous demands of a swimming pool room environment and also features in-built facilities necessary to accommodate an entirely different environment requirement for a ‘closed floor’ room, suitable for functions.
THE NEXT 35 YEARS Projecting a further 35 years into the future takes us to the year 2050 and, with it, the probability of an energy market with significantly different characteristics from what we have witnessed in the past. How much will we still rely upon fossil fuels? Will technological or political developments lead to renewable energy solutions dominating the market? How affordable will future energy be to the consumer? How might climate change affect the consumers’ energy demand needs? At this time, it is only possible to speculate upon the various possible scenarios. However, what is certain is that Heatstar will continue to design ‘state of the art’ swimming pool environmental control systems that will be relevant to the demands of the future, as they have throughout the past. Heatstar 01983 521465 www.heatstar.com
A first for the industry, the Hydrus AC system for moving floor pools was launched earlier this year
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WORLD NEWS
50 Years Of The Rengers Group The Rengers Group, which includes one of the leading swimming pool manufacturers in Europe today in RivieraPool, celebrated their 50th anniversary back in May. Their state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor showroom in Geeste in northwest Germany served as an ideal location for three days of festivities. Together with their 200 employees, the Rengers Family looked back on half a century of eventful corporate history. During the official ceremony on Friday night, the founders evoked memories of the agricultural roots of the company. When Josef Rengers founded the company, he used the then relatively new polyester material to produce feeding troughs, cleaning tanks for milk churns and ice water cooling tanks. The advantage over conventional products was that the synthetic products did not corrode. But due to subsidy reduction in agriculture, the business became stagnant and the company looked for alternative ways to use the polyester material and changed their production to swimming pools. “At the time, there were masonry pools and tiled pools on the market, and also a few polyester pools. However, there were no one-piece polyester pools, and this is where we came in,” remembered Josef Rengers. “Frost resistant, seamlessly waterproof and ready to be installed in no time” – these were the advantages of the one-piece swimming pools launched by Josef Rengers. In order to meet the rising demand, the entrepreneur extended the company premises in 1976 and founded
Four generations of the Rengers family: founders Gisela and Josef Rengers with their children, daughters and sons-in-law plus grand and great-grandchildren during the official anniversary ceremony
RivieraPool Ltd, which was henceforth responsible for sales and marketing of all pools. Today, the medium-sized family business is run by the second generation of the Rengers family and produces swimming pools, sauna plunge pools, and whirlpools for private gardens and homes, hotels, cruise liners, and municipal leisure pools. Approximately 50% of all pools are sold abroad and RivieraPool is among the leading manufacturers of prefab swimming pools in Europe and is the German market leader. RivieraPool +49 (0) 593 7660 www.rivierapool.com
Consumers Spend Less Energy Thanks To New Hot Tub Labelling In an effort to improve consumer energy awareness and demonstrate the energy efficiency of hot tubs, The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) has announced newly revised American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/APSP/International Code Council (ICC)14 2014 Standard for Portable Electric Spa Energy Efficiency. States that adopt this standard will require a comprehensive energy label on each hot tub, enabling consumers to evaluate their choices when making a purchase. This new labelling will display the energy consumption compared to all other hot tubs. Hot tub manufacturers are embracing this new standard. “In 2014, the California Energy Commission (CEC) approached the industry looking to increase the energy saving provided
by the appliance energy efficiency language in Title 20,” said Mike McCague, compliance engineer for Watkins Manufacturing and APSP-14 Committee Member, and Chairman of APSP’s International Hot Tub Association Engineering Committee. “Using ANSI/APSP/ ICC-14 2012 as a baseline, APSP, CEC and interested parties worked together to improve the energy position of portable electric spas by updating the standard.” Individuals taking the lead in writing the standard included McCague; Angelo Pugliese, Sr., Custom Molded Products; and Nathan Coelho, Master Spas, Inc. along with 19 other portable spa manufacturers and related interested parties. From the sales, service and maintenance perspective, manufacturers must indicate
which hot tub specific covers meet the test requirements so that the spa continues to perform at peak cost savings efficiency over its life. The maximum energy limit was also closely reviewed to ensure that energy usage and operating costs were kept low for all models. “Working with the CEC and adding to the ANSI/APSP suite of energy efficiency standards for hot tubs and pools demonstrate that the industry is committed to safe, efficient products,” said APSP Vice President of Technical & Standards Carvin DiGiovanni. “And with easy to understand labelling, we’re taking it one step further and empowering consumers to make a more informed and environmentally conscious decision.”
The FIELDS Group Secures Future Of DLW Netherlands based The FIELDS Group has taken over the business operations of Armstrong DLW GmbH, and in doing so, has secured the future of the DLW brand. As the new investor, the Dutch company is firmly convinced by the ‘Made in Germany’ strategy and will keep the two German plants in Delmenhorst and Bietigheim-Bissingen. The strong DLW brand name will also be kept, to be integrated into the future company name of ‘DLW Flooring GmbH’. The
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company, which is best known for its highquality floorings, also produces swimming pool and pond linings under its DLW Delifol brand. The takeover means that the continued existence and operations of this traditionsteeped flooring manufacturer are secured. The investor has great confidence in the current management team, with Charles Irving-Swift continuing as the CEO of this time-honoured company.
“The entry of the FIELDS Group has given the company an excellent partner in building a clear perspective that will let us secure a sustainable future while generating growth,” said Charles Irving-Swift, CEO of DLW Flooring GmbH. René van der Velden, CEO of the FIELDS Group, added: “We will support the company management in continuing to inspire customers, bring innovative DLW products to the market, and capture new markets.”
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WORLD NEWS
IN BRIEF GOOD PROSPECTS FOR PISCINA & WELLNESS BARCELONA With still three months to go, Piscina & Wellness Barcelona has already exceeded the previous edition's contracted floor area, with confirmed attendance by many leading brands. In total, more than 260 direct exhibitors from 25 countries are expected to be there. This will mean an 11% growth in the number of direct exhibitors and contracted surface area compared with 2013. With an expanded offering and more activities, the exhibition has increased the focus on wellness, which is now added to its name. The high proportion of visitors from abroad (37% in the 2013 edition) is another factor that draws exhibiting companies, creating opportunities for business contacts with professionals from around the world that will help boost their exports. Piscina & Wellness Barcelona takes place 13 - 16 October at Fira de Barcelona's Gran Via Exhibition Centre.
EXPERTS CLEAR THE WATER ON THE COLOURFUL POOL MYTHS As the swimming season kicks off, health experts from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Water Quality and Health Council and the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) have teamed up to launch a campaign to stop people from peeing in the pool. To do so, they are busting a couple of colourful myths associated with this clandestine activity. According to a new survey conducted by Survata on behalf of the Water Quality And Health Council, nearly half of Americans surveyed incorrectly believe that there is a chemical that is added to pools that turns a conspicuous colour in the presence of urine. In the same survey, 71% also incorrectly blame chlorine for causing swimmers’ eyes to become red and irritated.
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Third Edition Success For Piscine SPLASH! Asia The third edition of Piscine SPLASH! Asia was held from 20-21 May 2015 at the Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. Piscine SPLASH! Asia had strong participation with more than 120 exhibitors and brands from 18 countries, and 1,100 attendees across the two days from 29 countries. Visitors from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Philippines comprised 14% of the market. In Southeast Asia, Piscine SPLASH! Asia attracts visitors from key countries in SE Asia including for the first time the Maldives. Interest stretched as far as the Middle East with a number of buyers from the Arabian Gulf. Visitors of Piscine SPLASH! Asia included pool construction and installation professionals, pool and spa maintenance companies, general construction companies, distributors, landscapers, architects, public
authorities and many more. A new feature of Piscine SPLASH! Asia was the Pool Vision Awards 2014, with the winners being announced on the 20 May. Pool Vision 2014 was open to all qualified architects, interior designers and pool designers from any country in the region. Congratulations to the winners Guz Architects of Singapore (Private Pools), P Landscape Bangkok of Thailand (Public/ Hotel Pools) and DBALP Architects of Thailand (Spa). Another new feature to Piscine SPLASH! Asia was the speed
meetings between exhibitors and visitors, allowing networking through a series of 20 minute interviews. This free platform assisted visitors in looking for a supplier, planning an aquatic leisure project or finding a distributor. Nearly 200 meetings were organised. The free education programme on the Piscine SPLASH! Asia show floor was well attended, and featured eight industry experts speaking on topics including drowning detection technologies, water parks, water disinfection, wellness, suction entrapment avoidance, water treatment and wave pools. Dates for Piscine SPLASH! Asia 2017 are expected to be announced shortly. Piscine SPLASH! Asia +61 (0)2 9660 2113 www.piscinesplashasia.com The Public/Hotel Pools winner by P Landscape
The Spa category winner by DBALP Architects
The Private Pools category winner by Guz Architects
KLAFS Sauna Wins Plus X Award The Matteo Thun Edition sauna is a true-born winner. The jury of the renowned ‘Plus X Award’, which is dubbed by experts the world’s largest innovation award for technology, sports and lifestyle, has awarded this extravagant sauna creation the ‘Best product 2015/2016’ in its category. Lots of wood, lots of glass and lots of privacy characterise the generously presented sauna booths by Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez. The front and the anterior side walls are made from glass from floor to ceiling and open up the sauna, which is flooded with the light that pours through. Special attention was paid to the lighting design: the light sources are indirect, integrated into the edges of the invitingly large seating steps – hidden from the observer. The distinctive exterior of the sauna stands out with its unique interplay of wooden rails and joints. This makes it almost impossible to see inside. There is a choice of hemlock, oak or walnut wood. The invisibility of technology is a key principle of Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez, which is why the sauna heater is positioned discreetly beneath the bench. Nothing
disturbs the view, the bather is submerged in light and warmth, thus allowing the feeling of relaxation to unfold especially well. With its international and independent jury, the Plus X Award, which is in its 12th year in 2015, is according to its organisers, the world’s largest innovation award for technology, sports and lifestyle. The main criteria for an award are newly developed and innovative technologies, exceptional design and intelligent and simple operating concepts. Criteria such as good ergonomic and ecological product features, an advanced feature set as well as the use of high quality materials and their processing lead to a sustainable product with a long life and thus are also worthy of recognition. KLAFS GmbH & Co. KG +49 (0)791 5010 www.klafs.com
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SPN AUGUST 2015 BUYERS GUIDE_SPN BUYERS GUIDE TEMPLATE 23/07/2015 19:46 Page 78
BUYERS GUIDE DEHUMIDIFICATION & VENTILATION
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DIVING – REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE
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78 August 2015 SPN
SWIMMING POOL ENGINEERING SERVICES CONDITION SURVEYS CLEANING • RE-GROUTING TILING • DRILLING POOLSIDE EQUIPMENT
UK DISTRIBUTOR • In depth technical back up • Quick delivery • Complete heat exchangers in stock
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www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk
SPN AUGUST 2015 BUYERS GUIDE_SPN BUYERS GUIDE TEMPLATE 23/07/2015 19:46 Page 79
BUYERS GUIDE PLAY EQUIPMENT / FLUME & WATER SLIDES
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delifol Interactive Water Play
More information available at www.oase.be or info@oase.be
• We are the Sole UK Distributors for delifol • delifol material is guaranteed for 10 years • We have our own on‐site fi ers • We have 3 new grey colours/pa erns
Energy savings of up to 30% Fully Automatic Service Contracts available Over 40 years experience
01709 542128 Email: dave@on‐sitepoollinings.com
www.on‐sitepoollinings.com www.delifol.com
CHOOSE AN EXISTING CATEGORY TO APPEAR IN OR SPECIFY YOUR OWN!
commercials@plasticapools.net Tel: 01424 857743
TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433
E. TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK
SPN August 2015 79
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BUYERS GUIDE POOL COVERS
POOL COVERS
POOL COVERS
POOL COVERS
For all domestic pool covers and rollers
Pyramid Foam®
Simply the best security covers by aquamat
Slatted cover with above ground rollers
Axelle roll-up security covers manufactured in the UK by aquamat
The best retro fit systems made by aquamat in the UK
security cover works as a winter debris cover heat retention
24v DC systems powered by a solar, rechargeable battery or direct from a control panel
closed cell chemically bonded polyethylene foam available in 6mm and 8mm
Bubble covers
available in two colours, mid-blue & white
Heat retention foam covers
thermal conductivity ASTM C177 0.0420 w/mK @ 40°C
Roll-up security covers
incorporates Ultra•Fresh® bacteria protection 3 year warranty
Winter debris covers
material lies flat when welded
Slatted covers
totally inert having no effect on water quality
Electric and manual rollers
eco friendly with 42°C max temperature
Contact aquamat on:
Contact aquamat on:
Contact aquamat on:
Contact aquamat on:
sales@aquamatcovers.co.uk tel. 01453 884411 fax. 01453 884499
sales@aquamatcovers.co.uk tel. 01453 884411 fax. 01453 884499
sales@aquamatcovers.co.uk tel. 01453 884411 fax. 01453 884499
sales@aquamatcovers.co.uk tel. 01453 884411 fax. 01453 884499
POOL COVERS
POOL COVERS
POOL COVERS
POOL ENCLOSURES
Commercial pool cover and roller systems
Replacement Slats
Submersible slatted cover systems
Top quality heat retention foam covers 6mm and 8mm in blue or white. All systems are designed and manufactured in our own factories
24v DC systems for total safety full repair and service available nationwide suppliers to the 2012 Olympics over 50 years of making pool covers
aquamat replacement slats made to measure in the UK 60mm replacement slats that fit all the old systems available in PVC white, blue, grey, duck egg blue, beige, cotswold green, solar cap and translucent blue
and also available in polycarbonate crystal clear, solar cap, granite, ruby, lagoon, sandstone and emerald
24v DC in-tube motors Full range of colours in PVC and polycarbonate Manufactured in the UK in our own factory
Contact aquamat on:
Contact aquamat on:
Contact aquamat on:
sales@aquamatcovers.co.uk tel. 01453 884411 fax. 01453 884499
sales@aquamatcovers.co.uk tel. 01453 884411 fax. 01453 884499
sales@aquamatcovers.co.uk tel. 01453 884411 fax. 01453 884499
80 August 2015 SPN
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BUYERS GUIDE POOL ENCLOSURES
POOL ENCLOSURES
POOL HEATERS
PRESSURE TESTING & LEAK DETECTION EQUIP
AMAZONE FOLDING POOL ENCLOSURE
For a completely open air pool in minutes - release the anchors and gently push.
AS IT ROLLS, IT FOLDS, SIMPLE AS THAT! The Swimex Group has brought together four of the biggest European names in the industry to provide the complete telescopic and fixed pool enclosure service. From design to installation (with our own teams) and after sales service, the Swimex Group is the first choice for all wet leisure projects – residential, schools, health clubs, holiday parks and more. Working with the trade or direct, Swimex offers the ideal pool enclosure solution – from the smallest low-level to huge free-standing buildings. Over 1,000 buildings in service in UK since 1998.
Call 0800 804 8025 or visit www.swimex.co.uk
POOL ENCLOSURES
Retractable and static glass pool enclosures for domestic and commercial use
Tel/Fax: 01525 874868 E: sachon@pool-enclosures-unlimited.co.uk W: www.pool-enclosures-unlimited.co.uk
POOL ENGINEERS
Thermalec Pool & Spa Heaters have been manufactured at our factory in the UK for nearly 50 years, to the highest standards and have been installed in the harshest environments because they are the reliable heater for industrial use. • THR models from 3kW to 120kW • Zenith models from 8kW to 168kW Titanium elements are used in both THR and ZENITH models. Suitable for sea / salt water pools and spas. Bespoke heaters are also available for: Ponds, under- floor heating, central heating, cheese vats, baptismal fonts, diver training pools, luxury yacht spas. Buy your Original spare parts direct from us. Parts available for all our existing range of heaters as well as many of the heaters previously manufactured by Thermalec.
SAUNAS
We are also distributors for Salt Chlorinators, Electrochlorinators and Anodes (a must for all salt water pools).
Specialists in design and construction of new and complete or partial refurbishment of existing swimming pools for leisure, hydrotherapy and special needs. Complete service offered including filtration and chemical dosing systems, heating and ventilation and full after-sales service and maintenance. Contractors to Local Authorities, NHS Trusts, MOD, Facility Maintenance Companies, Schools, Leisure Centres, Clubs, Holiday Parks etc.
www.thermalec.co.uk Call: +44 (0)1752 313343
POOL HEATERS
Tel: 01277 225416 Fax: 01277 224761 Email: info@hydrospec.co.uk Web: www.hydrospec.co.uk
SPAS & HOT TUBS
AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £295! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR LESS THAN £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433
E. TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK
www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk
SPN August 2015 81
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BUYERS GUIDE SPRAYED CONCRETE
SPRAYED CONCRETE
SWIMMING POOL EQUIPMENT
SWIMMING POOL EQUIPMENT
GUNCAST G U N C A ST S SWIMMING WIM MING P POOLS OOLS
Sprayed pool and spa shells for the trade X Quick,
clean, ef ficient & r e l i a b l e s e r v i ce
X O ve r
4 0 y e a r s o f e x p e r i e n ce
X R esidential
& commercial
X Any
shape or size including cover pit & deck level
X Nationwide X
Struc tural design calculations
X
Full CAD designed drawings
X Full
PI insurance for design & construc tion
X
10 year guarantee
C Contact o nt a c t u uss ffor or a q quote u ote Working to all appropriate BS EN Standards
Tel: 01782 631204 Mob: 07799 660837 Or call Terry direct on: Mobile: 07799 660837 Email: info@sprayedconcreteservices.ltd.uk Web: www.sprayedconcreteservices.co.uk
SPRAYED CONCRETE
Unit Unit 4, 4, Hampers Hampers Common Common Industrial Industrial Estate, Estate, Petworth, Pet wor th, West Sussex GU28 9NR West S us s e x G U28 9 NR T el: 01798 Tel: 01798 343221 343221 Fax: 342341 Fax: 01798 01798 3 42341 Email: Email: zzoe@guncast.com oe@guncast.com
SWIMMING POOL EQUIPMENT
Certikin manufactures, distributes and exports a vast range of superb swimming pool and leisure equipment throughout the UK & overseas. As the UK’s largest distributor, dealing solely with trade businesses, Certikin has become synonymous with top quality products and service backed up with a level of expertise that simply cannot be beaten. Certikin International Ltd T: +44 (0) 1993 778855 F: +44 (0) 1993 778620 E: info@certikin.co.uk
Suppliers of Pool plant Equipment, Measurement and Control Systems, and complete range of Chemicals. Solution partners for Evoqua and exclusive agents for Melspring International. Providers of all types of chemical dosing systems and pumps.
x Service maintenance x Breakdown cover x Training x Consultation Tel; 01526 322214 Email; sales@jakwater.co.uk www.jakwater.co.uk
www.certikin.co.uk
SWIMMING POOL EQUIPMENT
STEAM ROOM GENERATORS
STEAM ROOM GENERATORS
Manufacture domestic and commercial steam generators in the UK
ELECTRIC HEATERS
Suitable for Pools, Spas & many other applications. With Titanium Elements.
e: info@steamroomgenerator.com w: www.steamroomgenerator.com
SALT CHLORINATORS PH CONTROLLERS
ANODES & LADDER ANODES
The right product at the right price delivered on time is just a part of the customer service we offer. But it’s the part we get right first.
A must for saltwater pools For full details of all our Swimming Pool Products Contact us on:
Tel: +44 (0) 1752 313343 Email: sales@thermalec.co.uk or visit our website
www.thermalec.co.uk 82 August 2015 SPN
Trade Suppliers to the Wet Leisure Industry
01271 378100 | goldenc.co
AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £295! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR LESS THAN £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433
E. TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK
www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk
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BUYERS GUIDE UNDERWATER LIGHTING
WATER MONITORING & CONTROL
WATER TREATMENT
ADVERTISERS INDEX Aqua Spa Supplies
28
Aquaflex
25
Aquanale
Dr. A. Kuntze
11
Artesian Spas
OBC
BISHTA
40
Brenntag
71
BTU (Poolservices) Ltd
22
Certikin International
06
Combined Leisure Solutions
64
THE SAFEST & HEALTHIEST POOL WATER TREATMENT
Compass Ceramic Pools UK
35
• Silky smooth feeling water • No bather irritation – even for sensitive skin and eyes • Improved water clarity • Compatible with any standard filtration system • Long term bacteria reduction • Harmless to health of both swimmers and the environment • Effective low chlorine treatment (90-100% reduction of chlorine)
Fairlocks Pool Products
Inline Monitoring and control
Dr. A. Kuntze
CONTROLLER CONTR OLLER SENSOR
s KƉƟ Đ /ŶƚƌŽĚƵĐĞƐ ƚŚĞ Į ƌƐƚ > ŵƵůƟ ĐŽůŽƵƌ ůŝŐŚƚ ƚŽ ĞĂƐŝůLJ ƌĞƉůĂĐĞ ϯϬϬt ,ĂůŽŐĞŶ͘ KŶůLJ ϱϬt ĞŶĞƌŐLJ ĐŽŶƐƵŵƉƟ ŽŶ͊
www.EVAoptic.com Available in the UK & Ireland:
H ASSEMBLY WITH W DEFINED FLOW
Dr A Kuntz Kuntze e UK T: +44 (0)1788 422050 E: sales@kuntze.co.uk www.kuntze.co.uk
For more information phone
08450 063 063 (opt3) www.pro-pure.com
Complete Pool Controls
50
Elite Spas
30 IFC & 36
Forge Leisure
44
Golden Coast
11 & 35
Gullberg & Jansson
56
Hanovia
55
Heatstar Europe
73
Hippo Leisure
63
IoS
71
ISPE
71
ITS Europe
44
J C Leisure Solutions
56
Jacuzzi
33
Lighthouse Pools
UNDERWATER LIGHTING
WATER TESTING
WATER TREATMENT
Design, supply, installation and service of filtration and water treatment equipment including new and refurbishment schemes
UV SYSTEMS
SwimLine UV water treatment
■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Filters / Valves & Pipework Vessel Refurbishment / Re-lining Filter Media Replacement / Cleaning Chemical Dosing & Control Systems Plate Heat Exchangers Strainers / Circulation Pumps Flow Meters Anti-vortex Grilles / Pool Lining & Tiling UV Systems Inverter Drives / Pool Covers Integrated Control Systems Diving Services / Leak Detection Service Contracts / Spares
13 & 20
Lovibond/Tintometer
49
Munters
50
Natare UK
67
NIVEKO
19
On Reflection Ceramics Ltd
06
Peraqua
19
Pleatco
IBC
Plastica
13 & 20
Polygon
49
PoolLock
25
Roigk
63
SCP
43
Spa Euro
28
SPATA
40
SPATEX
14
STA
67
Superior Spas
30
Surex Limited
22
The Mosaic Company
06
Tiling & Pool Projects (UK) Ltd 63 Triogen
www.hanovia.com t: +44(0) 1753 515 300
www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk
25, 35 & 50
UK Pool & Spa Expo
64
Waterco
XX
Waterco/Certikin International 05 Waterco/Paramount
27
SPN August 2015 83
OPINION
How Meerkats And Moustachioed Opera Singers Have Affected The Wet Leisure Industry “Whatever you might think about how the Internet has changed the wet leisure business, the web has radically altered the way we all approach making purchase decisions, how we go about buying stuff. But is it all going a bit too far?” asks Golden Coast’s Managing Director Jamie Adams
P
rice comparison websites have been around for almost 20 years but it’s only in the last five or six years that they have seen explosive growth. Comparethemarket.com has been flooding our lives with talking meerkats since 2009. That same year, a fictional Italian tenor began to irritate us with the suggestion that we should ‘Go compare’. Brian the robot has been selling car insurance to the confused since 2013. Kelkoo, Google Shopping and Amazon are all effectively price comparison sites. We often look at the internet and comment; well complain mostly, on how it has affected our own industry by driving down prices with cheap competition and squeezing margins but we need to see that within the bigger picture. The tens of millions of pounds spent on advertising price comparison websites every year, the fact that almost everyone uses them to buy energy, book a holiday or choose an insurer – let alone buy an actual product – surely means that making a purchase decision on price alone, and the lowest price at that, has become a part of the nation’s psyche.
WE KNOW THE PRICE OF EVERYTHING AND THE VALUE OF NOTHING One of the most insidious practices of this price comparison culture is ‘showrooming’. Someone comes in to your showroom, looks at your spas, your saunas and your pool equipment; they might even pick your brains by asking your advice on what is the best buy for them. And then they pull out a smartphone and see what the lowest internet price is. Showrooming isn’t as common here as it is in the US, but if things carry on the way they are going, that day will come. What showrooming does is encapsulate the very worst aspects of the price comparison culture. All that matters is getting the product at the lowest possible price and, whereas that might feel pretty good at the moment of purchase, the downside of that comes later on. After all, what has been taken out of the deal to get the price that low?
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WHAT DOES A ‘PROFIT MARGIN’ ACTUALLY PAY FOR? If you or your customer wants to have technical support to go with the product that has just been bought, then there has to be some profit margin to pay for that. A lot of the technology in the wet leisure industry is increasingly complicated and if you want to be able to just ring up and get knowledgeable advice on how something works or should be installed, that’s something of value to you that the profit margin has to pay for. If you want that product delivered on time, by a delivery driver who is actually used to delivering chemicals, filters and pumps; then the profit margin goes towards paying for that service. Products come with guarantees and the expectation that if a problem should occur in a few years’ time, there will be someone there to deal with it. A healthy profit margin keeps a company in business and ensures that a promise of long-term support can be honoured. Squeeze that margin and you end up with the typical scenario of buying at a rockbottom price; no support, late and dodgy delivery and indeed, a seller that doesn’t answer emails and never picks up the phone.
YOUR CUSTOMERS SHOULD VALUE YOUR PROFIT MARGIN TOO The price comparison culture is most deeply entrenched with products, where people can compare like-with-like, but the idea of trying to negotiate the ‘best’ (i.e. lowest price) deal spreads to the services that wet leisure dealers offer as well. Customers looking for anything from an entire pool build to installing a new slatted cover, for instance, are increasingly trying to negotiate the price down; trying to shrink that profit margin.
Surely it is important that they value what that margin pays for? First and foremost, it pays for your staff; the engineers and craftsmen that will work on a project and deliver the best level of technical installation and finish. It pays for the knowledge and experience that resides in you and your business. The years of knowledge and experience that will ensure that a project goes smoothly delivering a first class result. And it pays for your business to stay in business, so if there is ever a need in the future, you are there to pick up the phone when your client calls for help or advice.
A FAIR DAY’S WORK FOR A FAIR DAY’S PAY That’s something that all of us in the wet leisure industry, indeed, in any business, deserve. Why is it important to talk about it now? Because it seems that the UK economy is showing signs of growth and that consumer confidence is returning. Of course, that’s great for us, but it also makes our industry more attractive to cheap imports and to ‘rogue traders’ who think they can make a quick profit. Surely we all need to stand firm on price and protect our margins, but in order to do that we need to explain to the customers what their margin pays for and why it is deserved. In the main, people won’t object to paying a little bit more if they see that they themselves get added value from dealing with an established, reputable and skilled company. The alternative is that we all chase each other down the rabbit hole of lowest possible price. We look for increased turnover at the cost of margin and end up doing more and more work for less and less reward. Compared to a strong and sustainable industry that is making the most out of an economic recovery, I don’t think that is a future that any of us would find attractive. Jamie Adams is Managing Director of Golden Coast, the current Chairman of Pool Industry Promotions (PIP) and a board member of the British Swimming Pool Federation (BSPF).
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