Pool&Spa Winter 2022

POOL SPA &

ENHANCING OUTDOOR LIVING

Beat the winter blues WHICH SPA IS

ps i t , s Tricktrends and pool for ers own

RIGHT FOR YOU?

Pool alarms AN EXTRA SAFETY LAYER WINTER 2022 RRP$7.95

Baby it’s cold outside

THE INS AND OUTS OF COLD WATER THERAPY

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SWIMMING POOL & SPA ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA

Welcome to

10

WINTER

16

28

10 Some like it hot

33 40 Quick tips

Which spa is right for you?

16 Cold comfort Dipping a toe into cold water therapy

19 Talking shop Getting to grips with pool industry jargon

28 The whole kit and caboodle Should you consider a pool kit?

33 Cause for alarm

Understanding oxidisers

47 Top 10 tips for winter pool prep Everything you need to know

Gold Class — award winning pools 14 24 36 44

Alfresco Pools Freedom Pools South Australia Coastline Pools Torquay Pools

Pool alarms can provide an extra layer of protection

Cover image: © Stock.Adobe.com/au/Drobot Dean

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Winter 2022

POOL&SPA | 5

© Stock.Adobe.com/au/Khunatorn

© Stock.Adobe.com/au/artefacti

ASK

WHAT’S Welcome to the latest issue of Pool & Spa Enhancing Outdoor Living magazine.

Owning a swimming pool or spa means you really notice the changing seasons. Of course, when summer is in full swing, it’s all about early morning swims and languid dips on balmy evenings. As we head into shorter days and cooler months, the swim season is coming to an end for some. That means it’s time to think about a few simple tasks in and around the pool to make sure things stay shipshape through the offseason. In this issue, we’ll arm you with all the info you need in our Top 10 Tips for Winter Pool Prep.

If bubbling your way through chilly days in a brand new spa is on your hit list, you’ll find everything you need to know to discover the best option for you in our article on spa choices. We look at the different available types including all the specifics like design, installation and ongoing upkeep considerations, which should help narrow down your choice.

While cooler weather signals a short departure from the pool for some of us, an increasing number of wellness enthusiasts are seeking the purported physical and mental health benefits of cold water therapy.

If you’ve ever wondered about cryotherapy, ice bath immersion or simple cold water swimming, check out our article to see if it’s right for you.

If you’ve spent any time at all with pool builder, in a pool store or speaking with a swimming pool and spa service tech, you know first-hand that there’s a lot of industry jargon to get your head around. If sanitisers, oxidisers, clarifiers and stabilisers all sound the same to you, our article on pool industry terminology is just what the doctor ordered... you’ll be fluent before you know it.

As always, we hope you enjoy this issue and find some useful information in these pages. If you’d like to drop us a line with ideas or suggestions for future articles, we’d love to hear from you. Send us an email: hello@poolspalife.com.au and remember to check out the website (poolspalife.com.au) for more tips, tricks and trends.

Happy swimming!

Editor, Dannielle Furness 6 | POOL&SPA

Winter 2022

the expert

Q

: I regularly find dead frogs floating on the pool surface or in the skimmer box. How can I prevent this?

A

: They are likely being drawn by a smorgasbord of insects living in, on and around your pool. Frogs climb in to feast and become trapped, as there is no easy escape route. The chlorine or saltwater then permeates their skin and poisons them... an unwelcome result all round.

There are a few things you can do to stop animals entering the water in the first place, which tend to be a little hit and miss, depending on the time you want to spend dealing with this issue. For our money, it might be better to look at options that make it easier for unwanted guests to exit.

The most obvious fix is to cover the pool at night, ensuring frogs, toads and other small animals can’t get trapped, but it’s a time-consuming option. Pool lighting can draw bugs and the animals that feed on them, but while turning lighting off at night is simple enough, it doesn’t really solve the underlying problem.

Believe or not, these little amphibians and their permeable skin really, really love oxygen-rich cold water, so heating the pool is one of the best deterrents.

If none of these options appeal, there are specialist lifesaving devices available that attach to the pool side and offer a floating ramp to facilitate an easy exit for animals that find themselves in trouble. Google ‘pool frog ramp’ and you’ll find a multitude of reasonably priced options available in Australia.

For more expert advice, email your pool and outdoor living questions to hello@poolspalife.com.au.

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before you

take the plunge...

If you’re thinking about building, installing or renovating a pool or spa, it’s important to rely on someone you can trust.

You’re in good hands when dealing with a professional backed by the national industry body the Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Australia

visit spasa.com.au to contact your local

SPASA member

1300 021 482 | askus@spasa.com.au

Heat your pool the natural way

O

wning a swimming pool is a significant investment, but most pools are left unused for much of the year simply because the water is too cool for comfortable swimming.

Even in the northern states, pools are shut down for up to half the year.

Heating a pool not only doubles the fun the family enjoys, it also doubles the value of that investment and, in Australia, we are blessed with abundant sunshine so what could be more logical than using that energy to heat your pool when you most feel like swimming?

In 1974 three young students realised that enough solar radiation falls on a pool owner’s roof every day to heat three or four swimming pools. They wanted to develop new technologies that could harness some of Mother 8 | POOL&SPA

Winter 2022

Nature’s abundant free energy to heat those pools in an environmentally responsible and costeffective way, and Sunbather was formed.

COLLECTING FREE ENERGY Today, tens of thousands of domestic and huge commercial pools are heated by Sunbather solar pool heating systems.

When the sun is shining and people want to swim, those systems collect the sun’s heat to regulate the temperature of the pool water. The only running cost is a few cents per hour to run a small circulation pump.

With solar, the sun generates the heat and that heat is fed directly into

the pool, so there’s very little to break down or wear out with a Sunbather solar system. So warranties are much longer with far less upkeep, but most important of all in these times, only solar technology can claim to be environmentally responsible.

CONSERVING HEAT ENERGY Not satisfied with finding an environmentally friendly way to warm a pool, Sunbather engineers turned their attention to keeping it warm for as long as possible — and with as little cost as possible.

Pool covers not only help keep pools clean

SUNBATHER

E: INFO@SUNBATHER.COM.AU P: 1800 BATHER W: WWW.SUNBATHER.COM.AU

and reduce evaporation, thermal covers also lock in heat, conserving heat energy and can even extend the swimming season for unheated pools.

One downside is that pool covers and rollers can be unattractive.

Homeowners want to spend a lot designing and building their dream pool and landscape and don’t want a bulky roller and cover to spoil the view. Covers systems can also tend to take up an unnecessary amount of space. They can be a trip hazard and climbing on them is an unwanted poolside safety risk.

Sunbather addresses all of these problems with the Downunder hidden pool cover system. The roller and cover sit in a cavity below the ground/ deck at the end of the pool completely out of the way and out of sight.

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SOME LIKE IT

HOT

© Stock.Adobe.com/au/ Aleksej

Which spa is right for you?

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WHEN THE SEASONS CHANGE, THOUGHTS TURN TO WARMER WATER… AND THERE’S NOTHING QUITE LIKE A HOT SOAK TO HELP BEAT THOSE WINTER BLUES.

A

spa is a fantastic investment, offering health and wellness benefits with year-round accessibility.

The warm water can increase blood circulation, lower blood pressure and reduce stress, while also providing relief from sore and aching muscles and joints.

There’s plenty to consider when you start investigating options, including budget for initial outlay as well as running costs, the installation location, ongoing sanitation requirements and any required aftersales care and maintenance.

Before you get bogged down in the detail, start with the basics. Spas come in three fundamental forms — inground, portable and swim spa options. Learning more about each will help narrow down your choices.

INGROUND SPAS

Inground spas are a popular choice as they offer a huge range of benefits.

They are a great way to relax and are a great investment, adding value to your home, and lasting for a long, long time.

INGROUND SPA DESIGN AND MATERIALS An inground spa is usually designed to blend seamlessly into your landscape, either as a standalone feature or integrated into an inground pool. Pool and spa WWW.POOLSPALIFE.COM.AU

combinations are popular as they are built at the same time, making installation more cost-effective.

Custom-built inground spas also offer complete design flexibility. Some homeowners prefer to make their spa installation a focal point, using elements like overflows that create a cascading effect into another body of water. Freedom with customisation means you can design an outdoor space that blends in or stands out as much as you’d like and is guaranteed to get the neighbours talking.

Material choices are important and an inground spa made from durable concrete and steel will provide decades of enjoyment with family and friends. You’re also free to incorporate a host of decorative touches, including different finishes or colours for the spa interior and coping. That same flexibility also extends to the seating design, the placement of water jets, lighting choices and more.

INGROUND SPA INSTALLATION, HEATING AND SANITATION Inground spa installers use remote equipment connections, which means there are more options for costeffective, yet efficient, heating. They can be heated independently of your swimming pool, offering a year-round swimming option without the need to fully heat the larger body of water.

Spas commonly feature a gas heating system, which relies on either Winter 2022

POOL&SPA | 11

PORTABLE SPAS

Another excellent choice for yearround relaxation, portable spas are easy to install and can even go with you when you move.

PORTABLE SPA DESIGN AND MATERIALS Portable spas incorporate a shell that is generally made from acrylic and fibreglass — both are strong and durable materials that will withstand damage from the chemicals needed to keep your spa sparkling clean.

Most importantly, both materials can handle the heat.

These types of spas are mostly factory produced, which means they come with all the associated warranties for workmanship and parts that you would expect from any manufactured item.

This doesn’t mean that they can’t be customised, with plenty of choice on offer when it comes to model, size, shell colour, cabinet colour, water jets and accessories. You can even choose extra bells and whistles like lighting, inbuilt speakers and programmable timers.

The spa shell sits within a cabinet that is usually made from wood, though thermal plastic models are available.

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A portable spa can seat between four and 12 people, depending on the size. Many seating configurations are available, and some even come with independent seat controls, meaning that each bather can customise their own jet settings.

PORTABLE SPA INSTALLATION, HEATING AND SANITATION Portable spas are a neat option, as all the equipment required to run them fits into the surrounding spa cabinet.

It’s important to ensure that the spa is installed onto a solid base and a flat, level surface. Installation can be above or below ground level, providing that access is available around the entire spa.

Portable spas are relatively economical to run — something that surprises many would-be buyers, given the requirement for heating. The average spa costs around $20–$30 to run each month.

Once you’ve established your water quality processes and understand

how to keep spa water clear, clean and comfortable, you shouldn’t need too much maintenance either.

That doesn’t mean ‘no maintenance’, however, so don’t forget to find out what types of equipment need to be looked after and what checks you’ll need to carry out in order to keep everything shipshape.

As with other spa types, buying a cover will save you in heating and cleaning costs.

SWIM SPAS When it comes to exercise and relaxation, swim spas offer the best of both worlds. They include jets like a spa that can be used to create a current to swim against, while still offering somewhere to sit back and relax at the end of a hard day.

SWIM SPA DESIGNS AND MATERIALS Swim spas are perfect for smaller backyards or for swimmers who follow a home therapy program. The main aim of a swim spa is to provide

© Stock.Adobe.com/au/Maridav

natural gas or LPG. Some modern efficient gas heaters will get the water to a toasty temperature in just 20–30 minutes. If you want to take things a step further, consider an automation system, which allows you to can get things underway as you leave work and have the spa ready and waiting by the time you arrive home.

It makes sense to purchase a cover for your inground spa, as it will help the water retain some heat between uses. It will also prevent debris from making its way in and help keep maintenance and heating costs down.

Inground spas that are integrated with your swimming pool utilise the same body of water, which means they also share the same sanitation system, simplifying maintenance and reducing costs.

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the ability to swim distances without the need for a big pool.

Swimmers can customise to suit specific exercise or therapy needs — the stronger the current, the harder the workout. Exercise isn’t limited to swimming, with running, core workouts, and equipment-based programs all possible using resistance from the water jet.

Because they are a hybrid between a swimming pool and a spa, swim spas are generally a little deeper than a standard spa. Some designs feature separate zones that allow you to put your feet up and simply enjoy the bubbles, or train for your English Channel swim.

SWIM SPA INSTALLATION, HEATING AND SANITATION You’ll obviously need to ensure you have enough space for a swim spa.

While they can be installed inground, you need to leave space around the spa in order to access plumbing and other equipment.

Year-round swimming will require installation of heating to keep the water toasty warm, so you should make yourself aware of the ongoing costs. You’ll also need to keep an eye on your filtration system and carry out all the required maintenance including filter media replacement and regular water replacement, as well as your sanitation regime. In case we haven’t made it clear yet, a cover will save you time, money and effort.

WANT TO LEARN MORE? There’s no denying that a spa is a worthwhile investment and certainly one you will relish in the cooler months. But it’s also a decision that requires a lot of forethought and research. Consult a professional to help wade through the available choices and to work out the best option for your needs. Jump onto the poolspalife.com website for more information and to find your local SPASA member.

Different spa types Inground spas: • Add value to your property • Can be integrated with a pool • Durable and longlasting • Completely customisable Portable spas: • Easy to install • Can take with you when you move • Economical • Plenty of customisable options Swim spas: • Blend of exercise and relaxation • Good for smaller spaces • Some models offer distinct activity zones

“

Don’t forget to find out what types of equipment need to be looked after and what checks you’ll need to carry out.

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Winter 2022

”

POOL&SPA | 13

NZ GOLD WINNER POOL AND SPA COMBINATION

SPASA SPOTLIGHT

ALFRESCO POOLS

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A

lfresco constructs beautiful bespoke concrete pools that create a unique and enticing addition to your home. We’ve been building pools for over 20 years that not only stand the test of time, but become the centrepiece of your property.

This pool and spa combination was designed to create a sleek sophisticated space for the owners of this inner city oasis. The dark plaster colour combined with a black mosaic tile created a feeling of depth and a totally unique finish. The pool surrounds including the coping were constructed with a light timber decking to create contrast with the pool colour and a seamlessness between the pool and house.

P: +64 21 270 5868 E: TIM@ALFRESCOPOOLS.CO.NZ W: ALFRESCOPOOLS.CO.NZ

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COLD COMFORT

© Stock.Adobe.com/au/ deathvoice

Dipping a toe into cold water therapy

A BIG WELLNESS TREND OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS, COLD WATER THERAPY IS REALLY HAVING ITS MOMENT IN THE SUN. SO, WHAT IS IT AND SHOULD YOU TEST THE WATERS AT HOME?

I

t may be enjoying a lot of attention right now, but cold water therapy is not a new idea. It’s long been a practice in colder parts of the world and plenty of sporting teams subscribe to recovery regimes that include immersion in ice baths.

We’ve been told for years that a blast of cold water at the end of a shower can have numerous benefits from the physical — a purported increase in metabolism, immunity boost and a reduction in inflammation — through to mental health benefits including a lift in mood and heightened endorphin release. Despite all of this good news, it can be pretty hard to turn the 16 | POOL&SPA

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tap all the way to ‘cold’ on a frosty winter morning.

WHAT THE HOF?

Probably the most well-known proponent of cold water therapy is Wim Hof, a Dutch extreme athlete who also goes by the moniker ‘The Iceman’. He’s renowned for being able to withstand extreme cold and has set plenty of records for activities undertaken while being exposed to ice, snow and freezing water temperatures.

Hof has even devised his own program — the Wim Hof Method — for keeping ‘your body and mind in its optimal natural state’, according to his website (wimhofmethod.

com). The method focuses heavily on breathing, cold therapy and meditation. Hof suggests we’ve lost natural defences developed in our earlier evolution because we’re no longer exposed to the unforgiving environments that forced us to maintain sharp, clear minds. He seems pretty keen to reverse the effects on our modern bodies of a life spent largely indoors, on screens and in comfort.

He believes there are plenty of health benefits including fat loss, fortified immunity, hormonal balance, better sleep and an upsurge in endorphins. Of course, you’ll need to sign up for all the details of Hof ’s method but, anecdotally, it appears WWW.POOLSPALIFE.COM.AU

If you do decide to dive in to cold water swimming: • Seek medical advice beforehand to ensure this is a safe activity to undertake.

• Always have someone nearby keeping an eye on you.

• Don’t stay too long — keep moving and keep your swim brief.

• Don’t delay in drying — remove wet items, dry off quickly and dress warmly.

• Have a hot beverage — and perhaps a little food.

• Delay the hot shower — extreme body temperature changes can have a negative effect.

to incorporate breathing techniques designed to introduce high levels of oxygen into the body. These are seemingly first practiced out of water, followed by another set of the same exercises while immersed in an ice bath or similar.

OUTSOURCING... OR DIY?

If you Google ‘ice baths near me’, you may be surprised at the available options. Well, at least you would have been before COVID-19 caused the closure of many small businesses over the last two years. The point is, search results indicate that people are interested in cold water and other cryotherapies and these treatments are available at a range of venues including gyms, wellness centres and specialist clinics.

For those who would rather keep it on home turf, there are plenty of portable tubs, baths and inflatable solutions. It’s not uncommon to see WWW.POOLSPALIFE.COM.AU

a wheelie bin commandeered for the purpose, either. After all, you only need access to water, ice and a steely sense of determination. General recommendations require that the water temperature be between 10 and 15°C and you’ll need to tough it out for around eight to 10 minutes, according to popular opinion.

All of that being said, it should be noted that there is no real evidence to suggest any measurable benefits are derived from ice bath immersion.

Supporters have suggested that it does deliver a reduction in delayed onset muscle soreness after exercise but this seems like a pretty loose conclusion to draw, to be honest.

NOT NECESSARILY MEDICALLY RECOMMENDED...

Not only are the supposed benefits difficult to prove, many medical professionals heartily warn against the practice of ice bath immersion, suggesting that hypothermia, shock and even sudden death from cardiac arrest are all possible outcomes.

...BUT COULD BE A MATTER OF DEGREES

So, it seems that a full ice bath immersion might be a bridge too far for many reasons, but that doesn’t mean abandoning cold water therapy entirely. Recreational ocean swimmers all over the world swear by a winter dip — in Australia it’s a badge of honour to be part of winter swimming clubs like Bondi’s infamous Icebergs, which requires members to regularly swim on Sundays from May till September each year.

For pool owners across most of Australia, our reasonably mild winters can make swimming at home an easy entry point into the world of cold water therapy. If you decide you want to take the plunge into cold water swimming, be sure to seek medical advice beforehand to confirm it’s okay for you to do so. It’s probably also wise to have someone keep an eye on you, just in case you get into any trouble. Don’t stay too long in cold water — keep moving and keep your swim brief. When you get out of the pool, don’t delay in drying off and removing wet items before dressing in something warm. Have a hot drink and a little food before hitting the shower to avoid any extreme body temperature changes.

It seems like cold water therapy — in many of its forms — comes with quite a few safety considerations.

Coupled with a lack of proof around declared benefits, it’s hard to recommend the practice without a lot more investigation and ideally, conversation with some converts.

Maybe the key to kicking off is as close as your nice, warm indoor bathroom with heated floors and towel rails. A short, sharp icy blast at the end of your shower is a step in the cold water therapy direction and will certainly let you know you’re alive... we’re just not sure if Wim Hof would approve!

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©stock.adobe.com/au/ArchiVIZ

Creating a lowmaintenance pool

L

ow maintenance is a term that is rarely associated with pool ownership. In years gone by, the work required to keep a pool in tip-top condition and looking the right colour whilst being safe to swim in was enough to turn some people off the idea of pool ownership.

However, with pool equipment manufacturers racing to incorporate timesaving technology into their products along with internet integration and apps, we asked Hayward Pool Products whether it really is now truly possible to spend longer in your pool than working on it.

FOR BUSY HOMEOWNERS, WHAT ARE THE BEST CURRENT TECHNOLOGIES AVAILABLE FOR REDUCING THE WORK REQUIRED TO RUN A POOL? Probably the quickest and easiest thing that you can do to make maintenance easy is to cut down on the time and effort it takes to clean your pool. You can do this by investing in an automatic pool cleaner. It will remove 18 | POOL&SPA

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debris and scrub the pool for you — all you have to do is remember to empty it. The new AquaVac 650 Robotic Cleaner from Hayward has even done away with filters, meaning you can stay away from the mess and empty it with the touch of a button.

A more long-term solution to improve the ownership experience would be to invest in an automation system to run your pool. Many owners install a pool to improve the lifestyle of themselves or their families. In the past they have been unable to fully enjoy this change due to the work required to maintain and run a pool.

Automation removes many of these time-consuming and labour-intensive tasks so the owner can enjoy the lifestyle improvements that a pool can bring.

ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC HAYWARD POOL PRODUCTS THAT YOU’D RECOMMEND FOR A BUSY HOMEOWNER? WHY? Hayward OmniLogic pool and backyard automation is

the perfect system for a busy homeowner. It provides an easy way to control the chemistry of your pool and spa, as well as the heating, lighting, water features and any other pool or backyard equipment required by the user. The system takes the hassle out of pool ownership by bringing together all the elements of a modern energy-efficient pool and allowing the user to control it with an app. With an OmniLogic installed you can quickly and simply get your pool running exactly how you like it, at the touch of a button.

Owners can access their pool from anywhere as long as they’re connected to the internet. So rather than having to manually switch valves or press buttons around the pool, the owner can do this from the comfort of their sun lounger. You can even get

your pool up and running before you arrive home from work, allowing you to get straight in and make the most of your evening.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR BUSY HOMEOWNERS LOOKING TO INCORPORATE AUTOMATION INTO THEIR NEW POOL? When choosing your pool equipment make sure that you are comfortable with understanding how it operates — modern systems can appear complicated and this can be off-putting to some people. The last thing you want is to be standing around scratching your head trying to figure out how to get your filtration running when you could be in the pool splashing around.

However, if a system is set up in accordance with the needs of the pool owner and a good handover is provided by the installer, pool automation can truly transform your ownership experience and turn it into the dream you always hoped it would be.

To find out more about the products mentioned in this article and to find your nearest Hayward dealer, just head to www.hayward-pool.com.au.

HAYWARD POOL PRODUCTS AUSTRALIA P: 1300 766 571 E: SALES@HAYWARD-POOL.COM.AU W: WWW.HAYWARD-POOL.COM.AU

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LITHIUM HYPOCHLORITE

RECIRCULATE

CALCIUM

IONISER

BUFFER

CLARIFIERS

FLOCCULENT

SKIMMER BOX ACID CARTRIDGE CELL STABILISER

HEAT

PPM

CHLORINATOR

GLASS

OZONISER

TALKING

BACK WASH

RECIRCULATE

pH

CHLORAMINES SALT

JARGON

ALGAE SCALE

ALARM

PRESSURE GAUGE

POOL ALARM

PHOSPHATE

HEAT PUMP

FILTER

SHOP

Getting to grips with pool industry jargon BAFFLED BY BACKWASH? CONFUSED

BY CHLORAMINES AND CLARIFIERS? DON’T KNOW YOUR PH FROM YOUR PHOSPHATE? IT CAN FEEL LIKE OWNING A POOL COMES WITH A WHOLE NEW LANGUAGE, SO WE’VE CREATED A GUIDE TO UNRAVEL THE MYSTERIES.

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W

ith any new hobby or pursuit, you’re exposed to a world you never knew existed — often featuring its own exclusive language — and the pool industry is no exception.

There are plenty of unfamiliar terms for the specialist equipment and chemicals you’ll need to use and activities you’ll undertake in order to keep your pool in tiptop condition.

To make life simpler, we’ve compiled some of the more common terms and their definitions, so you’ll be fluent in poolspeak in no time!

Winter 2022

POOL&SPA | 19

ACID (HYDROCHLORIC ACID) Acid is used to lower the pH and/or Total Alkalinity in pool water.

ALGAECIDE A chemical used to kill and prevent algae growth in pools.

AMMONIA A chemical introduced to pool water by swimmers from organic matter like skin oils and hair. It forms chloramines.

BACKWASH To pump water through the pool filter to remove dirt and other impurities.

BLACK SPOT ALGAE A common type of algae found in pools. Can be treated with an algaecide product.

BROMINE A sanitising chemical typically used in heated indoor pools and spas.

BUFFER (SODIUM BICARBONATE) Buffers slow down the change of pH in pool water, making it easier to achieve the ideal level of between 80 and 120 ppm.

CALCIUM CHLORIDE A chemical that is added to pool water to increase calcium hardness levels.

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CALCIUM HARDNESS A measure of calcium levels in pool water. Calcium protects the pool surface and is part of a healthy water balance.

CALCIUM HYPOCHLORITE A common chlorine sanitiser product used in swimming pools. Granular form of chlorine.

CARTRIDGE The removable part of a cartridge filter system, which is used to prevent particles from contaminating pool water.

CELL Part of a saltwater chlorinator system.

The electrolytic cell converts chloride contained in saltwater into chlorine for use as a sanitiser.

CELL CLEANER A chemical used to clean the scale from salt cells. It is usually phosphoric acid-based.

CHLORAMINE A chemical formed when chlorine and ammonia come together. It causes sore eyes, itches skin and can make pool water smell strongly of ‘chlorine’.

Chloramine can be removed using a superchlorination or ‘shock treatment’ process.

CHLORINE A chemical used to sanitise pool water.

Comes in liquid and granular forms.

CHLORINE REMOVER (SODIUM THIOSULPHATE) A chemical used to remove excess chlorine from pool water.

CITRIC ACID A chemical used to remove stains on pool surfaces.

CLARIFIER A chemical used to clear up cloudy pool water.

CYANURIC ACID See ‘Stabiliser’.

EYEBALL Also referred to as a ‘nozzle’ or ‘return jet’, eyeballs circulate water through the pool and return water after it passes through the filter. The direction can be adjusted.

FILTER AID A powdered chemical that assists the filtration system to improve water cleanliness.

FILTER CLEANER A proprietary product used to clean filter cartridges and sand filters.

FLOCCULENT A chemical used to clear very cloudy

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pool water. Available in both powder and liquid forms.

GLASS MEDIA Type of filter material used to trap microscopic particles while still allowing water to pass through the filter.

LEAF SHOVEL Removes leaves from the bottom of a pool.

LEAK SEALER A chemical used to stop leaks in swimming pools.

OZONISER An electronic device that makes ozone, which is used to purify pool water. An alternative to traditional sanitising methods.

PH A measure of acid or alkalinity in pool water. The ideal pH for swimming pools is 7.2 to 7.6.

GRANULAR CHLORINE See ‘Calcium hypochlorite’.

LIQUID CHLORINE (SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE) A sanitising product.

GREEN ALGAE The most common type of algae found in swimming pools. Can be treated with an algaecide product.

MG/LITRE See ‘ppm’.

PPM Parts per million. A measure of concentration. Also milligrams per litre or mg/litre.

MAIN DRAIN A relief valve located in the bottom of the pool.

PHOSPHATE A mineral that feeds algae and allows it to grow.

MULTIPORT VALVE A valve on a media filter used to direct waterflow.

PHOSPHATE REMOVER A chemical product that hinders algal growth by removing phosphates from the water.

HARDNESS INCREASER See ‘Calcium chloride’.

HEAT PUMP Pool water heating device that draws heat from the outside air.

INSTANT PELLETS A chemical used to boost chlorine levels and used for superchlorination.

IONISER An electronic device used to purify pool water. An alternative to traditional sanitising methods.

LEAF RAKE Removes leaves from the bottom of a pool.

LEAF SCOOP Removes leaves form the pool surface.

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LITHIUM HYPOCHLORITE A sanitising product used in spas.

MUSTARD ALGAE A rare type of algae, not commonly found in pools.

O RING GREASE A special waterproof silicone grease used on o rings found in pool equipment including filters and pumps.

ONCE A WEEK TABLETS (TRICHLOR, TCCA) Slow-dissolving sanitiser tablets used in a dispenser that floats on and slightly below the pool water surface.

POLYHEXANIDE An organic chemical sanitiser.

POOL ALARM A device that sounds an alarm when a disturbance to the pool surface or water level is detected, such as when a child or pet enters the water unexpectedly.

POOL CLEANER A suction, robotic or pressureoperated device used to clean the pool floor, walls and surfaces.

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POOL COVER One of many different forms of pool water cover used to control heat loss and prevent debris from entering the water. May also be a safety cover to prevent accidental pool entry.

SDIC (STABILISED CHLORINE) A commonly used chlorine sanitiser product.

PRESSURE GAUGE Located on top of the pool filter, the pressure gauge indicates when it is time to clean the filter.

SKIMMER BOX A small opening built in the side of the pool where pool water is sucked in and cleaned and pushed back out to the pool.

PUMP BASKET A plastic basket located in the pump that collects leaves.

PUMP LID ‘O’ RING A rubber ring located around the pump lid that needs regular greasing to prevent air leaks.

RECIRCULATE A setting on a multiport valve that allows water to bypass the filter.

RETURN (OR JET RETURN) See ‘Eyeball’.

SALT A mineral used by a salt chlorinator to make chlorine.

SALT CHLORINATOR An electronic device to make chlorine for sanitising from salt in the pool water.

SALT LEVEL The salt content of pool water, as needed by a salt chlorinator.

SAND Specially graded sand. A type of filter material used to trap microscopic particles while still allowing water to pass through the filter.

SANITISER A chemical used to kill harmful bacteria in pool water. Commonly chlorine.

SCALE A calcium carbonate (chalk) build-up found on salt chlorinator cells and swimming pool walls.

SKIMMER BASKET A plastic basket located in the skimmer box, used to collect leaves.

SKIMMER SOCK A socket put over the skimmer basket to remove fine particles.

SODIUM BICARBONATE See ‘Buffer’.

SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE See ‘Liquid chlorine’.

STABILISER (ALSO SUNSCREEN, CYANURIC ACID) A chemical used to stop chlorine loss through exposure to sunlight.

Available in liquid or granular forms.

Ideal level is 30 to 50 ppm.

STAIN REMOVER A chemical used to remove stains (brown iron or manganese) from pool walls, floors and surfaces.

SUNSCREEN See ‘Stabiliser’.

TELESCOPIC POLE Extendable pole for attaching to pool cleaning accessories.

TEST KIT A four-in-one water test: chlorine, pH, total alkalinity and acid demand.

TOTAL ALKALINITY A measure of the amount of alkaline (see ‘buffer’) in the water. The ideal level is 80 to 120 ppm.

VAC HEAD Used to clean the floor of a pool and attached to the telescopic pole.

Features wheels for use with concrete pools or brushes for fibreglass, vinyl and painted pool surfaces.

VAC HOSE Flexible hose used for vacuuming the pool.

VAC PLATE A plastic disc connected to the vac hose and placed in the skimmer box when vacuuming.

VACUUMING Cleaning the pool by sucking dirt and debris into the filter.

WASTE A setting on a multiport valve that allows water to go down the drain.

WATER BALANCE The use of chemicals to balance water ensures it is safe to swim, while protecting pool surfaces and fittings.

WATER FLOW CONTROL VALVE Valve used to control the suction and speed of a cleaner.

WEIR DOOR The door to the skimmer box that floats vertically when the pump is off, preventing leaves from floating back into the pool.

TILE & VINYL CLEANER A chemical used to clean the water line of a pool.

WINTERISE The act of preparing a pool for the winter season, when the pool is not in use.

TIMECLOCK A device used to regulate specific equipment and actions by time of day. Can be part of the salt chlorinator or used to regulate pump operation hours.

ZEOLITE A specific type of media used in a sand filter. A type of filter material used to trap microscopic particles while still allowing water to pass through the filter.

This is by no means the definitive list of pool industry terminology, but it’s certainly a great starting point for anyone new to the game. We consider it to be a continually evolving list and make regular updates on the poolspalife.com website. Check out the Pool & Spa Terminology page for more info, or drop us a line with suggestions you’d like to see included. Email us at hello@poolspalife.com.au.

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The next level in pool sanitation and automation

F

luidra has recently launched the much-anticipated AstralPool® Halo® Connect range of products, available now at your nearest AstralPool dealer.

A new line of connected products enabling monitoring, analysis and maintenance of your swimming pool, the AstralPool Halo Connect System seamlessly connects and automates multiple devices, including everything from your chlorinator to a heater, a waterfall, additional pumps and much more.

These ground-breaking new products deliver greater ease of installation and set-up and provide connectivity across the WWW.POOLSPALIFE.COM.AU

pool pad like never before.

The Halo Chlor high performance chlorinator is available in four sizes: 18, 25, 35 and 45G outputs.

Add on optional modules including the Halo Doser with Bluetooth sensors, or the Halo Hub or Halo Xpand for automation of heaters, blowers, pumps and valve actuators.

The Halo Lite light controller modules will also suit any pool.

The completely modular design means you can build and completely customise the Halo system to suit your pool’s specific needs.

Set-up of the entire system on the pool pad is made easy thanks to Bluetooth connectivity.

In-built Wi-Fi connectivity

allows you to control the system anytime from anywhere using the Halo app on your smart phone.

The AustralPool Halo range includes: • Halo Chlor chlorinator available in four sizes: choose from 18, 25, 35 or 45G outputs • Halo Doser add-on acid feeder can be used with or without sensors • Halo Bluetooth sensors — pH and gold tip ORP for balance and chlorine control

• Halo Hub automation module with GPOs, valve control, temperature sensor inputs and more • Halo Xpand automation module with GPOs and temperature sensor inputs • Halo Lite 2 and Halo Lite 4 lighting controllers, used as standalone or within the Halo system For more information visit www.astralpool.com. au/halo-connect-system.

ASTRALPOOL AUSTRALIA W: WWW.ASTRALPOOL.COM.AU

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NATIONAL FINALIST DISPLAY POOL/CENTRE

SPASA SPOTLIGHT

FREEDOM POOLS SOUTH AUSTRALIA

T

he Freedom Pools display centre in Adelaide’s Plympton Park offers customers the opportunity to experience the magic that a fibreglass pool can bring to their home. The centre provides an oasis of tranquillity in a beautiful garden setting for families to explore their ideal pool design and accessory options with Freedom’s friendly and knowledgeable consultants.

Manufacturing award-winning fibreglass swimming pools for over 45 years, Freedom Pools has factories in Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane, with display centres and agents right across Australia.

P: (08) 8264 6377 E: INFO@FREEDOMPOOLS.COM W: FREEDOMPOOLS.COM

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IF YOU CAN’T DRINK IT, WHY SWIM IN IT? With the world’s best quality water on tap, Aussies appreciate the benefits of freshwater. Yet when it comes to our nation’s favourite pastime, we’ve all accepted that chlorine and saltwater were the natural order of things.

Not anymore.

The latest Freshwater Pool System by Naked Pools can safely and effortlessly purify your pool water without need for adding chlorine, high salt or expensive minerals.

Imagine taking a swim in silky smooth fresh water, no horrible chlorine stench burning your nostrils and eyes, not having to lather your kids in special creams or take showers after having a dip.

It’s swimming as nature intended, pure and simple.

Discover the fresh alternative to chlorine and high chemicals for a healthier, crystal clear swimming pool.

NKD-R Freshwater Pool System

THE BENEFITS ARE CRYSTAL CLEAR Gentle on eyes and skin – Taking into account one in three Australians have some kind of skin condition (psoriasis, eczema, or dermatitis) a freshwater pool is a healthier lifestyle choice for you and your family.

Cost effective – You will save time and money with less chemical, reduction in power consumption and the ability to re-use the pool water without dilution.

All natural – Using nature’s minerals such as copper and silver ions rather than chlorine, it feels incredible to swim in a pure freshwater pool that is not only healthier for you, it’s healthier for the environment, your pool surrounds and equipment.

Naked Pools Pty Ltd 1800 625 331 sales@naked-pools.com www.naked-pools.com

The clearest breakthrough in swimming pools is Fresh Water

Discover what freshwater fans are raving about. Talk to us or your builder about the most awarded pool system that is transforming the way you swim in your backyard oasis.

Swimming as nature intended™ 1800 625 331 www.naked-pools.com

THE WHOLE

KIT AND Should you consider a pool kit?

WHEN LOOKING AT SWIMMING POOL INSTALLATION OPTIONS, MANY HOMEOWNERS INVESTIGATE POOL KITS. FOR SOME, IT MAY BE THE LURE OF DIY AND FOR OTHERS, IT’S A DESIRE TO REMOVE THE MIDDLEMAN. WHATEVER THE MOTIVATION, IT’S A COMPLEX ROUTE AND YOU’LL NEED TO BE AWARE OF POTENTIAL PITFALLS.

W

hile it may sound as simple as flat pack furniture assembly, don’t let the name fool you — electing to purchase and install a swimming pool kit is a complex construction project.

It requires knowledge, skills and experience that are probably beyond the average punter, so it shouldn’t be attempted without some serious consideration and careful planning.

WHAT IS A SWIMMING POOL KIT?

Swimming pool kits are essentially the shell of a pool, sold by a manufacturer or retailer and installed either by the purchaser, in the case 28 | POOL&SPA

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CABOODLE

of DIY, or another party — usually a builder. The shell is typically either fibreglass or vinyl liner and the kit will also usually include items like the pool pump and the filtration and skimmer system.

There are a few sales channels for swimming pool kits including online platforms, retail outlets, pool suppliers and manufacturers. You should make sure that your potential purchase is coming from a verifiable supplier and that it meets all of the relevant local standards.

WHO SHOULD INSTALL A SWIMMING POOL KIT?

Deciding who will install the pool kit is a major consideration. If you WWW.POOLSPALIFE.COM.AU

opt to DIY, you’ll need a pretty good grasp of engineering and construction principles. The installation must comply with all of the relevant ANZ standards, as well as being in line with manufacturer’s recommendations.

Deviation from either will run the risk of voiding your warranty and probably cause major headaches when it comes to insurance.

As the purchaser, you are significantly exposed if your swimming pool is installed outside of required legislative requirements. This means you need to be across everything include contracting with multiple related or unrelated parties, any installation defects or sequencing issues (problems that affect the logical

flow between each of the major construction processes), workplace health and safety problems, building warranty and other general insurance coverage checks and balances.

CONTRACTING EXPECTATIONS AND OBLIGATIONS

If you are using another party to install your swimming pool kit, it’s imperative to understand your contracting expectations and obligations from the outset. Here are some points to consider: • Understand the relationship between the swimming pool kit supplier and the installer — whether recommended or Winter 2022

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© Stock.Adobe.com/au/Lev

Don’t get caught out

used. What is the nature of the relationship between the two?

Can these parties provide contact details or written references from satisfied customers? Can you verify that the product being supplied is legitimate, meets with required standards and is covered by necessary warranties? Does the installer have the necessary skills and licence to undertake the work?

• Make sure you have executed a suitable construction contract. This is a major building project, not a Saturday arvo working bee with a few beers. The contract is a legally binding document that outlines the exact project scope and terms.

• Insist on checking the installer’s qualifications before anything commences.

• Ascertain up-front who will be responsible for seeking local council permissions, permits and any other approvals.

• Decide and document the process for any changes from the original plan and project scope that may affect the installation costs.

• Decide and document a process for roles, responsibilities and direction when any issues arise — as they inevitably will.

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• Be informed — be sure you understand the full engineering scope of the project.

• Be clear — document roles, responsibilities and expectations in the event of unforeseen changes.

• Be pedantic — ensure that all supplied equipment meets necessary standards and is covered by warranty. Insist on seeing installer qualifications, licensing and all approvals documentation.

• If in doubt, don’t — if anything about the project leaves you feeling nervous, don’t move forward until you’ve sought the expert, legal or financial advice necessary to overcome those doubts.

QUALITY, INSTALLATION AND PEACE OF MIND If you are managing the purchase and installation of a swimming pool kit, you should satisfy yourself that the following actions have been taken: • You have confirmed the quality and the warranty of the pool shell and any other provided equipment before purchasing.

• You have confirmed the adequacy and accuracy of supplied drawings and specifications.

• You understand completely the scope of engineering required for the installation including necessary equipment and any additional associated hire charges.

• You have made the installer aware that you must have full oversight of the project.

• You are satisfied that compliance with building, work practices, and

health and safety regulations is being observed.

GO WITH AN EXPERT

Any building project comes with a degree of stress and building from a swimming pool kit is no exception.

What begins as a potential cost-saving exercise can quickly derail, leading to unexpected delays and escalating costs.

The best option for anyone taking this route is to work with reputable suppliers and installers. Electing to engage a certified SPASA member means you can avoid quality and installation issues and unnecessary stress, while minimising the likelihood of budget blowouts in the event that things go wrong.

To locate your nearest SPASAcertified pool professional, jump on the poolspalife.com website and head to the ‘Find a Provider’ tab for more information.

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Complete control over the weather isn’t possible, however complete control over your pool heating and running costs are with EvoHeat.

Energy efficient heating

I

nverter pool heat pumps are fast becoming the mainstream heating solution for domestic and commercial pools and spas across Australia, and for good reason! They surpass traditional methods of heating while saving energy, reducing running costs, and cutting carbon emissions. So, if you are looking for the ideal pool heater, this article is for you.

An inverter heat pump is a different way to use renewable energy to heat your pool water. Operating on a similar principle to an air conditioner system, an inverter heat pump absorbs the solar heat from the surrounding air, and the electrical pump transfers the heat into the

pool through a series of processes.

The inverter technology continually optimises the way the heat pump operates to ensure that the least amount of energy is required to maintain the desired temperature, producing incredible efficiency and lower electricity bills. This allows for the desired pool temperature to be managed much more efficiently.

The motor works like cruise control in your car to maintain a set temperature, rather than stopping and starting the motor like traditional on/off heat pumps. The inverter heat pump runs at maximum capacity to get the pool up to temperature as fast as possible, but then automatically reduces

its speed and energy consumption to maintain the temperature.

With excellent energy efficiency ratings, it only makes sense that this translates to low running costs. An inverter heat pump typically costs up to 85% less than electric element and gas heating, and unlike solar pool heating, an inverter heat pump is not dependent on the weather and guarantees your desired pool temperature day or night, rain, hail or shine.

EvoHeat is the industry specialist in energy efficient pool and spa heating and cooling. Australian owned and operated, EvoHeat has more than 15 years’ experience in providing award winning tailored domestic and commercial heat pump solutions.

Our exclusive Evo inverter heat pumps are the most reliable and energy efficient temperature control system available.

They are exceptionally durable, utilising the latest innovations and cuttingedge components sourced from leading brand

manufacturers from around the world.

Engineered with our exclusive EvoTech® inverter technology, Evo heat pumps produce far more energy than they consume. They are up to 16 TIMES MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT than other methods of heating, translating to exceptionally large long-term savings. For every 1kW of electricity used, up to 16kW+ of heating is produced using an EvoTech heat pump.

EvoHeat has the largest range of pool heating technology and a solution for every pool heating or cooling requirement. Our award-winning solutions are upfront and have no hidden costs which may appear later down the track.

EvoHeat provides all customers with a detailed evaluation report that outlines estimated water temperatures and running costs based on their specific pool and heating requirements. Contact EvoHeat today for your free personalised pool heat evaluation report.

EVOHEAT

P: 1300 859 933 E: INFO@EVOHEAT.COM.AU W: WWW.EVOHEAT.COM.AU

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Build with Confidence If you’re looking for a pool or spa professional, the choice is clear.

SPASA members set themselves apart from the rest of the industry by setting standards of skill, workmanship and ethical business behaviour in the best interests of pool and spa owners.

Why trust anyone else?

visit spasa.com.au to contact your local

SPASA member

1300 021 482 | askus@spasa.com.au

CAUSE FOR

AL

RM

© Stock.Adobe.com/au/ Diana Vyshniakova

WHEN IT COMES TO POOL SAFETY, ALARMS CAN PROVIDE AN EXTRA LAYER OF PROTECTION AND OFFER ADDITIONAL PEACE OF MIND.

P

ool safety should be the number one priority for pool owners, especially when it comes to little ones. It goes without saying that adult supervision around the pool is a must at all times, as is installation of fencing, gates and gate-latching mechanisms that comply with all locally legislated requirements.

For home owners looking for a little extra protection, pool alarms are an idea worth investigating. They come in few different styles, all of WWW.POOLSPALIFE.COM.AU

which are pretty easy to install and operate, but may be more or less appropriate for your pool according to your specific situation and requirements.

In simple terms, pool alarms use a sensor to detect when someone or something has unexpectedly entered the pool — usually a small child or a pet — and then send a signal to sound the alarm. Most models feature a separate remote receiver for use in the house that also sounds, in addition to the sensor unit itself. A

number of device types are available, offering different features and benefits that make them more or less suited to specific applications.

BUOYANT SURFACE ALARMS

As the name suggests, these alarms float on the water surface and detect disturbances including movement, ripples and water displacement. They are a portable option, which makes them easy to install and suitable for a range of pool types including Winter 2022

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above-ground and inflatable varieties.

On the downside, they can be prone to false triggers and some feature a limited surface area coverage, so be sure that your choice is suitable for your pool size or consider purchasing multiple devices.

IMMERSION ALARMS

“

Pool alarms are a supplementary form of protection, rather than a replacement for adult supervision and adequate fencing.

This style connects to the pool edge and sits underwater to sense displacement. They are a more permanent choice than floater alarms and the submerged design means they are generally less susceptible to false triggers from wind, rain and other disturbances. Some feature weight limits — that is, they will only record when an object above a certain weight, say 8 kg, is detected entering the water.

Some gate latch designs now come with an electronic audible option, which quickly alerts pool owners to unexpected entry to the pool area.

WEARABLE ALARMS

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

There are obvious differences between these devices, so you should take your specific requirements into consideration. This includes budget, pool size, exposure to the elements (and therefore the likelihood of disturbance from wind and rain), any limitations in the receiver range (which will be determined by the distance from the pool to the house), whether the sensitivity

can be adjusted to suit your environment to limit false triggers and, finally, the volume of the device alarm — is it loud enough to be heard clearly?

You’ll also need to remember that pool alarms are a supplementary form of protection, rather than a replacement for adult supervision and adequate fencing. Whichever option you select, you’ll still need to ensure that other precautions are in place to guarantee a safe swimming environment for everyone.

If you’re still at a loss about which way to go, speak with a certified SPASA member, who can offer guidance on the best option for your needs.

© Stock.Adobe.com/au/George

These are a great option for both kids and pets. Wearable alarms incorporate a wrist device like a watch (which can also be easily attached to a pet collar) and a remote receiver unit. The obvious limitation of this design is that it does not account for children or animals who are not wearing the device, but it does offer a solid, reliable ‘second set of eyes’ for parents concerned about kids and pool safety.

GATE LATCH ALARMS

”

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Quiet, reliable pool heating from Davey

I

f you’re thinking about how nice it would be to step into a perfectly warm pool that’s at just the right temperature whenever you want to swim, you probably already know that a heat pump is a good value, reliable option.

Davey’s new heat pumps for residential pools offer the perfect combination of simplicity, Wi-Fi connectivity, excellent value and super quiet operation.

The new heat pumps, available in 9kW, 13kW, 17.5kW, 21kW, 28kW and 35.2kW sizes, are designed to be highly efficient and extremely quiet.

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Davey’s Product Manager, Tori Caskie, says the heat pumps are so quiet you will barely notice them running.

“No one wants to hear a noisy heat pump chugging away while they’re trying to enjoy the sanctuary of their pool. Our new heat pumps are super quiet, rated down to 40dBa. That’s the kind of sound level you’d usually find in a library,” she says.

The heat pumps are also simple to use and set up.

“Families want their pools to be set and forget as much as possible, and that includes their heating.

This new product comes with a simple touch controller and Wi-Fi

integration, which allows control from an iOS or Android phone,” Tori says.

The heat pumps operate in ambient temperatures down to -10°C for warm pools even on chilly days and offer industry-leading efficiency plus reverse cycle defrosting.

“These pumps are designed with a twisted titanium heat exchanger, which is 40% more efficient than a regular titanium exchanger. The system is

powered by a Mitsubishi DC twin-rotary compressor in a hardy and weather-safe aluminium alloy casing,” Tori says.

Models available: DHP90 — 9kW DHP130 — 13kW DHP170 — 17.5kW DHP210 — 21kW NEW DH280 — 28kW NEW DHP3503 — 35.2kW To find out more, visit www.daveywater.com/au/ product/davey-heat-pump

DAVEY WATER PRODUCTS P: 1300 2 DAVEY E: SALES@DAVEY.COM.AU WWW.DAVEYWATER.COM

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NATIONAL FINALIST CONCRETE POOL UP TO $120,000

SPASA SPOTLIGHT

COASTLINE POOLS

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A

s an independent family-owned company based in the NSW Hunter region, Coastline Pools specialises in premium Australian-made swimming pools and spas. We pride ourselves on raising the bar when it comes to quality and service and that’s why we consistently deliver the best swimming pool available at fiercely competitive prices.

This pool was constructed on the side of a cliff to take full advantage of the stunning coastline views. Fully formed above ground to be level with the second storey of the house, the pool was extensively piered due to the challenges the site presented. Finished with internal seating and bench seats located to offer optimum views, the end result offers the ultimate entertaining area for friends and family.

P: (02) 4980 3666 E: COASTLINEPOOLS@COASTLINEPOOLS.COM.AU W: COASTLINEPOOLS.COM.AU

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Double your swimming season with Daisy

L

ike most Aussies, you’ve probably spent your summer in and around the pool. But just because the seasons might be changing, your passion for the pool doesn’t have to.

With a pool cover from Daisy, you can double your swimming season, double the use of your pool, and double the fun.

The fact is, pools lose their heat through the water surface. To retain the heat, reduce evaporation and keep unwanted debris out, an insulation barrier is required. Daisy’s specially designed and manufactured pool covers offer exactly that, warming and insulating your pool, extending your summer and providing a better swimming experience for you and your family.

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scooping required, just dive straight in — it’s that easy!

But the benefits of pool covers go beyond just comfort and convenience.

SAVING WATER Did you know that a swimming pool can evaporate up to twice its volume every year?

With each pool requiring tens of thousands of litres of water to fill, reducing evaporation will not only reduce water requirements but also your water bills. Perfect for the environmentally conscious, a Daisy pool cover saves on water, reduces the need for chemicals, and provides a natural way to heat pools all contributing to a better way of life. It’s all part of the official recognition by SPASA as a Climate Care Certified product.

SAVING TIME Don’t be put off by pool upkeep, a Daisy pool cover

Winter 2022

will do the hard work for you. Acting as a barrier, a pool cover keeps the leaves and debris out — a problem especially in autumn — reducing the workload on your pool cleaner and yourself by not having to constantly clean it out. Less scooping and more swimming, that’s what it’s all about!

SAVING MONEY When it comes to the cost of a pool cover, it’s

important to remember the return you’ll get on your investment. When you consider the reductions in water, energy, chemicals and time, the savings really start to stack up.

Delivering comfort, convenience and costsavings, the addition of a pool cover makes a lot of sense. As the seasons start to change, let a Daisy pool cover deliver the endless summer you’ve been dreaming of.

DAISY POOL COVERS

P: 1300 551 811 E: HELLO@DAISYPOOLCOVERS.COM.AU W: WWW.DAISYPOOLCOVERS.COM.AU

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t s e b

BENEFITS OF A DAISY SOLAR POOL COVER

SAVE on water, up to 10,000L per month.

Improves water retention.

SAVE on chemicals.

Reduce salt and chemical use by up to 50%.

SAVE money.

Higher quality.

Better design.

Lasts longer.

UNDER BENCH ROLLER

STOP evaporation.

Reduces evaporation by 99%.

SAVE on cleaning.

Helps keep out dirt and leaves.

SAVE on time.

Rolls off and on in 30 seconds.

SAVE on heat loss.

Reduced heating costs and heat loss.

Warms your pool by up to 8˚C for free.

Australian Made.

BELOW GROUND BOX

Daisy Pool Covers™ has been Australia’s favourite brand for pool covers and rollers since 1983.

Daisy Pool Covers™ provides the largest and best range of pool cover and roller designs in Australia, manufactured using the highest quality materials, specially formulated to protect swimming pools all year round.

The experienced team at Daisy Pool Covers™ can provide cover and roller solutions for any pool type or shape.

Reduce the cost of maintaining a warm, sustainable swimming pool with the original and best Daisy Pool Covers™.

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QUICK © Stock.Adobe.com/au/Maria Zamchiy

Understanding oxidisers

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© Stock.Adobe.com/au/Pavel

T

he aim of every pool owner is crystal-clear water with a minimum of fuss, and sometimes, reaching that goal takes a little bit of chemistry. Knowing the causes and available treatments of specific water conditions will help clear up any issues in no time at all.

Pool water tends to accumulate a build-up of organic waste material, which includes skin cells and skin oils, sunscreen, perfume and residue from other personal hygiene products like shampoo and deodorant, as well as external environmental materials including dirt and dust, leaf litter and small insects.

Over time, that build-up of matter will turn the pool water cloudy and may create an unpleasant odour. It will also lead to skin and eye irritation for pool users if left unchecked. This is where oxidisers come into play.

Using an oxidiser, also referred to as a ‘shock treatment’, will break down the organic waste and make the water safer, cleaner and more comfortable to swim in. Oxidisers

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also remove chloramines, which are formed when free chlorine reacts with nitrogen-based materials in the water.

Chloramines — not chlorine — are responsible for the distinct ‘chlorine’ smell often associated with swimming pool water that stings and irritates the eyes and skin.

Regular oxidation is the key to sparkling pool water that is free from impurities, so it should be an important part of your pool and

spa sanitation routine. Oxidisers are available in two different forms: chlorine- and non chlorine-based.

CHLORINE-BASED OXIDISERS Chlorine-based products come in liquid and solid granular forms.

Whichever you choose, it’s important to ensure that the correct amount of product is added to your pool or spa water.

Granular chlorine products are sold in a size that is suitable for an average (50,000 litre) residential pool and indicate this on the product packaging. Liquid chlorine must be accurately measured and dosed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended dosage rates.

PROS OF CHLORINE-BASED OXIDISERS • An effective method for eliminating chloramines and organic waste material.

• Granular product is conveniently sold pre-packaged, meaning no measurement required.

CONS OF CHLORINE-BASED OXIDISERS • Ineffective if incorrectly measured or wrong dosage used.

• Renders the pool unusable for six to eight hours after dosing.

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NON CHLORINE-BASED OXIDISERS Some pool owners would rather a non chlorine-based choice, opting to use a Potassium Peroxymonosulphate product instead. Yep, this sounds like Year 10 science all over again, right?

Well, that’s just a fancy name for a non chlorine-based soluble powder that you scatter across the pool water surface (scattering is also known as ‘broadcasting’). Easy.

PROS OF NON CHLORINE-BASED OXIDISERS • An effective method for eliminating chloramines and organic waste material.

• Fast dissolving, so the pool can be used 30 minutes after dosing.

CONS OF NON CHLORINE-BASED OXIDISERS • Can be a little more expensive than chlorine-based options.

As with any chemical queries, if you aren’t sure about the best option for the specific conditions in your pool, speak with your SPASA member or visit the poolspalife.com website for further information.

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Experience the ultra-balanced heating power and efficiency

W

ho says you can’t have the best of both worlds? You can tell them that they are wrong with the Pentair UltraTemp HXi Inverter Heat Pump.

The epitome of harmony, the UltraTemp HXi delivers the optimal balance of heating power and efficiency by using just a fraction of the energy required to generate the same amount of heat. It’s simple...just select the temperature you desire on a crystal clear, full-colour LCD display, with easy-to-follow icons and messages, and the UltraTemp’s onboard AI will do the work for you.

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A COST-EFFECTIVE OPPORTUNITY When you consider constantly rising energy costs, the time has never been better to invest in an energy-efficient heat pump for your swimming pool. So, how much can you save? Under optimal conditions, the UltraTemp HXi’s heat pump uses just $1 worth of electricity to produce $14 worth of heat generated using other methods, like gas or electric element heaters.

How? The UltraTemp HXi’s heat pump offers the best in class in terms of efficiency and COP (coefficient of performance) ratings,

Winter 2022

thanks to its ability to transfer heat from the air into the pool to heat water directly — using only a fraction of the required energy! In addition, the heat pump’s variable speed compressors and (full inverter) fan motors operate at a reduced speed when full power is not required, cutting not just noise, but electricity costs as well.

CONVENIENCE Everyone wants a convenient life and the UltraTemp HXi will help you achieve just that.

The unit’s self-diagnostic software carries out continuous monitoring,

while the automatic defrost senses temperatures to prevent the heat pump from freezing, allowing the UltraTemp HXi to operate effectively even in lower temperatures. That means you’re free to sit back and relax in your warm and tranquil pool and spa, even in the winter chill.

The UltraTemp HXi is the perfect companion to the Pentair IntelliCentre Pool and Spa Control System or the Pentair EasyTouch PNP Pool and Spa Control System — allowing you to manage the heat pump control system that administers all pool and spa operations and features with a WWW.POOLSPALIFE.COM.AU

simple touch of your fingertip. The system’s easy barrel union plumbing connections and thermostatic expansion valve used to control water flow and optimise efficiency over a wider operating temperature range means you are free to enjoy leisuretime in your own backyard paradise.

PENTAIR ECO SELECT The UltraTemp HXi follows the Pentair three ‘S’s — smart, sustainable solutions.

For life. The UltraTemp HXi uses EPA-recognised environmentally safe, non ozone depleting R32 WWW.POOLSPALIFE.COM.AU

refrigerant, which has allowed the pump to be branded as an Eco Select product for environmental responsibility. It also includes a 100% titanium heat exchanger, ensuring corrosion free performance for extra long life and value, complete with a market leading warranty.

Don’t wait and miss the chance to relax in a warm pool this winter.

Get yourself an UltraTemp HXi and join us as we strive to provide greener choices as the global leader in pool and spa manufacturing. Embrace an eco-friendly and userorientated poolscape.

THE BENEFITS Power and efficiency: The inverter compressor gives you the power to heat up water and the efficiency to maintain that heat.

Quiet operation: The UltraTemp HXi heat pump has a ‘silent mode’, which slows the variable speed DV fan, reducing noise for whisper quiet operation.

Ease of use: The unit’s crystal clear LCD touchscreen interface in full colour makes it easy to see, set up and operate using clear and simple graphic icons and messages.

Durability: The UltraTemp HXi heat pump is housed in a UV-resistant and rustproof thermoplastic case designed for harsh Australian conditions.

Cost effective: The UltraTemp HXi offers reduced electricity costs and decreased ongoing maintenance costs.

PENTAIR AUSTRALIA PTY LTD P: 1300 137 344 E: AU.SALES@PENTAIR.COM W: WWW.PENTAIRPOOL.COM.AU

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VICTORIA HIGHLY COMMENDED CONCRETE POOL UP TO $60,000

SPASA SPOTLIGHT

TORQUAY POOLS

T

orquay Pools is a premium pool and spa construction company servicing Victoria’s Surf Coast and Geelong regions, specialising in fully-tiled concrete inground pools and spas.

The Torquay Pools team not only has an impeccable eye for detail and design, we’re also a one-stop shop. We can help with advice on the entire construction process, as well as the latest equipment and accessories. We can help with all of your landscaping needs, from basic to high-end.

With over 30 years’ experience in residential and commercial building, we know how to expertly manage jobs of all shapes and sizes. We’ll design and construct your full landscaping project from start to finish, eliminating the hassle in working with multiple trades — and we’ll project manage right up till handover.

P: 0417 578 740 E: JAY@TORQUAYPOOLS.COM.AU W: TORQUAYPOOLS.COM.AU

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1. MINERAL SWIM PURIFICATION SYSTEM

1

Mineral Swim combines 100% natural Dead Sea minerals with ozone-to-oxygen water purification to offer a healthy and crystal-clear swimming experience.

maytronics.com.au

2.MINERAL CHLORINATOR

The Electrochlor mineral chlorinator makes your pool smarter by automatically taking care of sanitisation, pH management, filtration and auxiliary equipment so you don’t have to! The one device monitors and displays everything you need to know about your pool in real time.

2

waterco.com.au

MAKING A SPLASH 3

3. WATERPROOF RECHARGEABLE LIGHT

Notmad is a mobile waterproof rechargeable light from AsconPool. The magnetic base allows Notmad to be attached anywhere... even underwater.

Available in white or coloured light versions.

asconpool.com

4. POOL CLEANER

4

The AstralPool VIRON QT1000 comes with a sensor system that allows the cleaner to scan the pool and calculate the optimal cleaning time, saving time and energy.

The cleaner can be controlled anywhere, anytime through the intuitive iAquaLink App interface.

astralpool.com.au

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Paradise has never been more portable.

It’s easy to pair an IntelliCentre Control system with sanitising and water chemistry controls from Pentair. Spend more time enjoying your pool and spa and less time carrying out monitoring and maintenance.

pentair.com.au

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© Stock.Adobe.com/au/StockVector

5. POOL AND SPA CONTROL SYSTEM

TOP

S P I 10 T

© Stock.Adobe.com/au/Joaquin Corbalan

P E R P L O O P FOR WINTER

KEEP YOUR POOL IN TIPTOP CONDITION WITH THESE EASY WINTER CARE STEPS.

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I

t’s that time of year again, when the days grow shorter and the temperature starts to dip. For some homeowners, now is the time to think about winterising your pool, before the chill sets in. A few simple steps now will ensure your pool water stays healthy over the cooler months, minimising the work needed to get everything in order come springtime.

While some of these steps may seem obvious, it’s good to keep a checklist on hand to make sure everything has been covered.

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POOL&SPA | 47

QUICK TIP 1

QUICK TIP 2

Clean the pool — thoroughly brush or scrub the walls and floor and vacuum the entire pool.

Clean the filter — thoroughly backwash and clean the filter to get rid of any build-up of contaminants. A good clean and degreaser product should do the job. Check and change the filter media while you’re at it and make sure the skimmer basket and lint pot are debris-free.

QUICK TIP 3 Test the water and rebalance the chemicals — either test it yourself or take a sample to your local pool shop for testing. If you’re unsure about balancing the water chemistry, call a SPASA-accredited technician.

QUICK TIP 4 The pH should between 7.2 and 7.6 for concrete pools and between 7.0 and 7.2 for fibreglass. To increase pH levels, add sodium carbonate (soda ash). To decrease, add pool acid (muriatic acid, a diluted form of hydrochloric acid). Be sure to mix it in a full bucket of water first and do not add more than 500 mL at a time.

QUICK TIP 5

QUICK TIP 6

Total alkalinity should be 80–120 ppm. To increase total alkalinity, add sodium bicarbonate. Lowering total alkalinity will be addressed when pH levels are rebalanced.

QUICK TIP 7 Add algaecide — mix the recommended quantity of long-life algaecide designed for winter with a bucket of water and add it to the pool.

Shock dose the pool — remove the cover and mix granular or liquid chlorine (in quantities as directed by your local SPASA member) with a bucket of water and add it to the pool. Leave the cover off till chlorine levels return to normal.

QUICK TIP 8 Check and adjust timers where necessary to cater for decreased demand.

QUICK TIP 9

QUICK TIP 10

Recheck chlorine levels and put the cover back on. Check the chlorine level every two weeks and keep an eye on the skimmer basket.

Occasionally check the water level and the filter pressure gauge.

These simple steps should keep your pool healthy over winter. If you’re uncertain about any of these steps, contact your local pool store or a SPASA-certified pool technician, who can also give your pool a ‘health check’ in spring, ensuring everything is ready to go when you are.

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poolspalife.com.au THE ONE-STOP SPOT for current and future pool and spa owners

Pool & Spa is produced for SPASA Australia by WestwickFarrow Media.

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YOU CAN LOVE YOUR POOL

AND PRESERVE THE ENVIRONMENT

Editor: Dannielle Furness dfurness@wfmedia.com.au Publishing Director: Geoff Hird Art Director/Production Manager: Julie Wright Art/Production: Colleen Sam, Linda Klobusiak Distribution: Dianna Alberry circulation@wfmedia.com.au Advertising Sales: David Stennett Ph: 0404 725 554 david@spasa.com.au

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All material published in this magazine is published in good faith and every care is taken to accurately relay information provided to us.

Readers are advised by the publishers to ensure that all necessary safety devices and precautions are installed and safe working procedures adopted before the use of any equipment found or purchased through the information we provide. Further, all performance criteria was provided by the representative company concerned and any dispute should be referred to them. Information indicating that products are made in Australia or New Zealand is supplied by the source company. Westwick-Farrow Pty Ltd does not quantify the amount of local content or the accuracy of the statement made by the source.

PP 100008830 • ISSN 2200-2464

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