SPN (Swimming Pool News) August 2022

AUGUST 2022

POOLS SPAS HOT TUBS SAUNAS CHEMICALS ACCESSORIES & MORE

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE UK INDUSTRY

HEAT PUMPS

Environmentally friendly water heating solutions

STAINLESS STEEL

Pools, spas and accessories that have stainless steel appeal

THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH The latest low and no chlorine water treatment products

LIGHTING OPTIONS

Showing wet leisure environments in their best possible light

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STA Pool Plant – Chlorine Challenges | Dehumidification | Water Testing Britain’s EUSA Entries | Pool & Spa Industry | Opinion | 12 Pages Of Industry News 15/08/2022 16:22

FAIRLOCKS PURIQ FP AUG22.qxp_Layout 1 16/08/2022 09:26 Page 1

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The recommendation is 1 watt per m³.

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Utilizing the latest technology, the lamp emits very powerful UV-C light with a wavelength

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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.

Editor and Co Publisher: Jon Wadeson Features: Karen Witney Features & Subeditor: Andrea Hartshorne Co Publisher and Sales Director: Tony Weston Accounts: Sam Bartholomew Design: Colin Halliday 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 accounts enquiries please email accounts@aqua-publishing.co.uk For production enquiries please email production@aqua-publishing.co.uk For general enquiries please email info@aqua-publishing.co.uk

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 P U Bcan L Igive S Hno ING reputable, Swimming Pool News 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.

iveko-pools.com Cover image courtesy of NIVEKO s.r.o. – www.n

Editor’s Since the last issue of SPN, the weather in the UK has been dominated by dry spells with record-breaking temperatures being recorded in the middle of July and a maximum temperature of 40.3°C recorded at Coningsby in Lincolnshire on the 19th. Perfect conditions for our industry then... well, no, seemingly not as there are many other factors that are playing out at the same time and for a change, decent weather is not the driving force it would normally be.

In my mind, this year was always going to be an interesting one and it is proving to be so, but not for the reasons I had expected. I was anticipating more of a return to normal following what will likely be the best ever seasons for our industry, however, there’s been little sign of that much-needed normal around this year. Inflation at levels not seen for many years, increasing fuel and energy costs that are quite frankly eye-watering and set to go even higher for the latter, chlorine shortages leading to the closure of some pools and now our old friend the hosepipe ban is back too. In many ways for the industry, it’s turning out to be equally as challenging as the two years that preceded it!

Still, we must be thankful that the wet leisure industry has done so well recently, as many industries clearly have and will continue to struggle.

With more people than ever owning or using pools and spas in the UK, water-based hygiene needs to be at the forefront of people’s minds, so somewhat handily, in this issue we take a look at some of the current solutions that are keeping the water clean whilst minimising the need for chlorine use. In addition to this, we

letter

also take a look at just some of the labour-saving products that are making the testing of water in pools and spas both a straightforward and accurate task.

We’ve also an in depth look at the latest environmentally friendly heat pumps that are on the market – products that will definitely take the chill out of the water on the overcast days that we’re all so used to in the UK. With energy costs spiralling higher, they’re a product that will no doubt soar even more in popularity. Coming inside from the cold, dehumidification is also featured as we take a closer look at some of the solutions that are able to provide a breath of fresh air to pool hall spaces.

One sector that has changed enormously over recent years is lighting and we take a look at a number of the latest products which are delivering some truly stunning results to wet leisure environments – both in and out of the water. The appeal of stainless steel is also focused on again as we look at pools, spas and accessories that are utilising the benefits of this timeless and elegant material that is also both remarkably flexible and durable too.

If that wasn’t enough, Jamie Adams from Golden Coast has his usual ‘Opinion’ piece which touches on the subject of climate plus there’s a piece about the company’s recent acquisition

by PPG. Elsewhere, the STA talk about the challenges with chlorine, AstralPool UK and Heatstar explain their partnership whilst Waterco filtration products shine at a domestic pool in Cambridgeshire.

There’s also an insight into the SPATEX Foundation and how it gives back to the industry, plus there’s useful information from the BSPF, SPATA and BISHTA. The British entries shortlisted for the 2022 European Pool & Spa Awards hosted by EUSA are also revealed too.

Finally, we’ve got our round up of all the latest industry, product, people and eco news from both here in the UK and abroad.

So, with a wide mix of subjects covered, hopefully we’ve provided a bit of something for everyone in this latest issue of SPN. I hope you find a cool place to enjoy reading it as summer draws to a close.

Jon Wadeson - Editor PS – If you are involved within the industry and have some relevant news that you would like to appear within SPN, please do get in touch.

You can now 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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SPN August 2022 1 16/08/2022 10:05

CONTENTS

Inside This 00 45

80 54

30

COVER

FEATURES

THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

45

HEAT PUMPS

59

How pools could tackle the chlorine shortage and reduce the risk of incidents

LIGHTING OPTIONS

65

Labour-saving products for simply and accurately testing pool and spa water

STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS

71

Creating the right operating environment for indoor projects and facilities

Water treatment products that minimise the need for chlorine use The latest environmentally friendly water heating solutions Illuminating solutions that show pools and spas in their best possible light

Pools, spas and accessories that feature the timless appeal of stainless steel

2 August 2022 SPN 2-3_SPN_Aug_22_Contents.indd 2

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

29

STA POOL PLANT

37

WATER TESTING

51

DEHUMIDIFICATION

54

The industry’s associations dedicated pages

OPINION

80

Some thoughts on climate and more from Golden Coast’s Jamie Adams

NEWS

INDUSTRY

04

The latest industry news, info, projects and gossip

PEOPLE

12

PRODUCT / ECO

15

HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS

18

WORLD

25

New appointments and updates on industry personnel Innovations and new products on the market

Dedicated news for this important sector All the latest news from around the world

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 16/08/2022 18:28

CONTENTS

Issue Of SPN 51

71

65

59 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 76

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

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Next Issue

• Safety flooring • Tiled spas and swim spas • Hot tubs – high-end models above £10,000 • Enclosures • Counter-current systems • Show preview

Plus much, much more!

SPN August 2022 3 16/08/2022 18:29

NEWS

NEWS

All the Latest News, Info, Products and Gossip From the UK Pool and Spa Industry and Beyond

Whether Big Or Small, NIVEKO Has A Solution For All The aim of the NIVEKO corporate philosophy is to accentuate the individuality of each and every customer. The manufacturer is convinced that personalisation is the only way to enable them to take full advantage of the potential of their pools, which is confirmed by the increasing number of satisfied customers every year.

The range of NIVEKO pools available completely reflects this approach with two skimmer and five overflow pools to choose from. This broad portfolio enables the firm to offer the maximum amount of flexibility.

Whether installed outdoors or indoors, or as a project to give joy to families or to hotel guests, no requirement is an issue for NIVEKO and regardless of whether a small, medium or larger pool is chosen, the product quality is always equally high.

This extensive range is made possible by the fact that the firm’s pools are all manufactured on an individual basis – the NIVEKO portfolio does not offer any standard dimensions or pools with pre-set configurations. Everything, including the pool’s size and shape is fully configurable. So whilst the current trend of rectangular lines continues to dominate, customers still have the option to order a pool in any shape they like. However, the customisable range of options for NIVEKO pools certainly doesn’t end there. There are six pool colours to choose from, eight different

step types plus many built-in accessories.

Pools that are too large to be transported in one piece are completed at an installation by specialised NIVEKO technicians, who connect the ready-made parts on site. This was the case with the NIVEKO Overflow Multi, measuring 19 x 2 x 1.5 m, which is

used to train sports swimming. A private pool of this size is a fully fledged substitute for a traditional public pool.

NIVEKO s.r.o. +420 572 693 246 www.niveko-pools.com

SPATA & BISHTA Reveal New Partnership With Digital Agency SPATA (The Swimming Pool & Allied Trades Association) and BISHTA (The British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association) have formed a new strategic partnership with UK design, brand and digital marketing agency, Adtrak. The exclusive collaboration means Adtrak is the preferred choice supplier for digital products and marketing services to the members of both associations.

Adtrak’s reputation for digital success and its experience working with an elite group of global commercial and domestic pool designers resulted in a recommendation from an existing SPATA member. The partnership will allow Adtrak to provide SPATA and BISHTA members with market-leading web design and digital marketing advice, all with the ultimate aim of delivering lead generation and profitable results.

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Chris Hayes (Managing Director of both SPATA and BISHTA) says: “With SPATA celebrating its 60th anniversary this year and BISHTA celebrating its 20th, both trade associations have built a world-renowned reputation for setting exceptional standards for the combined pool and hot tub industries. Both trade associations aim to provide members with the resources to grow their businesses and offer their customers exceptional service. Adding Adtrak to our extensive members’ benefits offering will give members an excellent opportunity to take their businesses to the next level and grow their market share even further.”

Adtrak 0115 828 0796 www.adtrak.co.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 15/08/2022 08:09

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NEWS

IN BRIEF KENT COUNCIL DEVELOPS PLANS FOR NEW LEISURE CENTRE’S FACILITIES Dover District Council is developing proposals for a new leisure centre in Deal and is seeking the views of local residents to help shape what facilities to include.

The Council has agreed to move to the next planning stage where the project team will undertake more detailed work on technical and financial viability, and develop and refine concept designs for the new leisure centre.

The current proposal is to build a new sports centre on an existing site, with a mix of modern dry and wet facilities with a project budget of almost £25m. The building would feature environmentally responsible design and construction, contributing towards the Council’s climate change targets for 2030.

When it comes to wet leisure, the new leisure centre could include a four-lane 25m swimming pool with pool side seating for 50 people, a 12m x 8m learner pool with moveable floor plus a 400m² water leisure zone consisting of aqua play, splash pool and two flumes.

GREAT YARMOUTH’S MARINA CENTRE OPENS The £26m Marina Centre in Great Yarmouth opened its doors to the public at the start of August.

Located on the Norfolk seafront, the swimming, fitness and sports centre is being run by Freedom Leisure and features a six-lane swimming pool, a learner pool, two flumes, 14 climbing walls, a sports hall and gym.

The centre is part of an ongoing rejuvenation project of the town’s promenade area. The new centre was first proposed in 2013, with work starting in January 2021 to replace the previous facility built in 1980s.

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Humidity Solutions Sign Exclusive Contract With Italian Dehumidifier Manufacturer Humidity Solutions, a leading independent supplier of humidity control have products signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Italian manufacturer HiDew. HiDew are dedicated to the design and production of dehumidification, air renewal and heat recovery systems, for several industrial and commercial applications. The product range is designed to break market trends through product innovation and a strong focus on energy efficiency and savings.

The refrigerant dehumidifiers, made from top-quality components and first-class Italian engineering use a sophisticated regulation software which allows the setting, measurement and control of air flows. The installation and first start of the units is quick and easy, which leads to a sensible reduction of time and costs of installation.

Humidity Solutions is one of the UK’s leading independent specialists in humidity control, offering a range of humidifiers and dehumidifiers from some of the world’s leading manufacturers. With a highly experienced and knowledgeable inhouse team of sales and aftersales engineers who design bespoke solutions for each unique application, and supply,

install and maintain the equipment throughout its life.

This exclusive distribution agreement makes Humidity Solutions the sole supplier of HiDew products across the UK. John Barker, Managing Director at Humidity Solutions said: “We are delighted to sign this exclusive distribution agreement with HiDew. Their high-quality products are some of the best on the market, which falls in line with our existing products and suppliers. The range of refrigerant dehumidifiers expands our offering and gives our customers a quick and easy turn around.”

Davide Gennaro, Export Manager at HiDew said: “Humidity Solutions have an experienced and knowledgeable inhouse team of humidification and dehumidification experts, which will make this exclusive partnership a success. We are thrilled to have them on board and representing our product range in the UK.” Humidity Solutions 01372 571200 www.humiditysolutions.co.uk

GLL Announce Roll Out Of Latest Assisted Lifeguarding Technology GLL, the largest operator of swimming pools in the UK, will begin implementing the use of the latest Assisted Lifeguarding Technology (ALT) within its facilities this year. It will be the first time a British leisure business has incorporated such technology into a nation-wide strategy, with the ambition of introducing ALT into all suitable pool settings within the next ten years.

ALT is an advancement on previous Drowning Detection Systems or Automated Drowning Detection. The system and software technology is designed to assist lifeguards by constantly monitoring water-based activity, detecting swimmers in distress in submersion incidents and spot potential drownings and medical episodes – so assisting with the safe management of customers and reducing the risk of lifeguard human error.

GLL’s ‘Safer pools for everyone’ strategy brings together industry experts, safety best practice, new technology and big investment

to make a ‘step change’ in swimming safety and provide the benchmark for the sector to follow.

Taking a ‘blended approach’ to lifeguarding, GLL’s use of ALT combines the benefits of both leading edge technology and human interaction. A bespoke training programme has been created, so ensuring that lifeguarding staff are competent and confident to be working alongside the technology.

The roll out will build on GLL’s historic use of early stage ALT and underwater CCTV in a number of its facilities, stretching back over 15 years. It is estimated that ten GLL-operated pools will adopt the new system during 2022.

Following significant investigation and extensive trials, GLL has decided to install the UK-based Poolview system with Iris software. This product constantly monitors and assesses activity in the water, detects swimmers in distress and submersion incidents.

Real time alerts are sent to poolside staff, who will then investigate any potential incident.

SPN August 2022 7 15/08/2022 08:09

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NEWS

KIRKBY WELCOMES £15.5M NEW LEISURE CENTRE Nottinghamshire residents are now benefitting from Ashfield District Council’s latest investment into leisure facilities in the district with the opening of Kirkby’s new leisure centre at the start of August.

Leader of the Council, Jason Zadrozny officially opened the £15.5m centre alongside invited guest, former England, Tottenham and Derby footballer Tom Huddlestone.

Wet leisure facilities at Kirkby Leisure Centre include a 25m swimming pool and splash pad area, steam room, sauna, and wellbeing studio.

The Council is working closely with Everyone Active to transform Ashfield’s leisure offer across the District. Hucknall Leisure Centre is also set to see a new swimming pool added to the site as part of an overall £22.5m investment across Ashfield.

CLEVELAND POOLS TRUST ANNOUNCES FUSION LIFESTYLE AS OPERATING PARTNER Ahead of the completion of its restoration and the reopening of facilities later in the year, Cleveland Pools Trust has announced that Fusion Lifestyle will be its operating partner.

After a major campaign and highly ambitious capital project this is an exciting step further towards the reality of people once again enjoying swimming at this Grade II* listed pool.

A registered charity, Fusion already operates a number of historic pools, including Saltdean Lido, Brockwell Lido and Newcastle City Pool.

Paul Simons, Chair of Cleveland Pools Trust said: “Fusion Lifestyle is an ideal operating partner for the Trust, they have a wealth of experience in the leisure sector and a real passion for engaging with communities to ensure maximum local benefit. We are very pleased to be working with them to deliver access for all to this remarkable, restored unique heritage pool.”

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Waterco Help Provide A Legacy For Future Generations For Sue Jackson, Head Teacher of Lee Chapel Primary School in Essex, ensuring primary school pupils were able to swim from an early age was a lifelong ambition and she dreamed of opening an on site pool to provide swimming for pupils from as young as four.

Following countless rejections for government and local authority support, the school community began fundraising and earlier this year, it reached its target. It engaged the services of The two Waterco commercial swimming pool specialists SPDD1600 nozzle Gunton Swimming Pools and Hydrospec commercial filters with a Dual Pressure Gauge Panel Engineering who have worked as a partnership for over 30 years. The brief over the more conventional lateral commercial filters was to deliver a brand new, fully tiled 25m indoor in order to produce a better standard of fluidisation school pool that could be enjoyed by pupils for years and sanitisation. to come.

“The pool’s flow rate is 100m3/hr/m2 and the When it came to choosing the filtration equipment, Hydrospec immediately turned to backwash rate is 30m3/hr/m2, which is perfect Waterco products. “Whether specifying or installing, for pristine filtration and to ensure complete Hydrospec only recommends Waterco products due fluidisation of the filter bed when backwashing,” to their durability and pioneering design features – explained John. and has done so for many years,” said Hydrospec The filter media used is Waterco’s EcoPure recycled Managing Director John Cheek. glass media, which removes Waterco partnered with 30% more pollutants than sand Hydrospec to supply two media, is less susceptible to bioSPDD1600 nozzle commercial fouling and reduces chemical filters with one Dual Pressure treatment costs.

Gauge Panel, one Hydrostar Plus 7.5HP Commercial Pump and six Waterco Europe Commercial Supa Skimmers.

01795 521733 Nozzle plate filters were used www.waterco.eu

EVAline Shines Bright At New Somerset Leisure Centre Direct LED lighting is once again proving its popularity having been installed in the recently opened Chard leisure centre in Somerset which features a 5-lane swimming pool with learner’s pool.

Among its many responsibilities, electrical contractor Barrie Beard designed and installed the lighting system for the pool hall. The company selected EVAline individual lights, designed by Dutch manufacturer EVA Optic, having had great success with the world-renowned LED lighting at previous builds.

At Chard leisure centre, 28 EVAline lights (each at 120W) were installed around the perimeter of the main pool and learner pool within the 605m2 space. Dimmed at 65%, the lights use only 2184 Watts at just 3.6W/m2, with a total load of 1.73W/m2/100 Lux. EVAline lights are supplied in the UK by wet leisure distributor Golden Coast and Director, Shaun Adams said: “EVAline individual LED lights are designed to be energy efficient.

They consume six times less power than old technology equivalents thanks to the use of Constant Light Output control. With energy prices rising, now is the time to start thinking about switching from traditional indirect lighting to LED. Facilities can save thousands on running costs. Plus, these durable lights are built to withstand harsh pool hall conditions and are very low maintenance with an exceptionally long lifespan, so facilities won’t face expensive repairs or downtime.

“Even with a lower wattage, EVAline lighting does not compromise on light quality. For these kinds of installations, industry guidelines require light levels to reach an average of 300 Lux and an illumination uniformity of 0.7 or higher. At Chard leisure centre, EVAline lights exceeded these levels with an average 352 Lux and 0.77 uniformity in the main pool, as well as an average 322 Lux and 0.81 uniformity in the learner pool.”

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

Image courtesy of Speller Metcalfe Media

IN BRIEF

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NEWS

All Swim Celebrates Its 50th Anniversary With Two-day Extravaganza

AstralPool Behind Games’ Temporary Training Pool

Fluidra have announced that AstralPool UK, specialists in commercial pools and one of Fluidra’s subsidiaries in the UK, were the company behind the design, supply, installation, maintenance and subsequent dismantling of the temporary training pool at the Sandwell Aquatics Centre venue used for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

AstralPool UK work alongside international specialist contractor, NUSSLI, when completing the progressive design and build of temporary facilities. The project involved a turnkey contract, to create a 50m x 15m x 2m training pool as a temporary extension of the Sandwell Aquatics Centre.

The task was led by AstralPool UK projects division which encompassed all services, including pre-construction, design, installation, supply chain coordination, project management and execution on-site – supported by a team of engineers from Fluidra Engineering Services using BIM technology. The pool was made of prefabricated modular panels using Skypool technology and four pre-assembled Nefrona units for the physical and chemical treatment of the water.

The scope of NUSSLI’s work was the design, engineering, installation, testing and commissioning, maintenance and removal of a fully fitted out, climate-controlled 60m x 25m x 8m demountable building, steel temporary 50m training pool and associated pool plant equipment, link building, four temporary staircases and 4,000 premium spectator seats within the legacy building.

Enhancing outdoor space has become an essential priority for many homeowners – making gardens a relaxing place to unwind and enjoy the luxury of holidaying without the hassle of travel. And with the UK experiencing an extended heatwave, having space outside that offers water leisure can provide the perfect everdaycation lifestyle.

Thanks to one family’s business, All Swim have provided people with quality water leisure products to improve their home lives for half a century, and they have gone from strength to strength to become a multi-award-winning business.

The large Penarth Road showroom, based on the outskirts of Cardiff, is home to an extensive display of swimming pools, hot tubs, chemicals and accessories, plus, All Swim is the local authorised Endless Pools dealer and has models on display for customers to trial.

2022 marks the 50th anniversary for the company, a swimming pool and hot tub specialist retailer and

they have a lot lined up to celebrate the occasion on 2 - 3 September, which will include: • Expert seminars • Swim coaching sessions with Guinness World Record Holder swimming coach Dave Tonge • Drinks and nibbles for visitors to the showroom • ‘50 for 50’ special offers on a wide range of products.

Pre-booking is essential for the industry expert talks and swimming coaching sessions as space will be limited.

This year the company proudly won the Peter Geekie Award for Retail Excellence, an award they have won three times now. As a member of the Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association since 1974, SPATA presented the award to All Swim at the annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards.

All Swim 029 2070 5059 www.allswimltd.com

AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.co.uk

New Nottinghamshire Pool To Open In Autumn The new Bingham Arena Leisure Centre will open this autumn and a 25 metre swimming pool, teaching pool, fitness centre and other leisure facilities.

The new centre is just weeks away from opening and will be managed by Rushcliffe Borough Council’s leisure operator Lex Leisure.

The facility has a six-lane competition pool with spectator seating for 330 people and presents new opportunities with swim instructors qualified to Swim England standard.

The teaching pool also ensures there is something for everyone no matter what age or ability and lessons will be available seven days a week.

A greener and carbon efficient leisure centre, efficient building materials, air source heat pumps, combined heat and power technology, water efficiency measures and LED lighting are all

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features of the energy efficient building design.

It will see a 78% carbon emission reduction compared to other leisure centres in the Borough.

The Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council Cllr Simon Robinson said: “Despite the challenges the construction industry is facing, like so many markets currently, Bingham Arena is on course for opening this year as planned and we can’t wait to open its doors this autumn.

“The environment is one of our key priorities and these wonderful new facilities will encompass so much of what we aim to achieve with even greener, more efficient venues that will benefit our local communities.

“It’s vital we take the opportunity to build new facilities with our fellow Carbon Clever project in mind and set an example for others to follow in investing in new infrastructure in the right way.”

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PEOPLE NEWS

Adam Clark Announced As General Manager For New ‘Sister’ Companies With Golden Coast now becoming a part of the Pollet Pool Group (read more on that on page 40), the Devon-based distributor now finds itself with a sister company in the UK – PPG UK & Ireland.

Many across the industry were wondering how these two companies were going to work together and be headed up, so Golden Coast’s Jamie Adams clarified the situation.

“I would like to congratulate Adam Clark on his new position of General Manager of both Golden Coast and PPG UK & Ireland,” advised Jamie via social media.

“The role of General Manager at GC is a new one and a tribute to Adam’s commitment and contribution to the business.”

Adam has been with #TeamGC for more than ten years and had previously said: “If you find a job that you enjoy doing at a business you enjoy being part of, you will never work a day in your life.

“I’m very blessed to be part of the team here and I’m very grateful for the opportunities this business gives me.”

In conjunction with his new role as General Manager, Adam will continue in his position of Sales Director retaining responsibility for the Golden Coast sales team and adding the PPG UK & Ireland’s external sales team to that.

This will allow brothers Shaun, Dominic and Jamie Adams to continue in their present positions and help provide continuity of customer service over a transition period following Golden Coast’s acquisition.

From a trade point of view, it should be very much ‘business as usual’ at Golden Coast and PPG UK/Ireland.

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com PPG UK & Ireland 01635 227 999 www.polletpoolgroup.co.uk

Colin Dougall – The New Managing Director Of Devin Consulting The UK’s largest independent pool and spa engineering consultancy, Devin Consulting, are pleased to announce the immediate appointment of Colin Dougall in his new role of Managing Director.

With the North East firm for over 20 years, Colin steps up to the new role after several years as the company’s Operations Director. As Managing Director, Colin will be responsible for steering the company through the next period of development, including expanding operations further in the Middle East.

Looking to the future, Colin said: “I am delighted to have moved into the role of Managing Director and I’m excited about building upon a great business foundation, further enhancing the Devin reputation in the wellness and leisure industry.”

On Colin’s promotion, Tom Devin said: “Colin has been a key team player at Devin for over 20 years and has been instrumental in growing the business from a team of two to nearly 20. As Operations Director, Colin has been responsible for looking after our fantastic range of clients and I am now delighted that he has agreed to take over as Managing Director to further facilitate the company’s ambitions and plans for future growth. I will remain a full-time Executive Director working with Colin and our team over the next few years. Good luck Colin!”

Devin Consulting 0191 258 1653 www.devin-consulting.com

Murray Retirement Ushers In New Era For Certikin After 32 years with Certikin, the last 18 as Managing Director, Neil Murray has stepped down and retired from the Oxfordshire-based distributor. His last day with the company was on Friday 1 July.

The move to a new building in December 2021 allowed Certikin to consolidate all their Witney operations into one unit and set up the business for the future. With the move complete, it seemed to be an ideal time for him to step aside and let someone else lead the business in the next phase of development.

In his final week, Certikin were delighted to welcome Carlos

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Franquesa and Francesc Camps from Fluidra to open the company’s new HQ officially.

Neil Stephenson, who has worked for

Carlos and Francesc are pictured alongside outgoing Managing Director Neil Murray (right) and his successor, Neil Stephenson (third from right) as well as other members of the Certikin Executive Team

Certikin for over 23 years, across a number of different and key roles, has taken over the role of Managing Director.

Neil Murray was confident that Neil will ensure the company continues to provide the high levels of service and back up that the company’s customers have come to expect.

All the team at SPN would like to wish Neil Murray a happy retirement and congratulate Neil Stephenson on his promotion to Managing Director at the UK’s largest wet leisure company.

Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

Turn A Pool Into An Insulating Terrace In No Time With T&A’s New AquaFloor Vortex International’s Dream Tunnel™ Wins ‘Most Valuable Product’ Award Manufacturer Vortex – whose products are available in the UK through Ustigate Waterplay – is pleased to announce its Dream Tunnel™ has been named the Most Valuable Product in 2022 by the readers of Aquatics International magazine. This marks the sixth time a Vortex product has caught the eye of Aquatics International magazine readers.

The Aquatics International media network is a trusted source for industry professionals in all fields related to the development, outfitting and maintenance of aquatic facilities. Every year, Aquatics International magazine readers vote on the industry’s best new products, with the top 25 receiving the Most Value Product award and a feature in the magazine’s June MVP Awards issue.

This year, they selected Vortex’s Dream Tunnel™.

The new product is a fully immersive aquatic attraction. It combines the power of water and cutting-edge technology to transport visitors to dream like worlds. It is a modular attraction that can be customised to fit any theme and environment as either a floating or walk-through experience. The versatility of interchangeable Dreamscapes allows for Dream Tunnel™ to provide visitors with new experiences year after year without investment in a brand-new ride.

“Dream Tunnel™ is an industry first, another example of Vortex’s commitment to innovate for its customers and excel in the world of water attractions,” said Stephen Hamelin, President and CEO of Vortex International.

“Dream Tunnel™ connects art, technology and our multitalented team’s expertise to produce a one-of-a-kind immersive experience that families can enjoy together.”

Ustigate Waterplay 01322 424445 www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk

Following the acquisition of a movable floor company, manufacturer T&A now has a new product available. AquaFloor fits perfectly into the company’s range of automatic swimming pool covers that have quality, safety and durability as their main goals.

During the development of the AquaFloor, special attention has been paid to the insulation. An insulating layer is provided in each floor, providing a U-value of 0.4 W/m²K depending on the model and size of the pool, meaning payback times between four to seven years are guaranteed.

A movable floor is not just a cover though. As it can be positioned at any desired height, it will allow owners to create extra terrace space when locked in the highest position or convert the pool into a children’s play pool when positioned just below the surface.

This can be done without holes or other fixing points in the walls of the swimming pool. All that needs to be installed are anchoring points in the pool floor.

Two models are available – AquaFloor Comfort and AquaFloor Premium. The big difference between the two is the loading capacity. The Comfort model can take up to 50 kg/m², sufficient to walk safely and stand on when closed, but not really sufficient to

set up an extra terrace or organise a party on it.

However, all this is possible with the Premium model, which has a load capacity of at least 200 kg/m² thanks to an additional mechanical locking system.

Both types are suitable for a multitude of swimming pools and each floor is completely custom-made, with a finishing of choice. T&A also take care of the installation and if desired, the floor can be provided with an integrated staircase.

T&A + 32 14 23 74 95 www.t-and-a.be

Top-of-the-line Performance – The Dolphin Supreme M700 Pool Cleaner Introduced this year, the M700 robotic pool cleaner is the latest addition to the Dolphin Supreme range. Like the rest of the Supreme family, it comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, My Dolphin app and all the fantastic features that make it one of the market-leaders for pools of all terrains up to 15m.

Offering remote control operation, the M700 also has additional features via the MyDolphin Plus app, including water temperature and out of water indication, plus a gauge to identify a clogged filter with five different status levels.

Offering top-of-the-line performance, with

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the absolute minimum in effort and hassle, the M700 model has a unique combined brush system which eliminates areas where bacteria and algae could develop, reducing the need for chemicals. The multi-layer filter basket is designed for rough, fine and ultra-fine debris. The patented top-opening filtration compartments ensure easy emptying and cleaning.

Advanced technology delivers precise scanning and total cleaning efficiency all the way to the water

line, in minimal time and without manual intervention.

A gyroscopic navigation system maintains stable navigation and ensures maximum cleaning efficiency. Once the cleaning cycle is complete, the M700 rises to the surface for easy removal.

Available through Certikin, for peace of mind, the M700 carries a four-year warranty.

Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

Pooltec From Microdos – A Digital All-inone Control System Dive In To Aquatechnica’s Solutions Online The Aquatechnica™ range of complete pool and spa tiling solutions can now be found online. Visitors to the new website can dive into its specialist solutions that meet the demands of technical and competition pools, leisure pools, spas and private luxury homes. Featuring technical collections, as well as supporting wall, floor and outdoor tiles; the Aquatechnica website makes it easy to choose a lane to a specification that will exceed expectations.

With pool tank, surround, changing room, wet area, circulation, outdoor and complementary area tiles, profiles, movement joints, adhesives, epoxy grouts, renders, screeds and waterproofing; Aquatechnica™ delivers a total answer for pool and spa projects.

The website provides an overview of the wide breadth of solutions available from the brand, including high-design ceramic and porcelain tiles, specialist competition ranges, mosaics and outdoor tiles that respond to the rise in lido and outdoor facilities. Along with ordering samples of Aquatechnica products, visitors to the website can also download the company’s latest Technical Brochure, an essential guide for tiling systems designed to meet the unique demands of swimming pool specifications.

Upholding aesthetics and delivering on cost, the complete Aquatechnica range is available exclusively through Parkside Architectural Tiles and Strata Technical Tiles. By an integrated approach and high levels of UK stock, Aquatechnica delivers a fast-track solution that meets the demands of swimming pools in a multitude of environments.

Aquatechnica 0116 276 2532 www.aquatechnica.co.uk

As a manufacturer, Verder Liquids maintains the highest standards over the design, build and testing procedures, reducing the risk and costs to customers. Under their Microdos brand, Verder’s pool and spa products are designed and built using tried and tested principles, trusted components and rigorous testing. The company are excited to present to the market the brand new Microdos Pooltec: A digital all-in-one control system with Wi-Fi connectivity.

Thanks to the new Pooltec product, Microdos has created a series of complete systems for the treatment of swimming pool water for public or residential swimming pools. Features include: • Control of pH / Redox / Chlorine / Temperature values • Automatic regulation of the recirculation pump • Swimming pool lighting management • Other fully programmable outputs.

The instrument integrates the most important and complete functions for complete control of the pool, and with the 10-inch touchscreen and an innovative graphic interface, all operations are intuitive and easy to set.

Thanks to the numerous automatic alarms and the possibility of customisable alerts on all controlled parameters, this is a state-of-the-art and safe device. There’s also the possibility of customisation with various models of peristaltic and electromagnetic solenoid dosing pumps.

In addition, thanks to the new Pooltec PRO platform, the owner and / or installer of the pool can also control and operate, either on site or remotely, a set of different functions and parameters via smartphone, without having to access the technical room. Geolocation allows pool maintenance companies to plan employee days more efficiently, whilst statistics and history of the operations carried out can be viewed in real time.

Produced with the best quality and efficiency standards, Pooltec systems are made completely in Italy.

Verder UK 01924 221000 www.verder.co.uk

Aquagem InverPro Redefines The Energy Saving Pool Pump Pump manufacturer Aquagem has revealed how its latest full inverter technology provides users with a more energy-efficient pool system.

Along with the most significant global energy crisis, the electricity prices in Europe are skyrocketing. Providing energy-saving products is becoming the mission of the enterprises. Aquagem develops the inverter pool pump to contribute to a more energy efficient pool.

Thanks to the patented InverSilence® technology, Aquagem’s InverPro inverter pool pump allows the users to preset the flow rate, and the pump will adjust the realtime speed automatically. Therefore, the inverter pool pumps always run at the most appropriate flow, so as to conserve the energy

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to the maximum extent. In addition, it can provide active learning of the actual pipeline operating pressure and the working conditions of the swimming pool.

With the InverSilence® technology, InverPro reaches up to 15 times more energy savings than on/off pool pumps, making 24/7 flowing crystal clear pool water possible.

The magic of InverPro also includes: • 30 x Quieter – 36 dB(A) ensuring a quiet swimming experience • Smart Full Touch Screen – bringing easy and convenient operation

• Intelligence Technology – AI Mode offering automatic learning and lower maintenance cost.

The inverter pool pump is a revolution in technology and user experience. In many countries, household energy bills have increased by 25% or more over the past few years. With 2030 approaching, driven by zero-carbon policies, the benefits of inverter technology for pool pumps are self-evident.

Aquagem +86 20 3781 4527 www.aquagem.com.cn

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HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS NEWS

Harvia Spirit – Natural Design With Electric Convenience Sauna and steam specialist Harvia has launched Harvia Spirit, a new safe and easy-to-use design electric heater that respects natural design. The starting point of the new product was to design a wall-mounted heater that represents a modern and elegant design and fits perfectly into the saunas of today.

“We wanted to respond to consumers’ wishes and needs for design and saving space in the sauna. During the design phase we tested several shapes, structures and materials, from which we ended up with an open shape structure that beautifully brings out the natural shape of round sauna heater stones and meets the quality and safety standards set for the electric sauna heaters,” said Arto Harvia, Product Group Manager at Harvia.

Harvia Spirit is designed and manufactured in Finland. It showcases Harvia’s craftsmanship while keeping safety and performance in mind. The newly designed air ventilation channel within the heater evenly distributes heat throughout the sauna to protect individual components in the sauna from overheating. This also ensures that the hot air will be guided through the heater and that the heating elements last longer.

The Harvia Spirit electric heater hides inside smart advanced technology that makes the sauna experience unique. The heat radiation shield on the front of the heater not only protects the sauna but acts as a steam guide, directing the steam formed from throwing the water to the heater to the upper part of the heater. The heating element tunnel in the stone space enhances the hot air circulation which speeds up the heating of the sauna and at the same time equalises the temperature of the sauna.

The Harvia Spirit electric heaters are Wi-Fi compatible, which makes the heaters suitable for many different uses, and can be controlled using the MyHarvia mobile application.

Harvia Plc +358 207 464 000 www.harviagroup.com

Investor Group Acquires A Controlling Interest In Gecko A group of investors comprising Desjardins Capital, the Fonds de Solidarité FTQ, Fondaction, and NEXCAP, led by NEXCAP Partners, has acquired a controlling interest in the Gecko Alliance Group.

The Gecko Alliance Group is a world leader in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of control systems, keyboards, pumps, and spa accessories for over 30 years. Co-founders, Michel Authier and Benoit Laflamme, remain shareholders who are committed to its strategic development.

The management team remains the same. Georges Marchildon, who acted as Vice-President Manufacturing Operations, is appointed Chief Executive Officer. Gregory McConnell, Vice-president of Commercial Operations becomes Chief Revenue Officer.

“With its experienced team’s long history of excellence and success, covering all entrepreneurship challenges, NEXCAP Partners is the ideal partner to support us in our expansion goals,” stated Michel Authier, CEO of the Gecko Alliance Group.

“We are privileged to be

partners with the Gecko Alliance Group, a world-class company that has distinguished itself through its strong culture of excellence, operational efficiency and innovation capacity. In addition, the presence of leading investors such as Desjardins Capital, the Fonds de Solidarité FTQ, Fondaction, and NEXCAP provides us with a solid foundation to support the growth of the group,” explained JeanFrançois Ferland, Managing Partner at NEXCAP Partners.

Gecko’s headquarters are in Quebec City and the company supplies the majority of major spa manufacturers all around the world. It has manufacturing operations in Quebec City, Mexico, and Nevada, as well as warehouses in Europe and China.

Gecko Alliance Group +1 800-784-3256 www.geckoportal.com

Golden Coast Expands Tubhub Team Amid Booming Sales Leading distributor Golden Coast has welcomed new staff to increase its customer support as sales of the renowned tubhub collection continue to soar.

As the latest addition to the Technical Sales team, Teres McGraw is one of the new experts working with customers to provide advice and guidance on the latest spa trends and tubhub bestsellers.

“Golden Coast has a fantastic reputation for exceptional customer service and expertise, so I was delighted to become part of the team here,” said Teres. “Much of my career has been in sales and account management, and it’s nice that I now get to work with such fun products in the tubhub range.

“Any hot tub owner wants to make the most of their investment, and that means getting the right

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equipment that can not only enhance enjoyment, but also prolong the lifetime of the spa.

“For our customers, tubhub provides an ideal opportunity for upselling and the products make attractive additions to showrooms. I’m really looking forward to getting out on the road and presenting customers with the different options available. There’s something for everyone.

“It’s been great to be able to support the team as tubhub sales are through the roof.

Everyone at Golden Coast is really helpful and I’ve just been making sure that I’m listening and learning as much as possible.

The team is extremely knowledgeable and proactive.”

Adam Clark, Sales Director at Golden Coast adds: “It has been encouraging to see how well our customers have responded to tubhub. We are seeing increasing product demand across the sector and by expanding our team we can ensure that we not only meet but also exceed customer service expectations. Our Technical Sales team is our frontline, and we are pleased to have Teres on board.”

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

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HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS NEWS

Platinum Spas Launches Two New Hot Tubs

Superior Wellness is delighted to announce the launch of two new hot tubs for the Platinum Spas brand. The Oslo and Colombo are the latest additions to the Premium range.

Both models are large, all-seater hot tubs that will accommodate up to seven people, making them perfect for families and entertaining. The two new hot The Colombo tubs will offer customers across the globe an improved choice in this range and an exceptional hydrotherapy experience.

The Oslo and Colombo both feature the Platinum Premium Shield insulation. The end user will notice a considerable difference in the heat retained in the hot tub as well as a reduction in energy costs.

This is incredibly important with the recent rise in energy prices and the need for more sustainable practices in general.

Both hot tubs have an abundance of features and are incredibly comfortable.

The Oslo includes 64 jets and with 3 x 3hp pumps, the jet pressure is exceptionally powerful. The Colombo is fitted with 48 jets and both models include water features and LED lights. If hosting parties or ensuring there’s space for a large family is the priority, these two models are the perfect size for enjoying quality time in a group setting.

Gareth Ward, Sales Director at Superior Wellness: “We are very excited about the launch of the Oslo and Colombo hot tubs. They are a great addition to the premium range.

“All seater hot tubs are very popular, particularly in the US. They are perfect for families and friends who want to spend time relaxing and enjoying the hot tub together.

“We always listen to feedback from our customers and partner network to help inform our decisions on innovation.”

Superior Wellness 01246 559071 www.superiorwellness.co.uk

New Climacube Prime Sets Low Energy Benchmark For Holiday Park Hot Tubs Park Leisure Solutions’ new groundbreaking Climacube Prime Hot Tub and Spa Water Heating System now provides even greater benefits for customers than its award winning predecessor and sets new standards for the industry. It features improved specification, higher performance at lower temperatures (-15°C), as well as remote monitoring and full diagnostics via Wi-Fi. The new model offers the very latest energy saving heat technology. Unlike conventional heat systems, Climacube will heat a hot tub in around 4-5 hours from cold with a consumption of only 1kW per hour and with a COP of over 3.5 in minus temperatures. This means dramatically reduced running costs, increased customer usage, a reduced carbon footprint and enabling customers to use a hot tub all year round at the desired temperature.

Once installed and with full diagnostics enabled, should there be an operational issue, remote monitoring and a diagnostics check can be easily carried out by the team at Park Leisure, and in many cases, the issue rectified online. Should an engineer be required, any replacement parts would be indicated through the diagnostic check, keeping downtime to a minimum and the engineer informed of the issue prior to their visit. The new Climacube Prime will even record operational and user function history, a key factor in fault detection.

Fully tried and tested and with thousands of UK installations, Climacube systems are designed to be integrated into any hot tub or spa, however, build quality and insulation methods do vary and affect running costs. Despite this, because Climacube technology works continuously with a fraction of the power consumption needed to run a conventional 3kW hot tub heater, energy savings of over 80% can be achieved.

Park Leisure Solutions 01202 691166 www.parkleisuresolutions.co.uk

The Oslo

Lay-Z-Spa Celebrates 165% Exponential Growth

Hot tub brand Lay-Z-Spa has announced it has seen growth of 165% to make it a leader in the at-home hot tub sector. In the UK, over one million Lay-Z-Spas have been sold, with over 500,000 in the last 12 months alone.

The company has become a household name with it being the most searched brand on Amazon in April 2020, alongside Lego and Nintendo – two global giants.

Prior to the pandemic, Lay-Z-Spa was already witnessing significant growth, with an increase in new products, retail partners and sales since 2017. However, with consumers spending more time at home, the pandemic contributed greatly to the enormous growth of the brand.

Strong retail relationships are a key pillar to the brand’s success and Lay-Z-Spa has doubled its number of stockists in 2022

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compared to 2017. Products are available at nearly 400 independent retailers and in over 2,000 locations including Asda, B&Q, Tesco, John Lewis, Homebase, Curry’s and The Range. Due to the huge surge in demand, the company has almost doubled the number of models available for 2022 to 36, compared to 20 in 2017.

Lay-Z-Spa remains the leader in the category with 4,900% more searches compared to its nearest competitor at its peak (according to Google Trend data). The company has also

become synonymous and representative of the category with Lay-Z-Spa receiving five times the searches than comparable search terms.

In a recent survey of 2,091 Lay-Z-Spa customers almost half (46%) choose the brand due to its strong reviews, 45% due to the high quality, 33% due to the extensive complimentary two-year warranty and 27% because of strong word of mouth recommendations.

As the brand continues to enjoy considerable growth, Lay-Z-Spa is creating an additional 40 jobs this year, all of which will be based in its UK headquarters.

Lay-Z-Spa 0345 576 0261 www.lay-z-spa.co.uk

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t h e s e n s e o f n at u r e In a traditional swim spa, the user has to switch the pumps on and off manually for finding the proper water-flow which fits their fitness level. The W-flow system swim spas will be equipped with brand new swim software. Combining this and the new W-flow system the new swim spas become a professional training appliance.

Find our products at wellis.com

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HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS NEWS

Feel The Steam Like Never Before With Harvia Nova Harvia brings a new premium line-up to the steam market with the launch of their Nova products.

The line-up includes two new products – a steam shower cabin with a built-in steam shower column and a stand-alone steam shower column.

With these innovative products they aim to strengthen their offering in the steam segment and have an easy way for their customers to step into the spa world to enjoy both the relaxation and health benefits of the nourishing and soft steam.

The main driving forces behind the Harvia Nova product family were ‘easiness and design’, meaning that the products are easy to install, easy to use, easy to maintain, and a design that speaks for itself. The company wanted to design products that are suitable not only for residential as well as commercial segments, but also for new as well as existing spaces.

“The Nova steam shower cabin is a gorgeous free-standing

solution to add to a bathroom whereas the stand-alone Nova steam shower column offers the chance to build a luxurious spa around it,” said Paras Chopra, Head of Innovation and Development at Harvia.

Both of the products combine a sleek and modern look, making them easy to fit in all locations.

The Harvia Nova products come with built-in support for Wi-Fi and MyHarvia mobile application which allows users to start the steam generator remotely from anywhere and at any time so that a steam experience can be enjoyed at will.

The Harvia Nova steam shower column is available in two different power versions, 2kW and 3kW. The Nova steam shower cabin, powered by a 2kW version of the Nova steam shower column will be available during autumn 2022.

Harvia Plc +358 207 464 000 www.harviagroup.com

The new additions to the GMT Spas team (left to right) James Merry, Paul Bradley and Jack Norwell

GMT Spas International Add Three New Team Members Although GMT Spas International, along with many other companies, have experienced a gruelling two years during the pandemic, with constantly trying to find suppliers with stock or waiting weeks if not months in some cases for orders to arrive, the Cheshire-based company have never been so busy with customers asking for bespoke designs plus a high number of split spas.

Also, as with many other companies, GMT has encountered difficulty recruiting experienced staff but they are delighted to have added three new members to the GMT team in recent weeks.

Paul Bradley has been appointed as lead laminator and arrived with a wealth of experience spanning 40 years and has made numerous suggestions, some of which are already being implemented to improve the running of the company’s fibreglassing department.

Other new recruits Jack Norwell and James Merry have added further, wide-ranging experience to the GMT team, providing many skills with their addition, right across the board – from tiling and laminating to plumbing and more.

Along with the company’s loyal and valued existing staff, the management at GMT feel that they have a great team of talented employees and would like to welcome their new employees and thank their existing ones for their continued hard work. With the addition of the new staff, the business is already seeing an improvement to production schedules and it is confident that this will continue.

The GMT team takes great pride in the spas, swim spas and hydrotherapy pools that they produce and the customer care they provide – which has been a challenge recently – so would also like to thank valued clients, both old and new, for their patience during a difficult few years for all.

GMT Spas International 01244 629252 www.gmtspas.com

Superior Wellness Listed As One Of Britain’s Fastest-Growing Businesses As one of the market leaders and as the world’s fastest growing hot tub manufacturer, at the end of June, Superior Wellness’ achievements were recognised beyond the wet leisure industry when the FEBE Annual Growth 100 list was released highlighting the fastest growing privately owned businesses in the country.

Superior Wellness has been in a fortunate position to experience a monumental level of growth during the pandemic. The company noticed an incline in demand for hot tubs and other wellness related products during the pandemic which spearheaded the growth.

In 2021 the company moved into its brand-new headquarters in Chesterfield and has also recently opened a 10,000 sq. ft

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showroom with training facilities.

The team headcount has also doubled to almost 70.

It now works with a global partner network of over 200 hot tub retailers across 16 countries. In 2021 alone, 72 partners were added to the Superior Wellness network and 32 of these were international accounts.

Superior Wellness is now focusing on its growth across the US having recruited two dedicated sales managers based in America.

FEBE reported that: “There are 4.2m private companies in the UK. Just 1% or 45,000 of these are considered ‘high growth’

and Superior Wellness is now included in the Growth 100 list.”

Rob Carlin, Managing Director, said: “We were so proud when we heard the news that Superior Wellness had made it onto Growth 100 list. We ranked 18th in Britain for the fastest-growing privately owned businesses.

“This is such an incredible achievement for us as a company and a real accolade to the team and their hard work.

“I would like to extend my thanks to all the Superior Wellness team and our partner network for making this possible.”

Superior Wellness 01246 559071 www.superiorwellness.co.uk

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WORLD NEWS

IBERSPA WINS SPANISH BUSINESS ASSOCIATION AWARD The PIMEC Business Association of Catalonia’s SME Awards were held recently for the most competitive mediumsized enterprise in the Spanish region and Iberspa were delighted to win an award for having one of the best business initiatives in Catalonia in 2021.

After suffering a fire on 1 July 2019 and then working through the pandemic, managing these crises was essential to save the company and ensure its good future prospects. In 2021 Iberspa achieved its highest ever turnover, 50.04% higher than in the previous year.

The award ceremony was held in the iconic Camp Nou in Barcelona, and was attended by the President of the Regional Government Pere Aragonès and the Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, among other dignitaries.

The award follows the company opening its new production site and offices in May and receiving this major honour has given Iberspa further impetus to continue their efforts and keep showing that they are, and will remain, a strong company with a great team!

FLUIDRA REACHES AN AGREEMENT TO MERGE WITH KEREX IN HUNGARY Fluidra has announced it has reached an agreement to merge its Hungarian subsidiary Fluidra Magyarország Kft (‘Fluidra Hungary’) with the Kerex Group (‘Kerex’), a leading Hungarian pool equipment distributor.

Kerex was founded 31 years ago and has become a key player in the Hungarian pool distribution sector. The company has been a valued long-term partner of Fluidra in the region, and this transaction will allow Fluidra to offer a more comprehensive product portfolio to an expanded customer base in Hungary, together with an even more efficient service.

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A Bronze Patina On Splinterworks’ Flagship Design Sitting statuesquely in the spectacular surroundings, this customised Vertex slide from Splinterworks features a dark bronzed finish.

The company prides itself on making their slides customisable to suit each client’s space and personal preferences, and they’re now introducing some new finishes on their stainless steel slides to make designs even more bespoke.

Splinterworks were particularly excited to see this latest Vertex design in its new environment, at this truly stunning residence in Maryland, USA. Made of stainless steel, but finished on the exterior in a muted dark bronze, this version of Vertex is perhaps more sculptural in appearance than ever before.

Sitting in a beautiful landscaped garden designed by Kaiser Trabue and Foxborough, the dappled tones of the bronze coloured finish sit very comfortably with the warm tones of the surrounding stonework and terracotta pots.

True to Vertex’ original design, the inner of the slide where users sit (the area most exposed to strong sunlight) is in polished stainless steel, which doesn’t oxidise like most other metals, and actually reflects most inbound sunlight and thermal energy. Despite this, the slide is fitted with Splinterworks’ internal cooling system to ensure it is always cool enough to use.

Photography by Neil Landino

IN BRIEF

The rich, deep colour on the bronze exterior, which is available in other finishes such as copper, will age and develop a natural patina over time.

Splinterworks 01225 255525 www.splinterworks.com

Piscine Global Europe Returns To Lyon-Eurexpo In November Piscine Global Europe, the leading event in the pool and wellness sector, will be back at Lyon-Eurexpo for a face-to-face event from 15 to 18 November this year. An opportunity for professionals in the sector to gather, exchange views and boost their business, but also – at long last – to meet up in a social setting.

Organised in partnership with the French Federation for Pool and Spa Professionals (FFP), Piscine Global Europe is now more than ever a strategic international event for the entire pool and wellness sector.

On an upward trend over the last few months, which have exacerbated a desire for the outdoors and poolside fun amongst French people and their European neighbours, the pool sector is continuing to grow and generate new jobs, and is seeking to improve skills amongst its workforce.

To support this expanding ecosystem, Piscine Global Europe has built a reputation as an unmissable event for anticipating, understanding and discussing future developments in the sector.

For four days, seminars and dedicated themed areas will encourage

discussions and improve understanding of these topics: • Jobs, training and skills development for professionals within the sector • Digitisation and digital tools • Sustainable development.

Various activities will also set the tone for this new edition of the exhibition: • The Pool Design Awards, a competition that shines a spotlight on pool projects from around the world • The Pool Showcase for presenting exhibitors’ new products • The Pool Innovation Awards for recognising and showcasing innovation • The Pool Arena, an area dedicated to exhibitors’ elevator pitches and seminars on market trends • The Jobs and Training Campus, giving professionals the opportunity to find training and recruitment solutions.

Don’t miss our preview on the exhibition in the next issue of SPN. Piscine Global Europe +33 (0)4 78 176 324 www.piscine-global-europe.com

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WORLD NEWS

Ezarri Turns Madeira’s Savoy Palace Hotel Into A Haven Of Wellness Tile specialist Ezarri were recently tasked with tiling the pools at the Hotel Savoy Palace in Funchal, the capital of the Madeira Islands.

With its 16 floors, the hotel welcomes its guests with comfort, luxury and relaxation.

It features a wellness area to die for, a wide variety of restaurants, and of course, luxurious swimming pools – and Ezarri was the company chosen to clad the pools with colour and beauty.

The Savoy Palace is a five-star hotel with 500 rooms and spectacular ocean views.

Guests can also enjoy a series of gardens that combine innovation and contemporary design – part of Ezarri’s DNA − and key to being chosen for this project.

The Savoy Palace in Funchal has several swimming pools for guests to enjoy: • The main pool, which has a wading pool for children, is at sea level • An infinity pool on the 17th floor called the Galáxia Skypool • The VIP Lounge Pool, the jewel in the crown is found on another one of the terraces.

• The Wellness area and Spa is located on the lower floor • Numerous private pools in the premium rooms. Highlights include the two Presidential Suites on the rooftop.

This means that 1,350 square metres of Ezarri’s special combinations and designs were put into place. In addition, more than 360m² of Custom Printed Mosaic completely cover the indoor wellness pool and waterfall. For the final bespoke touch, the hotel’s rooftop pools were decorated with Custom Printed Mosaics: a moon for the Skypool and a huge jacaranda tree for the VIP Lounge Pool.

In addition to the customised mosaics, other Ezarri products are also now part of the Savoy Palace Hotel including Lava, Óxido and Esmeralda tiles from the Metal collection, which provide a glimmering metallic sheen.

Ezarri Mosaico +34 943 164 140 www.ezarri.com

The Galáxia Skypool at The Savoy Palace and (inset) The Laurea Spa’s indoor pool

T&A Announce The Acquisition Of Aquacover Continuing its growth dynamic, T&A – a major player in the European pool cover market – have confirmed the recent acquisition of Aquacover based in Andenne, Belgium.

The Aquacover business was founded in 1994 and is managed by Frédéric Poty and his wife. Over the years, the company has established itself as a technical and reliable player in the automatic pool cover market.

A specialist in custom-made covers for both private and public pools, Aquacover benefits from relevant know-how and strong common values with T&A in terms of manufacturing quality, innovation and customer service.

This acquisition reinforces T&A’s growth strategy, in particular by increasing its presence in Belgium via the Andenne production site, but also in France and Switzerland where Aquacover has built up a strong network of dealers.

Within the framework of this acquisition, Mr and Mrs Poty will ensure a gradual transition, aiming to reinforce customer satisfaction through an optimised range, reinforced service and reliable delivery times.

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Speaking about the acquisition, T&A Managing Director Joeri Dils said: “We are very honoured to take over from Frédéric Poty and his wife, to offer pool professionals a technical, highly qualitative range without altering the service that remains a major concern for us as well as for our professional customers.”

T&A and Aquacover would like to thank their customers, partners and suppliers for the trust shown in this collaboration as they look forward to the start of a new and exciting future for the Aquacover brand.

Both entities will be present at the Piscine Global Europe trade show in Lyon, France to present a wide range of different cover solutions to professionals operating within the pool sector.

T&A + 32 14 23 74 95 www.t-and-a.be

Fluidra Opens Its EMEA R&D&I Centre In Catalonia Fluidra has launched the first phase of its new R&D&I centre for EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) in Polinyà, Spain after breaking ground for construction in the last quarter of 2021. The centre intends to centralise the knowledge and the region’s activities, which will enhance efficiency and help make the company’s new products and solutions more innovative and sustainable.

The first phase of the project was completed last April, with the installation of a major part of the engineering resources in the new offices. With room for up to 52 people, this office area has been designed following the same principle as the headquarters in Sant Cugat. The second phase is already underway and will be completed once the test area and the section of the laboratory dedicated to hydraulics and IoP (Internet of Pools) are operational.

The new centre, which will be further developed in the coming months, will include a modern, fully equipped testing area with different pools and bodies of water, as well as a fully equipped R&D&I laboratory. The centre aims to centralise knowledge to consider the pool as a whole and not as a sum of different teams, gaining in efficiency and focus. This will allow Fluidra to unite the R&D teams, forming a powerful multidisciplinary team, consolidating and transferring knowledge.

In addition to the EMEA R&D&I centre, the space is also home to three other departments with a global scope of action.

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

Education, Excellence And Industry Successes After a challenging period for the industry and wider economy, in this latest issue, BSPF Managing Director Chris Hayes touches on the subjects of training and education plus awards to celebrate wet leisure excellence

W

e have reached the end of the summer, and it has been a challenging few months, not least due to rising inflation, increasing energy prices for heating pools and hot tubs, higher fuel prices for manufacturing and running vehicles, hosepipe bans (TUBs) and not forgetting the chlorine shortages for some public pools. We must continue working together to overcome the worst effects of these issues, and below are updates on what has been happening since the last issue of SPN. SPATA and BISHTA members can now enter the 2023 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards. This event is another opportunity for members to showcase their excellent projects, and with 30+ categories, we hope there is something for most companies!

Many of the awards rightly look at not only the most aesthetically pleasing entries but ask for additional information on the technical aspects, including the paperwork.

Staff in the SPATA and BISHTA offices are on-hand should you need advice. Please get as many great images of your projects as possible while the weather is still good! The deadline for entries to be received is Friday 28 October 2022.

Congratulations to all of the SPATA and BISHTA members who have previously won a British Pool and Hot Tub Award, as many

of them have now been shortlisted for the 2022 EUSA European Pool and Spa Awards.

The nominees are included on the following pages and the 2022 EUSA winners will be announced at Global Piscine Europe in Lyon, France, on Tuesday 15 November. SPATA and BISHTA will advise members if they have won an award, but you won’t get to know the award level until the day!

BISHTA and SPATA continue to offer their respective industry qualifications/courses.

Coming up before the end of the year, there will be a sauna and steam course on Tuesday 25 October at Golden Coast in Devon. There is a liner course on Tuesday 1 November at Certikin in Oxfordshire, and a heat pump course is scheduled for Friday 11 November, which will be online (via WebEx). Dates are also expected for environmental control and ductwork courses being run by AstralPool UK and Heatstar. It is still hoped to organise a fast-track Pool Plant Operations (PPO) course with the STA for experienced staff in the pool industry, subject to demand.

BISHTA will continue to offer a range of courses on water hygiene management, Dangerous Goods, and more safe handling courses. Qualifications for Electrical Final Connections of Hot Tubs (with NICEIC) and the Certified Hot Tub Technician (CHTT) are also expected.

Subject to demand, the annual Information and Networking Days are planned to go ahead in October in Doncaster and Andover. Please do not attend until you have booked a place, as the dates and

SPATA and BISHTA members can now enter the 2023 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards. This event is another opportunity for members to showcase their excellent projects, and with 30+ categories, we hope there is something for most companies!”

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locations are subject to change. A range of guest speakers are lined up, and there is more on this subject on page 33.

The third strand of education has been the webinar programme, including the latest training session regarding the draft domestic outdoor pool standard prEN 17645 ‘Environmental performance efficiency Performance evaluation, methodology, and classification of the use of pools and their equipment’. As previously ported, with the standard expected to be published imminently, a series of awareness sessions were provided earlier in the year, and the most recent session was provided by Will Dando (who has been the UK expert on behalf of SPATA and BSI at this European working group). The training was open to all SPATA members, but it focused on installers and what they need to consider when providing energy efficiency figures for domestic outdoor pool customers. The presentation video and slides are available in the SPATA members’ hub.

Enjoy the rest of this year.

DIARY DATES 2022 13 Sep

BISHTA Technical Committee, WebEx 22 Sep SPATA National Council, WebEx 22 Sep BISHTA Committee, WebEx 27 Sep SPATA Technical Committee, WebEx 28 – 29 Sep EUSA Meeting, Cologne 4 Oct CEN TC 402 (Domestic Pools and Spas) Plenary 5 Oct BISHTA Information & Networking Day North, Doncaster 6 Oct SPATA Information & Networking Day North, Doncaster 11 Oct SPATA Information & Networking Day South, Andover 12 Oct BISHTA Information & Networking Day South, Andover 25 Oct Sauna & Steam Course, Barnstaple

SPN August 2022 29 16/08/2022 07:52

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

The Best Of British, Showcasing In Europe Revealing the British entries shortlisted for EUSA’s 2022 European Pool & Spa Awards, the winners of which will be announced later this year at the biennial Piscine Global Europe exhibition, taking place in Lyon, France

S

ince 2013, the European Pool & Spa Awards have spotlighted the most innovative domestic pools, spas, and hot tubs on the Continent from members of their respective National Associations. The tenth European Awards, hosted by EUSA (European Union of Swimming Pool and Spa Associations), will be announced at the swimming pool

show, Piscine Global Europe, in Lyon, France, on Tuesday 15 November 2022 (the show itself runs from 15 – 18 November 2022). Seven categories reflect the EUSA members’ work, with entries due from 12 participating countries: Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the UK. It is a competition in which ‘the

best of the best’ are chosen because many of the national associations submit their shortlisted entries from the winners of their national swimming pool and hot tub awards.

The award categories are; Domestic Outdoor Pools, Domestic Indoor Pools, Domestic Spas, Domestic Hot Tubs, Domestic Pools with an Enclosure, Domestic Pools with an Automatic Cover and Pools by Night.

Domestic Hot Tubs – Hot Tub Suppliers

Domestic Spas – Falcon Pools

Domestic Indoor Pools – Origin Leisure Domestic Hot Tubs – Concept Spa

Domestic Hot Tubs – SpaFlo

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Domestic Spas – Mermaid Pools

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 16/08/2022 07:55

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

It is a competition in which ‘the best of the best’ are chosen because many of the national associations submit their shortlisted entries from the winners of their national swimming pool and hot tub awards”

e Leading the way for the UK, the following companies are eligible to be shortlisted for the EUSA Awards as previous winners of the British Pool & Hot Tub awards (hosted by SPATA and BISHTA).

BACKGROUND The primary purpose of EUSA is to support the development of a stronger and more prosperous business community throughout

Europe by: • Lobbying on behalf of the industry on topics such as the development of European standards (thus highlighting safety).

• Promoting the industry via the European Pool and Spa Awards (recognition from the industry for the quality of the work being entered from members across Europe).

• The EUSA Awards are open to all National Associations that are EUSA Members to make entries from their respective member companies. Each entry submitted by an EUSA member must comply with the relevant European (and National Association) Standards, as applicable.

Judges for the EUSA Awards will assess the entries’ visual impact, innovation and aesthetic appeal. The identity of each entry is not revealed to the judges; they can vote for any entry based on which ones they believe to be the best. The EUSA judges aim to have a Gold, Silver and Bronze award winner in each category.

REPRESENTING THE UK On behalf of SPATA and BISHTA, the BSPF wishes the shortlisted entries from both trade associations the ‘best of luck’ in this year’s competition.

Domestic Hot Tubs – Hot Tub House Yorkshire

Domestic Indoor Pools – A19 Pools & Spas Domestic Pools With An Enclosure – Centurion Leisure

Pools By Night – Mermaid Pools

Pools By Night – Tanby Pools Domestic Outdoor Pools – XL Pools

Domestic Outdoor Pools – New Dawn Pools

Domestic Hot Tubs – 1 Stop Spas

Domestic Spas – Centurion Leisure

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SPN August 2022 31 16/08/2022 07:56

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY Domestic Outdoor Pools and Pools By Night – Mermaid Pools

Domestic Hot Tubs – Concept Spa

Domestic Indoor Pools – Origin Leisure

Domestic Outdoor Pools – New Dawn Pools

Domestic Pools With An Automatic Cover – Centurion Leisure

Domestic Indoor Pools – Origin Leisure

Domestic Indoor Pools – Centurion Leisure

Domestic Outdoor Pools – XL Pools

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Domestic Outdoor Pools – Tanby Pools

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 16/08/2022 07:56

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

BISHTA And SPATA Annual Information And Networking Days In this issue, we take a closer look at the annual Information And Networking Days hosted by the trade associations. They include talks from wet leisure industry specialists and guest presenters, as well as a networking lunch and more!

T

he trade association’s annual Information and Networking Days provide an invaluable opportunity to get together with members to share topical industry information, hear about the trade associations’ work, get the latest industry updates, see presentations from industry specialists and guest presenters plus openly share views on present and future actions, activity and training.

This year, the plan is to hold live events in the north in Doncaster and the south in Andover, with the dates as follows: North – Doncaster BISHTA – Wednesday 5 October 2022 SPATA – Thursday 6 October 2022 South – Andover SPATA – Tuesday 11 October 2022 BISHTA – Wednesday 12 October 2022 All events include refreshments and a networking lunch with the days charged at just £20pp (inc. VAT). Here’s what you can expect when attending each of the days:

SPATA • Making Pools Sustainable – Looking at the new European standard on domestic outdoor pool energy efficiency (BS EN 17645) and exploring the importance of the green agenda for future demand for themes such as ‘water neutrality’.

• How To Keep Up With Regulations – This session looks at UKCA marking and touches upon other items that members may not be aware of, such as heat pumps.

• Selling Chemicals Responsibly – Hear directly from our colleagues at the Home Office about what we all need to do to keep people safe from terrorists.

• What Can We Learn From Disputes? – Hear about real examples (but no names) of issues SPATA has been dealing with to see what can be learned when disputes arise and how other members can prevent them.

• Embracing Digital – SPATA is delighted to announce the start of a partnership with new member Adtrak, an award-winning digital agency. This session explores how they can assist members in improving their digital presence through their website, branding and online marketing.

• Promoting our Industry to Domestic and Commercial Audiences – Through Pool Industry Promotions Ltd (PIP), SPATA can

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•

•

reach out to different audiences to promote the benefits of pool, spa and wellness ownership. This session provides updates on what has been done to continue driving demand.

• SPATA and BSPF Review and AGM Business – What value does SPATA and the BSPF membership provide for you?

This session focuses on the website and the available materials, including SPATA Awards entry. It also covers information ahead of the AGM’s being held on Thursday, 10 November 2022.

BISHTA • Selling Chemicals Responsibly – This session provides an update on the work being undertaken with the Home Office since the webinar earlier this year. It will also introduce the draft Pool and Spa Code.

• Trading Standards – Working with Bucks and Surrey CC Trading Standards in a new Primary Authority Partnership, this session looks at key topics such as the challenges for repairing new hot tubs, through to customers cancelling orders (and what admin charges, if any, can be issued)?

• Are You Ready for UKCA? – With the deadline rapidly approaching to use the UKCA for goods placed on the GB market, this session provides further updates to clarify if members are up to speed on what will be required.

• Updates on Water Testing in Business

•

•

Settings – This is an update session from the HSE on legionella testing for hot tubs in holiday parks and homes.

Embracing Digital – BISHTA is delighted to announce the start of a partnership with new member Adtrak, an award-winning digital agency. This session explores how they can assist members in improving their digital presence through their website, branding and online marketing.

Making the most of BISHTA and European Standards – This session will review the current materials on offer and seek feedback on any new materials that would be worth developing to assist members. It will also be an opportunity to review the systematic 5-year review of EN 17125 at the end of 2023 (to see what needs adding/amending).

Promoting our Industry to Domestic and Commercial Audiences – Through Pool Industry Promotions Ltd (PIP), BISHTA can reach out to different audiences to promote the benefits of hot tub and exercise spa ownership. This session provides updates on what has been done to continue driving demand.

BISHTA and BSPF Review and AGM Business – How has BISHTA (and the BSPF) been supporting members and the wider industry and background information ahead of the AGM being held on Thursday, 10 November 2022?

All events end with an open forum as a chance for attendees to share their views and ask additional questions directly with Chris Hayes (SPATA and BISHTA – Managing Director).

All SPATA and BISHTA members are warmly invited to attend; if you are considering joining one or both of the trade associations, please get in touch to find out more. SPATA and BISHTA would like to thank all presenters for sharing their expertise over the various days. To reserve your places now, please email admin@spata.co.uk or admin@bishta.co.uk BISTHA / SPATA 01264 356211 / 01264 356210 www.bishta.co.uk / www.spata.co.uk

The trade association’s annual Information and Networking Days provide an invaluable opportunity to get together with members to share topical industry information” SPN August 2022 33 16/08/2022 07:58

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

SPATEX Foundation Gives Back To The Industry Did you know that the SPATEX Foundation exists for the benefit of everyone working in the water leisure industry? If you’ve not heard of it before, read on to discover how it may be of assistance to you and your business

F

or three days each year, SPATEX – the UK’s only dedicated water leisure show – unites the industry under one roof and, in so doing, plays host to the BISHTA and SPATA Awards, stages a double seminar programme providing vital training and education, and throws the now legendary SPATEX networking jamboree. But the reach of the international annual event is far greater than the sum of its parts. Less well known, are the numerous benefits that the water leisure community receives, throughout the year and beyond, thanks to the show giving back to the industry it promotes.

Since conception, SPATEX’s working motto has been ‘By the Industry, for the Industry’. Generating a staggering £1.8m over the course of 25 live shows, SPATEX is proud that this money has been re-invested into the industry it represents.

FUNDING TO BENEFIT US ALL Education and training have been the

SPATEX’S VENUE SCOOPS TOP AWARD The SPATEX team always knew the centrally located Coventry Building Society Arena is a great venue to showcase the best in water leisure but it is great to see its assets have received wider recognition in scooping the prestigious ‘Venue of the Year under 20,000 square metres’ industry prize in the AEO Excellence Awards.

The success follows the announcement of a new ten year naming rights deal with Coventry Building Society – and a major rebrand taking place across the venue.

34 August 2022 SPN 34_SPN_August_22_SPATEX JW.indd 34

recipients of much of this money but, wishing to make an even greater impact, in 2018 the SPATEX directors established the SPATEX Foundation – a move designed to support initiatives that are able to demonstrate a value to the wider industry.

Open to all working in the industry, applications can be made under the following four criteria: • Training – e.g. to fund a course or to apply for a training bursary.

• Education – e.g. to develop a course, or to provide suitable materials that would benefit the industry.

• Research – the industry may be asked by multi-agency groups to contribute towards the cost of important research.

• Other Support – this could include other bids from groups or individuals that can demonstrate the relevance of their application.

An illustration of how important the Foundation’s funds are was its recent donation to the Water Babies swim school which carried out valuable research into how chlorinated swimming pool water inactivates SARS-CoV-2 during the pandemic. The results demonstrated that water, which adheres to UK swimming pool guidelines, is sufficient to reduce SARS-CoV-2 infectious titre by at least three orders of magnitude.

The study was published in the scientific journal ‘Water Research’, and its findings received widespread recognition in the

national press, with headlines announcing that swimming pools are safe and secure environments, if appropriate measures are taken. Allaying public fears, it was fantastic news for the operators and providers of water leisure facilities.

The project would not have been possible without the financial support of the SPATEX Foundation along with Swim England and the Royal Life Saving Society UK. Alex Blackwell, Group Head of Facilities and Operations at Water Babies said: “I would recommend any individual or organisation looking to carry out research or a project that supports the leisure and swimming pool industry to apply to the SPATEX Foundation for funding. The process was easy to complete, with a quick response to the application, and support and dialogue throughout.”

HOW TO APPLY Applications are welcome and can be made using the official form downloaded via the SPATEX website. It will be considered at the next applicable Board meeting (meetings held in March, July and December) and a formal decision made.

Applicants need to outline how the project benefits the industry and what funds have already been secured. Please specify the amount of money applied for (with the maximum amount to be claimed up to 50% of any overall total costs, but not exceeding £10,000). Subject to any agreement for awarding funds, the money may be released immediately, or there may be a delay while the funds are topped up from the profits of future SPATEX shows.

SPATEX 01264 358 558 www.spatex.co.uk

I would recommend any individual or organisation looking to carry out research or a project that supports the leisure and swimming pool industry to apply to the SPATEX Foundation for funding. The process was easy to complete, with a quick response to the application, and support and dialogue throughout” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 16/08/2022 14:08

SPATEX2023 TRADE A4.qxp_Layout 1 13/06/2022 16:23 Page 1

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER FOR FREE VISIT:

WWW.SPATEX.CO.UK OR CALL +44 (0)1264 358558 SPATEX represents all sectors of the water leisure industry from pools, spas, saunas to hydrotherapy, steam rooms and play equipment, in both the domestic and commercial arena.

POOLS SPAS WELLNESS AND MORE

SPN AUG 2022.qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2022 08:00 Page 36

STA POOL PLANT – CHLORINE CHALLENGES

How Pools Could Tackle The Chlorine Shortage

(And Reduce The Risk Of Chlorine Gas Incidents Too) The chlorine shortage has been an ongoing issue since 2020 and unfortunately it is not one that is going away any time soon. Here Luke Griffiths from the STA discusses the issues with supply, the possible link between this and chlorine gas incidents, plus looks at an alternative system that’s available

T

he supply issues of chlorine are down to many factors, including Brexit, a backlog from China’s supply chain caused by COVID-19, a significant fire in a US chemical plant in late 2020, and the war in Ukraine.

As well as these issues with the supply of chlorine, worryingly there seems to be an increase in chlorine gas incidents too.

There is the potential that this is due to training and in particular occupational competence issues with many operators being out of practice due to two years of COVID restrictions and furlough. Also, there’s a skills shortage from experienced staff finding employment outside of the sector.

The training and occupational competence issue can be improved by ensuring staff are PPO qualified and have been appropriately trained to perform the tasks required. Pool plant operators should have completed a full site-specific induction and be trained and competent to carry out their roles in relation to appropriate, safe plant operations and use of chemicals. This should include the production of a documented training and induction process that includes site specific pool plant operations training. It should include health and safety training records for all staff on the Pool Safety Operating Procedures (PSOP), Normal Operating Plan (NOP), Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and the Pool Technical Operation Procedures (PTOP).

Another reason for the increase in chlorine gas incidents could be due to sites looking for an alternative to their usual suppliers and using unfamiliar chemicals. As mentioned earlier, the chlorine shortage is not going away anytime soon. So, should sites be thinking long term with their next choice of disinfectant?

I’m not going to announce anything too ground-breaking to most, this method of chlorine dosing has been around for sometime. But could electrochlorination be the answer to many pools with this issue?

Electrochlorination is the process of producing sodium hypochlorite on site. It requires three readily available components: common salt, tap water and electricity. All existing pools have a ready supply of water and electricity. The only additional resource

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required is salt, which is non-hazardous, completely safe to transport, handle and store, and is a relatively low-cost commodity.

Electrochlorination systems require minimal intervention from operators. Topping the salt up to a sufficient level is the main task.

The rest of the processes are automatically managed by the system and processes are monitored remotely via dedicated software.

Manufacturers provide full information on the planned preventative checks and tasks, but they are simple and minimal.

To produce the sodium hypochlorite the water is initially treated by passing through an ion exchange resin to remove calcium deposits, which if not removed could ‘scale’ the electrodes and reduce efficiency. The solution is then processed in the electrolyser where the sodium hypochlorite solution (less than 1% chlorine) is stored in an internal product storage tank ready for use with standard dosing pumps or injected directly into the pool circulation line.

For sites having difficulties sourcing calcium or sodium hypochlorite or looking for a safer alternative – electrochlorination is

worth considering. Part of the decision-making process should incorporate the hierarchy of control measures in the risk assessment and the risk of chlorine gas escape. The chart on this page does not give the full picture but provides an idea of the process.

There are many other considerations than this one alone when choosing a new disinfectant, such as the characteristics of the source water and the initial and long term costs etc – but choosing the least hazardous chemical that gives satisfactory performance should be high on the list of priorities.

Other advantages of electrochlorination systems include the low environmental impact, due to there being minimal recyclable packaging, reduced transportation and no hazardous waste disposal. After the initial set up costs it is a very economic system due to the low cost of salt, reduced pH correction chemical required, reduced operator labour and low service costs.

STA 01922 645097 www.sta.co.uk

For sites having difficulties sourcing calcium or sodium hypochlorite or looking for a safer alternative – electrochlorination is worth considering” SPN August 2022 37 16/08/2022 09:49

ASTRALPOOL FP AUG22.qxp_Layout 1 15/08/2022 11:40 Page 1

So Why Select Us For Your Next Pool Project?

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COMPANY FOCUS

AstralPool UK And Heatstar – A Partnership Spanning Over 20 Years For this issue, we spoke to Dyfed Thompson-Smith, General Manager at AstralPool UK, who spoke about the unique and long-lasting relationship that the company has with Heatstar, the UK-based manufacturer of climate energy systems for swimming pools

A

s part of the Fluidra Group, the AstralPool brand is familiar to many within the wet leisure industry, and particularly those operating within the commercial sector. As a company, AstralPool UK can and do tick many boxes, and are able to supply everything from a complete commercial pool solution (such as seen earlier in the magazine with the completion of the temporary training pool at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham), down to the smallest of accessories and the company is well known for supplying a wide range of products from a number of highly recognised brands including their own manufactured goods.

More than just a distributor of products, the team at AstralPool UK go further though and are also very much hands on with a number of projects and work very closely with the manufacturers of some of many of the products that they supply.

A good example of this is with Heatstar, the manufacturer of modern and highly energy efficient environmental control systems for swimming pools and more.

Heatstar itself has been operating for over 40 years and for more than half of that time, the company had a close working relationship with AstralPool UK. With Heatstar based on the Isle of Wight and AstralPool UK located in Fareham, the two organisations are both partners and neighbours, but with such a long-standing and successful partnership, clearly there had to be much more to the relationship than pure convenience.

So in this issue, we spoke to Dyfed Thompson-Smith, General Manager at AstralPool UK to find out more about the relationship and how it works. .

SO FOR THOSE WHO DON’T KNOW, IN SIMPLE TERMS, WHAT IS THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN YOURSELVES AND HEATSTAR? From our base in Fareham, AstralPool provides sales and distribution services to complement the market-leading brand, Heatstar who are based over on the Isle of

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Wight. It’s a long-standing and successful partnership of 20 plus years.

AND HOW DOES THIS DIFFER TO SOME OF THE OTHER PRODUCT SECTORS THAT YOU SUPPLY? AstralPool provides a key dedicated Heatstar Business Development Manager (Ron O’Sullivan – rosullivan@astralpooluk.com) who acts as a conduit between the pool trade customer and the manufacturer. The main services provided include site surveys, troubleshooting, product development, training and specification support. By providing a manager, we ensure that there is a true ‘partnership’ approach to the UK pool dehumidification and environmental control market. It’s a ‘win win’ all round – for us, for Heatstar and perhaps most importantly, for our customers.

SO IT’S VERY MUCH A HANDS ON APPROACH WHEN DEALING WITH THE CUSTOMERS WANTING HEATSTAR PRODUCTS? Absolutely. AstralPool provides a pivotal service to the trade in terms of logistical support and arranging onward delivery within time-sensitive and challenging build conditions. We also provide a dedicated third party transport company that delivers Heatstar units in a safe, controlled and timely manner, adjusting where the constraints of site conditions and demands are needed.

Customers often comment that the carrier supplied by us provided a high-class and personal service which is significant added value.

WHAT MAKES HEATSTAR AND THIS PARTNERSHIP DIFFERENT? Heatstar have been at the forefront of energy efficiency for over 40 years and have invested in research and development to take advantage of energy saving advances in materials, systems and technology.

A further advantage for pools with Heatstar environmental controls is that every unit Heatstar manufacture is tailored to the precise individual requirements of the

application, obviating the need to under or oversize performance aspects or tolerate inappropriate equipment room layout, as can be the case with ‘off the shelf’ products. This means that the client will not be overspending on energy costs because the unit they have been sold has been meticulously specified.

No two pools are the same. Each application has its own characteristics therefore making it difficult to describe an ‘average’ swimming pool. However, it is possible for Heatstar and AstralPool to work together to take every detail of the pool project and estimate the anticipated energy usage over a given time.

At the specification stage, Heatstar are able to provide projections for consumption of energy, fuel and even carbon emissions.

This information helps pool installers get tantalisingly closer to the perfect energyefficient pool. These principles apply to both commercial and residential applications.

LASTLY, COMMUNICATING WITH THE UK TRADE – HOW DOES THAT WORK BETWEEN THE TWO COMPANIES? There’s coordination of marketing and promotional activities between Heatstar as the manufacturer, and ourselves as the distributor, to ensure that the Heatstar brand continues to be the market leader in the niche sector of swimming pool dehumidification and environmental control.

AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.co.uk

From our base in Fareham, AstralPool provides sales and distribution services to complement the market-leading brand, Heatstar” SPN August 2022 39 15/08/2022 16:27

COMPANY FOCUS

PPG Expands UK Operations With Acquisition Of Golden Coast Operating internationally and consisting of nine distribution companies and two manufacturers, the Pollet Pool Group (PPG) has announced the acquisition of Devon-based Golden Coast – the UK’s largest independent distributor of wet leisure products and swimming pool components.

Together, along with the group’s current PPG UK & Ireland office, Pollet Pool Group is firmly expanding its UK operations

A

fter 45 years as an independent distributor to the wet leisure industry in the UK, Golden Coast is to become part of the Pollet Pool Group. Golden Coast’s strength in the industry combined with its commitment to innovation, knowledge and customer service make the Devon-based firm an ideal fit for PPG. Golden Coast’s reputation in the UK is second to none and its commitment to customer service is a reflection of PPG’s own commitment to supporting their core market across Europe.

There is also a remarkable similarity in the way that the two companies are owned and structured. Both Golden Coast and PPG are family run businesses now on their second generation. Both businesses support the impact that new technology can have on the wet leisure industry and they share some common suppliers too; typically those with innovative products such as EVA, Speck and PoolCop. Speaking about the approach to the market, Jamie Adams, Managing Director of Golden Coast said: “Our customer service is tailored to each individual customer. Our sales and service teams always put the needs of the customer first. From technical product knowledge to marketing know-how, we gladly train our dealers and share knowledge that can contribute to the success of their business.”

Golden Coast was chosen by PPG due to their good standing in the industry, access to key product brands and an industry leading team of staff who possess the knowledge and technical know-how to run a great business and support their customers.

Golden Coast will be part of the Pollet Pool Group but will maintain their own identity and continue to trade as Golden Coast and work together as #TeamGC. “This is a dynamic move to support future growth!” said Jamie Adams.

“Being part of a strong international group allows us to develop and grow both companies, PPG UK/Ireland and Golden Coast.”

The PPG family has expanded with the acquisition of Golden Coast

Speaking about PPG’s history within the UK market and the new development, Jeroen Van Wauwe, CEO Pollet Pool Group said: “After our first steps in the UK Pool market through Kennet Water (part of Pollet Water Group), PPG UK & Ireland was founded in 2015. We soon discovered that the UK market is different from other European countries. A different type of pools are the high runners compared to our European market, the focus is on slightly different products, the legislation differs, etc. But the experience of the past years taught us above all that the UK is a market with enormous potential. The dynamic team of PPG UK & Ireland did a great job in a very short time.

“When opportunities arose to work with Golden Coast, we did not hesitate for a second. The company has the typical family character that suits us 100%, but above all they have an excellent reputation in the market and tons of experience. Moreover, we share a lot of common suppliers such as EVA, Propulsion, Speck, PoolCop,... Golden Coast brings extra knowledge to the table to offer even better support for all our customers. The core values match 100% with how the PPG companies distinguish themselves from the rest on the mainland.

“PPG UK & Ireland and Golden Coast will

When opportunities arose to work with Golden Coast, we did not hesitate for a second. The company has the typical family character that suits us 100%” 40 August 2022 SPN 40_SPN_Aug_2022_Company_Focus.indd 40

be working very closely together from today onwards. Our aim is to become one joint company with two locations in the UK from the beginning of next year: one in Newbury and one in Barnstaple. The concrete set-up will be worked out in the coming months.

In the meantime, nothing will change for the customers of both companies. We are convinced that with our combined product offering, our bundled strengths and in this new set-up, we will become an even more attractive partner for every UK pool builder.”

Pollet Pool Group is part of the Pollet Group.

The group, headed by Jacques Pollet and managed by Sofie Pollet, has offices in 17 countries and is active in three markets: the water treatment sector, the swimming pool world and the medical industry.

The Dutch company Aquadeck makes custom-made swimming pool covers. The Czech swimming pool manufacturer NIVEKO also draws the card of customisation with high-end monopools. With branches in Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, the UK, Angola and Denmark, Pollet Pool Group has a strong and internationally extensive distribution network. Recently, Golden Coast and the Danish company Welldana were added to the group.

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com PPG UK & Ireland 01635 227 999 www.polletpoolgroup.co.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 15/08/2022 08:24

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COMPANY FOCUS

Old Meets New In Cambridgeshire Village In this issue, we take a look at how a domestic swimming pool owner, located in a village with old roots, benefitted greatly from Waterco’s modern filtration technology

T

he village of Great Shelford on the outskirts of Cambridge plays host to the annual Midsummer Fair and Shakespeare Festival, and summers aside, like large parts of the country, it’s an area well known for having typically wet and cool English weather.

While Cambridge is recognised for its vast student population, it is also one of the fastest growing areas in the UK for high tech businesses and the home of many start-ups and spin offs from the university. This has meant a growing demand for housing to accommodate families moving into the area – in particular, the villages around Cambridge are seeing a lot of development and increased traffic.

Nestled in the outskirts of Great Shelford lives a small family, who have enjoyed the benefits of life with a garden pool for well over 25 years. The Philips family also enjoy the convenience of being close enough to the city to cycle in – however, roads are increasingly busy and there is extensive building work taking place with developments seemingly always being in mid construction.

Due to increased air pollution, Mrs Philips decided to refurbish and refit all equipment for the family’s 50m³ in-ground pool.

“I opted to have a new liner fitted, as well as a completely new range of pool equipment, as my previous equipment couldn’t handle the dust produced by nearby construction sites, as well as the debris created in fields nearby when they are being farmed,” explained Mrs Philips. “The clarity and quality of the pool water suffered – it always seemed dirty and never looked as clean as I would have liked. I even considered having the pool filled in, as the maintenance was just too time consuming and I was beginning to wonder if it was time to just give up on owning a pool.”

The sand filtration system Mrs Philips had installed previously was unable to filter out the super fine particles of dust from the nearby fields and building work, leading to frequent occurrences of build up inside the filter.

This increased the need for backwashing, which was both a time consuming maintenance task and a huge waste of water.

“I spoke with several pool companies and told them my problem and was told about the new media that was available – Waterco’s glass pearls,” she said.

“It seems a lot has changed from when I

42 August 2022 SPN 42_SPN_August_22_Waterco JW.indd 42

had the pool built 25 years ago! After checking the facts online, I realised I could make my life easier and enjoy having a pool again.”

Mrs Philips also liked the fact that Waterco had a local base in the UK. Plus, the Micron sand filter, one of the other solutions she chose, came with a ten year warranty and had a unique lateral design, which kept water costs and chemical costs down without sacrificing good results.

She decided on the Waterco Glass Pearl media, Micron side mounted sand filter and a Lacronite pump – all of which only took a few hours to install into her newly relined pool.

“Never in 25 years has the pool water looked so good – even the neighbours have

commented how crystal clear the water is and have asked what I have done. I would recommend Waterco glass pearls and Micron sand filter to anyone wanting crystal clear water with the minimum amount of effort.”

Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu

THE WATERCO EQUIPMENT IN A SNAPSHOT

Glass Pearl Media: The next generation in filter media – these chemically inert glass pearls can filter out dirt particles below 3 microns in size. The spherical shape also results in low friction levels, reducing the need to backwash and saving pool owners both time and precious water. Plus its high purity means very little backwashing is required to cleanse the filter media prior to commissioning the filter.

Glass pearls are also safer for swimmers if they were ever to leak from the filter into the pool, because of their smooth and spherical shape.

Micron Sand Filter: Waterco’s range of Micron sand filters are designed for durability and efficiency, with a fibreglass reinforced polyester resin construction and the latest controlled filament winding machine. They use ‘depth filtration’ to drive dirt through the filter bed, allowing only cleansed water to pass through the filter’s laterals.

Micron Sand Filters are easy to maintain and clean, with a monthly backwash as easy as turning the Multiport lever from filter to backwash.

Lacronite Pump: The Lacronite pump is perfect for larger size domestic swimming pools, as its consistently high level of performance allows it to deal with a huge volume of water, plus the dirt and debris that comes with it.

This pump is designed to save money, energy and time, with the speed settings allowing for reduced water flow without compromising the effectiveness of the filter.

Never in 25 years has the pool water looked so good – even the neighbours have commented how crystal clear the water is” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 16/08/2022 08:09

VISION FILTERS from Certikin The clear choice for your next filter installation

A filter is one of the most important components of a swimming pool.

Therefore, you want to ensure your next installation is easy to maintain and offers good durability. Using the latest in fibreglass winding technology, the Vision range of domestic bobbin wound filters from Certikin are some of the most reliable and popular on the market. Available in top and side mount versions, both of which come with the patented 10” lid, which makes servicing and maintenance quick and easy.

• Patented 10” lid for ease of maintenance • 10 year full tank warranty for residential installations • Bobbin wound using the latest in fibreglass winding technology • Clear mounting ring on top mount models – allows a clear view of filtration and backwashing during operation • Hydraulically balanced laterals to maximise water flow and filtration

 01993 777200  info@certikin.co.uk

www.certikin.co.uk

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THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

Solutions To Minimise Chlorine Use In Water Whether it’s through the use of chemicals or systems such as salt chlorinators, UV or Ozone, when it comes to the treatment of pool and spa water, there’s now a number of tried and tested low and no chlorine solutions on offer. With options often providing a gentler wet leisure environment, it’s easy to see why they are increasingly popular. This issue, we take a closer look at what’s available By Jon Wadeson

A

fter years of feedback from pool and spa owners, operators and users spanning both the domestic and commercial wet leisure environments, innovators within the industry have been tasked to come up with safe, dependable and effective disinfection solutions that don’t rely solely on large doses of chlorine for the sanitisation of water. As a result of this challenge, there is now a wide range of treatments available which do exactly that.

Some would say the timing couldn’t have been any better with a number of issues surrounding the supply of chlorine recently and increased use of wet leisure ownership within the domestic sector.

Lowering chlorine use in wet leisure

settings, and in some cases, removing it completely, has been a high on the agenda for many within both private and public environments and it provides a welcome answer for indoor pools to help eradicate the unwelcome odours we all too often associate with water that’s been treated with the chemical. Of course, chlorine will always have its place in the sanitation of pool and spa but reducing the levels or replacing it completely provides some greatly appreciated, additional benefits and many pools across the UK have, or are in the process of adopting this approach.

With numerous solutions and systems on offer, we take a look at just some of the options that are available.

100% eco-friendly operation providing natural healthier water the PURIQ UVC system from Fairlocks guarantees crystal clear water

PURIQ – FAIRLOCKS’ 100% ECOFRIENDLY UV WATER PURIFIER The PURIQ Bright Series UV-C water purifier offers optimal technology for crystalclear water without the need for multiple chemicals and is kinder for the user too.

Using the latest technology, the lamp placed in the pool water emits a very powerful UV-C light with a wavelength of exactly 253.7 nm that kills practically all bacteria, viruses, algae and moulds. Using a UV light provides non-chemical disinfection, enabling effective primary control over waterborne bacteria, which can benefit both public and private pools.

This results in optimal purification, reducing the need by 80% of chlorine and other chemical usage. The PURIQ UV-C system, with its 100% eco-friendly operation, provides more natural, healthier water. The extra wide SAE 316 stainless steel housing extends the time the water is exposed to the strong UV-C radiation while also minimising the pressure drop as the water passes through. Not only is the system better for the pool and pool user, but the environment benefits too. There is a significantly reduced number of toxic by-products produced by the UV purifier ensuring that the end response is a cleaner, safer environment for all.

Thanks to the polished interior, there is virtually no adhesion of contaminants to the walls, which boosts the effectiveness of the UV-C radiation by a further 35%. The PURIQ UV-C water purifier contains intelligent electronics that signals an alert when it is time to replace the lamp, which ensures that the unit is always operating at peak efficiency and the water is clear. This way, the customer always has a perfectly working device they can rely on.

HYPROLYSER® SYSTEMS – ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY, ON-SITE HYPOCHLORITE GENERATION Using electrochlorination technology; Hyprolyser® combines harmless and readily available salts, water and electricity to create a low strength, fresh <1% sodium

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SPN August 2022 45 16/08/2022 18:04

THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH when compared to operators using traditional packaged calcium hypochlorite products in drums, and similar reduction in energy and water usage involved in recycling those plastics.

Unique volumetric brine and water measurement ensures consistent accurate dosing and optimised energy usage. All key performance parameters are constantly monitored and can be accessed remotely via optional telemetry output at any time.

Hyprolyser® systems use ‘Plug & Play’ technology and are readily scalable for larger applications, making them ideal for any pool size, from small spa pools to the highcapacity requirements of leisure centres and theme parks with multiple pools and water features.

Available through SCP UK, Salt & Swim® 2.0 gives a visual indicator and changes colour depending on the control selection made

hypochlorite solution, which falls below the threshold for hazardous classification.

Manufactured in the UK to exacting standards by Gaffey, the Hyprolyser® iSEC range is perfect for most pools up to 300m3.

They are quick and easy to install and are proven to be significantly cheaper to run without the need to purchase costly chemicals.

In comparison for a busy 25m pool, the savings over a 10-year period are some 70% over traditional Calcium Hypochlorite systems with break-even in year 2.

With no more hazardous chemicals transported to site, or need to be carefully stored, they give you a safer, cleaner and more environmentally friendly way to provide chlorine for your pool on demand; and provide a safer environment for pool operatives.

A significant environmental benefit includes a 92% reduction in plastic waste

SALT & SWIM® 2.0 – HAYWARD’S NEW GENERATION SALT CHLORINATOR Available through SCP UK, Salt & Swim® 2.0 is a new generation salt chlorinator from Hayward and offers pool owners precise and user-friendly controls thanks to the product’s LED display. In addition, a transparent cell allows for visual checks on production and a gas detector is included as standard.

Salt & Swim® 2.0 gives a visual indicator and changes colour depending on the control selection made – in particular for chlorine production – regardless of whether a pool has an open or closed pool cover and will then adjust production accordingly.

Available in options which cover a wide range of chlorine production (8, 16, 22, 33 g/h/cl), five levels of chlorine production are possible: 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100%.

A flow detector kit is available as an option and for peace of mind, the Salt & Swim® 2.0 comes compete with a 2-year warranty. It is joined for the 2020 season by two additional salt chlorinator products from Hayward – the AquaRite Flo and AquaRite Flo Advanced – the latter of which is fully featured and will allow the control of additional pool equipment. Both AquaRite models come with a wide range of chlorine production capabilities and each includes a 3-year warranty.

These new additions mean that SCP now has a wide range of salt chlorinator products from leading brands including Davey, Hayward and Pentair.

HARNESSING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY FOR SPARKLING CLEAR WATER

Gaffey’s Hyprolyser® systems use ‘Plug & Play’ technology and are readily scalable for larger applications, making them ideal for any pool size

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A prime focus of scientific advances today is ceramic nano crystal technology, and it is this which is used in the Quantum to create one of the most powerful forms of sterilisation – photocatalytic oxidation. Manufactured

Manufactured by Elecro Engineering, the Quantum eliminates contaminants leaving water looking fresh and clean

by Elecro Engineering and available from Certikin International, Plastica and other leading distributors, Quantum eliminates contaminants leaving water fresh and clean.

Easy to install, Quantum gives peace of mind as dangerous organisms such as cryptosporidium and adenoviruses are destroyed by the photocatalytic process ensuring pool users are kept safe. Several natural processes occur as the pool water passes through the unit with only pure water returning to the pool.

As a result of the processes occurring inside the Quantum, including the production of hydroxyl radicals, the treated water is free of all oil-based substances such as sun creams and all organics including urea are totally removed resulting in sparkling water.

Quantum also reduces the need for chemicals in the pool and helps eliminate the smell of chlorine.

Once installed, this cost-effective solution requires no maintenance; it is equipped with an intelligent lamp life indicator so when the UV lamp which initiates the photocatalytic reaction needs to be replaced this is displayed. Quantum is compatible with both salt and sea water.

The Quantum is just one of numerous solutions on offer from Certikin who also provide a new range of fully serviceable UV systems for pools between 15,000 (15m3) and 150,000 (150m3) litres.

OXILIFE COMBINES SALT ELECTROLYSIS WITH WATER HYDROLYSIS Available through ALBIXON, BRILIX smart salt systems are supplied either within the

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 16/08/2022 15:38

THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

Lowering chlorine use in wet leisure settings, and in some cases, removing it completely, has been a popular option within both private owners and public environments”

ALBIXON’s OXILIFE salt dispenser is one of the most advanced systems for salt water treatment

technology shafts or walls within the pools which ALBIXON manufacture, or they are available to purchase as separate, standalone units.

The salt dispensing system works on the principle of salt electrolysis – producing free chlorine and sodium hydroxide from the salt.

The water is treated immediately and the free chlorine transforms into salt again after a period of time.

ALBIXON offers three types of BRILIX salt dispensers, from the basic NEOSAL, the standard HIDROLIFE and most technologically advanced OXILIFE. The OXILIFE salt dispenser is one of the most advanced systems for salt water treatment for several reasons. It is the only model which provides electrolysis and hydrolysis for water disinfection, which breaks down water molecules into antioxidants that enable the disinfection of a broader spectrum of bacteria. Hydrolysis helps to break down bound

chlorine, which is formed in water when free chlorine comes into contact with impurities. The water in this salt dispenser is only slightly salty (1.5 g salt/l).

Thanks to these factors, children and those with sensitive skin can swim in water treated with the OXILIFE salt dispenser without any problem. OXILIFE not only monitors pH, but it can also automatically adapt salt dosing to the correct value of pH. The product can also control up to four pool devices – owners can use it to start the filter, heat pumps or to turn on any pool lighting.

It can be complemented with a Redox or free chlorine module plus the Wi-Fi module add-in is extremely popular, as it allows for remote control of the system via the internet.

CLEAN UP WITH GOLDEN COAST AND THE POWER OF OZONE When it comes to water treatment, Golden Coast offers a wide variety of disinfection products, including the Triogen O3S series.

The wall-mounted ozone generators use an active form of oxygen gas that is much more powerful than chemicals such as chlorine.

Triogen O3S dissolves ozone gas in water to oxidise ammonia and destroy chloramines, which are responsible for skin and eye irritation, while reducing Trihalomethane levels, resulting in significantly better water quality and improved air quality in the pool hall.

“Ozone gas is an exceptional disinfectant against chlorine-resistant organisms, viruses, bacteria and organic matter,” explained Adam Clark, Sales Director at Golden Coast.

“With Triogen O3S, it is possible to cut the amount of free chlorine residuals in half. For example a domestic pool might only run free chlorine levels of 0.7 ppm using ozone treatment, compared to 2 ppm using other disinfection methods.”

The Trigen O3S Available through Golden Coast, Triogen O3S systems dissolve ozone gas in water to oxidise ammonia and

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Designed using the latest knowledge of highly reflective reactor casing materials, the Elecro H.R.UV-C Steriliser is available through Plastica

system is designed for maximum bather and operator safety. The ozone gas is generated and injected under vacuum conditions created by a water-driven venturi to reduce the risk of a gas leak.

“The generator is built for longterm reliability and features corona discharge modules designed for operation of ten or more years,” said Adam. “The units are compact so will take up minimal space in the plant room and are very simple to install.”

ELECRO SYSTEM PROVIDES THE ULTIMATE INTERNAL REFLECTION Available from Plastica, H.R.UV-C is one of the newest members to the Elecro family of sanitisers.

Designed using the latest knowledge of highly reflective reactor casing materials, the H.R.UV-C produces up to 95% reflectivity (if you compare this to stainless steel reactors only 20 to 28% reflection is typically achieved). The H.R.UV-C is 100% sea and saltwater compatible, unlike stainless steel units that suffer corrosion issues.

The super reflective properties of the Elecro H.R.UV-C optimises the UV-C radiation and dramatically increases the performance.

The inside surface casing is extremely repellent and therefore self-cleaning.

Intelligent electronics indicate when the lamps are not producing sufficient UV-C and need to be changed, ensuring the unit is always performing optimally.

The H.R.UV-C is compatible with and complements all traditional treatment methods including; chlorine, bromine, active oxygen / hydrogen peroxide and salt electrolysis. A narrow and extended chamber ensures maximum exposure to the powerful UV-C. It is easy to use and install, can be retrofitted to any existing pool system – a self-cleaning system, reducing the need for maintenance.

The intelligent lamp life indicator signals when the lamps are no longer producing sufficient UV-C and need to be changed.

Ensuring your unit is always performing optimally and has a long lamp life, up to 9,000 hours, ensuring that the unit is performing optimally.

SPN August 2022 47 16/08/2022 15:33

THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH Also available is Elecro’s Spectrum Hybrid which provides the next generation of UV water treatment. The Spectrum Hybrid unit creates Hydroxyl Radicals, which are essentially a water molecule with a hydrogen atom removed, causing the molecule to be highly volatile and reactive. The exceptional mobility of the molecules that fill the reaction chamber leads to the destruction of pollutants in their path. Once the Hydroxyl Radical has reacted with the pollutant it converts back into water.

of this important mineral. Magnesium is responsible for many important cellular processes in the body. It can support detoxification, reduce stress and alleviate aches. It promotes energy and wellbeing and can restore soft and healthy skin.

THERE’S A LOT TO LIKE ABOUT ZODIAC’S MAGNAPOOL® SYSTEM

EXCEPTIONAL WATER QUALITY WITH QUEST FROM CERTIKIN

From the very first time a bather jumps into a swimming pool that uses Zodiac’s MagnaPool® system, they can feel the difference. The water has a gentle, silky feeling against the skin, there is little or no irritation to eyes and hair won’t need washing to get rid of that chlorine smell or sticky salt feeling which is often associated with chlorine and saltwater pools. The pool will always have crystal clear water and will be easy to maintain.

The magnesium chloride found in MagnaPool® minerals is derived from the ocean. This form of magnesium has been found to have significant beneficial properties for internal health, as well as helping to relax the mind and body. It can help in detoxifying the body, reducing aches and pains, relieving stress and anxiety and providing the muscles with energy.

Studies have proven that absorbing magnesium chloride through the skin (transdermal) is one of the most effective ways for the body to maintain healthy levels

MagnaPool™ is a magnesiumbased water treatment system from Zodiac® which utilises minerals derived from the ocean

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QUEST is a revolutionary breakthrough in swimming pool technology that sanitises water without requiring additional chemicals. Using a powerful combination of silver and copper electrode ionisation, the system kills the bacteria and algae in the pool whilst at the same time the oxidising cell destroys and breaks down organic debris (caused by sweat, sun cream, dust, leaves, etc), leaving pure crystal clear and clean water.

A pulsed magnetic chamber further helps to improve the water quality by preventing the formation of new scale. This not only improves the efficiency of the pool’s filtration, circulation and heating equipment but also helps with the sanitisation as calcium deposits which are a breeding ground for bacteria no longer occur.

QUEST is simple and quick to install and operate whilst being less harmful, less expensive to maintain and more effective than traditional chlorinebased systems.

In water with good conductivity the system will operate without requiring any salt to be added to the pool water. In pools where the conductivity of the water is low as little as 0.5ppm of salt may be required to enable the oxidising cell to operate efficiently Made in the UK and featuring all European biocidal certified components, it is one of most effective and cost-efficient systems on the market.

With the world experiencing supply issues for chemicals there is no better time to switch to QUEST technology – it’s a system that gives pool owners the opportunity to be selfsufficient in managing their water quality.

QUEST is in stock and ready for immediate despatch and due to its worldwide success, production processes have been improved which have resulted

Available from Certikin, QUEST is a revolutionary breakthrough in swimming pool technology that sanitises water without requiring additional chemicals

in savings which Certikin are able to pass onto customers. Previously the retail price for QUEST was £3,995 + VAT whereas this is now available for the much-improved retail price of £2,495 + VAT.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: ALBIXON +420 777 795743 www.albixon.com Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Fairlocks Pool Products 01865 988346 www.fairlocks.co.uk Gaffey 01254 350180 www.gaffey.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk Plastica Pools 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 16/08/2022 15:34

POOL AND COVER – PERFECT MATCH

ALBIXON POOL SETS We provide complete smart solution.

QBIG BENEFIT pool for sustainable operation and economical water consumption A large selection of modern safety enclosures

Less maintenance, more fun. Technology walls & shafts with salt dispensers and intelligent control of pool technology

Please get in touch for further product and purchase information.

Visit our website

www.ALBIXON.com

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WATER TESTING

Testing Times!

Thanks to many innovations over the years, the testing of water in pools and spas is now more accurate, sophisticated, convenient and simple than ever before. It’s a sector which has embraced the latest in technology with the result being numerous products that have literally revolutionised what was once a laborious process. With water testing always a high priority for owners across all sectors, we take a closer look at some of the current solutions By Jon Wadeson

C

ystal clear, clean and safe water is an essential and expected part of the wet leisure experience, but the last thing owners and operators of swimming pools and spas want to do is spend an excessive amount of time and energy testing and monitoring their water, let alone doing it with inaccurate equipment.

In a normal season, hot summer weather gets people going to pools, lidos, spas and splash parks and this year, with its exceptionally hot summer, has been no exception. With most facilities on the commercial side welcoming back visitors, plus more new owners in the domestic market getting to grips with testing the water in their new investments, fast, straightforward and accurate testing has become even more essential. Not just for safety reasons, but also to ensure equipment is operating within the correct environment too, as if not, there’s potentially a price to pay for new equipment further down the line.

Safety is of course at the top of every pool or spa owners’ list though, and with much higher bather loads, commercial facility owners and their users need to be able to trust that the cooling waters that are being enjoyed are safe and in the best possible condition. Considerable money and time are spent developing more efficient and userfriendly testing systems. That’s not surprising as for commercial operators in particular, where there is the possibility of infection, only the latest products and best procedures are good enough. Down time or bad press, should an infection occur, could spell disaster to a facility’s reputation and with guests then voting with their feet – a scenario to be avoided at all costs!

Regardless of size though, wet leisure products are always major investments for their owners and they need to be kept in the best possible condition – especially in these times where cleanliness is of paramount importance and at the forefront of people’s minds. Therefore, having the correct products to test water conditions is essential and needed on an ongoing basis and we take a look at just some of the testing solutions.

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HANNA’S COMPLETE KIT FOR POOL, HOT TUB AND SPA WATER The HI-971044C from Hanna Instruments is a complete kit containing an advanced portable photometer for the measurement of pH, alkalinity, free chlorine and total chlorine, plus cyanuric acid in swimming pool, hot tub and spa water.

At the heart of the kit is the HI-971044 photometer that has an innovative optical system that utilises a reference detector and narrow band interference filters to provide superior performance in accuracy and repeatability. With no warm up time needed before taking a measurement, it also shortens the time taken for water testing. The advanced optical system features: • An LED that generates very little heat.

• A 8 nm narrowband interference filter that is accurate to +/- 1 nm and offers 25% increase in light efficiency.

• A reference detector that modulates the voltage to LED for consistent light output.

• A concave focusing lens that reduces errors from imperfections in the cuvette.

This compact, waterproof meter is extremely user friendly with a tutorial mode that walks the user graphically, step by step, in performing a measurement. The use of a backlit dot matrix LED allows the use of virtual keys which makes the operation of the meter very intuitive including selecting different methods, reviewing GLP data, recalling the last 50 measurements and customising the meter to user preferences.

HI-971044 is waterproof including the cuvette holder that is designed with ridges to protect the optical path from getting scratched by the cuvette and a protected battery compartment that holds three AA batteries.

The compact design fits

comfortable in the hand for use in the field or on a table for benchtop use.

Users can select the use of powder reagents supplied in packets or the use of low cost liquid reagents supplied in a dropper bottle.

QUALITY WATER TESTING SOLUTIONS FROM THE EXPERTS AT LOVIBOND The Lovibond MD100 range of pool photometers offers unsurpassed accuracy in an easy-to-use handheld unit. Available in 3-in-1 or 6-in-1 formats, the range covers all the essential pool water tests. Supplied with everything needed to start testing immediately and sufficient tablets to perform 100 of each of the tests covered.

The 6-in-1 unit will measure free and total chlorine, bromine, pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness and cyanuric acid. In addition, its sister unit the MD110 features Bluetooth connectivity for easy download of readings to a laptop or tablet.

For those who may wish to carry out more testing, Lovibond’s PM630 Photometer will measure over 30 different parameters. As well as covering the basic pool parameters

Hanna Instrument’s HI-971044 photometer has an innovative optical system that utilises a reference detector and narrow band interference filters

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WATER TESTING

For those who may wish to carry out more testing, Lovibond’s PM630 Photometer will measure over 30 different parameters

featured in the MD100 series, the PM630 will also test for parameters such as phosphate, sulphate, copper etc, and can even be used to check the strength of sodium hypochlorite! Again, Bluetooth connectivity means readings can be transferred simply and quickly. At less than £1,000, it’s sure to attract the attention of any pool water professional.

If something simpler is needed, Lovibond also supplies a wide range of pooltester and comparator kits suitable for the domestic market. These kits use the same tablet chemistry tests used by the professionals and are an alternative to test strips. The kits are based on reusable plastic blocks or discs making them ‘greener’ than most strips, which can contain single-use plastic – which we all know needs to be reduced as much as possible.

Whatever the need, users can be sure that a Lovibond® system will offer an easy-to-use solution giving accurate, reproducible and reliable readings making testing accurate and pool water safe.

RESULTS YOU CAN TRUST, SUPPLIED

BY THE INDUSTRY’S BIGGEST NAMES Maintaining good water quality is one of the most important parts of pool ownership, so it’s essential for the safety of those using the pool that the water is tested regularly.

Two of the UK’s largest wet leisure companies – Certikin and Golden Coast – have been long-time distributors of Palintest products including photometers, electrochemical sensors and visual test kits due to their wellfounded reputation for innovation and highly accurate measurement.

“Palintest products are sophisticated and highly dependable,” said Adam Clark, General Manager at Golden Coast.

“Depending on what type of pool they have

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Available from Certikin and Golden Coast, Lumiso Pooltest Expert is a multi-parameter benchtop photometer which is highly intuitive for all users with little or no training

–indoors or outdoors, domestic or commercial – owners have a wide range of options to choose from.”

Due to their cost-effective and simple to use nature, visual testing kits have traditionally been popular with domestic pool owners. Over time digital products have been seeing a bigger uptake due to much greater accuracy and the ability to test for varied chemicals, including chlorine, bromine, alkalinity, calcium hardness, cyanuric acid and pH levels.

There are a number of units which make ideal on site kits for those looking for an all-round solution. From pool managers to professional engineers, Lumiso Pooltest Expert is a multi-parameter benchtop photometer which is highly intuitive for all users with little or no training. The large touchscreen interface and straightforward instructions makes the unit perfect for getting quick, accurate results across multiple daily tests.

Robust construction and IP67 waterproof design mean operators don’t have to worry about getting sensitive testing units damp or handling them with wet hands as they can easily withstand the day-to-day rigours of pool management.

Units like the Pooltest 9 and 25 have Bluetooth connectivity for easy data download and sharing, allowing multiple users to take readings, all tracked from a central hub for easy monitoring.

As authorised Palintest service partners, both Certikin and Golden Coast offer an all-inclusive photometer maintenance programme that covers repairs, calibration, software upgrades and cleaning, to ensure equipment stays in top condition.

WATER-I.D. – WATER TESTING SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYONE! Test strips and pooltesters are frequently

used, as photometers seemed to be reserved for professionals simply because they are expensive. Luckily, times have changed and an inexpensive photometer is offered that everyone can afford! The PoolLab 1.0 Photometer by Water-i.d. is easy to use, gives accurate results of 13 pool parameters (tested on 3 wavelengths!) and even comes with Bluetooth, a powerful app and software which both synchronise via a cloud server, free of charge. Test results can be downloaded via the app/software and individual water treatment chemicals can be stored and used to let the software and app calculate a dosage recommendation for the pool or spa water.

The built-in cuvette can be changed, if required. The product is waterproof to IP68 and simply needs to be dipped in the pool to scoop the water used to perform the test.

Six buttons allow direct access to all 11 test procedures.

If PoolLab isn’t your first choice, Wateri.d. also offers a wide selection of testing solutions.

These include the simple to use FlexiTester. As with a traditional pool tester, the FlexiTester scoops the water to be measured and a tablet is added that colours the water. However, unlike with a regular pool tester, which has the colour scale printed on it for comparison, the FlexiTester inserts a colour measuring stick.

The colour scale is printed continuously on this. The colour dipstick is moved up and down until the colour of the dipstick and the coloured water sample match in the window.

Due to the continuous colour scale on the dipstick, colour comparison is simple and straightforward.

In this respect, it is only necessary to change the colour dipstick in order to measure a different water parameter.

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WATER TESTING

The PoolLab 1.0 Photometer gives accurate results of 11 pool parameters and even comes with Bluetooth and a powerful app

Water-i.d. currently offers 32 different colour measuring sticks/parameters for the FlexiTester and these and the required reagents can be purchased separately.

RELAX AND LET AQUACHEK® PRODUCTS DO THE WORK! AquaChek® Pocket Pro and Pocket Pro+ testers from Hach use sensor technology to deliver quick, accurate results for electrochemical parameters in a broad range of water applications. The family of 12 testers offers convenient portable solutions for pH, ORP, conductivity, TDS, salinity and temperature, delivering results you can be confident in.

The Pocket Pro+ series offers all the benefits of the Pocket Pro standard testers, plus convenient backlight and replaceable sensors.

Users can have confidence in the results thanks to the easy calibration steps and built in diagnostics for pH testers which takes the guesswork out of calibrating the sensor to keep it in optimum condition. Save time and money with easy-to-replace AAA batteries plus a convenient sample cup makes maintenance and measurements simple.

For ease of use, the large LCD screen is simple to read; backlighting is included on Pocket Pro+ models, allowing measurement in almost any lighting environment.

These durable meters come with a one-year warranty and can be easily calibrated with a few clicks of a button.

Calibration solution is included with each meter; additional solution can be purchased separately. When it comes to spa water, the AquaChek® TruTest® Spa Digital Test Strip Reader eliminates all the guesswork required

BELOW: Designed for testing convenience, the Pocket Pro+ from AquaChek® allows measurement in almost any lighting environment LaMotte’s innovative WaterLink® Spin TouchTM photometer does all the pool and spa water testing wherever it is needed

with interpreting colour results by combining the ease and accuracy of the company’s test strips with advanced digital technology.

It’s so simple – just dip a test strip in the spa water, insert into the test strip reader and get fast, accurate digital results in seconds. The TruTest Digital Test Strip Reader is also ideal for customers who aren’t comfortable distinguishing colour.

Tests are for total bromine, pH and total alkalinity but if chlorine is being used, try the blue AquaChek® TruTest® Digital Reader.

TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF TESTING WITH LAMOTTE LaMotte’s innovative WaterLink® Spin TouchTM photometer does all the pool and spa water testing wherever it is needed – both in the field or in the store.

The genius lies in the disk; produced in a clean room environment, freeze dried reagents are added to the disk and react with the water sample when inserted into the SpinTouchTM and rotated at high speeds. After just 30 seconds for a 3-parameter test (FCL, TCL and pH) and 60 seconds for a full suite of ten parameters, the results are displayed on screen in PPM. For service technicians, the SpinTouchTM can be used poolside to monitor and thereby correctly treat the water in a pool. For pool

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operators, the 3-use disk is used to test free chlorine, total chlorine and pH up to three times in a day, with all results automatically stored on the device. For retail professionals, the product can be used in store to test customer’s water samples and connect to a software package to generate a dosing report.

The product is one of the quickest and simplest ways to test water accurately.

It is one of the most advanced systems for precise use of wet chemistry methods ever produced too, meaning pool and spa water analysts can achieve precision without time consuming test and clean up procedures. This ground-breaking analysis system is so simple anyone can use it. There are no vials to fill, no prep time and of course, no guessing!

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk LaMotte Europe 01926 498203 www.lamotte-europe.com Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com Hach UK 0161 872 1487 www.uk.hach.com Hanna Instruments 01525 850855 www.hannainstruments.co.uk Lovibond Tintometer 01980 664800 www.lovibond.com Water i.d. +49 (0) 721 782 0290 www.water-id.com

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DEHUMIDIFICATION

Creating The Perfect Indoor Environment Without effective ventilation and dehumidification, indoor pools can suffer from overly humid conditions which can lead to condensation, mould, corrosion and even potential structural damage. For pool users, there can also be an uncomfortable environment to contend with too. So getting the environment right is essential for both owners and users alike and in this issue, we take a closer look at some of the solutions on offer By Jon Wadeson

C

reating and maintaining the perfect environment for indoor pools and spas is no easy task. It’s one thing ensuring the water is clean and heated to the desired operating temperature, but providing the correct atmosphere outside of the water is an entirely different challenge. Without providing effective dehumidification and ventilation, problems can arise for both users of the pool and the fabric of the building itself. One of the most obvious issues is condensation, something which if not dealt with will ultimately lead to damage of either the décor or even the structure of the building where the pool or spa are located.

So it’s essential that an indoor environment should have a well-planned and appropriate dehumidification and ventilation system which will provide comfortable conditions for swimmers, bathers, spectators and just as importantly, one that also protects the building itself.

It is a specialist area, but thankfully there’s plenty of advice and product choices available which will solve numerous operating challenges under the single heading of ‘environmental control’ and in doing so, save energy and therefore costs for owners and operators.

With the wealth of expertise that’s available in the sector, designers and installers should find that choosing the most energy efficient way to manage indoor pool and spa environments whilst satisfying building control regulations isn’t as daunting a task as they had feared. In fact, when compared to the not so distant past, creating the perfect operating conditions are now a breeze and in this issue, we look at just some of the solutions that are available.

CREATE THE IDEAL POOL ENVIRONMENT WITH REFRIGERANT DEHUMIDIFICATION When effective dehumidification and ventilation is not installed, indoor swimming pools suffer from humid conditions which leads to condensation, mould, corrosion

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and even structural damage.

Therefore, it is essential for pool owners to get the right solution in order to create a hygienic and well-maintained pool environment for their users.

As seen earlier in this issue, Humidity Solutions, a leading independent supplier for humidity control, has recently partnered with Italian dehumidification manufacturer HiDew, giving them exclusive distribution rights to supply their high-quality refrigerant dehumidifiers across the UK. Their products are all designed specifically for swimming pool applications.

HiDew’s range of absorbent dehumidifiers are all engineered with top tier components that are coated in a special epoxy that can tolerate harsh chemicals, such as chlorine.

With various different installation options – wall mounted, ceiling mounted and stand alone, there is a choice for every preference.

A popular choice amongst private pool owners is the HiDew DVS vertical floor standing dehumidifier with a unique design.

This series consists of seven models, from 68 up to 230 litres per day. The DVS dehumidifiers are completely autonomous in managing humidity: the control on board reads the ambient humidity and activates the dehumidification process when necessary.

Along with easy in-room installation, the DVS model also features an attractive design, low noise with a heating option for heating during winter months.

The full range of HiDew products can be supplied from Humidity Solutions as well as a turnkey service for installation, commissioning and maintenance. Get in touch with them today for your bespoke quote.

HiDew’s range of absorbent dehumidifiers are all engineered with top tier components that are coated in a special epoxy that can tolerate harsh chemicals, such as chlorine

EFFICIENCY BY DESIGN FROM HEATSTAR Heatstar have long been established as a market leader in the design and manufacture of modern, highly energy efficient, environmental control systems for swimming pools, with an enviable reputation for quality.

For over 40 years Heatstar have been guiding their clients towards responsible energy solutions for swimming pools, setting the benchmark in an environmentally conscious industry.

A star of the Heatstar range is the energy efficient Phoenix EC, a hybrid heat recovery ventilation system of exceptional quality, suitable for the effective dehumidification of indoor commercial and domestic pools.

The Phoenix EC from Heatstar is a hybrid heat recovery ventilation system for indoor commercial and domestic swimming pools

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DEHUMIDIFICATION This system offers ultra-high heat recovery and heat efficiency thanks to its utilisation of hybrid technology. This hybrid set up focuses on three main areas: (1) The fans used in the units, (2) optimising heat recovery (‘free’ heat) and (3) energy efficient dehumidification.

Firstly, the Phoenix EC utilises the most energy efficient fans on the market. These digital fans utilise ‘auto-fan’ technology whereby the speed and power of the airrecirculation fan is managed automatically to enable significant energy savings whenever there is low demand for dehumidification or air-heating.

Secondly, the unit is fitted with cross-flow recuperators to optimise heat recovery. The recuperator passively conducts heat from the exhausted pool room air via a series of adjoining plates directly to the incoming colder fresh air. This process, in combination with the dehumidification heat pump, produces unrivalled levels of heat recovery.

Lastly, the Phoenix boasts energy efficient dehumidification. The Phoenix’s dehumidification heat pump creates a cold evaporator coil to condense the moisture present in the air to reduce humidity levels.

Through this process the heat pump absorbs both latent and sensible energy which is upgraded and recycled back into both the pool room air and pool water.

At an ambient air temperature of 20°C the Phoenix EC can deliver an efficiency of over 140% and is able to offer the lowest operating cost of any such system.

FLEXIBILITY AND PEACE OF MIND FROM CALOREX AND CERTIKIN The ingenious, multi-tasking Calorex Variheat Series 3 air handling unit, featuring a PLC touchscreen as standard and endless configuration options offers the ultimate in The ingenious, multi-tasking Calorex Variheat Series 3 air handling unit, featuring a PLC touchscreen as standard and endless configuration options

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RECOTHERM EXPANDS TO MEET EVER-GROWING DEMAND

Recotherm has recently developed their Aerum systems that provide fresh air dehumidification combined with air to air heat via Toshiba heat pumps

flexibility to suit almost every plant room. Total peace of mind is provided as commissioning comes as standard together with a two-year on site parts and labour warranty.

Indoor swimming pools constantly evaporate large volumes of moisture into the space around them. Totally self-controlling, the Variheat will remove this moisture and recover energy from it. In controlling the operation of the heat source and combining it with a highly efficient heat pump dehumidifier, it provides air and water heating, humidity control, ventilation and energy recovery.

By utilising this method, energy costs are kept to a minimum. Typically, for every unit of power that a Variheat consumes, it will convert more than twice this amount to usable heat.

The potential energy savings are huge. In fact, compared to traditional heat and ventilation, considerable energy cost saving can be made and corresponding CO2 emissions can be dramatically reduced.

Pre-set at the factory, Variheat fans will automatically speed adjust to differing duct work and/or system air filter resistances, ensuring optimum air flow is constantly maintained. This reduces commissioning time and automatically optimises performance, power consumption and noise levels.

The Variheat features internet connection capability to PC, smartphone or selected BMS that provides remote monitoring and set point control; comprehensive diagnostic information and EC/Inverter constant flow fans.

With the ever-increasing demand for Recotherm’s Aeris and now their new air heating with boiler Aerum range, the company are pleased to confirm they are in a major phase of expansion designed to cut down waiting times on units for both new and existing customers.

With the new Aerum range, all the features normally associated with the Recotherm Aeris range (high build quality, state-of-the-art controls, pleasant fresh air environment in the pool hall and technical back up) are still there, but with the added advantage that the unit is a standalone package and can provide a significant amount of cooling in the summer if this is required.

Due to this consistent growth in orders for Aerum and other Recotherm units, the company found it necessary to increase the size of their Production team. All these staff are now fully trained and busy building units to Recotherm’s usual high standards.

Plans are now also being finalised to double production facilities, Recotherm expansion doesn’t stop in production though, and the company have also recently expanded their Service Department staff to take on the demand for service and commissioning visits. All of the firm’s engineers are fully trained on Recotherm AHUs and Trend controllers.

Their new engineers also have a wealth of experience on competitors’ units, which allows the company to trouble shoot if someone has a problem whilst the Recotherm technical helpline provides off site assistance and on call resolutions when possible

TROTEC’S GERMAN QUALITY – AVAILABLE FROM FAIRLOCKS The DS series of dehumidifiers from Trotec feature highly efficient moisture control and heat recovery for all indoor pools and spas.

They are now in stock and available from Fairlocks Pool Products.

Made in Germany, the professional quality DS 30 and DS 60 models have been specifically developed for swimming pool Made in Germany, the professional quality Trotec DS 30 and DS 60 models have been specifically developed for swimming pool hall dehumidification

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DEHUMIDIFICATION hall dehumidification. Incorporated into the design of both dehumidifiers is a fibreglassreinforced, easy-to-clean plastic housing.

Inside each unit, quiet running and powerful radial fans ensure high air circulation rates, while insulated compressors and polyestercoated heat exchanger surfaces provide protection against corrosion.

Both wall-mounted units are easy to install, work fully automatically and can extract large amounts of moisture from the room air, even in air temperatures as low as 5°C. The energy absorbed during the process of dehumidification is turned into warmth and directly used for heating the room, which further increases the device’s efficiency. As an example, for every unit of electricity that the units consume they will give 2.5kW of heat back to the room.

Standard features include: • High dehumidification performance with optimum heat recovery • Low specific energy consumption – extremely high economic efficiency • Corrosion-protected construction made of fibreglass-reinforced plastic • Heat exchanger with corrosion-resistant CDC coating • Fully automatic operation.

The DS 30 is suitable for pools up to 25m², while the DS 60 ensures optimum humidity levels with pools up to 50m². A wall mounting kit is included with each supplied unit.

MEACO’S RANGE OF STYLISH SLIMLINE WALL MOUNTED UNITS MeacoWall is a range of wall-mounted dehumidifiers from humidity monitoring and control equipment specialists Meaco, and is part of its award-winning Platinum Range of commercial low energy products.

An advanced and stylish solution for humidity control where wall mounting is an important requirement, MeacoWall is available in three sizes, 53L, 72L and 103L. At just 202mm deep these dehumidifiers are some of the slimmest wall mounting dehumidifiers on the market and as such will not protrude far into a room. Features include the incorporation of a DC fan motor that helps to reduce running costs and keeps noise levels very low, working at a level of just 48dB, which is similar to the hum from a domestic refrigerator. As a heat pump compressor dehumidifier, all energy used in the drying process is sent back to the space thus delivering dry, warm air whilst keeping energy costs down.

A unique glass finish means they look great, coming in a white casing with either a white or black glass front panel that incorporates the light touch LED. Installation is flexible with the option of continuous drainage from either the right or left hand side of the dehumidifier. An automatic hot gas defrost system allows

MeacoWall is a range of wall-mounted dehumidifiers from humidity monitoring and control equipment specialists Meaco

...an indoor environment should have a well-planned and appropriate dehumidification and ventilation system...” use in spaces where heating is limited with continuous performance right down to 10°C for the smallest unit, and 15°C for the two larger models. For swimming pool applications, the refrigeration coils are specially coated to ensure a long service life.

A STYLISH FIRST – THE GARDEN AIR FULL INVERTER DEHUMIDIFIER Available from SCP UK, the Garden Air Full Inverter Dehumidifier is the first full inverter dehumidifier designed for use with rooms that feature a pool, spa, swim spa or hot tub.

Available in three sizes, this smart looking product features a digital touch control panel and a patented high class design which incorporates perfectly matched metal and aluminium. It is suitable for a range of environments and will help keep an indoor pool or spa area free from condensation, replacing cooler wet air with dryer warmer air.

As it runs ten times quieter than a traditional dehumidifier, making it quieter than a fridge, it won’t interfere with bathers users who are seeking a calm and relaxing experience.

Not only is this e Garden Air Full Inverter Dehumidifier one of the quietest products available, it is also one of the cheapest to

run. The power requirement is incredibly low, with the largest model needing less than 5amps, meaning it consumes just 50% of the power of a traditional dehumidifier.

There are three size options available, with models capable of removing 2, 3 and 4 litres of water from the atmosphere per hour. The smallest will be suitable for any hot tub, spa and swim spa room as well as pools with a surface area up to 20m2. The second is suggested for pools up to 30m2 and the third is for pools with a surface area no bigger than 40m2.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin H&V 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.fairlocks.co.uk Heatstar 01983 521465 www.heatstar.com Humidity Solutions 01372 571200 www.humiditysolutions.co.uk Meaco (UK) Ltd 01483 234900 www.meaco.com Recotherm 01527 894533 www.recotherm.co.uk SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

The Garden Air Full Inverter Dehumidifier from SCP – the first full inverter dehumidifier

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HEAT PUMPS

Firm Favourites That Are Set To Soar Higher!

For a while now, heat pumps have been a firm favourite within the UK wet leisure industry and they’ve often been a go-to choice for heating the water in pools and spas in an environmentally friendly way. With increased coverage of their benefits, combined with energy prices soaring at a frightening rate, they’re a product sector which is guaranteed long term success. In this issue, we put various money saving options under the spotlight By Jon Wadeson

F

or numerous wet leisure installations across the country, heat pumps have, for a number of years now, been accepted as an ideal solution to heat water efficiently and extending what are normally short pool seasons here in the UK. With models producing many times more energy than they consume, heat pumps effortlessly outperform many types of more conventional heating methods – so it’s easy to see why they’ve been such a popular choice for both owners and installers alike.

Their use has attracted attention far beyond our industry too. Even before the energy crisis truly kicked in, heat pumps for homes were being touted as an ideal solution for heating needs and they appeared on a number of mainstream media programmes and news pieces, meaning their profile was lifted due to a much wider audience. Now that energy costs are really starting to bite, and with prices expecting to soar higher, their use within pools and spas is likely to be further enhanced.

The very latest heat pump models have become increasingly sophisticated and intelligent in their operation, resulting in impressive energy and therefore substantial cost savings to be made. Most designs now feature some form of inverter technology and a number of them can now also be controlled and monitored remotely via smart device apps too. As the technology improves, so too does their flexibility, ease of use, and even their looks. All of which further adds to both their appeal and ultimately their increased adoption too.

With various brands, models and options available from a variety of sources, careful research, planning and advice is a must, but there’s usually a perfect heat pump solution on offer for virtually any pool or spa configuration. So, with options aplenty on offer from numerous suppliers, in this issue, we take a closer look at some of the hottest heat pump options that are currently available.

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encompass large capacity models for nonresidential pool applications and can also be specified to include a ‘Super Boost’ option where the unit incorporates an electric heater to quicken the initial warm-up time of the swimming pool from cold.

By specifying Aquarius heat pump technology, owners enjoy a warm pool and save money, all while reducing their carbon emissions. The Aquarius models also operate quietly, and with their physically strong longterm aluminium chassis, they’re the perfect solution for any outdoor swimming pool.

With with their physically strong long-term aluminium chassis, Heatstar’s Aquarius models are the perfect solution for any outdoor swimming pool

HEATSTAR’S AQUARIUS – PROVEN HEAT PUMP TECHNOLOGY Heatstar have been at the heart of the nation’s pools for over 40 years. Today, the Heatstar name stands for the best of British design, engineering and service, with an enviable reputation for heat pump technology that works.

A key product in the Heatstar product range is the Aquarius, a self-contained renewable energy pool water heating system for outdoor pools. Aquarius units provide the most economical, clean and environmentally friendly method of heating swimming pool water.

The Aquarius is a relatively simple yet effective pool water heating system based around proven and reliable refrigeration technology. This Aerothermal heat pump utilises ‘direct contact’ technology to transfer heat from the refrigerant directly into the pool water and also incorporates an ultra-quiet ‘low energy’ digital air fan.

Heatstar were among the first companies in the world to offer the concept of a dedicated heat pump for use on swimming pools, with the Aquarius also continuing to be manufactured only in the UK, utilising the finest quality components.

The Aquarius range now also extends to

COST EFFECTIVE HEATING WITH ECO-V HEAT PUMPS FROM WATERCO The Electroheat ECO-V pool heat pump range from Waterco uses just a fraction of the energy to generate the same amount of heat compared to gas and electric heaters. Unlike solar heating, there is no reliance on the sun as the latent heat in the air is used. For every 1kW of electricity consumed, the Electroheat ECO-V can produce up to 8kW of heat.

Waterco’s inverter technology uses a variable speed compressor. It slows down and speeds up as needed to maintain the desired temperature. This provides a more stable water temperature and 15%-30% energy savings over fixed speed systems, as well

Waterco’s ECO-V heat pumps are available in both side mounted and top mounted fan versions and with model sizes from 5kW to 25kW

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HEAT PUMPS as quieter operation.

Electroheat ECO-V inverter pool heat pumps also feature automatic de-icing.

In cooler climates or winter months when a build-up of ice is detected, the heat pump shifts temporarily into the cooling mode to reverse the flow of refrigerant through the evaporator coils. Hot refrigerant moves through the outside coils, melting ice and defrosting the system. When the defrost cycle is complete, the unit shifts back to heating mode.

Available in both side-mounted and top-mounted fan versions and model sizes from 5kW to 25kW, whatever the installation there is a Waterco ECO-V heat pump to suit.

The Calorex I-PAC and V-PAC inverter heat pump ranges from Certikin have been designed in the UK specifically for the British climate

FORM AND FUNCTION – ZODIAC HEAT PUMPS FROM LIGHTHOUSE The new Zodiac PX50 joins the Lighthouse range and along with the Z550iQ, the design of air source heat pumps has been upped. With their clean lines, the units will blend elegantly into any pool surroundings.

Inverter technology is the key to these two different styles of machine, the traditional horizontal air-discharge of the PX50 and the vertical discharge of the Z550iQ ensures the correct power and design can be optimised to fit around almost any pool.

The Z550iQ adds to this with new smartphone capability allowing users to set temperatures and consult the Z550iQ’s different modes of operation remotely – it’s an air source heat pump which ticks all the boxes for the modern pool owner. The unit is easily placed into tight corners where a conventional heat pump would struggle to perform, as the Z550iQ only requires a 500mm air gap around its base, its cold discharge air is blown into the sky where the

5m clearance is usually not a problem.

Moving on to the more traditional Zodiac PX50 range of heat pumps, the elegant modern, clean shape of the PX50 allows it to be placed into the garden and not look like the sharp-edged chunk of steel which this sector seems to be burdened with. Also fitted is an inverter driven fan and compressor so the unit is perfect for those looking to keep their tranquil environment intact.

With models moving past the MD9 up to and including the MD11 and MD12 the PX50 gives even more options for air source heating, with truly, all year capacity for larger pools in single and three phase models available from one heat pump.

Both the Z550iQ and PX50 units have an active defrost system, so at the start of the season or if you are swimming all year round maybe in an indoor pool, the time spent removing frost from the radiator is minimised.

Zodiac’s new PX50 (left) and Z550iQ (right) are raising the aesthetics bar for air source heat pumps

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UK DESIGNED HEAT PUMP SOLUTIONS FOR THE BRITISH CLIMATE FROM CERTIKIN The Calorex I-PAC and V-PAC inverter heat pump ranges from Certikin have been designed in the UK specifically for the British climate. They are eco-friendly, carry an impressive five year on site parts and labour warranty and are available exclusively in the UK from Certikin.

These stylish-looking, compact heat pumps (the small footprint making them compliant with permitted development rights) are available in side or top outlet versions. The side outlet also has the added benefit of Wi-Fi capability for remote control.

Inverter heat pump technology allows for efficient control of the pool temperature with the I-PAC/V-PAC only using the energy required. High efficiency with modulating step-less inverter compressor gives an average COP of 10.3 (I-PAC+), 9.7 (I-PAC) and 10.7 (V-PAC), which is twice as efficient as the traditional on/off models.

Complying with the European F-Gas regulations, the heat pumps use the low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerant R32. It requires less refrigerant volume per kW and is easier to recycle.

The I-PAC side outlet models have Wi-Fi capability for remote control with the app available to download for both Android and iOS devices.

Certikin also offer the affordable HPP range which is designed for heating small and medium sized outdoor pools and spas, producing up to five times the energy it consumes and is super easy to install. The low energy consumption, coupled with high heat production, makes the HPP pump an environmentally friendly way to heat swimming pool water. The five models (6,8,12,15 and 20kW) include a reverse cycle defrost, quiet operation and a threeyear warranty.

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HEAT PUMPS SCP HAVE NEW HEAT PUMPS FOR POOLS BOTH BIG AND SMALL New for 2022, the Poolstyle Step Inverter from SCP UK is a heat pump powered by an inverter compressor that can adjust the heating capacity from 20% to 100% intelligently according to different heating demands.

When the season starts and heating demand is high, the Poolstyle Step Inverter compressor and fan run at 100% for fast heating. When maintaining the pool temperature, the unit then runs at low speed for energy saving with higher COP. Thanks to its full DC inverter technology, DC compressor and DC fan motor, this series of heat pumps is much more efficient than ON/OFF models, resulting in a saving in both energy and costs for owners. In addition, models achieve completely soft switching at the start-up stage from an intensity of 0A to 28A (maximum) while on/off heat pumps start with a current intensity over three times higher, which greatly impacts electricity systems.

Available in seven sizes, ranging from 7kW to 25kW, the Poolstyle Step Inverter runs amazingly quietly at 20dB(A) in ‘Silent Mode’.

Also new for 2022, there’s the Poolstyle Mini Heat pump which is suitable for all families that have an above-ground or other smaller types of pools. Equipped with a 3-pin power plug, this model is light, easy to install, and with its effectively ‘Plug & Play’ connections, it’s portable too.

Available in two sizes – 3kW and 5kW – the Mini Heat will take the chill out of the water whilst providing energy savings of up to 75%.

This small unit features an attractive ABS casing and easy to use LED display panel – it’s sure to be a winning choice given the recent popularity of smaller pools combined with this year’s increase in energy costs!

CASE STUDY

Now that energy costs are really starting to bite, and with prices expecting to soar higher, their use within pools and spas is likely to be further enhanced”

SCP UK’s the Poolstyle Mini Heat pump which is suitable for smaller types of swimming pools

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY SOLUTIONS FOR EVEN THE SMALLEST OF POOLS The new Plastica HeatSeeker® Inverter Heat Pump can consume less than 12% of the electricity of conventional electric pool heaters maintaining the same heating capacity.

The new HeatSeeker® range of Inverter Heat Pumps produce a COP of an average five times for every one kW of electricity consumed, running with an air temperature of only 15°C. If the air temperature available increases, the efficiency can be over eight times the supply power.

Plastica’s aptly named AG Mini is the ideal choice for heating swimming pools up to 20m³

Plastica’s new range comes with new inverter technology that not only gives a low start-up current eliminating any power surge but also the variable fan speeds allow it to keep the pool water at an optimum temperature while maximising efficiency.

Another benefit of this is a much quieter operating noise level than any previous ranges, making conforming to environmental legislation no problem.

Plastica’s comprehensive range of HeatSeeker® Inverter Heat Pumps will cover the full heating requirements of pools from 25m³ up to 85m³ of water volume and will

CALOREX I-PAC THE SOLUTION FOR WARWICKSHIRE POOL

Nestled in the rolling Warwickshire countryside, this beautiful pool is a fine illustration of why Certikin is the supplier of choice for Preece Pools. Calling on the services of the local installer, and with

the owner looking to use the pool all year-round, Steve Preece knew he needed to install a reliable and cost-efficient heating system.

A 22kW Calorex I-PAC inverter heat pump, designed in the UK specifically for the UK climate, fitted the bill nicely.

These stylish-looking, compact heat pumps are available in side or top outlet versions. The side outlet also has the added benefit of Wi-Fi capability for remote control. Inverter heat pump technology allows for efficient control of the pool temperature with the I-PAC only using the energy required. High efficiency with modulating step-less inverter compressor gives an average COP of 10.3 (I-PAC+), 9.7 (I-PAC) and 10.7 (V-PAC), which is twice as efficient as the traditional on/off models.

Complying with the European F-Gas regulations, the heat pumps use the low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerant R32. It requires less refrigerant volume per kW and is easier to recycle.

They are eco-friendly, carry an impressive five year on site parts and labour warranty and are available exclusively in the UK from Certikin.

Preece Pools 01788 819344 www.preecepools.co.uk

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HEAT PUMPS

AstralPool’s new Pro Elyo Touch has everything it needs to become a benchmark in the outdoor installation sector

work efficiently for the whole season.

The company also added a new heat pump to their product range this year, which is ideal for the above-ground pool market.

The aptly named AG Mini is the ideal choice for heating pools up to 20m³. Being plug and play, they are light and easy to install and feature an inline RCD breaker. The AG Mini is supplied with 1” connections and a conversion kit is available for 1.5”. Owners get up to 2.9kW of Rated Heating Capacity for input power of only 0.59kW.

THE NEW PRO ELYO TOUCH HEAT PUMP FROM ASTRALPOOL Last year, AstralPool redesigned its signature heat pump (the Pro-Elyo Inverboost) into the new Pro Elyo Touch.

With a revamped design and a more intuitive and practical user interface combined with the same robustness and reliability that characterised the technology of its predecessor, the new Pro Elyo Touch has everything it needs to become a benchmark in the outdoor installation sector.

The new Pro Elyo Touch features a redesigned interface to make life easier for the pool owner, as the control screen is now located on the front instead of the side of the machine for greater convenience. The display has been upgraded from mechanical and digital to an intuitive wide LED touchscreen with even greater information. Users can see the active operation mode, programme the machine, water temperature, activate/ deactivate the turbo or silent modes, as well as access the system settings.

Another new feature is that Pro Elyo Touch has a revamped and updated design. For the new model, AstralPool has opted for more modern and up-to-date lines for the housing, an ABS plastic casing to prevent corrosion, a new injected fan grid and a galvanised steel evaporator protection grid.

The environmental impact has also been reduced, with most versions operating with R32 refrigerant, a gas that has a low global

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Dura Pro from Golden Coast is available in a variety of sizes to suit a range of swimming pools, hot tubs and spas

warming potential (GWP), high energy efficiency and excellent cooling power.

The Pro Elyo Touch is incredibly silent and the range includes eight power levels (from 8.5kW to 35kW). Not only that, it also makes it possible to extend the swimming season even in regions with colder climates, since it works at an ambient temperature as cold as -20ºC.

CUT HEATING BILLS WITH DURA PRO FROM GOLDEN COAST Hot tubs are a great addition to any home or commercial facility, but it pays to consider your heating method properly – particularly given current concerns about energy prices.

The good news is that owners can keep running costs low thanks to the highefficiency Dura Pro heat pump – available from Golden Coast.

A Dura Pro pump operates on a lower current that allows it to use less energy than electric heaters, making it a much ecofriendlier and cost-effective option.

Clever inverter technology means that the Dura Pro can reach extremely high coefficients of performance to maintain a consistent temperature of up to 40°C. For each kilowatt of energy consumed, a Dura Pro heat pump offers an output of up to 13 kilowatts of heat – that’s 13 times more efficient than a standard electric heater.

“The Dura Pro heat pump features a lockable, full-colour touchscreen where you can review information such as temperature and pressure,” said Adam Clark, General Manager at Golden Coast. “It allows owners to track energy consumption and change the settings as required. For example, the water temperature can be adjusted in increments of 0.1°C. Monitoring energy use in this way puts owners in control of their spending and reduces the risk of unexpected expensive bills.”

The Dura Pro heat pump is designed to be durable and long lasting, with titanium heat exchangers that are resistant to corrosion by salt, chlorine and bromine.

Whereas some heat pumps can be loud, a Dura Pro heat pump uses a unique ventilation structure enabling it to maintain noise levels as low as 25dB – ensuring complete peace and quiet.

“A Dura Pro heat pump is an extremely energy-efficient way to heat spas and hot tubs,” added Adam. “It will cut your electricity bills as well as your carbon footprint – offering you a long-term sustainable solution that you can depend on.”

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.co.uk Certikin H&V 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com Heatstar 01983 521465 www.heatstar.com Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk Plastica 01424 857802 www.plasticapools.net SCP UK 01268 273040 www.scpeurope.com Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu

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FAIRLOCKS FP JUN21 Lighting Water-Tec.qxp_Layout 1 28/06/2021 17:33 Page 1

The WT Range of Stainless Steel LED Lighting From

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WT1

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EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, QUALITY PRODUCTS 3 Landscape Close, Weston on the Green, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX25 3SX, UK T: 01869 934333 | E: info@fairlocks.co.uk | W: www.fairlocks.co.uk

LIGHTING OPTIONS

Showing Projects Of All Sizes In Their Best Possible Light Lighting has developed at a great rate over recent years and thanks to some innovative technologies, various lighting options are now enhancing a wide variety of wet leisure environments. Installations of all sizes are benefiting from the latest energy efficient products, which when combined with highly creative ideas, provide some truly incredible settings. With solutions for both in and out of the water, this issue, we take a look at some of the latest illuminating options By Jon Wadeson

W

ith a wide variety of options now available for an ever widening range of wet leisure facilities and settings, it’s no exaggeration to say that the current lighting technologies for both in and outside of the water have literally transformed the look of many of today’s pool and spa installations in both domestic and commercial environments, allowing them to be seen in their best possible light.

Highly efficient LEDs have quite rightly become the accepted choice of professionals across a variety of projects and their use has meant that the uninspiring yet often functional lights seen in the past are sights that are now thankfully the exception and it can’t be too long before they become a distant memory.

As with any kind of product that features technology at its core, improvements are made on a continual basis and time has definitely not stood still for options within the lighting sector. LED lights offer a far more sustainable solution. They do not generate toxic waste, they have a longer service life and they consume significantly less energy to work resulting in a greatly reduced environmental impact. In addition, a mix of cleverly installed lighting can provide dramatic effects inside a pool or spa, enhancing features and project aesthetics plus they can also be used externally to soften walls and other finishes too. They can even provide enhanced visual benefits within commercial settings, which greatly assists with safety. So with all of these benefits, what’s not to like?

In short, whole areas can be improved with thoughtful and imaginative lighting, providing both safety and style to complement any surroundings. With plenty of options available on the market from a variety

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of manufacturers, this issue, we take look at some of the solutions which are lighting the way in 2022.

LUMIPLUS FLEXIMINI: DESIGN, SIMPLICITY AND FLEXIBILITY LumiPlus, AstraPool’s most comprehensive range of underwater LED lights for public, commercial and residential pools, unveils its most flexible, convenient and compact option for 2022: the new FlexiMini.

More harmonious, elegant and efficient pools are the three things that pool owners look for most when designing a new space in their garden or renovating an existing water feature. Which means that opting for smaller, discreet and energy-efficient designs is undoubtedly a guarantee of success.

With all this in mind, AstralPool has developed its new LumiPlus FlexiMini lights.

The smaller size of these LEDs makes for a more discreet and modern design that aligns with current trends for residential projects.

The company has also gone a step further in terms of installation and has designed the new LumiPlus FlexiMini as a single point of light that adapts to the most popular

pool types on the market. It simplifies installation for both new and existing pools and can be combined with any of the fittings from the LumiPlus Flexi range in white, beige, light grey, anthracite and stainless steel.

The LumiPlus FlexiMini takes flexibility to a new level – not only can it be adapted to almost any existing installation, but it also offers two wattages to choose from. For example, users can set different intensities depending on the area of the pool or opt for more discreet, efficient lighting based on more points of light with lower intensity.

Manufactured with LEDs, premium electronic components and produced entirely in the EU in compliance with European quality standards, the entire range of LumiPlus Flexi lights is highly adaptable to any type of pool – liner or concrete – and is suitable for both new builds and existing installations.

In addition, it comes with a three-year warranty.

The smaller size of AstralPool’s LED LumiPlus FlexiMini lights makes for a more discreet and modern design that aligns with current trends for residential projects

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LIGHTING OPTIONS The PU2 Mini LED Light from Certikin International is available in a liner as well as concrete pool version

Available through Golden Coast, the EVA underwater range has a water resistance of IPX8 and can be installed up to 25 metres below the water level

LINER AND CONCRETE POOL LIGHTING SOLUTIONS FROM CERTIKIN The PU2 Mini LED Light from Certikin is available in a liner as well as concrete pool version. Available in both RGBW and white, these highly efficient lights are easy to install, have a high output and the neatest of finishes. The RGBW version is controllable via a smartphone using the free app, giving complete control over colour, sequences and brightness. For concrete pools, the full 316 grade stainless steel body fits directly into a standard 1.5-inch pipe, leaving just the 2mm thick stainless steel fascia on display in the pool. For liner applications, the light screws into a standard Certikin inlet fitting leaving an attractive, clean finish.

These are now available ready to order and are an ideal companion to the Flolux range of stainless steel fittings available from the company.

Certikin is at the forefront of lighting design, and pool and spa owners will struggle to find a greater range in the water leisure marketplace. Over the years, the company

has continued to develop an ever-expanding line-up of products which includes the Certikin PU9 and PU6 lights. These are some of the most popular and reliable lights in the industry, with numerous benefits for both the pool builder and customer alike.

LIGHTING THAT LASTS WITH EVA OPTIC AND GOLDEN COAST EVA’s range of underwater and direct ambient lighting combines clean styling with easy installation, long-life construction and lowcost operation.

Available exclusively through Golden Coast in the UK, EVA direct lighting is engineered to operate in high temperatures and withstand the corrosive chlorine levels of the pool environment. As all EVA Optic LED products are built for long-life performance, under average commercial use you can expect 6–7 years before replacement is needed.

Indirect lighting has often been the traditional choice in commercial pools, but EVA’s innovative solutions are more effective at providing constant light output at exceptional levels long-term. With a Unified

Glare Rating of less than 19, they provide flicker-free, uniform coverage with minimal water surface reflection.

The range efficiency could cut running costs by at least 50% compared to indirect LED lighting. And when compared to older lighting technology, EVA Optic LED lighting uses up to six times less energy.

When this low usage is taken with minimal maintenance costs and reduced downtime, the return on investment is impressively short.

The EVA underwater range has a water resistance of IPX8 and can be installed up to 25 metres below the water level, offering perfect colour mixing without glare and a better view for swimmers.

EVA pioneered a unique temperature monitoring solution which monitors and automatically adjusts the lights’ performance.

There is thermal protection within the LED housing and the lights dim when higher temperatures are detected. This works to prevent overheating damage and guaranteeing the lifespan of the products.

And with the upgrade of a DMX Controllable multi-colour RGBW underwater lamp, users have the ability to transform an entire facility’s lighting with the push of a button. By using a DMX controller, custom light scenes can be created, changing the colour and intensity of the lights at any time.

LIGHTING OPTIONS FOR A WIDE RANGE OF SETTINGS

Fairlocks Pool Products offer a range of Water-Tec lighting solutions including the popular WT2 (left) and also commercial options (right)

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The latest range of products from WaterTec – which are available through Fairlocks Pool Products – have been developed with recent environmental issues at the forefront of their design. LED lighting is now the world’s number one choice for all lighting applications and with Water-Tec, Fairlocks are able to offer the very latest technology – high powered LEDs with low energy consumption combined with the contemporary look that customers desire.

Some of the benefits of the Water-Tec LED lights include all 316L stainless steel bodies with electro polished front face, high powered energy efficient LED power of 2000

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LIGHTING OPTIONS

Available exclusively from Light Projects, Wibre’s CENTUM°° range has a solution for projects of all sizes

lumens for WT4 and WT5, up to 50,000 hours life span, colour changing RGB options with full digital control (DMX and Zigbee).

LED lighting is now the go-to option for swimming pool lighting as it offers the safest, most cost-effective option. The WaterTec light range features options for either Warm or Cool lenses and standard 20m cable length. All are controllable to suit the mood / ambience of the pool with both Wi-Fi and / or a smart device (both White and RGB) options.

The team at Fairlocks can advise on the number of lights required to provide the best lighting display for the size of pool, and type of atmosphere the lighting design can provide. There really are unlimited options with swimming pool lighting and it comes down to style, design and the ultimate look of the finished pool that will determine the light installation.

CASE STUDY

WIBRE SHINE A LIGHT ON UNDERWATER LIGHTING Available exclusively from Light Projects, Wibre’s CENTUM°° range comprises a range of built-in and surface mounted underwater spotlights which use the very latest technology to offer industry-leading light outputs. This, coupled with temperature monitoring and integrated surge protection, ensures optimum operation, long life cycle and low maintenance.

Exclusively available in the UK via Light Projects, CENTUM°° includes six recessed IP68 underwater fittings meaning there’s a solution for smaller pools and spas through to large and competition swimming pools.

The light sources used are particularly powerful and compact with LED modules in single colour available in 3000K, 4500K and 6500K as well as RGB-W and Dynamic White. Two surface mounted spotlights

complement the range for use in fountains and water features. These feature similar colour temperatures and lumen efficiency with the added versatility of distribution angles of 25° to 30°.

Thanks to effective thermal management and low-loss light radiation, CENTUM°° features permanent temperature monitoring and an integrated surge protection to ensure the optimum operation of the LED technology.

The watertight housing with protection class IP68 consists of V4A-stainless steel 1.4571, 316Ti while the light output is sealed by a highly transparent, ultra-white glass.

Wibre products sit perfectly alongside Light Projects’ own ranges and also complement Roblon’s fibre optic lighting solutions, also exclusively distributed by the company in the UK. With a range of products for every situation, Light Projects are one of the most knowledgeable, complete and qualified companies in the country for underwater lighting product solutions.

COMPACT AND POWERFUL LED SOLUTIONS FROM LIGHTHOUSE Zodiac’s compact and powerful ‘NL’ nicheless LED lights are easy and fast to install for fantastic lighting of any swimming pool or spa.

The attractive design shines a wide light beam that fully lights the pool. The lamp is discreet and powerful with no visible parts.

Made of a 100% waterproof, one-piece over moulded aluminium body, the NL LED utilises a 1.5” pool return body as the niche.

The NL LED lights’ high-end design and compact size allows flawless integration with a secure, screw fit into any 1.5” inlet fitting. They can be seamlessly placed in

ANOTHER TRIUMPH FOR EVALINE LIGHTING

The new Eastwood Leisure Centre in Sheerwater, Woking is one of the latest builds to benefit from innovative EVAline lighting supplied

by Golden Coast.

Unlike indirect lighting, EVAline LED lights are fitted around the

perimeter of the pool shining directly over the water. This ensures minimal glare on the surface of the water and provides lifeguards with better visibility into the pool.

At the leisure centre, contractor Barrie Beard mounted 12 120W EVAline modular lights and six 30W EVAline modular lights around the pool and upper viewing balcony within the 583m3 pool hall.

These lights use only 2100 Watts at just 3.34W/m², with a total load of 1.05 W/m²/100 Lux. For this particular installation, industry guidelines state that light levels must be an average of 300 Lux, with an illumination uniformity value of 0.7 or higher. Despite its lower wattage, EVAline lighting at Eastwood provided powerful illumination and delivered an average Lux of 333 plus a uniformity of 0.84.

Shaun Adams, Director at Golden Coast said: “EVAline has been used in pool halls around the world due to its impressive durability.

These lights are built to withstand the aggressive corrosion from airborne chloramines, as well as the punishing heat of the pool environment. This means they maintain their mechanical integrity throughout their lifetime, enabling leisure centres to save time and money on maintenance costs.”

Barrie Beard 01527 875172 www.barriebeard.co.uk

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LIGHTING OPTIONS several locations in the pool for high-quality lighting, while saving energy thanks to the LED technology. The lamp is in constant contact with pool water, meaning it always operates at the ideal temperature to optimise its lifespan and is compatible for use with salt water.

Available in a bright white ‘BW’ or multicolour ‘RGBW’ model that provides a choice of nine static colours and five automatic sequences to enhance your pool mood lighting. With RGBW LED, there is no need to choose between white and colour.

The innovative NL LED Lights use RGBW technology, which adds white to the three primary colours. This enables you to generate an infinite colour palette, for a more natural shade or pure, white lighting. The lights are also compatible with iAquaLink and can be controlled by eXO iQ, Hydroxinator® iQ or AquaLink TRi. Top this off with three levels of intensity, you do not have to choose between power and eco-responsibility anymore as 6W (390lm), 12W (725lm) and 24W (1180lm) ensure infinite pool lighting configurations is made possible. The LED technology provides an average of 90% energy savings, while delivering the same lighting intensity with better distribution.

For peace of mind, NL LED lights are also offered with a three-year warranty.

SCP’S NEW RANGE OF RELIABLE LIGHTING OPTIONS FROM HAYWARD New for the 2022 season and available through SCP UK, the Hayward CrystaLogic® White and ColorLogic® RGB PAR56 LED lights are long lasting and reliable.

Ideal for new construction but compatible with all pool types, they offer easy installation and can simply be mounted on the pool

New for the 2022 season and available through SCP UK, the Hayward CrystaLogic® White and ColorLogic® RGB PAR56 LED lights

wall with no need for a niche. All mounting components are supplied with each light bulb which has a total thickness of 42mm.

CrystaLogic® White and ColorLogic® lights have a lifetime of more than 30,000 hours, thanks to their anodised aluminium casing and plastic lens, which provide exceptional protection against aggressive climate conditions and water treatment chemicals.

They feature: • Safety: the range is compliant with all European lighting regulations.

• Remote reliability: The radio frequency communication between the lighting and remote control is also certified.

• Energy savings: The maximum electricity consumption is 16W for the ColorLogic® LED light.

• Aesthetic aspects: The ColorLogic® and CrystaLogic® LED lights can be personalised to match the colour of the pool, with a choice of four ring colours (dark grey, light grey, sand and white).

Zodiac’s compact and powerful ‘NL’ nicheless LED lights are easy and fast to install for fantastic lighting of any swimming pool or spa

• An infinite number of mood options: The ColorLogic® model offers a choice of 16 lighting programmes, allowing users to adjust the atmosphere to suit the mood of the moment using the optional remote control. The lighting programmes can be synchronised immediately with no need to turn the system off.

To complement these latest PAR56 options, the Hayward range of mini LED lights are aslo available to integrate into all swimming pool types (liner, concrete or fibreglass) and all pool shapes to light up specific points such as stairs, steps, fountains and pool water features.

For peace of mind, all these lights feature a two-year warranty. SPN

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.co.uk Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.fairlocks.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk Light Projects 020 7231 8282 www.lightprojects.co.uk SCP UK 01268 273040 www.scpeurope.com

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A luxury finish for pools & spas The superior alternative to white PVC wall fittings for concrete and prefab pools.

For high quality design and construction, it makes sense to finish with Flolux.

Available from

STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS

Stainless Steel – Strength, Sustainability And More!

The appeal of stainless steel for pool and spas construction goes much further than it being a material chosen for use solely in challenging environments.

Trendsetters love its polished looks and the same applies for many accessories too. Strength and durability combined with timeless aesthetics – it’s a winning combination that ensures stainless steel solutions are always in demand and in this issue, we examine just some of the products utilising it By Jon Wadeson

T

he durability and longevity of stainless steel in pools, spas and their associated accessories makes for a responsible choice, plus the material provides a luxury aesthetic option too. Stainless steel is recyclable, so is ecologically sustainable, as well as being eminently durable. It can also withstand challenging climate conditions meaning it’s equally at home in both an outdoor or indoor environment. The wet leisure industry has implemented stainless steel in many situations – from spas and hot tubs to pools and a good range of ancillary products such as gratings, drains, lighting, filters and more. In short, the flexible nature of stainless steel has captured the imagination of many manufacturers, retailers and end users to become a popular option across the pool and spa market. So read on as we examine a selection of products that are utilising the benefits of stainless steel.

CUSTOM-BUILT SOLUTIONS PRODUCED TO EXACTING STANDARDS As a robust and durable material that still looks amazing year after year, when it comes to spas and pools, stainless steel provides the best solution in the long term and SpaFlo is focused on creating striking, luxurious, custom-built spas and pools that they manufacture exclusively from the durable and flexible material.

“At SpaFlo, our in-house designers use stainless steel to create stunning bespoke products, that satisfy the most demanding and high-end brief,” said Richard Gowland, Managing Director at the Widnes-based firm.

“Thanks to our in-depth specialist knowledge, experience and ingenuity around the use of this material, the demand for stainless steel products for a variety of spa related applications means that we’ve set up

a Special Projects Division to help our trade customers turn a potential headache into a sleek and seamless installation,” added Richard.

SpaFlo also offers a wide range of stainless steel accessories, including pool strainer boxes, skimmers, UV and air blower connections, lounger and bubbler stations plus pipework manifolds that can all be manufactured to suit any installation and complete the streamlined look.

The design team’s creative flair and attention to detail ensures that every SpaFlo designed and built stainless steel spa product is unique and will stand out in any prestigious garden or indoor spa space.

As a multi-award-winning business, SpaFlo works with most of the leading pool and spa installation companies on projects for highend hotels, super yachts and luxury spas, as well as supplying private individuals.

Designed, manufactured and fabricated in their own UK-based factory, SpaFlo’s stainless steel spas have enabled them to innovate and mitigate against global price and supply chain issues, without cutting corners or delaying delivery. Whilst still providing a quality guarantee that every job is designed, fabricated and tested under one roof – to Richard Gowland’s exacting standards.

DESIGNED TO LOOK GOOD AND PERFORM EVEN BETTER!

At SpaFlo, in-house designers use stainless steel to create stunning bespoke products, that satisfy the most demanding and high-end brief

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Plastica have years of experience manufacturing their own products, many of which are stainless steel based. This also gives them the advantage of offering a bespoke service.

Handrails or ladders can be custom made to the client’s exact requirements. Plastica has focused on quality and safety with its 43mm 316 grade mirror polished stainless steel ladders. In 2019 they launched a range of 43mm stainless steel pool ladders.

Designed and manufactured at their factory to conform with current EN regulations, they are installed with the double top tread close to the pool wall, reducing the risk of entrapment and include anti-slip treads.

One of Plastica’s established products

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STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS featuring stainless steel is the Domestic Slidelock Reel System. With the export market in mind, the T-model version has been developed making it easier and more costeffective to ship, due to reduced pack size.

The reel comes complete with all the necessary straps and fittings with an instruction guide to ensure a quick and effortless installation of either a new or existing cover to its adjustable tubes. The T-Model system is available in two sizes: the small tube which extends from 3.05m to 4.57m (10’ to 15’) pool width and the larger version which extends from 4.88m to 6.4mm (16’ to 21’) pool width.

In 2020 Plastica launched the Slidelock Max Telescopic Reel with an upgraded 138mm diameter anodised aluminium tubes, giving a coverage with the smaller option from 6m to 7m and the larger from 6 up to 8m width, meaning a maximum cover width of 7.7m can be used. Made from highly polished 48mm diameter 316 stainless steel tube, it is compatible with all of the company’s end stand options. Plastica also offer a stainless steel steering wheel.

Commenting on the use of the material with the company’s reel systems, Plastica’s Managing Director advised: “…we choose to work with stainless steel for our reel systems to really maximise strength, longevity and ease of maintenance.”

FLOLUX FITTINGS – THEIR QUALITY IS REFLECTED IN THEIR FINISH A huge amount of thought goes into designing luxury swimming pools and spas. But when selecting swimming pool and spa fittings, such as eyeball returns, pool builders tend to default to white PVC as standard. For luxury builds though, PVC fittings can compromise highend design by detracting from a polished and luxurious look. Not only this, plastic fittings are

Plastica have years of experience manufacturing their own products, many of which are stainless steel based.

This also gives them the advantage of offering a bespoke service

The flexible nature of stainless steel has captured the imagination of many manufacturers, retailers and end users to become a popular option across the pool and spa market” known to break down and discolour over time due to chemical and UV exposure.

Flolux stainless steel fittings are superior in both style and substance. Purposefully designed to finish any build impeccably, their mirror-finish causes them to disappear into their surroundings, enhancing, instead of detracting from the design.

Made from 316L marine-grade stainless Flolux fittings come in push-fit and threaded systems that are very easy to install during the build, or retrospectively

steel, they’re also longer-lasting than the PVC alternative. Compare the two hand-in-hand and the difference in quality is obvious – Flolux fittings are solid and weighty.

Suitable for concrete and some fibreglass pools, Flolux fittings come in push-fit and threaded systems that are very easy to install during the build, or retrospectively.

The ideal upgrade for any luxury pool or spa, stainless steel fittings are successfully offered as a contract variation by builders across the globe, helping to increase customer satisfaction and profitability.

With distributors in the US, Europe, Australia and Asia, Flolux fittings are available worldwide. Their range of quality products are available in the UK through Certikin or Fairlocks Pool Products.

For high-quality pool design and construction that companies are proud to put their name to, it makes sense to finish with Flolux.

FOR CERTIKIN, IT’S ALL IN THE DETAIL In addition to the innovatively designed range of Flolux fittings which are an ideal companion to the new PU2 Mini LED Light (which is featured in the lighting feature of this issue of SPN), Certikin urges customers not to ‘throw the baby out with the bath water’, as many pools and spas can be made to look as good as new using Certikin’s replacement fittings.

For a quick and simple way to give a pool a refreshing make-over, then look no further

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STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS AstralPool has added to its range with the launch of three solutions for enhancing a pool’s finish with stainless steel

than Certikin’s stainless steel transformation kits for concrete pools. Designed to transform standard Certikin plastic fittings into luxurious polished stainless steel fittings, they are suitable for both new build and retrofit. Available in a square (ideal for a contemporary modern look) or classic round design, the range includes skimmer, cover plates, inlets and vac points.

When it comes to making an entrance (or exit) Certikin also have a range of quality ladders for both domestic and

commercial pools.

Certikin 1.7”/43mm ladders are supplied with stainless steel anti-slip treads as standard, as well as the new Certikin 1.7”/43mm pinch anchor. The pinch anchor design is based on the popular 1.5”/38mm model for a secure, sturdy installation on all types of pool surround.

All 1.7”/43mm ladders are now manufactured in 316 grade stainless steel as standard and are suitable for concrete and liner pools.

Certikin stainless steel fittings are ideal for an up to the minute look in both new builds and retrofits

CASE STUDY

ASTRALPOOL ADDS TO ITS STAINLESS STEEL PRODUCTS RANGE AstralPool has added to its range of embedded materials in high quality AISI 316-L stainless steel, ideal for the construction, refurbishment or upgrade of swimming pools.

This material has many advantages.

Not only does it deliver elegance to a pool’s overall finish, but its durability and resistance make it the perfect ally against high and low temperatures, as it does not warp. What’s more, it does not age due to exposure to sunlight, it is easy to clean and its metallic tone provides more beautiful and top-quality finishes to a home’s pool area.

Anyone sensitive to the environmental impact of the products they purchase can rest assured: stainless steel is environmentally friendly and totally recyclable.

AstralPool has therefore added to its range with the launch of three solutions for enhancing a pool’s finish with stainless steel.

LumiPlus FlexiNiche is AstralPool’s new LED projector solution that adapts to any type of new-build or existing pool, as it

SPAFLO HITS THE HEIGHTS IN LONDON REFURBISHMENT

Hot Tubs come in many shapes and sizes, however unlike with SpaFlo’s unique creations, not all can be completely tailored to the needs of each client. So when the Liverpool-based firm

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were approached by a discerning customer who was looking for something completely different, they were able to assist with a bespoke. Solution.

The wow factor was essential, at least one massage cannon was required and a fully automatic cover was on the wish list too.

The project underwent several modifications until a technical design was finalised with the client. SpaFlo manufactured this amazing stainless steel hot tub from 316L grade stainless steel utilising the world’s top manufacturers of jets, controls and equipment. The three pump, 28 massage jet hot tub incorporates a Roldeck automatic solar gain slatted cover and a swan neck massage cannon, all controlled via modern touchscreens and remotely via Wi-Fi. Additional structural consideration was given to the niche required for the main contractor to install a glass balustrade onto the hot tub all down one side.

All external welds were carefully polished out and the hot tub was plumbed, wet tested and insulated in house. It was manufactured ahead of schedule so it could be craned onto its 9th floor penthouse balcony with other items being installed during the refurbishment of the circa £15m central London apartment.

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STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS can be fitted in niches of 180 to 230mm in diameter by just adjusting the screws. Ideal for public, hotel and residential pools, and now available in a stainless steel version (all in stainless steel or with an ABS body and stainless steel embellisher).

The High-Water Level Skimmer is another of the solutions available in stainless steel and its main feature is that it gives the visual effect of an overflow pool, as it enables the water line to be placed just below the coping stone (approximately +/-4 cm).

The stainless steel embellishers round off this range of ABS pool accessories and enable existing pools originally built with ABS materials to be upgraded.

AstralPool offer one-piece stainless steel pool options, which offer a degree of flexibility and functionality to cater for this niche market

BELOW & BELOW LEFT: Available from Golden Coast, Pahlén’s acid-proof stainless steel fittings are an excellent combination of form and function

ASTRALPOOL OFFER ONE-PIECE STEEL POOL OPTIONS In addition to offering smaller stainless steel components, AstralPool UK Ltd have supplied a number of complete stainless steel pools ranging from commercial applications to high-end developments.

Due to their intrinsic link with the manufacturers through its parent company Fluidra, AstralPool are well placed to build on the existing technical expertise by introducing further R&D of the pools, an example being where different flooring finish options are being developed to provide customers with a variety of styles to choose from. This is based on direct customer feedback where the need for alternative flooring options was highlighted.

A couple of years ago, AstralPool introduced new one-piece stainless steel pool options, which offer a degree of flexibility and functionality to cater for this niche market where users desire a high-end product but with the convenience of a one-piece solution.

They offer a stunning luxurious finish with functional performance and can be provided with a range of optional extras such as turbine driven counter-current units, loungers and neck massagers.

The company are committed to developing this niche sector and have a dedicated Business Development Manager working alongside a technical and project team. With a remit to develop this area, AstraPool seeks to expand the awareness of the company’s offering to existing trade customers but also to create awareness amongst key architects, specifiers and spa consultants who may be involved at various stages within the design process in this niche market.

Based on the fact that customers are continually looking for that exclusive ‘wow’ factor, AstralPool are confident that the demand will continue to grow as a pool with a polished stainless steel finish will certainly deliver this plus much more!

REAL STEEL, REAL STYLE – PAHLÉN PRODUCTS FROM GOLDEN COAST Stainless steel is a perennial favourite in

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pool design thanks to its combination of high durability and clean, modern finish.

Whether used alongside wood, tiles, fibreglass, or concrete, its understated style adds a touch of elegance to pools and spas.

Leading wet leisure distributor Golden Coast offers a comprehensive range of stainless steel fixtures from the industry’s best-loved brands, such as renowned Swedish manufacturer Pahlén, helping designers and owners easily achieve a luxury look.

Pahlén’s acid-proof stainless steel fittings are an excellent combination of form and function. Durable, attractive and finished to the highest quality, the range includes inlets, vac points, nozzles and skimmers.

“Pahlén products are known for their looks, but also their clever design,” said Adam Clark, General Manager at Golden Coast. “The wide-mouth skimmer is an obvious example.

Skimmers will usually need a basket and frame to be installed that is accessed from above. With Pahlén’s design the basket can be easily accessed from the skimmer’s mouth, meaning there’s no need for an unattractive skimmer lid disrupting the look.

“When you’ve put time and effort into getting the pool area – particularly an indoor area – just how you want, the last thing you want is having to compromise on that vision.”

Also available from Golden Coast is a range of Pahlén stainless steel counter-current units, allowing owners to get the most out of their pool without compromising on performance or aesthetics.

This includes the Pahlén Jet Swim Motion,

a unit designed around a pair of oval nozzles with the lower nozzle directed downwards for a more even distribution of streams to help users focus on strength and conditioning.

Also available is the Pahlén Jet Swim 2000, offering adjustable jet streams up to 71m3/h – making it exceptionally easy for users to make fitness gains.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.com Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.fairlocks.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com Plastica Pools 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net SpaFlo 0151 384 2493 www.spaflo.co.uk

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BUYERS GUIDE CONTROL PANELS

HEAT EXCHANGERS

ON-SITE LINING

PLAY EQUIPMENT

HEAT EXCHANGERS

ON-SITE LINING

PLAY EQUIPMENT

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FORJUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433 E. TONY@AQUAPUBLISHING.CO.UK

HEAT EXCHANGERS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

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BUYERS GUIDE POOL BUILDERS

POOL COVERS

POOL ENGINEERS

POOL ENGINEERS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

POOL COVERS

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POOL ENCLOSURES

POOL ENGINEERS

POOL EQUIPMENT

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BUYERS GUIDE POOL EQUIPMENT

POOL EQUIPMENT

POOL LIFTS & SPA HOISTS

SPRAYED CONCRETE

PRESSURE TESTING & LEAK DETECTION EQUIP

SPRAYED CONCRETE

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

POOL EQUIPMENT

POOL FLOORS – SERVICING

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £495!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR LESS THAN £1.50 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

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BUYERS GUIDE SPRAYED CONCRETE

TILED SPAS

WATER SAMPLING

ADVERTISERS INDEX

ALBIXON

49

Aquaflex

06

Artesian Spas

OBC

AstralPool UK

24, 38 & 75

Certikin

44, 57, 58 & 69

Dripool

11

Fairlocks Pool Products Flolux

70

Gaffey

44

GMT Spas

27

Golden Coast

SWIM SPAS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £495!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR LESS THAN £1.50 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

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WATER TREATMENT

19, 27 & 41

Hanna Instruments

14

Heatstar Europe

63

Humidity Solutions

11

ISPE

16

Lighthouse

WATER MONITORING & CONTROL

IFC & 64

28 & 69

Lovibond

50

MSpa

21

NIVEKO

06

On-site Pool Linings

16

Piscine Global Europe

41

Plastica

58

PoolLock

13

Poolstar

13

RCK

36

Recotherm

57

SCP UK

08

SpaFlo

75

Spanet

19

SPATEX

35

STA

36

Superior Wellness

IBC

Ustigate Waterplay

24

Verder UK

16

Water i.d.

50

Waterco

05

Waterco/Certikin

43

Wellis

22

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OPINION

We Were Having A Heatwave, A Tropical Heatwave, But… “We are looking at the driest summer for 87 years and Britain has just recorded its highest ever temperatures but guess what, as far as pools and hot tubs are concerned, it just seems to be the wrong sort of summer,” observes Jamie Adams, Managing Director of Golden Coast

P

arts of England have just experienced the driest July since 1935 and Coningsby in sunny Lincolnshire recorded a temperature of 40.3°C, the highest ever recorded in England.

Newspaper front covers carried prophecies of scorching summer-long heat waves, clear blue skies and sun-bronzed bodies.

Unfortunately, the weather has made headlines but it hasn’t made the sort of conditions that drive people to open their pools and turn on their hot tubs.

We may be in August already, but for the wet leisure industry the season hasn’t really got going yet and I am starting to wonder if it ever will.

OCCASIONALLY ROUGH, BECOMING VARIABLE Last season’s summer was the perfect wet leisure weather; warm, dry and, most of all, dependable.

2021 was good early in the season and stayed good and that is what you are looking for when you are wondering whether to open your pool or heat up the hot tub. You don’t want it looking like a good idea on Friday morning and then spending the entire weekend peering at a grey and cloudy sky.

Those record-breaking temperatures are already being followed by forecasts of unsettled weather, thunderstorms and showers although what has arrived already is our old favourite, the hosepipe ban. The first ban of the summer was introduced in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. They have now spread across the south east and could go national.

COUNTING THE COST Of course, we have had less-than-perfect summers before and we all know that we work in a solar-powered industry. When the weather is good, business is good. This year however, a less than perfect start to the season in terms of weather seems to have had a disproportionate effect on sales.

Price caps have come off. Energy prices

saving technology in commercial installations is overwhelming. Public pools struggle to stay open because of heating costs. For a holiday rental or holiday park, offering guests their own spa has become standard but can owners continue to offer guests 24/7 use of that tub?

Changing from electric heating to heat pumps can reduce energy bills significantly and ensure that pools and spas can stay open and keep the property attractive to guests.

GOOGLE IT have gone up. Domestic energy bills are already more than 50% higher and expected to climb even more.

Opening a pool has become a costly business. For some people, running their hot tub for a month might cost them over £250. For that kind of money you want to be soaking in your spa enjoying perfect weather, not wondering when the clouds might part and let the sun come out.

Pools and spas aren’t being opened so the surge of chemical and accessory sales that usually accompany the beginning of the season haven’t taken place. Fortunately, there is something that can replace that income.

SPEND MONEY TO SAVE MONEY The wet leisure industry has looked to be more eco-friendly for many years now, minimising the amount of chemicals that are used and the water that is consumed, but the energy crisis that the world finds itself in now has focussed everyone’s attention on spiralling energy costs and how to minimise their impact.

The science of energy efficiency has moved on rapidly in the past few years and retrofitting new technology to existing hot tubs and pools can make them much more energy efficient.

This is true for domestic installations but the argument for retrofitting energy

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We think this is such an important subject that we have put a new section on our website focusing on energy efficiency and how you can help your customers cut their energy bills.

Some products will be familiar; they have been around for a long time. For instance DEL replacement slats can be specified in polycarbonate, which provides solar gains and so contributes to heating the pool.

Other technology is relatively new; for instance, PoolCop. PoolCop is an automated pool management system that is particularly attractive to pool maintenance firms but in Evolution spec works brilliantly on domestic installations. PoolCop does everything possible to reduce the impact of the pool on the environment and in so doing, dramatically reduces energy bills.

Very often these products work best when two or more are used in combination and so we have put some suggested pairings for you on the site to offer to your customers.

THE WORLD SEEMS AS CHANGEABLE AS THE WEATHER There have been so many changes in the world recently that it is hard to keep track but the biggest one for me by far is the recent loss of my mum, Angie.

A founding partner of Golden Coast, wife to David and mother of Shaun, Dominic and myself, she played a key role in the start-up, ongoing growth and success of the business.

She will be fondly remembered and sorely missed by her family and all who knew her.

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

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