SPN (Swimming Pool News) February 2023

FEBRUARY 2023

POOLS SPAS HOT TUBS SAUNAS CHEMICALS ACCESSORIES & MORE

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE UK INDUSTRY

POOL & SPA PUMPS Keeping the water flowing in pools and spas

2023 HOT TUBS What’s new for the season ahead

WATER TREATMENTS & SYSTEMS For a clean and safe environment

COVENTRY’S CALLING

We Preview This Year’s SPATEX Exhibition Taking Place 31 January To 2 February

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Pool & Spa Industry | STA Pool Plant – Training | Pool Cleaners | Opinion Company Focus – Water i.d. | UV Systems | 12 Pages Of The B est Industry News 19/01/2023 11:13

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Editor’s POOLS SPAS HOT TUBS SAUNAS CHEMICA

LS ACCESSORIES & MORE

FEBRUARY 2023

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.

some inspiration or to improve their industry knowledge and understanding of selling, installing, owning or operating wet leisure products, SPATEX is the place to be. Featuring over 100 high quality exhibitors, the three-day event helps to keep the trade up to speed with the latest trends and technologies – and that’s an even bigger requirement than usual given the uncertainty that many are predicting for the industry, at least in the short term.

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE UK INDUSTRY

POOL & SPA PUMP S Keeping the water flowing in pools and spas

2023 HOT TUBS

Editor and Co Publisher: Jon Wadeson Features: Karen Witney Features & Subeditor: Andrea Hartshorne

What’s new for the season ahead

WATE R TREAT MENT S & SYSTE MS For a clean and safe environment

In this latest issue, we feature a full preview of the annual trade show and take a closer look at what visitors can expect to find when they arrive at this year’s Midlands-based event.

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 UBL I Sgive H I no NG reputable, Swimming PoolPNews can 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.

COVENTRY’S CALLING n We Preview This Year’s SPATEX Exhibitio Taking Place 31 January To 2 February

PLUS

letter

| Pool Cleaners | Opinion Pool & Spa Industry | STA Pool Plant – Training | 12 Pages Of The B est Industry News Company Focus – Water i.d. | UV Systems 19/01/2023 11:13

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So here we are again – the start of another year – and following what’s happened over the last three years, I’m already wondering what the next 12 months hold for our industry and the wider economy. After all, it seems uncertainty is rapidly becoming the norm and the ability to plan or predict what’s round the corner is becoming harder than ever. One thing that is for sure, is that inflation and in particular the costs of energy are having a real impact on our industry, and in particular, commercial operators. Following COVID lockdowns, which really impacted public pools, I can’t understand how the sector is not getting support as part of the new Energy Bills Discount Scheme. I fear it could spell disaster for many pools across the country and I’m far from the only one. What’s worse, this is happening at a time where there is a shortage of public pools already and where health and physical activity should be a high priority. It’s a shocking state of affairs which I hope gets sorted soon.

Of course, some pools, particularly those that were built and equipped some time ago, do need investment to make them more efficient and sustainable anyway, and this is true for many pools found in the private sector too. But rising energy costs will spell the end for some, and many others will be mothballed for at least the short term. For others though, there’s a chance to modernise with a view to become more efficient going forward. To see in the flesh what’s available to achieve this, you can’t beat an industry exhibition full of product and know how.

For the UK wet leisure industry, the first major event of any year is the SPATEX exhibition, which is returning to the Coventry Building Society Arena at the end of January. For anyone who has a need for new products, services,

Throughout the magazine, we take a closer look at various key subjects that span a number of sectors across the industry. For example, we highlight a number of new models and brands available in the hot tub sector, plus we examine various options for the sanitisation of water, options which use a variety of ingenious technologies. UV is just one of them and that gets its own stand-alone feature this issue.

We also take a closer look at some of the products that are keeping the water flowing in pools and spas. By this, I am of course talking pumps and we look at what’s currently available from numerous brands. We also highlight ten products, most of which are robotic, that will take the effort out of cleaning pools and spas in the season ahead.

In his regular piece, Jamie Adams gives his thoughts on the state of an ever-changing industry while Luke Griffiths from the STA looks at the organisation’s Ofqual Regulated Level 3 Award in Pool Plant Operations. We’ve a piece looking at German water testing specialist Water-i.d. plus there’s also our regular and useful updates from the BSPF, SPATA and BISHTA, including a look at the many benefits membership offers to businesses.

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

So, with this first issue of the year broken down feature by feature, all that leaves me to say is here’s to a great year and I hope you enjoy reading it.

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 February 2023 3 19/01/2023 12:39

CONTENTS

Inside This 75

43

59 COVER

COVENTRY’S CALLING

A preview of this year’s SPATEX exhibition taking place in Coventry

2023 HOT TUBS

69 43 59

We look at the latest brands, models and innovations for the 2023 season

UV SYSTEMS

65

UV’s ultra effectiveness means it’s still a firm favourite for water sanitisation

WATER TREATMENTS & SYSTEMS

69

75

Keeping the water flowing in pools and spas – we highlight what’s available

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

The industry’s associations dedicated pages

STA POOL PLANT

Luke Griffiths takes a closer look at the organisation’s highest PPO qualification

31 36

POOL CLEANERS

40

OPINION

INDUSTRY

06

PEOPLE

12

PRODUCT / ECO

14

HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS

20

WORLD

27

New appointments, personnel updates and training

39

It’s exciting times for German water testing specialist Water-i.d.

NEWS

The latest industry news, info, projects and gossip

COMPANY FOCUS

Ten labour saving cleaners that are keeping pools and spas clean in 2023

Clean and safe water – treatments that provide peace of mind for owners

POOL & SPA PUMPS

FEATURES

Innovations and new products on the market

Dedicated news for this important sector

84

Golden Coast’s Jamie Adams gives his thoughts on a rapidly changing industry

All the latest news from around the world

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CONTENTS

Issue Of SPN 65

39

27

40

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 80

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

• SPATA and BISHTA Award winners • Swim spas – mid and high-end models • Automatic pool covers (domestic sector) • One-piece and fibreglass pools • Pool liners and systems

Plus much, much more!

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NEWS

NEWS

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

Pool Specialist Entrusts Recotherm With Environmental Control Solutions Aquascapes have entrusted Recotherm with providing environmental control solutions for in excess of 25 years. That includes the design, engineering, supply and delivery of environmental systems on many of the company’s premier pool projects.

The two companies teamed up once again for the high-end leisure facilities located at The Third Space City Club just outside of Fenchurch Street, London, a new complex which combines serious training with a sophisticated, boutique aesthetic, with both raw and polished concrete and copper sheet used throughout.

The Aquascapes project at the Club, being a premier health club, needed equipment that is well built, superbly engineered and reliable plus able to provide an extremely comfortable environment for the 20m swimming pool and accompanying spa.

Aquascapes like to push the boundaries for pool design and materials used, incorporating laser cut and folded steel panels, which were anodised and mirror polished copper coated to provide a mirror effect, thus giving a respectful nod to the building’s history, as originally the metals commodity trading site in London. This doesn’t stop even within the pool environment, and Aquascapes appreciate that Recotherm have the best systems to keep the materials used at optimum condition for the service life of the installation, as well as providing the ultimate

in bather comfort.

Knowing this means that Aquascapes can deliver visually stunning schemes such as the examples that can be seen on this project and many others, knowing they will be kept looking stunning through efficient environmental controls.

Aquascapes 01268 768555 www.aquascapesuk.com Recotherm 01527 894533 www.recotherm.co.uk

There’s A New Dawn On The Golden Coast Golden Coast and Pollet Pool Group UK, two of the leading distributors in the industry, have officially combined their strengths, becoming a single organisation.

As longstanding industry pillars, this change will be welcome news for customers of both companies who will now benefit from both greatly enhanced product choice and customer support.

Under the new structure there will be teams based out of Barnstaple and Newbury, both overseen by Golden Coast General Manager Adam Clark. Golden Coast will be the name used for trading and day-to-day operations, with Pollet Pool Group UK staff becoming part of the Golden Coast team.

This partnership allows them to benefit from each other’s expertise, ultimately resulting in a greater whole.

One of the most notable changes has been the introduction of a new team dedicated to customer service. “Golden Coast is always looking for ways to add value for our customers,” explained Adam. “By investing in our teams – whether it’s accounts, technical, or this new customer

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service team – we strive to keep our standards at their very highest right across the board.

“With our new extended family, we’ll be able to build on everything that has made each company great. Bringing the teams together will allow us to be a single port of call that offers an even more comprehensive range of cutting-edge services and best-inclass products, all backed by the same high levels of support and commitment to excellence that customers have come to expect from the Golden Coast name.”

Kristy Carlisle, Operations Manager at the Golden Coast Newbury site added: “This move has brought about excitement from both sides. Everything from the expanded catalogues to the skills and expertise of our staff, it all feels like it’s a perfect complement.”

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

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NEWS

IN BRIEF PLANS PROGRESS FOR NEW £70M LEISURE CENTRE PROJECT IN SUFFOLK Plans to deliver a new leisure centre in Bury St Edmunds will now go to the final stage of tendering after being agreed by West Suffolk Council.

At a meeting in December, councillors agreed in principle to invest £40m in the new leisure centre. The facilities will be delivered as part of a smaller first phase of the Western Way project which could cost around £70m.

Work on a new leisure centre in Bury St Edmunds can still begin next year if it comes within budget.

Responding to what residents wanted to see, the new stateof-the-art centre will include an eight-lane main pool, a large learner pool, a fun pool plus various other sports facilities.

This phase is the initial step to deliver a masterplan to regenerate a key site in Bury St Edmunds while improving access to better and more modern services. Renewable energy will also tackle the effects of the current energy crisis.

WELSH COMMUNITY POOL RECEIVES GRANT FOR RENOVATIONS A Sport Wales Capital Grant of £207,000 from the Welsh Government has been secured

by Ceredigion County Council to fund essential capital works at Cardigan Memorial Swimming Pool and Hall.

The grant will enable the swimming pool to upgrade its pool plant equipment and air handling unit, insulate the roof above the toddler pool and purchase new pool covers.

Katie Proven, the newly appointed manager of the centre welcomed the news and said: “This investment will help us make much needed efficiency savings, reducing our energy costs and environmental footprint. This is excellent news for the people of Cardigan.”

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Is It A Pool Or A Football Pitch? It’s Both For One Lucky Family A London-based family found an ingenious solution to their dilemma of maximising their garden space – should they have a luxury swimming pool for exercise and fun or leave the garden unchanged so that the children could play their beloved football.

The perfect compromise for this situation was a pool with a movable floor, eliminating the need to choose between swimming or football – they now have both. A pool with a movable floor is a superb option for families that want the ability to make the pool vanish out of sight when they want to use their precious space for a different social activity. When activated, the movable floor installed at the base of the pool rises to the surface and hides the pool in minutes.

Tanby Swimming Pools was commissioned by the client to design and build the pool, and they in turn worked closely with Twinscape Group to integrate its world renowned Hydrofloors® movable floor system into the design of an attractive 8m x 3m x 1.5m courtyard pool.

Commenting on the pool, Delyse Borley, Director at Tanby said: “The shaded charcoal mosaic tiling had to be millimetre perfect for the exact tolerances of the Hydrofloors movable floor which was being

made off site from drawings rather than measured on site. We embraced the client’s novel idea of gluing Astro Turf grass to the top of the movable floor, including the steps and surround, so that once the movable floor is raised and the pool is closed off, the pool is indistinguishable, and the entire grassed area is then devoted to other activity.

A multi-purpose area for family pool fun, swimming, ball games, plus absolute safety – all members of the family have exactly what they want.”

Twinscape Group 01473 938689 www.twinscapegroup.com

Influx Of Sales Means Expansion For One-Piece Pool And Spa Business Mosaic Spa and One Pool have recently acquired an additional 12,000 sq. ft. to their site in York to accommodate the influx of pools and spas that they are manufacturing and supplying to the UK, USA and Europe.

The company has seen exponential grown in both spa and the one-piece pool ‘The One Pool’ manufacturing.

The company has established a large dealer network throughout the USA and Europe and continue to supply pools and spas whilst growing this network and expanding their range of awardwinning products.

Mosaic Spa and One Pool specialise in providing a superior level of bespoke mosaic tiled spas and pools that offer an elegant aesthetic to any project.

The products currently consist of a stunning range of spas, skimmer spas, deck level spas, hydrotherapy spas, plunge pools, vitality spas, swim spas and ice baths.

The revolutionary and award-winning The One Pool is as simple as excavating a hole, installing a concrete slab then simply dropping it in to place to

be installed.

This dramatically reduces the total time of the project whilst maintaining the quality and finish of a mosaic tiled swimming pool.

The One Pool comes with stainless steel finishes as standard plus a vast tile range, meaning creating the perfect pool to match any desired aesthetic is as easy as the install.

This one-piece pool is perfect for adding the elegance of a full-length mosaic tiled pool but with minimal effort and comes with a plethora of additions and optional extras such as integrated pool covers and counter-current units.

The composite technology used to construct The One Pool has been developed within the company’s UK based factory to ensure unparalleled strength in the structure and imperviable insulation to regulate temperature.

Mosaic Spa and One Pool 01759 321135 www.mosaicspa.co.uk / www.onepool.uk

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NEWS

IN BRIEF END OF ONE ERA, BEGINNING OF ANOTHER FOR GLASGOW FACILITY Allander Leisure Centre bid farewell to its final customers this January, as a new era continues to take shape nearby.

The Bearsden site is being redeveloped as part of a £42.5m investment by the Council which includes a new, state-of-the-art sports and leisure complex.

Amongst other sports facilities, on the wet leisure side, the new Allander will include an eight-lane swimming pool and 20m training pool with movable floor, a hydrotherapy pool, a sauna and steam vitality room.

The Council is working closely with partners including East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust (EDLCT) and East Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership.

McLaughlin & Harvey is the main contractor and architectural design is by Holmes Miller, with support from Doig + Smith, Brown + Wallace and planning consultancy Barton Willmore.

WORK TO BEGIN ON NEW-LOOK ALTRINCHAM LEISURE CENTRE Work is due to start on an exciting, large-scale multi-million-pound refurbishment of Altrincham Leisure Centre, following approval of planning permission for the new design in December.

For those that like to spend their time in or around water, the centre will benefit from a 25m swimming pool, a 20m learner pool, a pool pod to improve accessibility, a combined lobby area with pool viewing and café, a wet village changing area plus a health and wellbeing spa facility.

The refurbishment will also include the replacement of the fossil fuel (gas) heating system with air source heat pumps and solar panels, which are significantly more sustainable options than the existing systems and support Trafford Council’s action plan to be Carbon Neutral by 2038.

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Paralympic Swimmer Officially Opens New Berkshire Facility Paralympic swimmer, Graham Edmunds gave Reading’s brand-new Palmer Park Leisure Centre & Stadium, which includes a new 25m community pool, the official seal of approval on Thursday 12 January.

Double Gold Medallist Graham, who was born and grew up in Reading, was joined by the Mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden and Adele Barnett-Ward, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Culture and Leisure, alongside representatives from GLL, Reading’s leisure partner running the new centre, and Pellikaan, the site’s construction company, in officially celebrating the opening of the new facilities. Palmer Park Leisure Centre & Stadium opened to the public on 19 December 2022.

The facilities at the centre have been designed to be as accessible as possible – and the swimming pool includes an Pool Pod lift to lower customers who need extra support into the pools in a safe, dignified and discreet manner, rather than traditional hoists.

Leisure facilities across the borough are being improved and modernised so that every resident can benefit, as part of Reading Borough Council’s £40m investment in modern leisure facilities across the town.

Alongside this, taking action on the climate emergency remains a top priority and new facilities have integral measures to reduce carbon emissions, using renewables and improve environmental efficiency that will hopefully make Reading’s leisure facilities as environmentally friendly as possible. Solar

panels and an air source heat pump were installed on the new roof at Palmer Park. The sustainable measures we’ve invested in will equate to a 50% reduction in the carbon emission rate of the new pool’s heating system. An air source heat pump is used to provide the heat source for warming the water temperature, reducing the carbon footprint of the pool.

AstralPool UK And BIO-UV Group Announce New Distributor Agreement BIO-UV Group, a specialist in water treatment and disinfection systems using UV, Ozone, Salt Electrolysis and AOP, and AstralPool UK Ltd are pleased to announce the signature of a new distribution partnership. The new agreement appoints AstralPool UK Ltd for the exclusive distribution of the Group’s UV water treatment solutions for the UK and Ireland domestic pools and spas market.

This new partnership will bring an even more dynamic relationship between the manufacturing and distribution companies and will contribute to strengthening the already successful business relationship that has existed with Fluidra and BIO-UV Group throughout Europe for many years.

With the present partnership, BIO-UV Group and AstralPool UK bring to the customers of these territories a dedicated pre- and post-sale support, guaranteeing the best possible experience and local service.

Simon Marshall, Deputy General Manager

of BIO-UV Group & triogen® Managing Director, commented: “We are delighted to partner with AstralPool UK, part of Fluidra, being recognised as the experts to build, remodel or maintain a residential or commercial pool, water park, spa and wellness centre. A market leader in the UK for over 30 years through its triogen® subsidiary, BIO-UV Group is delighted to reinforce the service and commitment to its customers through this important collaboration.”

Dyfed Thompson-Smith, General Manager, AstralPool UK Ltd, added: “A major player in manufacturing UV systems, we are happy to rely on and work collaboratively with BIO-UV Group’s robust and high value-added technologies to offer sustainable solutions to our customers.”

AstrallPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.co.uk

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PEOPLE NEWS

Twinscape Expand With Appointment Of Senior Vice President

Debbie Russell

Laura Roberts

Swimex Strengthens Its Sales Team With Role Changes And Additions Enclosure specialist Swimex have announced that the domestic side of the Northamptonshirebased business is now being run completely by Debbie Russell.

With over 25 years of relevant experience, including over five years working at Swimex, Debbie was promoted to Associate Director in 2022.

Debbie is now responsible for the day-to-day running of sales, marketing, orders and installations for the Swimex domestic enclosures division and is now the main contact for any new residential projects. She will be backed up where necessary by the Managing Director on strategy and new technical dossiers plus a small team of Technical Consultants who focus on visiting customer sites and confirming orders.

Debbie maintains a direct focus on ensuring that all customer enquiries are dealt with in the most helpful and concise manner to make sure that Swimex operates efficiently

and beneficially to their valued customers.

In addition to this change, Laura Roberts is now fully in charge of after sales for all products, ensuring that customers are always taken care of after they’ve purchased an enclosure from Swimex. Furthermore, Laura also assists in the development of the company’s Dealer Referral programme and is now the main contact for vital components, such as domestic motors and air heaters.

Swimex have also expanded the team further with two new part-time resources. Working alongside Debbie, George Nowill is developing all marketing and promotional materials for the company, while Lesley Tyrrell will assist with administration by maintaining the office-based database and providing general support to the Swimex team.

Swimex Enclosures 0800 804 8025 www.swimex.co.uk

Specialist lifting pool floor company Twinscape Group have expanded their management team with the appointment of Sanjay Sharma as Group Senior Vice President.

Sanjay will lead the global Twinscape team forward as they continue providing their innovative Hydrofloors technology to the pool and spa world.

Sanjay is a senior Commercial Director and joins Twinscape with over 25 years of experience gained within multiple industries and brands around the world (US, Asia, Europe, Russia and the Middle East). He is a highly respected non-executive director and has held the positions of CEO, COO, CFO and Commercial Director in a number of prestigious UK businesses. As a senior Commercial Director, he has successfully grown brands internationally and has extensive strategic, financial and operational experience.

He has a deep understanding of the various routes to market appropriate to deliver profitable and controlled growth, whilst ensuring a consistent execution of any brand message.

In recent years Sanjay has acted as a trusted advisor to entrepreneurs, investors, and boards in the capacity of nonexecutive director, supervisory board member and Audit Chair.

Sanjay is currently Deputy Chair and Audit Chair of Gerry Weber AG and a board director of B_together.

With a company philosophy of being driven by a desire to provide the finest solutions for clients through a combination of creative design and precision engineering, the team at Twinscape Group are extremely excited to have Sanjay on board and are looking forward to his impact.

Twinscape Group 01473 938689 www.twinscapegroup.com

From 2023, IQL UK To Be Known As RLSS UK Qualifications RLSS UK, one of the UK’s premier providers of water-related safety qualifications and training, has announced that they have rebranded their awarding organisation from IQL UK to RLSS UK. Under the awarding body IQL UK, RLSS UK has been providing qualifications regulated by Ofqual, QiW, and CCEA for over 20 years, including the industry-leading NPLQ (National Pool Lifeguard Qualification) − currently held by over 90 per cent of all pool lifeguards in the UK – more than 90,000 pool lifeguards!

Jo Talbot, Commercial Director, RLSS UK, said about the change: “Every year RLSS UK certify more than 60,000 regulated

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qualifications and non-regulated vocational training awards. The high-quality service we provide to our loyal customers and developing the optimum level of training to help support swimming pools and many other aquatic settings to be as safe as possible are central to everything we do as an organisation. We constantly review how

we can meet the needs of the leisure sector to support the delivery of our qualifications, and we feel that this is the right time to make this change. This move will see us provide simplification for our customers and the industry and further strengthen the RLSS UK brand. The RLSS UK brand means so much to so many and has done for over 130 years, and we aspire to continue to grow it as a household name in the UK and Ireland to help our charity educate more families on how to enjoy water safely.”

RLSS UK 0300 323 0096 www.rlss.org.uk

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

A Product That’ll Get Operators In A Spin With nearly 40 years of heritage and built upon the pillars of quality, integrity and customer service, Extractor Corporation, creator of the SUITMATE® Swimsuit Water Extractor, offers a solution that efficiently removes 95% of water from a wet swimsuit in just eight seconds.

Features include: • 304-series, medical-grade stainless steel designed to withstand high-moisture environments better than other material alternatives • Manual self-start and stop via hand pressure on the lid • Built-in ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or residual current device (RCD) • Operates safely without heat • UL, CUL and CE safety certifications.

World’s First Dream Tunnel™ Wins IAAPA Brass Ring Award

Available in the UK through changing room experts Safe Space Lockers, this product serves as the gold standard within its field and provides convenience for high-end spas, luxury hotels and health clubs, and offers fitness clubs, swim clubs, educational facilities and public pools a way to keep facilities cleaner, safer and drier.

Built with high-quality materials and featuring global safety and electrical certifications, the easy-to-maintain product is backed by Extractor Corporation’s product and service integrity.

By pairing exceptional and caring customer service with a superior product, customers in every facility the company serves have come to view the SUITMATE Swimsuit Water Extractor as the pinnacle of aquatic amenities.

Extractor Corporation backs their product throughout the entire lifecycle, including support with installation, parts and service.

Safe Space Lockers 020 3651 1500 www.safespacelockers.co.uk

Manufacturer Vortex Aquatic Structures – whose products are available in the UK through Ustigate Waterplay – has received another accolade after being selected in first place for the 2022 IAAPA Brass Ring Best New Product Exhibitor Award late last year. The world’s first fully immersive aquatic attraction, which offers guests a dream-like adventure, won first place in the Water Park Ride/Attraction category for products under US$2m.

In the category, esteemed judges evaluated criteria such as originality, quality, and innovation of the product, benefit to the prospective buyer and feedback received.

Combining water, art and technology, Dream Tunnel™ pushes the boundaries of water attractions, and thanks to Vortex’s innovative interactive technology, no two adventures are the same.

Each ride provides a unique sequence of colourful images, enriching sounds and sensory experiences that guests will want to relive over and over.

After launching the innovative water attraction at IAAPA Expo

2021, Super Aqua Club (SAC), a water park in Pointe-Calumet, Quebec, Canada, approached Vortex to design and build the first Dream Tunnel™. It was an opportunity to transform their existing lazy river into a fully immersive aquatic attraction suitable for visitors of all ages.

Inaugurated in July 2022, SAC re-branded the attraction as The Zephyr River, a unique floating journey through a magical jungle.

The new and improved lazy river has captivated park guests and generated significant buzz through local and national news channels and social media.

“We are so honoured to be recognised for bringing something truly unique to the water park industry,” said Stephen Hamelin, President and CEO of Vortex.

“Every team member has worked hard to bring the Dream Tunnel™ vision to reality. We look forward to collaborating with parks worldwide on future installations.”

Ustigate Waterplay 01322 424445 www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk

EVi Pools Offers Trade Swimming Pool Installation Package And More One-piece pool pioneer Waterstream, home to Compass Pools UK, are pleased to announce the launch of EVi Pools, an exclusive range of complete trade pool packages.

After seeing a rise in demand in recent years for their one-piece pools offering fast installation, low maintenance and economical running, Waterstream anticipates that demand for trade installations of onepiece pools will follow suit. The company has had a number of enquiries from trade professionals looking to work with them and would like to be able to give those looking to gain access to the wet leisure industry a simple solution to installation that enables them to give clients 5* results every time.

Trade professionals can purchase a pool

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package in the new Evi Pools line that includes a pre-fitted, one-piece pool shell and a pressure tested, pre-plumbed, and prewired plant room with filtration system ready to connect after placement on delivery.

Evi Pools will offer guided direction throughout the process, with all the necessary information provided for the

groundworks team to prepare for the pool delivery day when an EVi representative will attend to assist with placement of the pool and connecting the pool to the plant room.

This ensures a safe and quality installation.

With three different flat bottom pool shell sizes available, EVi6 (6m x 3.1m), EVi8 (8.3m x 3.5m) EViX (10.3m x 3.5m) additional option packages can also be purchased with every model including a semi-automatic safety roller cover, remote control turbine, semi-automatic chlorine feeder and a cleaning robot.

EVi Pools 01403 577674 www.evi.co.uk

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New Premium Product Launches for 2023

Cordless Pool Cleaner...

FEATURES:

OTH

ER

 Rechargeable, no cable, no caddy  30, 60 or 120 minute cleaning cycle options  Eco mode for light cleaning

Ocea Cordless Pool Cleaner

Other pool cleaners

 i-MAPPING technology

Powered by i-MAPPING Technology, offering full coverage and straight cleaning path, giving excellent results

No path planning resulting in less coverage and imperfect cleaning

 Can tackle any shape pool  Up to 8 hours run time

OTH

ER

 Indoor and outdoor pools up to 20m pool length

Vertical X Heat Pump...

FEATURES:  Turbo/ Smart/ Silence Mode Selection  Show real-time power consumption  Operating Air Temperature: -15̊ C/+43̊ C  Built-in Wi-Fi  Averagely more than 15x quieter*

AP

P ROV E D

 3x energy saving, COP up to 16.3*  Indoor and outdoor pools. Pool Size Range 20m³–160m³ *Compared to some older models

For more information visit www.oceauk.com and to join our Dealer Network please call 01993 707 910

www.oceauk.com

Ocea Heat Pump-Robot A4 advert Jan 2023.indd 1

@oceapoolcovers

@oceapoolproducts

13/01/2023 09:57

PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

Poolican – 4 Solutions In 1 For Small Pool Owners Poolex, Poolstar’s flagship brand, shakes up the market once again with its latest creation – the Poolican. This intuitive piece of equipment brings together the four essential functions for a healthy and comfortable pool: circulation pump, filtration, chlorinator and heat pump.

Equipped with a Plug & Play system, Poolican is a compact device that is placed near the pool and connected to an electrical outlet.

It is covered by a thermoformed ABS shell with rounded shapes meaning there’s no need to hide it as it’s inherently discreet. The Poolican includes an integrated Wi-Fi connection which is controlled from a smartphone: temperature, circulation, filtration time, chlorinator and programming are all accessible.

Responding to current challenges, Poolex wants to support its customers in more conscious and less energy-intensive routines.

Every part of the Poolican is designed to meet current challenges: • Circulation pump • Cartridge filter – prevents the wastage of water by ‘backwashing’ • Natural treatment by salt electrolysis • 5kW Full Inverter and reversible heat pump.

Thanks to the electrolyser, the treatment of the pool is more natural and is free from the disadvantages of chemicals. The heat pump is equipped with Full Inverter functionality for continuous operation without any peak in consumption, which considerably reduces your energy consumption.

The Poolican is intended for volumes up to 25m3 meaning with this technological advance, Poolstar has responded to the demands of owners of smaller swimming pools.

Poolstar +33 776 026501 www.poolstar.fr/en

Pool Designer Launches Economical And Natural OnePiece Pool

CWR customers Lottie and George Ingledew, with CWR consultant Joel Scott (right)

A British swimming pool specialist is celebrating its 15 year anniversary by launching a one-piece pool solution to offer mineral water swimming in an economical package.

Since it started life in late 2007, Clear Water Revival has become a leading luxury pool designer and builder, while developing cutting-edge biological filtration technology which creates pure water, chemical free pools. Until recently, the company has specialised in highly bespoke one-offs.

Now, in partnership with manufacturers from Holland and Belgium, CWR is offering the benefits of its unique filtration system – clear mineral water free from plants or chlorine – to a wider market.

With the first one-piece pool already installed in a private residence in South Wales, CWR offers a new choice for promoting a healthy natural microbiome while enjoying good skin and hair care.

The company is engaging with homeowners and boutique hotels looking for the freshwater experience without the need for vegetation found in a natural swimming pond.

Instead, CWR’s five-stage filtration process uses a living microbe biofilm, ultra-fine filtration, UV light and a mineraliser to ensure nutrients and pathogens are removed from the water. The result… crystal clear H20, with no plants or chlorine, plus low maintenance and cheaper running costs.

Financial Director Jon Heywood said: “With science proving the vital importance of the human microbiome to health and wellbeing, people are looking far more closely at what goes into and onto their body. Our pools are the only option for maximum health benefits combined with day-to-day practicality.

CWR uses German pump engineering and the best possible components alongside handmade one-piece shells which are recyclable and imported from manufacturing partners in Belgium. The pools can be heated to 30°C and are provided with automatic covers.

Clear Water Revival 0117 923 2588 www.clear-water-revival.com

Something For The Garden… A Second Home For Many Pool Owners Trends in the world of residential swimming pools and gardens often don’t change with every season, as they have a more permanent character. Minimalism, simplicity and clean designs remain popular. However, the specialists at ALBIXON perceive another trend that is slowly coming to the Czech Republic and other markets across Europe – the garden as a second outdoor home where property owners spend most of their time on warm days.

The garden thus becomes an outdoor home that deserves care. Being outside in the garden is a great and healthy way to spend time.

With this in mind, the ALBIXON SKYTRIUM bioclimatic pergola offers a great solution to UK residents. Its installation means not getting drenched on rainy days

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and owners being much more comfortable in the hot summer thanks to its natural airflow.

“The magic of bioclimatic pergolas consists in the tilting of the blades and the degree of incline which you can adjust with a remote control and built-in motor. The blades of the ALBIXON SKYTRIUM pergola rotate up to 140°, creating a so-called chimney effect when the temperature in the pergola is the

same as the outside temperature, but you get the sensation of cooling,” said Jiří Sixta, product manager at ALBIXON. Owners don’t have to worry about unexpected rain either as the pergolas are equipped with a rain sensor, which automatically closes the open blades in such cases.

The ALBIXON SKYTRIUM bioclimatic pergola is designed and manufactured in the Czech Republic and its minimalist appearance will please every lover of modern design.

ALBIXON +420 777 795743 www.albixon.com

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

Thermecro – A Solar Heating Solution For All Weather Conditions With energy costs rising, alternatives to traditional methods for heating outdoor wet leisure installations are increasingly being sought – and this includes various solarbased solutions.

Available through the UK’s leading wet leisure distributors, Elecro Engineering’s patented Thermecro solar heater converts a staggering 92% of solar radiation that strikes it, into hot water for pools and spas.

Unlike other solar heaters, Thermecro is not reliant on outside temperatures or direct sunlight and can work optimally in all weather conditions, temperatures and locations. Features of the solar heater include: • Revolutionary - Evacuated tube technology has the highest efficiency for harvesting solar radiation by processing all solar radiation striking from any angle, not just direct sunlight. The system boasts the highest heat retention rate possible as the evacuated tubes do not allow heat to escape.

• Eco-Friendly Solution - Thermecro uses solar radiation to heat any pool /spa system whilst emitting zero CO2 emissions.

• Efficient - The solar rack harvests 92% of available solar radiation in all weather conditions. The tubes convert the solar radiation whether it is diffused, reflected or direct.

• Reliable - Thermecro is built to last, constructed from materials such as titanium, glass and polymer alloys. It can be coupled to any system, including sea and salt chlorinated water applications.

• Cost-effective - Thermecro uses no external power to generate hot water, so offers financial savings from the first day of installation.

Thermecro is optimally designed to achieve the maximum output from the smallest possible footprint and can simply be plumbed into any existing pool or spa filtration circuit.

Elecro Engineering Ltd 01438 749474 www.elecro.co.uk

Lighthouse Add CoverSeal Safety Covers For The 2023 Season The patented CoverSeal cover comprises a unique mechanism that allows the fabric to be cleanly unrolled onto the pool whilst locking it in place in an extra-flat, extremely discreet, parallel guide rail system.

In a change from the norm, the cover housing is driven down the length of the area to be covered, unrolling the high-quality fabric as it goes. This means freeform pools and pools with large surround areas incorporating spas can easily be catered for.

With a maximum width of 11m and length of 26m, even the most difficult of open spaces should now be able to be covered and secured.

The fabric was developed by the Serge Ferrari brand, a world leader in this market, and offers high UV resistance, extreme climatic conditions performance and exacting standards, including AFNOR NF P90-308.

With three styles of unit available, the cover is suited to all sectors of the pool market.

The battery solar powered ‘Automatic’ model is the top of the range, combining technology, aesthetics and respect for the environment.

Activated by a wired or wireless control unit (in sight of the pool), it provides optimum convenience and allows you to uncover or make the pool safe in less than a

minute. This cover is chosen by demanding customers who refuse to compromise between aesthetics and performance.

The ‘Semi-Automatic’ features a control unit equipped with a rechargeable battery pack which will last for approximately 25 opening/closing cycles. Making the pool safe or opening it up to enjoy it is effortless and takes less than a minute.

The ‘Manual’ model is the ideal solution for pool owners who wish to make the most of all the advantages of a CoverSeal on a tighter budget. It’s operated by a single-person courtesy of a ratchet system.

Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk Perfect for tighter budgets – the ‘Manual’ CoverSeal model

Enjoy Easy Auto-dosing Solutions With Bayrol A pool is only as good as its water care, and dosing is paramount to ensuring that the water is as clean and safe as possible.

Available through Golden Coast in the UK, Bayrol offers a range of highquality systems for the automatic measurement and control of water treatment products used in pool water care. These extremely reliable systems utilise one of three treatment methods: chlorine, bromine, or active oxygen. With Bayrol dosing systems, you can accurately analyse your pool water, regulate the pH level, measure and dose the disinfectant, and even

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remotely control your pool equipment.

The Bayrol Analyt and Compact are ideal for commercial pools, and offers exceptional stability, with no need to recalibrate the probes constantly. This not only saves time, but also instils confidence in the accuracy of the displayed values for pH and free chlorine. For the home market there are models such as Bayrol PoolManager and Bayrol PoolRelax which combine simple, intuitive

operation with accurate readings and easy optimisation.

“Automatic dosing really takes the headache out of pool maintenance,” explained Jimmy Lamb, Commercial Manager at Golden Coast. “You can easily monitor the chemical levels in your pool and accurately determine the amount of chlorine present, which ensures that the water has been properly treated and is safe for use. By optimising chemical and energy usage, it’s much easier to streamline costs and reduce the environmental impact and water waste.”

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

SPN February 2023 19 19/01/2023 13:31

HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS NEWS

Darlly Targets Consumer Market With New SaniStream PLUS Launch

Swimex Now Offer Both Square And Circular Hot Tub Enclosures With the introduction of two new compact enclosures, hot tub owners can get the most out of their tubs by enjoying spa sessions in any weather, comfortably and underneath a stylish and modern enclosure from Swimex.

The dome-shaped design of their circular enclosure is available in a variety of sizes upwards from 3.5m.

It allows owners to watch the rain simply glide away while they continue relaxing in the tub. In addition, the enclosure can be easily opened up with smooth sliding doors to reveal 50% of its surface to the outside – making it an ideal choice for any temperature.

Swimex’s square option means that no matter where a hot tub is located, the versatility of this design means that it is always an option, allowing for installations either directly off of the wall of a house or standing entirely independently, granting

owners with year-round access to their hot tub. With easy sliding doors, the enclosure can be opened widely at the sides, allowing a cool breeze to pass through during the summertime.

So help them blend in with their surroundings, both enclosures are available in the following profile colours: • White aluminium (RAL 9006) • White (RAL 9010) • Grey aluminium (RAL 9007) • Anthracite (RAL 7016) • Jet black (RAL 9005) Both models are glazed with 4mm solid, transparent polycarbonate with the circular enclosure also offering an 8mm double-walled PC glazing option.

Swimex Enclosures 0800 804 8025 www.swimex.co.uk

In April 2018, Darlly Europe launched the SaniStream system, a filter with a removable handle and a pod built into the core of the filter which could dispense chlorine or bromine directly into the water flow. The SpaPod could not only control the measurement of the amount of chlorine/ bromine released into the spa, but it was also very simple to use and cost pennies rather than thousands of pounds, as no installation was necessary.

More importantly, it helped holiday parks (and small holiday lets) with hot tubs comply with HSG 282 guidelines, which state all sanitisation should be dispensed in line.

By 2022, Darlly had supplied hundreds of holiday parks with over 60,000 SaniStream filters and 20,000 SpaPods.

With that box ticked, Darlly are now directing its efforts to the even larger consumer market, and at SPATEX 2023, will be launching their much improved, brand new SaniStream PLUS system.

It’s now even easier to use, safer and more efficient. What’s more, it’s better looking!

No more nasty floating dispensers, no more throwing a few chlorine/bromine tablets into a basket, or worse, the filter bay and hoping for the best – SaniStream Plus is accurate, easy to adjust and now users don’t have to remove the filter or a handle.

Darlly Europe 01952 580500 www.darlly.eu

Master Spas Celebrates Career Of CEO And Founder With Special Guest Nearly 200 of Master Spas’ top dealers from across the globe, along with special guest Michael Phelps, converged for the company’s Dealer Meeting and to mark the retirement of founder Bob Lauter. The 2022 International Dealer Meeting, recently held at the JW Marriott Resort in Marco Island, Florida, gave dealers an opportunity to see the new products up close, try out new features and hear about Master Spas’ commitment to the future.

The company has enjoyed strong growth under Lauter’s leadership, becoming the largest manufacturer of hot tubs that are made in the USA, and the largest manufacturer of swim spas globally.

“I feel very blessed to have worked with Bob Lauter for over 25 years at Master Spas,” said Terry Valmassoi, President of Master Spas. “It has been a fun journey together to see the company grow beyond expectations, and to have such an amazing team and dealers that make up the Master Spas’ family. Master Spas would not exist without Bob, and I am thankful for his

20 February 2023 SPN 20_SPN_February_2023_Wellness.indd 20

vision, leadership, and friendship.”

Master Spas serves customers worldwide, producing high-quality hot tubs and swim spas, including Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spas – a product line which was designed with input from the swimmer.

Lauter says the highlight of his career was the partnership between Master Spas and Phelps, which began in 2010. The 23-time Gold medalist attended the 2022 Master Spas Dealer Meeting to help celebrate

Lauter’s career and contributions.

“For me, looking back, the partnership is almost like a dream come true,” Phelps said at the Dealer Meeting event. “I was able to use the swim spa as part of my training, and it helped me develop the best freestyle stroke I ever had in my career.”

Master Spas +1 260 436 9100 www.masterspas.com

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HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS NEWS

Revival – The New Highquality Aromatherapy Crystals Range From CPC

New Clim8zone™ Heat Pump Integrated Control Now Available Introducing the new Clim8zone™ Heat Pump by Balboa, an innovative new product offering that combines exclusive energy-efficient technology with the most cost-effective way to heat or cool the water in a spa or swim spa.

Fully integrated with Balboa’s powerful BP Control System and SpaTouch3™ panels, the Clim8zone™ heat pump features a variable speed compressor and an intelligent algorithm to optimise energy output. The Clim8zone™ heat pump meets what the industry has been asking for, including the ability to cool the water of a swim spa to the ideal temperature to exercise.

The new product is revolutionary, answering the health and wellness industry’s needs to reduce the costs of running a hot tub while transforming the heating and cooling of the spa water. The larger the volume of water a spa contains, the more energy is required to keep the spa water warm and/or cool. Local weather affects the hot tub’s energy usage, especially in cooler climates which can negatively impact the spa’s

heating system and cause the spa to consume more energy to maintain the desired water temperature. The Clim8zone™ Heat Pump’s auto-smart mode uses artificial intelligence to adjust the compressor speed up or down automatically by using a variety of sensors, including local ambient air temperature, air humidity, and water temperature. The costs of maintaining the hot tub’s desired water temperature are reduced substantially while using significantly less energy.

The heat pump offers users three temperature options for heating and cooling the spa water: heating only mode, which heats the spa water, cooling only mode, which cools the spa water, and the default mode of both heating and cooling, which heats and cools the spa water as per the spa user’s designed setting in the spa panel.

Complete Pool Controls (CPC) are excited to introduce Revival, a brand-new range of aromatherapy crystals to the market for 2023. After continuous shipping delays from the USA and inevitable price increases, CPC decided to put their heads together and develop their own high-quality offering.

Revival is a range of 12 beautifully coloured, hand-picked scents to complement a customer’s every mood and has been carefully crafted for hot tubs and whirlpool baths.

Revival is made using eco-friendly ingredients and fine grade crystals for rapid dissolving in hot tub water. CPC decided to put its ‘A team’ together, dedicated to finding the right scents and fine grade crystals to make the perfect contemporary smelling blends of these locally sourced, nonfoaming water-soluble scents, that don’t leave any residue in the spa or filter and don’t cause water imbalances.

The Revival range has also been fully REACH registered in the UK. Every innovative scent is available in highly competitively priced 250g and 500g sizes. The eyecatching packaging incorporates unique textured labels with transparencies revealing the vibrant crystals inside. As you would expect from Complete Pool Controls, the Revival range is fully marketing supported. CPC’s team have designed a counter top display tray, a tall free-standing display stand and an A2 poster to help retailers promote this exciting and colourful new range.

Complete Pool Controls 01242 662700 www.cpc-chemicals.co.uk

Balboa Water Group +45 75 22 46 88 www.balboawater.com

Embrace The Cold With Superior’s New Ice Baths Superior Wellness have added to their portfolio of wellness products and have introduced a new brand with ‘Chill Tubs’ – the latest ice bath to hit the market.

In recent years, ice baths have become increasingly popular as a way to promote recovery and reduce muscle soreness after intense physical activity.

An ice tub is a recovery technique used by athletes and individuals looking to reduce muscle soreness and inflammation after physical activity.

Some potential benefits of taking an ice tub include: • Reducing muscle soreness • Improving recovery time

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• Decreasing inflammation • Improving circulation.

Made from aluminium, with a teak top and a black aluminium surround, the Chill Tub has been designed to look stylish and is suitable for indoor or outdoor use. Its temperature settings go as low as 5 degrees and it holds 400 litres of water. It has a builtin patent pending

ozonator for clear water plus an insulated cover to help reduce running costs.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director at Superior Wellness has recently tried out the new Chill Tub and commented: “It was an invigorating experience and really helped to reduce muscle soreness following an intense workout.

“It helped to reduce my recovery time and I am now going to use the Chill Tub regularly as part of my wellness routine.”

Superior Wellness 01246 559071 www.superiorwellness.co.uk

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HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS

O-Care Launch Their Latest Water Expert App

Create A Warming Sanctuary With Superior’s Hekla Saunas Introduced by Superior Wellness, Hekla saunas are new to the market and are available in both barrel and cube models.

The saunas have been inspired by nature using Baltic sauna traditions and have been built with natural materials in a sustainable way.

Hekla saunas have been designed to improve wellness, encourage relaxation, spend quality time with loved ones and lead happier, healthier and more tranquil lives. A sauna can be a relaxing place to unwind after a long day or to relax and de-stress.

Hekla saunas are built with Thermowood which is 100% natural. The heat treatment process is chemical-free and the improved performance is achieved simply by the controlled application of heat and steam.

The wood material is certified Nordic Spruce which is sourced from Northern European forests and grown with sustainable practices. Thermally modified Nordic Spruce is aesthetically pleasing wood material that is

significantly more durable and stable than conventional timber.

Roof shingles are also provided on the roof to protect the sauna and increase the insulation.

Graham Message, Business Development Manager at Superior Wellness said: “We are delighted to launch Hekla saunas and they are already proving to be popular with pre-orders. It is important that we built the saunas using natural materials with sustainable practices.

“It is also a great combination to have a sauna alongside a hot tub. Our purpose is to improve wellness for all.”

There are two options for heating for each sauna including an electric heater and a wood burning stove. Superior Wellness recommend using Narvi for both heating options. All Narvi products are ‘Key Flag’ products, meaning they are designed and made in Finland.

Superior Wellness 01246 559071 www.superiorwellness.co.uk

Spa water care company O-Care have developed and released a new app to help hot tub dealerships become a trusted partner for customers.

Available from both the Apple App Store and Google Play, the app includes a variety of features that can be customised for each retailer shop. Better still, the app is a valuable support tool to offer customers.

The benefits for a dealership or retailer include: • Sell chemicals and O-Care subscriptions to customers which leads to increased loyalty and more revenue • Dealer-customised with more store and contact details • Dealer-specific QR Code available for direct app setup • Improved design and still as easy to use as ever Benefits for customers include: • Diagnose and solve the eight most common water problems, step-by-step • Receive personalised reminders for weekly maintenance and water refills • Guides for hot tub start-up and refill explanations • Buy chemicals or O-Care from stores.

The previous O-Care app had been a success due to its ease of use and practicality, but more importantly, because O-Care dealers promoted it. After more than 100k downloads, O-Care felt it was time for an upgrade and use the lessons they learned from the first version.

The existing QR code on O-Care boxes will direct customers to download the new version of the app which not only shows professionalism to customers and how important it is to provide them support as a hot tub dealer, but it actually adds revenue for retailers too!

O-Care +31 73 544 3080 www.o-care.com

AWG Launches Energi Heat Pump To The UK Hot Tub Trade Aqua Warehouse Group (AWG) are pleased to announce the launch of the new 8kW Energi Heat Pump at SPATEX 2023. Having researched the air source heat pump market over the last 12 months AWG are delighted to offer the industry such a high-quality product, suitable for the majority of applications.

AWG, founded by Managing Director Richard Hart, has grown from a single brand in 2003 to multiple brands all within the hot tub and outdoor living sectors.

Richard said: “Since the energy crisis began, more and more customers are turning to air source heat pumps to heat their spa.

We have chosen an 8kW all-season version which I am confident will become the

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industry standard in the future. The Energi heat pump includes all the functionality and build quality that customers are looking for.”

Richard continued: “Air source heat

pumps use the latest technology to utilise warm air making them considerably more energy efficient when compared to standard electric heaters. Customers can save up to 70% in energy costs. Initial feedback from our trade customers has been great but many of them are unsure about installing heat pumps. To help with this transition, AWG are planning a technical training day in February at its showroom in Essex.”

The Energi Heat Pump is only available from AWG. Aqua Warehouse Group 01245 477400 www.energiheatpumps.co.uk

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WORLD NEWS

IN BRIEF BINDER START CONSTRUCTION OF NEW HEADQUARTERS Swimming pool technology specialist BINDER, whose turbine swimming systems have been in continuous demand with sales rising, are expanding and building a new company headquarters in an industrial area in the German town of Hamelin.

BINDER Management were all on site to celebrate the start of construction work late last year along with the town’s Lord Mayor Claudio Griese, who was particularly pleased that an internationally successful company from the region, is moving into the new ‘Langes Feld’ industrial estate.

The swimming pool technology specialist is investing a total of €10m in the new company headquarters, which has been designed in accordance with the latest energy efficiency standards.

Production at the new facility will start in the spring, followed by administration at the end of 2023.

BINDER had already expanded its production in 2019 due to a high volume of orders and the construction of the new building will create the ideal conditions for further growth.

FLUIDRA REACHES AN AGREEMENT TO ACQUIRE MERANUS GROUP Fluidra announced recently it has reached an agreement to acquire 100% of the Meranus Group, a leading distributor of pool equipment in Germany, for approximately €30m on a cash and debt free basis.

Founded more than 40 years ago, the Meranus Group is a recognised swimming pool equipment distributor in Germany, and comprises Meranus Haan GmbH, Meranus Lauchhammer GmbH, as well as Aquacontrol GmbH, a manufacturer of swimming pool dosing and control technology.

This transaction will allow Fluidra to enhance its leading position in the German market and offer a more comprehensive product portfolio to a wider customer base.

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ALBIXON DAYS 2022 Offers A Bold Vision For The Future After more than 30 years, the possibilities for further dynamic growth of ALBIXON have reached the limit of what the pool market allows. Therefore, the company has come up with a new vision this year to give its development a new impetus. “We are really strong in what we do. We have already fulfilled our original swimming pool vision and the goals associated with it. Therefore, we are now introducing a new concept for making our customers’ outdoor spaces more pleasant. We no longer want to look at the home garden only through the lens of the classic pool portfolio, but rather to see it more broadly as a space for active relaxation,” said Zdeněk Vosolsobě, CEO of ALBIXON during the company’s ALBIXON DAYS 2022 showcase event.

The occasion was organised for VIP business partners and took place in Prague in December.

The management of ALBIXON evaluated last year’s financial results, presented buying and product trends, successful marketing activities and a bold vision for the future.

In the autumn of last year, the company introduced the ALBIXON SKYTRIUM, its own bioclimatic pergola as the first new export solution for the whole garden, which will stand alongside swimming pools and pool enclosures in the product portfolio.

Not only the new bioclimatic pergolas were presented at ALBIXON DAYS 2022, but other new innovations were unveiled as well.

“Since the beginning, our own research and

development has put us ahead of the competition and enabled us to come up with innovative technologies that our customers appreciate. For example, we recently developed the MOOVER, our own automatic electric slide unit for pool enclosures, and the unique ALBIXON BOX export packing, which facilitates transport and accelerates the installation of enclosures and pergolas directly on the customer’s premises,” said Mr Vosolsobě.

ALBIXON +420 777 795 743 www.albixon.com

A Resounding Success For An Eagerly Awaited Show!

The leading event for the pool and wellness industry returned to Lyon-Eurexpo France from 15 to 18 November for a long-awaited, in-person reunion after a four-year absence – and Piscine Global Europe was once again a resounding success!

The 1,272 exhibiting brands and companies and the 24,903 professional visitors who attended were finally able to gather again in the familiar informal setting of the show, and rediscover the pleasure of meeting and mixing with peers and doing business face-to-face.

Piscine Global Event also proved once again to be the innovation-focused event worth waiting for and the professionals’ top choice to launch all their very latest innovations and new products on the French and international markets.

Over the four days, Piscine Global Europe gave pool and wellness industry players a host of opportunities to reflect on and discuss the key challenges they face through a programme of seminars and workshops.

The issue of recruitment,

training and the development of team skills, in a context of strong growth in the sector and increased recruitment needs, was the key focus for the Pool Campus.

Sustainable development featured prominently at this year’s exhibition.

Optimising energy consumption, managing waste, and renovating and maintaining pools were just some of the topics addressed through innovations plus during seminars and workshops focusing on this theme, inviting exhibitors and visitors to think together about ways to go even further in reducing the environmental impacts of private and pools.

With 58% of the exhibiting companies coming from 36 countries and 35% of visitors hailing from 110 countries, Piscine Global Europe reaffirmed its position as the leading international exhibition for the pool and wellness industry.

Piscine Global Europe +33 4 78 17 6216 www.piscine-global-

SPN February 2023 27 19/01/2023 11:48

WORLD NEWS

NIVEKO Unveils Its 2023 Plans At Partners Event NIVEKO always works with its partners on a personal level and the desire for a joint get-together of the entire NIVEKO family from across Europe, to forge closer ties and build relationships, was behind the idea of December’s NIVEKO Partners Event.

About 120 visitors attended, with the main part of the event being held in the newly built production hall, the company’s third now.

After refreshments and after a short freshenup, presentations were officially opened by Jeroen van Wauve, CEO of the Pollet Pool Group, to which NIVEKO belongs. As an international player in the sector, Pollet Pool Group aims to innovate and push boundaries, with individual NIVEKO partners reaping the benefits offered by membership of the group.

For example, the affiliate company Aquadeck, spoken about by Mr Wauve, is the primary supplier of slats for NIVEKO pools.

NIVEKO Senior Sales Manager, Seppe Craenhals spoke next. After a look back at the previous period, he presented the outlook for the upcoming season. The main reveal was

the new pool colour portfolio – customers will be able to choose from classic white, an exceptional turquoise and two shades of grey, which is currently at the height of popularity. Moreover, the colour palette has also been expanded with the addition of two complementary colours, dark red and orange, which further extend configuration options.

The third speaker was Caroline Mackenzie, NIVEKO Marketing Manager, who presented partners with the marketing plans for 2023.

The most important news in marketing terms was the announcement of the new website.

Pool components are an important and frequently discussed topic, so the presentations given by representatives of EVA Optic and UWE were an important part of the event too.

The action-packed programme ended with a festive gala evening comprising of a threecourse meal and a variety of entertainment.

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

Therme Group Reveals Detailed Plans For Iconic Toronto Destination Therme Canada has unveiled new visuals and updated plans as part of the project to redevelop Ontario Place, as a world-class year-round destination for all.

Mark Lawson, Vice President, Communications & External Relations, Therme Canada said: “Having signed a long-term lease at Ontario Place, we are delivering on our commitment to create an iconic, global attraction along with new privately funded and maintained public space that will allow everyone to enjoy Ontario Place year-round.”

Therme Group was selected by the Government of Ontario through an international bidding competition held in 2019 and has subsequently signed a longterm ground lease at Ontario Place.

Therme Canada | Ontario Place will be a family-friendly experience focused on

28 February 2023 SPN 27+28_SPN_February_2023_World_News_Rev.indd 28

fun, relaxation and wellbeing. There will be indoor and outdoor pools, waterslides and a wave pool, natural spaces to relax, sports performance and recovery services plus botanical gardens.

The site will also include shoreline restoration, 11.8 acres of freely accessible public space, enhanced trails, a public beach, new wetlands and aquatic habitats, 4.1 acres of green roof that connect the building to the surrounding natural landscape, restored existing heritage gathering areas and more.

Awards For Aria Retreat & SPA – The Wellness Destination With Lapitec Surfaces Lombardy hospitality venue the Aria Retreat & SPA, a new luxury five-star resort on the Italian shores of Lake Lugano, includes swimming pools, wellness centres, 40,000 m2 of parkland, a private beach and much more! Conceived by Milanese architects R4M Engineering on the concepts of the resort’s slogan ‘freedom, light and air’, Aria Retreat & SPA – part of The Leading Hotels of The World group – features a design that stands out for its low environmental impact and the use of particularly refined and innovative technologies and materials.

These include Lapitec sintered stone, a 100% natural Italian material, used for the horizontal and vertical surfaces of some of the internal communal areas, external terraces as well as for the ventilated façade of the building and its roof. And it is thanks to the use of Lapitec in various finishes and colours, and its processing, that the resort won first prize in the Commercial Mineral Surface Project of the Year category at the ISFA Awards, an American prize awarded by a multidisciplinary jury of experts for the best architectural interpretations of stone and ceramic surfaces.

In addition, late last year, the resort as a whole, including its design concept, facilities, hospitality and connection with the local area, won the recently introduced Luxury Wellness Retreat award to enter the hall of fame of the World Luxury Hotel Awards, the most prestigious international recognition for luxury destinations.

Lapitec S.p.a. +39 042 370 3811 www.lapitec.com

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

Wishing You All A Happy New Year!

After a Christmas break that was welcomed by many across the industry, in this first issue of 2023, BSPF Managing Director Chris Hayes highlights a number of subjects including SPATEX, awards and networking events, training initiatives and more!

A

fter a well earned festive break, I trust you are enjoying your start to 2023?

It will be great to see everyone in Coventry for SPATEX, as there is so much to see and do.

Exhibitors have been pulling out all the stops to bring you their products and services; the challenge for visitors is always to ensure that you are aware of all the possibilities, not just a few favourites.

SPATEX provides an annual opportunity to network face to face, even more, important since COVID, as we tend to be going out to fewer physical events. With so much work done on the Coventry Building Society Arena since we were there last year, I am looking forward to seeing the various improvements.

A huge thank you to Ross Alcock and his team at the ISPE for putting their workshop programme together. Thanks to other industry bodies such as the STA, PWTAG, IoS, and RLSS UK for their respective contributions to the SPATEX seminars. SPATA and BISHTA will also be giving the latest updates in the workshop programme.

The Industry Gala Evening is open to everyone, and there is a chance to see the SPATA and BISHTA award winners revealed as part of the 2023 British Pool and Hot

Tub Awards ceremony. It will also be an opportunity to re-present the 2022 ISPE Awards. All winners are announced on the first evening of SPATEX, so this year, it is Tuesday, 31 January 2023.

A huge thank you to all the award sponsors this year for their support of the event, and their logos appear below.

The 2023 British Pool and Hot Tub Award winners will have an opportunity to be shortlisted for the 2023 EUSA Awards, with the winners to be announced at aquanale, in Cologne in October (the exact date is to be confirmed at the EUSA meeting this month).

Don’t forget the SPATEX Party (on Wednesday 1 February) where there is rumoured to be a beach party going on!

Straight after the SPATEX Party finishes, a number of beer lovers will be visiting Dhillon’s Brewery – less than a five-minute walk from the Arena – for a pre-booked tour, sampling and a curry buffet!

Plans are underway this year for further training and support to be provided by some of our friends, including Philip LeShirley and Isobel Macpherson in the Surrey and Buckinghamshire Trading Standards team (who, amongst other things, provide beneficial information on the Consumer Rights Act, and Distance Selling Regulations). The industry also benefits from the expertise on insurance matters provided by Nsure (Phil Bristow, Keith Bull, Mike Bickers and Stewart Murray). Regarding legal matters, Philip Harris and his colleagues at Wright Hassall LLP continue to be invaluable.

SPATEX provides an annual opportunity to network face to face, even more, important since COVID, as we tend to be going out to fewer physical events. With so much work done on the Coventry Building Society Arena since we were there last year, I am looking forward to seeing the various improvements”

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Our industry is also indebted to colleagues from the Home Office who have been helping us understand the importance of selling chemicals responsibly. One of the responses from the industry has been to draft a Code to reflect responsible selling, and I am very grateful to several members for their feedback, especially Mark Ramsden at CPC. The draft Code looks at the key ways responsible companies in the swimming pool and hot tub industry can play their part to minimise the risk of terrorists getting hold of chemicals. We will have more on this Code in a future issue of SPN. Regarding other matters, this time of year is a valuable reminder of the various benefits that the membership of SPATA and BISHTA can bring; please see the following pages for more information.

Also, in this issue, there are updates on workforce development from SPATA and BISHTA; please see pages 34 and 35.

Enjoy SPATEX!

DIARY DATES 2023 31 Jan – 2 Feb 7 – 8 Feb 15 – 17 Feb 15 – 17 Feb

21 Feb 23 Feb 28 Feb 1 Mar 28 Mar 31 Mar 31 Mar 25 May 30 May

SPATEX 2023, Coventry EUSA Meeting, Cologne ForumPiscine 2023, Bologna 10th International Conference on Swimming Pools and Spas, Bologna BISHTA Committee, WebEx SPATA National Council, WebEx SPATA Technical Committee, WebEx PIP Committee, WebEx SPATA Technical Committee, WebEx SPATEX Board, WebEx BSPF Board, WebEx SPATA National Council, WebEx BISHTA Committee, WebEx

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

Why Is Trade Association Membership Of Benefit To Your Business?

In this feature, Chris Hayes, Managing Director of SPATA and BISHTA, explains how trade association membership can support you, your staff and your business!

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very major respectable industry or sector will have a trade association, or guild of masters, or in some cases, a collective of the biggest names in that industry, whose aim is to promote and lobby for recognition of the work and reputation of its members, especially to the general public. In addition, a trade association can provide a fantastic channel to promote consumer awareness and work as an essential filter for unethical trading and poor workmanship, which exists in some companies in any industry.

The role of SPATA and BISHTA is to help members understand what they need to do to meet industry standards and abide by the Code of Ethics. The role is also to help members to be able to focus on managing their day-today business arrangements when there are so many potential distractions that can get in the way! The strength of the trade association bodies means that the industry has many more opportunities for dialogue with national and local government, other industries, trade bodies and organisations.

In developments over the last few years, both trade associations have worked to bring digital opportunities into play, with many more online meetings and training webinars available. The respective online Member Hubs host SPATA and BISHTA Standards, supplements and essential documents, members’ factsheets, a complete list of members’ benefits, training opportunities, marketing and PR support materials and so much more. Giving members 24/7 access from any digital device whilst in the office, on site or on-the-go!

Having been in existence for over 60 years, SPATA (and its forerunner

– the Association of Swimming Pool Contractors) has not only been working on behalf of the pool industry and setting standards but giving help to consumers too. Similarly, BISHTA has been operating for over 20 years in the hot tub industry, working with public health agencies, the Health & Safety Executive, Trading Standards, Environmental Health Officers, The IET and a range of other key bodies.

BUILDING TRUST The respective people that initially helped to set up SPATA and BISHTA did so as not-for-profit organisations. Both trade associations are represented by members who voluntarily work on various committees, shaping different areas of each association’s work. The two trade associations are members of the BSPF (British Swimming Pool Federation), which brings together the UK bodies representing contractors, manufacturers, distributors, importers and retailers of swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms and associated equipment. The BSPF is also the sole shareholder of SPATEX (the annual trade exhibition) and PIP (Pool Industry Promotions). PIP is responsible for promoting the swimming pool and hot tub industry within the trade and, more importantly, to the end-user / consumer.

GENERATING LEADS Both SPATA and BISHTA have invested considerably into their websites as consumer-facing platforms. These serve as a place for consumers to get design inspiration from the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards winners, with winning companies listed on each of their images with the awards they have won. Visitors can find their nearest members with the ‘easy’ search map on the ‘Where to Buy’ page, where they can click on the map pins to open up the contact details of each member (with URL clickable links to each member’s website).

Free SPATA and BISHTA factsheets and owners’ guides can be viewed online and downloaded. They can also find the latest Q&As and news about the industry so that consumers can access helpful, impartial information on one easy-to-navigate website. Helping to drive consumers to a trusted source of information, they can also purchase goods and services from members who work to recognised industry standards and abide by the Code of Ethics.

NETWORKING

Every major respectable industry or sector will have a trade association, or guild of masters, or in some cases, a collective of the biggest names in that industry, whose aim is to promote and lobby for recognition of the work and reputation of its members, especially to the general public” 32 February 2023 SPN 32-33_SPN_Feb_23_Member_Benefits.indd 32

This is the most common and obvious benefit of joining a trade association. A trade association is filled with potential contacts, clients and partners who can help your business move to the next level and become more prominent. Trade associations can give opportunities to contact fellow members, share information, or seek feedback. The more active you are, the more you will see opportunities to build long-term relationships and partnerships which are mutually beneficial, so why not get involved? Business never comes to those that stand still or hide. The trade association provides a trusted environment where like-minded individuals can come together to share ideas, strengthen ties, collaborate and make connections.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION Continuing (or continuous) professional development (CPD) is crucial in getting to (and staying at) the top of any industry. If your company

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY is already a leader in the field, education is key to remaining ahead.

This is especially true in an industry with high expertise and skill sets.

And with the fast-paced development of technology used in many of our jobs and the products we use and sell, it is essential to stay ahead of the pack. SPATA and BISHTA regularly hold or support events, seminars, webinars, workshops and training classes that help members learn and grow in their profession. Members can also gain access to third-party training courses offered by trade association partners outside these official events to gain knowledge and share experience.

INSIGHT Membership in a trade association means immediate access to news or developments that affect your business and the sector as a whole.

SPATA and BISHTA work with various organisations and government bodies so crucial and timely information can be shared with members to support their business. Outside of the regular communication of members, SPATA and BISHTA also provide weekly newsletters, email updates and informative resources that help members stay on top of recent developments.

members to help newer ones grow and allows all members to share innovative ideas to help the whole sector.

BEST PRACTICE, STANDARDS AND BENCHMARKING

PARTNERSHIPS

Any line of work has a specific set of Best Practices / Standards deemed essential to ensure efficiency, ongoing quality, consistent service delivery or consumer confidence, especially for anyone new to the industry. Membership in a trade association is vital to learning these practices and performing the best work possible. The fast pace of technology and market competition means that these practices are constantly updating and changing. Through working with EUSA (European Union of Swimming Pool and Spa Associations) and WAPSA (World Alliance of Pool and Spa Associations), SPATA and BISHTA are proud of their respective roles in developing not only national standards but also European standards and sometimes worldwide standards, benchmarking and best practice too.

Aside from the professional benefits available through trade associations, they also allow members to connect to other associations. Trade Associations tend to be very well connected and often work together on joint initiatives with other trade bodies directly or indirectly related to their specific area of focus. These strategic alliances provide members with valuable insight and further collaborative opportunities. An example of this in practice is SPATA and BISHTA working with the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) and the Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers (ALLMI) to develop guidance on lifting hot tubs and pools.

Another example is the learning that is possible from the BSPF being part of the Trade Association Forum.

SAFEGUARDING YOUR MONEY

PROMOTING YOUR SUCCESSES

Most businesses will, at some point, have a client concerned about making a large payment in advance for goods that need ordering or services to be provided and will try and withhold the payment until the goods arrive or the service has been delivered. However, many businesses will not want to make an order in case the client is unable or unwilling to pay once the goods arrive. To avoid this situation escalating, it is reassuring for members to have a free UK service available called the ‘Stakeholder Account’. This service can help your client pay any monies into a ring-fenced client account that, as the business owner, you know will be paid to you when you have completed the work as per the signed agreement with your client.

Winning an industry award will always be good for business, especially if presented to your business by your trade association. The British Pool and Hot Tub Awards (BP&HTA) provide great publicity and an endorsement of your company, which can impact your turnover. But what you do with awards can make a real difference to your turnover. You could see some fantastic results if you can maximise the use of your PR and Marketing channels after winning your award. There can be an added bonus for BP&HTA winners, as there is an opportunity for some members to be entered into the European Pool and Spa Awards, organised by EUSA. These are just some of the main benefits of SPATA and BISHTA membership; many others are specific to the pool or hot tub sectors.

But whether you are working in either of these industries (or both), trade association membership gives members many advantages in a fast-paced, competitive world. If you are interested in finding out more about the benefits of membership and joining, please visit the relevant association website and click on the ‘Trade’ button. The team are also available on stand A1 at SPATEX to answer your questions.

SUPPORTING MEMBERS WITH TECHNICAL ADVICE SPATA and BISHTA take pride in the associations’ technical advice to their members. Members can tap into a range of resource materials hosted on the Members’ Hub of the SPATA and BISHTA websites, making them available 24/7 on desktops and mobile devices. SPATA and BISHTA also have dedicated Technical Committees that set and review British and European standards and guidelines, setting the standards for hot tubs and swimming pools. In addition to the vast knowledge from the Technical Committee, the respective websites have member benefits sections in the ‘Members’ Hub’, with a large amount of information available free of charge. It is also greatly appreciated when members with specialist knowledge are willing to share some of their expertise with their respective trade association to produce member factsheets.

EXCHANGE OF IDEAS Members have access to information about updates in the sector; they can also play a significant role in determining these changes. Trade associations provide a forum for members to share ideas and develop new ways to improve the industry by creating committees, working groups, regional and national networking events. Access is open to all members for these activities and events. This allows more experienced

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BISHTA 01264 356211 www.bishta.co.uk SPATA 01264 356210 www.spata.co.uk

INDUSTRY-LEADING ASSOCIATIONS Having established their positions as industry leads over many years, SPATA and BISHTA will continue to represent the interests of our members at home and abroad and continue to support members by providing a strong and effective voice for the wet leisure industry.

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

SPATA Workforce Development

In this issue, we take a closer look at SPATA’s Workforce Qualifications which are raising industry standards for the swimming pool sector in the UK and beyond

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PATA helps bring together a range of industry training opportunities to help those working in the pool industry stay up-to-date with training. A well-trained and experienced workforce is a crucial part of any good company.

There are various workforce development opportunities for companies operating in the pool industry. Some staff will require pool engineers’ training, which is provided through the ISPE. SPATA and ISPE are in discussions with the STA about providing externally validated national qualifications for technicians and engineers. Some manufacturers (or distributors) offer courses about their specific products; this can be an excellent way to train staff on products specific to a company’s business offering.

There are also generic courses, such as water hygiene management and the carriage of dangerous goods, which are either provided directly by SPATA or may be available from other parties. Many of these courses will need regular (every 3 – 5 years) refresher training to ensure knowledge is updated.

SPATA also offers its members webinars on various topics throughout the year, which will grow with a more extensive offering in 2023.

SPATEX is also a valuable resource for the industry, with 45 workshops and seminars hosted across the three days of SPATEX (31 January to 2 February 2023).

The Standards and training set by SPATA are arguably the best in the world. But, to uphold these Standards, SPATA is continually reviewing and developing suitable nationally recognised courses and qualifications. SPATA sets education as one of its fundamental routes in raising standards across the industry.

The following courses are run throughout the year on various dates published on the SPATA website.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL & DUCTWORK This one-day Pool Environmental Control &

Ducting course is jointly provided by SPATA members AstralPool UK and Heatstar. Topics covered in the course include: • Key elements of environmental control.

• Pool hall design considerations.

• The basics of ductwork.

• Controls and settings.

• Auxiliary connections.

• Fault finding.

• Commissioning and planned maintenance.

The day includes a short test to check attendees’ understanding of the course content.

If you would like to register your interest, please contact Ron O’Sullivan at AstralPool UK on 01329 514000 (Mobile: 07776 148808) or email: rosullivan@astralpooluk.com The following courses can be booked by contacting the SPATA Office on 01264 356210 or email: admin@spata.co.uk

HEAT PUMPS This online course is tutored by Richard Carrington and provides 4 CPD points for attendees. Topics covered include: • The basics of heat pumps and how they work.

• Sizing heat pumps for swimming pools.

• Does my heat pump need planning permission?

• What is required of the product?

• What is required of me as an installer?

• How to avoid common mistakes.

LINERS This course is co-tutored by Will Dando (Plastica), Brad Armstrong (Aquaflex), and Craig Williamson (Certikin) and 5 CPD points are available for attending it. Topics covered include: • The basics of liners and what they do.

• How are liners made.

• Surveying the pool.

• Installing pool liners.

• Care and maintenance.

• What is required of me as an installer?

• How to avoid common mistakes.

Please note the course is focused on bag liners / thin foil liners, with a small part on on-site lining / extreme liners.

SAUNA AND STEAM This course is tutored by staff from Golden Coast and 5 CPD points are available for attending this course. Topics covered will include: • Background on sauna and steam rooms.

• Choosing the right option for your project.

• How to achieve a professional installation.

POOL PLANT OPERATIONS (PPO) This is a one-day condensed course for experienced professionals offered via the STA and pre-requisites for attendees include: • Must have occupational competence in Pool Plant Operations.

• Minimum of five years’ experience.

To submit interest in this course, please complete the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) application form and return it to the STA – email address: info@staexcel.co.uk. A link to the application form can be found within the PPO section text on the ‘Training’ page within the ‘Trade’ section of the SPATA website.

Members may prefer to send their staff on the full (3 day) course.

DANGEROUS GOODS • Do you know what chemicals are dangerous for transportation? (Many chemicals that are dangerous for road transport are not marked with a UN number to tell you they are dangerous.) Do you know where to find out?

• Do you know the law requires people to be trained before they come into contact with dangerous goods?

It is now a legal requirement to have adequate training for employees who handle or transport dangerous goods.

To enquire or make a booking, please email Howard Gosling: howard@poolandspaadvice.co.uk or call 01935 389069 for more details.

If you would like to discuss any of the training courses above or learn more about joining SPATA and the benefits available to members, please come along and meet the team on stand A1 at SPATEX. For more information, visit the ‘Trade’ section of the SPATA website.

SPATA 01264 356210 www.spata.co.uk

SPATA also offers its members webinars on various topics throughout the year, which will grow with a more extensive offering in 2023” 34 February 2023 SPN 34-35_SPN_Feb_23_Spata+Bishta_Rev.indd 34

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

BISHTA Workforce Development Here, we also examine BISHTA’s Workforce Qualifications, designed to promote safe hot tub standards

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t is essential to have a trained and experienced workforce, and companies should provide their teams with the training they need for their workplace. Some staff will require sales training, while others may require technical knowledge on topics such as water hygiene management.

BISHTA helps bring together a range of industry training opportunities to help those working in the wet leisure industry stay up-to-date with training and to help to ensure our industry is the best it can be!

Various courses are available, such as water hygiene management and the carriage of dangerous goods. Under the HASAW Act 1974, the training of anyone who will handle dangerous goods is deemed a requirement that is either provided directly through BISHTA or may be available from BISHTA-trained tutors. These types of courses need regular (3 – 5 years) refresher training to ensure staff knowledge is updated.

As BISHTA’s logo strapline highlights, the association’s principal focus is to ‘Promote Safe Hot Tub Standards’, providing consumers with a clear route to buy with confidence from BISHTA members.

To achieve this core focus, BISHTA uses a broad range of tasks to meet this goal, but education is the most rapid way to see standards rise across the industry.

... the association’s principal focus is to ‘Promote Safe Hot Tub Standards’, providing consumers with a clear route to buy with confidence from BISHTA members”

WATER HYGIENE MANAGEMENT TRAINING

CERTIFIED HOT TUB TECHNICIAN (CHTT)

This one-day hot tub training course is part of the minimum standards expected of companies wishing to join (or remain in) BISHTA. It is designed to ensure staff have the knowledge to maintain hot tubs and swim spas safely. The course offers the latest BISHTA advice and HSE recommendations. Ideal for retailers, installers, service companies, holiday park operators and holiday home owners.

For upcoming dates and venues, please check directly with the training companies / contacts listed below: • Aqua Warehouse Group – Martin Rigby: 07596 227005 / martin@aquawarehousegroup.co.uk • Complete Pool Controls (CPC) – David Ramsden: 01242 662700 / training@cpc-chemicals.co.uk • 1 Stop Spas – Chris Brady: 01522 300737 / info@spatechtraining.co.uk • Pool and Spa Advice – Howard Gosling: 01935 389069 / howard@poolandspaadvice.co.uk • Solway Water Management – Iain Jardine: 07802 433947 / iain@solwaywatermanagement.co.uk.

• Ultimate Generation Limited – Julian Mills: 07484 122907 / j.mills@uglimited.co.uk

The Certified Hot Tub Technician™ programme covers the essentials of servicing portable and permanently installed hot tubs and spas and equipment repair and replacement.

The PHTA™ Hot Tub Technician Manual is the textbook for the course and has been specifically adapted for use in the UK. To become certified as a CHTT Certified Hot Tub Technician®, you must participate in the four-day CHTT Course based on the PHTA™ Hot Tub Technician Manual. You will be eligible to take the CHTT exam upon completing the training programme.

1 Stop Spas have been regularly providing this training. Contact them on 01522 300737 or email: info@spatechtraining.co.uk

HOT TUB SAFE MANUAL HANDLING COURSES Attending this course allows staff to confirm their competence regarding the importance of safe manual handling. This course provides essential information on keeping staff safe while moving hot tubs etc. For Safe Manual Handling enquiries and bookings, please contact 1 Stop Spas on 01522 300737 or by email: info@spatechtraining.co.uk

DANGEROUS GOODS

HOT TUB SITE SURVEYOR

It is a legal requirement to have this training if you handle or transport dangerous goods.

Do you know what is dangerous for transport? (Many dangerous chemicals for road transport are not marked with a UN number to tell you they are dangerous.) Do you know where to find out?

Do you know the law requires people to be trained before they come into contact with dangerous goods?

To enquire or make a booking, please email Howard Gosling: howard@poolandspaadvice.co.uk or call 01935 389069 for more details.

The ‘Hot Tub Site Surveyor’ qualification recognises customer care, health & safety information, and the importance of undertaking a site survey as an integral part of selling hot tubs. Any member who wishes to learn more about this course, please get in touch with the BISHTA office on 01264 356211.

A number of the above courses are available to BISHTA members at a discounted price (or are primarily aimed at members or those companies applying for membership). Non-members are also encouraged to attend the courses.

If you are not a member of BISHTA, please contact the BISHTA office or meet the team on stand A1 at SPATEX, where you can obtain information on the training courses and help to become a BISHTA member.

ELECTRICAL AWARENESS COURSE This three-day course offered by NICEIC has been designed to give individuals an awareness of the requirements of safe isolation and an overview of how to safely disconnect and connect hot tubs electrically, including commissioning, testing and recording requirements.

Please contact the BISHTA office to register your interest in attending one of these courses.

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BISHTA 01264 356211 www.bishta.co.uk

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STA POOL PLANT – TRAINING

The Pinnacle In Pool Plant Training In this issue, Luke Griffiths, STA’s Qualification Development Manager (Pool Plant) takes a closer look at the organisation’s Ofqual Regulated Level 3 Award in Pool Plant Operations – the pinnacle in PPO training courses

A

s we begin another New Year and start to get ready for SPATEX, we, alongside our tutors are looking forward to delivering our first Pool Plant training courses of the year and welcoming another class of pool plant operators to the industry. These courses will include the delivery of the STA Level 3 Award in Pool Plant Operations (PPO), which provides the pinnacle in training as explained here.

STA’s PPO qualification is Ofqual Regulated. Ofqual is the independent qualifications regulator for England who regulate so that qualifications are sufficiently valid and trusted. Making clear and considered judgements for the benefit of those who study, and rely on, regulated qualifications. STA’s PPO is also endorsed against the CIMSPA Pool Plant Operative Professional Standard. The standard outlines the role and scope of a Pool Plant Operative and the essential knowledge and skills that are needed to meet the requirements of the sector minimum deployment standards.

Due to meeting the CIMSPA Pool Plant Operative Professional Standard, STA’s PPO is eligible for CIMPSA ReTrain funding. The CIMSPA ReTrain programme provides support for hundreds of employers to reduce the operational costs and address skills shortages.

The PPO qualification was developed by Safety Training Awards in consultation with industry groups to ensure it is fit-for-purpose and relevant to the modern-day operator across all different pool types – from sports and leisure centres to hotels, swim school pools, holiday parks, spas and interactive water features.

Written with the whole industry in mind, the qualification has a technically advanced syllabus covering all aspects of modern pool and spa operations in a practical, learnerfriendly way. The content follows industry guidelines from PWTAG, BS EN 15288, and

a variety of health & safety sources.

The qualification, which is supported with a comprehensive resource manual, and robust assessment consists of six units: • Principles of healthy and hygienic pool water; • Principles of water testing; • Principles of disinfection, pool chemistry and dosing in pool plant operations; • Principles of mechanical pool plant operations; • Swimming pool heating, ventilation and energy efficiency; • Management practices and health & safety in pool plant operations.

Ultimately, the Level 3 qualification provides operators with all of the information to operate safe and hygienic pool facilities.

During the course the learners are assessed to ensure they have the skills, knowledge and understanding to achieve certification.

Following successful completion, the STA PPO qualification is valid for a period of five years, which is two years longer than similar unregulated courses, saving on revalidation costs. When learners need to requalify, there are a number of revalidation options available to suit the needs of the individual learner – from traditional face-to-face format courses, distance learning and online revalidations.

Praising the value provided by the course, Demi Tripicchio of Sandwell Leisure Trust said: “With a love for swimming I started off working within leisure as a lifeguard which later progressed to a duty manager role thanks to the STA Level 3 Award in Pool Plant Operations. Not only did I gain knowledge on plant rooms, water testing and treatment, I also became more confident and progressed with my career; I would highly recommend this course to anyone as it opens up many new opportunities.

“Not only do I understand how a pool plant

Due to meeting the CIMSPA Pool Plant Operative Professional Standard, STA’s PPO is eligible for CIMSPA ReTrain funding” 36 February 2023 SPN 36_SPN_February_2023_STA.indd 36

room runs, I understand the health & safety risks involved and had great support from the course tutor. I feel proud knowing I’m responsible for the public’s health and wellbeing and running the plant room competently.”

The other pool plant related qualifications available in Safety Training Awards suite of qualifications include the STA Level 2 Award in Pool Water Treatment, which trains learners in the fundamentals of swimming pool plant operation, ideal for those supporting pool plant operators. There is also the STA Level 2 Award in Swimming Pool Water Testing qualification: which provides learners with the information and skills needed to test swimming pool and spa water competently. This is popular with swimming teachers and lifeguards responsible for water testing at their pools.

All Safety Training Awards’ qualifications are delivered through a national and international network of Approved Training Centres (ATCs). For further information, call or look under the ‘Pool Plant section under ‘Qualifications’ on the Safety Training Awards website. The team will also be at SPATEX on Stand A17 to answer any queries directly.

Safety Training Awards 01922 645097 www.safetytrainingawards.co.uk

• STA PPO is eligible for CIMSPA ReTrain funding • There is a wide range of funded programmes and resources available to anyone involved in delivering sport and physical activity depending on your role and individual situation • Support for 50,000 people who work, or want to work, in sport and physical activity • Support for hundreds of employers to reduce the operational costs and addressing skills shortages.

For further information please contact the STA or visit https://retrain.cimspa.co.uk

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WATER ID FP FEB23.qxp_Layout 1 19/01/2023 11:04 Page 1

COMPANY FOCUS

Exciting Times For Water-i.d As It Plans For Continuous Growth With an expansion of premises, a 20th anniversary to celebrate, and the release of their latest photometer, it’s been a busy and exciting 12 months for Water-i.d. GmbH, the German manufacturer of some of the industry’s most popular water testing products

L

ast year, Water-i.d. GmbH, based at Eggenstein near Karlsruhe in Germany moved into an extension building at the previous company location and thus set the course for continuous growth.

With the extension of the existing building, which cost around €3m, Water-i.d. expanded its capacities by a further 1,020m2 of production, storage and office space, thus taking into account the extremely positive development of the company.

The expansion of the company also took into account sustainable construction (KFW 55) and renewable energies through the installation of a solar system covering the entire roof of the new building.

Water-i.d. produces more than 100 million blistered reagent tablets, so-called powder pillow reagents, liquid reagents and also calibration solutions for electrochemistry at the Eggenstein site every year.

The packaging of orders, and thus also the warehousing, also takes place at the Water-i.d. headquarters in Eggenstein.

In addition to the production of reagents, warehousing and the packaging of orders, the head office is also home to the company’s own laboratory for the development and quality control of reagents produced in-house, as well as the IT department, which is responsible, for example, for the LabCOM app/software/cloud and the programmes running on the Water-i.d. photometers.

20 YEARS OF INNOVATION The facilities expansion took place in advance of the company celebrating its 20th anniversary this January.

Water-i.d. has made a strong impact on the water analysis industry over the last two decades, mainly through innovative solutions. For example, Water-i.d. was the first manufacturer in this segment to produce reagent tablets in convenient push-through blisters and was also the first company to offer photometers with parallel wavelength technology as well as wireless connectivity to a powerful software/app/cloud.

The PoolLab® 1.0 photometer alone,

which Water-i.d. has successfully produced and distributed since 2017 for the private and public pool market, enjoyed a total of 48,000 new users in 2021. Building on this achievement, this year, the manufacturer will offer a successor model – the PoolLab® 2.0, which will be available to the UK trade from around February 2023 through their distribution partner Water Treatment Products.

POOLLAB® 2.0 PHOTOMETER With PoolLab® 2.0, Water-i.d. wants to set new standards and is once again using the latest technology and other innovations.

For example, the PoolLab® 2.0 will have not just one but three parallel measuring chambers, so that up to three water values can be measured in parallel. As with the PoolLab® 1.0, the permanently installed triple cuvette can also be exchanged in the PoolLab® 2.0 plus the measurement result is again obtained after only two keystrokes.

The PoolLab® 2.0 can measure 24 pool water values (PoolLab® 1.0 has 13), including hardness, copper, phosphate and much more in addition to chlorine, active oxygen, pH, alkalinity and cyanuric acid.

In addition to the Bluetooth connection to the free LabCOM app/software/cloud known from the PoolLab® 1.0, the PoolLab® 2.0 will also have a Wi-Fi connection in order to be able to communicate instantly with the LabCOM cloud without the need to first connect to a smartphone. This enables

Water-i.d. has made a strong impact on the water analysis industry over the last two decades, mainly through innovative solutions” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 39_SPN_February_2023_Company_Focus_Water_ID.indd 39

immediate synchronisation so that the measurement data will be available in ‘real time’ in the app, the software on the PC or tablet or in the browser (www.labcom.cloud).

In addition, the user can create different water sources (e.g. ‘Pool 1’, ‘Pool 2’, etc) via the app and save them on the PoolLab® 2.0 so that the measurement results are always stored and synchronised for the exact account.

Unlike the PoolLab® 1.0, the PoolLab® 2.0 has a large colour display with backlighting for easy operation.

Like its predecessor, the PoolLab® 2.0 will also be IP68 waterproof so that the water to be measured can be scooped directly from the pool into the (replaceable) measuring chamber.

The sophisticated, free LabCOM app/ software (both synchronised via the LabCOM Cloud) for Android, iOS and Windows offers the user measurement data management and measurement reports at the touch of a button, as well as an active chlorine calculator, LSI calculation and the option to create dosing recommendations based on water care products individually entered by the user.

Water-i.d. GmbH have stated that the recommended retail price for the PoolLab® 2.0 will only be marginally more expensive than for the predecessor model, whose RRP has remained unchanged since 2017.

Water-i.d. + 49 721 782 0290 www.water-id.com Water Treatment Products 01495 792790 www.watertreatmentproducts.co.uk

SPN February 2023 39 19/01/2023 11:54

POOL CLEANERS

Keeping It Clean In 2023 The task of keeping swimming pools of all shapes and sizes clean is one that thankfully has become significantly easier over the years. Numerous product advances have all played a part in this, but a lot of it is down to the increasingly clever and efficient designs of pool cleaners. Innovative manual and in particular robotic models have greatly reduced what was once a laborious, but always essential task and in this issue, we look at 10 of the best pool cleaners available this year By Jon Wadeson THE ‘BIG YELLOW ONE’ FROM FAIRLOCKS

domestic and commercial pools. The streamlined shape enables faster sweeping and the centrally mounted 19” brush even enables solid debris to enter the suction stream. Due to its rigid tough polycarbonate construction, it is ideal for pools with 1/2 hp pumps or more and is available with both 1.5 inch and 2 inch hose fittings.

A new multi-fit handle enables a rapid change from one implement to another and a metal yoke is available that mounts two Fairlocks side by side. The Double Fairlocks is over 3 feet wide and on a flow rate of over 40 gallons per minute can clean one square yard per second.

The ‘big yellow one’ from Fairlocks has been a top seller in Europe for over 30 years and is ideal for both

Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.fairlocks.co.uk

BWT COSMY THE BOT 200 FROM PLASTICA Plastica have a new robotic pool cleaner from the BWT group in their 2023 Price List – the durable Cosmy The Bot 200 in Lagoon Blue. Compact and light weight at only 5.67kg, its modern design allows it to clean floors, walls and the waterline faster and efficiently while consuming less energy.

It is easy to use with intuitive features such as the indicator light that warns when the filters needs emptying. It has two filters, to trap even the smallest of dirt particles. Equipped with a two-stage planetary gear

THE ZODIAC MX9 FROM LIGHTHOUSE Exclusive to Lighthouse Pools, the Zodiac MX9 is the ultimate in hydraulic suction cleaners.

Born out of the Barracuda stable, The MX9 utilises the pool filter system, powerful turbine and two peripheral suction propellers that move dirt and debris into the mouth of the robotic cleaner. It guarantees ultraefficient cleaning, even at a low flow rate.

Cyclonic brushing technology helps detach stuck-on debris before sucking it up. The robot’s active brushes also help eliminate all types of debris, including stubborn algae that stick to the pool floor and wall.

Capable of cleaning a pool of 12 x 6 metres, the MX9 along-side the MX8 PRO (also exclusive) is only available via

PIRANHAX FROM GOLDEN COAST

technology, a drive system that offers greater efficiency and better precision. Cosmy contains a Bluetooth module, using a smartphone app to control the unit and target debris.

Plastica Pools 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net

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The PiranhaX range of pool cleaning robots are some of the best-in-class choices, combining low maintenance and high performance into a neat, attractive package. There are three models in the range: the compact PiranhaX Go, the everpopular PiranhaX Plus, and the full-featured PiranhaX Max. PiranhaX’s strong cogwheel mechanism eliminates the need for belts, making the range incredibly reliable, and it easily handles powerful torque

Lighthouse and its selected retailers.

Lighthouse 01752 283801 www.lighthousepools.co.uk

while keeping motion stable. All models have very sharp slope durability, so they can easily cope with inclines and contours of the pool bottom.

A special cable with 360° rotational mechanism helps to stop cable tangling during operation while the ClearView panel makes filter inspection a breeze.

The range features two individual 4D Hyperfine 430cm² microfibre filters, resulting in 860cm² (3.7l) maximum water filtration.

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 19/01/2023 12:30

POOL CLEANERS DOLPHIN WAVE 100 FROM CERTIKIN INTERNATIONAL

VORTRAX™ TRX 7700 IQ FROM ASTRALPOOL UK

The heavy-duty Dolphin Wave 100 is a workhorse of the commercial world. With an amazing three-year or 3,000hr warranty, the Dolphin Wave 100 is suitable for pools up to 25m in length.

The fully automated cleaner represents excellent value for money.

The advanced gyroscopic system ensures accurate scanning for the systematic coverage of floor, walls and water-line. It comes with a 30m cable, caddy and three filtration options: fine, ultra-fine and disposable. Thorough brushing efficiently removes algae and bacteria, leaving water sparkling clear and hygienic.

A remote-control facility, with optional parameters and operation delay suits every pool condition and ensures easy use and maintenance. Weighing just 12 kg, the cleaner offers three cycle times of four, six and eight hour duration.

Designed for commercial pools up to 25 metres, this new robotic cleaner is equipped with a Sensor NavSystem™ which identifies the walls and obstacles using ultrasound to optimise movements and allotted cleaning time.

It features long-lasting, powerful cyclonic suction and dualstage filtration via two removable filters to collect debris from 60 to 150 microns. A pressure sensor provides better management when climbing walls and cleaning the water line according pool depth. Its large ‘Z-shaped’ suction brushes actively scrub the bottom and walls of all pools, regardless of their surface finish. Powerful tracks grant better traction and make movements more reliable, while ensuring optimum efficiency throughout the robot’s lifespan.

Certikin International 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.co.uk

POLARIS W LINE W675 FROM SCP UK As top of the range of four new Polaris® electric robots that SCP UK introduced last year, the W Line W675 is designed for all shapes of rigid walled in-ground and above-ground pools with sizes of 12 x 6m. Polaris® is part of the Zodiac® family of products and this cleaner is equipped with iAqualink™ control technology – a feature allows the control of all Zodiac® products via a smartphone application.

Featuring long-lasting cyclone power, and with an extra large 5l filter, 4 wheel drive system and on-board sensors (gyroscope

and accelerometer), the W675 offers four cleaning modes (Quick in floor only, Smart or Deep mode in floor/walls/ waterline and Waterline only) to ensure optimal cleaning.

SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

CORDLESS POOL CLEANER FROM OCEA UK This new cleaner is powered

by Freedrive Technology and navigates using i-MAPPING Technology for accurate and powerful cleaning.

The advanced Freedrive Technology makes the cleaner completely rechargeable and negates the need for an umbilical cable. Wireless technology also means it is safe to swim whilst the cleaner is in action.

Being cordless doesn’t leave users with a lack of power though and magnetic technology makes the battery more energy efficient and long-lasting.

The cleaner can run unhindered for up to three hours, meaning it can easily clean a pool up to 20m long with a single charge. All that while having a pump rate of 18m3 an hour and pumping water through a 18 micron fine mesh filter basket with a 2litre debris capacity.

Ocea UK 01993 707910 www.oceauk.com

DOLPHIN SUPREME M700 POOL CLEANER FROM CERTIKIN

ZODIAC VOYAGER™ POOL CLEANER FROM LIGHTHOUSE

The M700 robotic pool cleaner comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, My Dolphin app and all the fantastic features that make it a marketleader for pools of all terrains up to 15m. Offering top-of-the-line performance, with 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.

An exclusive to Lighthouse, the Zodiac Voyager™ is designed with innovative capabilities and sits at the mid range price-point in the company’s pool cleaner line up.

With its embedded smart sensors and unique design, the Voyager™ offers excellent pool coverage with limitless agility. A 15m cable makes the cleaner ideally suited for all pool shapes and sizes.

The Voyager™ takes advantage of Zodiac’s patented cyclonic suction technology. With innovative helix-shaped brushes the cleaner is suitable for all surfaces – including tiled, one-piece and liner pools – plus the 4 litre dual-stage progressive filtration, allows the cleaner to collect even the smallest particles.

Offered with a 2-year warranty, the Voyager™ will ensure a pool will be perfectly clean all year round and for years to come.

Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 40-41_SPN_February_2023_Pool_Cleaners_Rev.indd 41

Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk

SPN February 2023 41 19/01/2023 12:30

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SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK

SHOW PREVIEW

Coventry’s Calling As SPATEX Returns

The industry’s annual show returns to the Coventry Building Society Arena and once gain, the organising team are pulling out all the stops to make it an event to remember. More than just an exhibition, SPATEX is also the UK’s largest networking opportunity for the pool and spa trade. We cover all the news from both the organisers and exhibitors, highlight various products that can be seen, plus take a look at the educational opportunities By Jon Wadeson

S

PATEX returns to the West Midlands from 31 January to 2 February to the Coventry Building Society Arena and despite all the uncertainty, challenges and changes over the last year to both to the venue and industry, the annual event and venue are both looking as good as ever!

With over 100 participating companies, including 21 of which that have never participated before, this year’s event once again features a truly international line up with exhibitors drawn from ten countries.

With this being the first opportunity in 2023 to see a bumper crop of new products, visitors should expect a healthy amount of innovation to be on show this year across the various sectors that the show covers. This is especially true following Piscine Global Europe taking place towards the end of 2022, as a number of new products will filter through from that event.

As sponsors of the New Products Zones within the halls, we certainly hope to see as many new products around the exhibition as possible and the organisers have confirmed that they had been notified of at least 60 located around the exhibition.

Since moving to the Midlands, the threeday event has firmly cemented its place on the exhibition calendar and as far as wet leisure is concerned in the UK, it is now the only event that truly covers the full spectrum of products. I say full spectrum as anyone

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 43-56_SPN_Feb_23_SPATEX.indd 43

who has been to a SPATEX over recent years will know that it is far from being just a swimming pool show and the organising team has worked incredibly hard to create as broad an offering as possible, with many spa, hot tub and wellness companies now seeing the show as a crucial, must-attend event.

With energy costs rising and with concerns surrounding the environment, there’s bound to be a big focus on new, greener products that are sustainable too.

Event Organiser Michele Bridle said: “The show’s focus is saving energy and, more specifically, the latest innovations and products that are entering the market place and have the potential to make a real impact in reducing consumption and cutting bills.

We are fortunate to represent an industry that is forward thinking and able to take advantage of the research and development that is going on in this space. Take for instance, lighting, heating and ventilation where great strides have been made in recent years.

“Combine these new technologies with education and skilful application and it is feasible to significantly reduce energy consumption and bills. It’s this positive message that, with the help of our exhibitors and experts, we aim to communicate to our visitors.”

Reducing energy consumption also features as a major topic of discussion in SPATEX’s

free-to-attend, double seminar programme, along with up-to-the-minute health and safety guidance.

SPATEX will again play host to two seminar arenas, with free to attend workshops taking place in each across all three days. Visitors can expect to find 41 new talks in total across the two arenas.

All workshops hosted by the Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers (ISPE) in Arena 1 award Continuous Professional Development (CPD) points plus a Certificate of Attendance – a valuable record of the courses that have been attended.

In Arena 2, a variety of experts will be imparting their knowledge across a wide range of subjects with the Thursday being a dedicated Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group (PWTAG) day.

As we’ve plenty of products for people to see, once again, the SPN team will be walking the show rather than taking a stand and we hope there will be numerous visitors to the event this year! A full and up-to-date list of all the exhibitors can be found on the SPATEX website (www.spatex.co.uk) along with lots of other useful information regarding the show which is sure to help attendees plan their visit more effectively.

In short, as ever, there’s a lot to do and see at SPATEX, so read on and we’ll hopefully whet your appetite for what is sure to be a great event in Coventry this year.

SPN February 2023 43 19/01/2023 13:02

SHOW PREVIEW

SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK

E66

D1 DISCOVER NEW PRODUCTS AND INITIATIVES ON THE ARDEX STAND ARDEX Group UK – one of the UK’s leading construction materials manufacturers – is returning to SPATEX 2023 with new products and systems for swimming pools and wet leisure.

ARDEX will be introducing a new render system for internal pool surrounds, shower rooms and changing facilities, plus our specialist systems to ensure perfect wet leisure and pool tiling.

Visitors to their stand can also find out about ARDEX’s sustainability and energy saving initiatives.

Several initiatives have been introduced to reduce carbon emissions and save energy in construction. They include EMICODE Approval (core products approved with remaining products in the process of being approved) and an EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) for all products. Find out about these plus the other initiatives on the stand.

With a Carbon Neutral (scope 1 & 2)

WHAT’S ON: TUESDAY 31 JANUARY ARENA 1: ISPE WORKSHOPS 10:15-10:35: HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE FOR THE POOL & SPA OPERATOR with Colin Jenkinson - MISPE – Leisure Safety Training 11:00-11:30: ENERGY & WATER CONSERVATION with Will Dando - FISPE – Plastica Ltd 12:00-12:45: AN OVERVIEW OF SWIMMING POOL CHEMICALS with Jimmy Lamb - FISPE – PPG UK And Ireland 13:15-13:45: PIPEWORK SIZING & PUMP SELECTION with Chris Carr - FISPE – CC Filtration Services 14:00-14:30: SPECIFYING TILING IN SWIMMING POOL & LEISURE AREAS with Shaun Howarth – ARDEX UK 14:45-15:15: LEAK DETECTION METHODS with Selwyn Mindel - FISPE – Unipools Group 15:30-15:50: SAUNA & STEAM ROOMS with Erik Soderlund – Golden Coast Ltd 16:00-16:45: POOL ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL with John Scott - FISPE – Aqualia Ltd ARENA 2: SPATEX SEMINARS 10:15-10:35: SPA POOL CHEMICAL SAFETY with Colin Davis – Pool Training Services

44 February 2023 SPN 43-56_SPN_Feb_23_SPATEX.indd 44

10:50-11:10: RENOVACTION – AN ENVIRONMENTAL AND SUSTAINABLE POOL ALTERNATIVE with Kate McKnight – Myrtha Pools & Wellness 11:25-11:45: THE RISKS INVOLVED WITH LONE WORKING with Robbie Phillips – STA 12:00-12:45: SAND FILTRATION PLANT REFURBISHMENT with Andrew Gaffey – Andrew Gaffey Ltd 13:15-13:45: INCREASING SWIMMERS HEALTH AND THE QUALITY OF WASTEWATER with Stef Desmet – NoviNato BV 14:00-14:30: SWIMMING POOL & SPA SAFETY AND LESSONS LEARNT FROM INCIDENTS OCCURRED with Jo Talbot – RLSS UK 14:45-15:15: FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES IN POOL PLANT AND THEIR POTENTIAL TO REDUCE ENERGY COSTS with Richard Lamburn – Swim England 15:30-15:50: BIO-UV GROUP PRESENTATION with Justine Robail – BIOUV Group 16:00-16:20: SUSTAINABLE STONE SOLUTIONS FOR THE POOL INDUSTRY with Ellie Parker – Stoneworld (Oxfordshire) Ltd 16:25-16:45: MAJOR IMPLICATIONS OF NEW BUILDING CONTROL REGULATIONS with Paul Scott – Heatstar Ltd

target of 2030, the ARDEX Group UK recently worked with Achilles (Recognised Certified Body) to accurately reduce and measure their Carbon Footprints endorsed by verifiable commitment to reduce emissions and to continually improve environmental performance.

Achilles’ Carbon Reduce (powered by Toitu) scheme highlights the necessary data from all activities which is critiqued under the ISO 14064:1 scheme.

See them on stand D1

NEW PRODUCTS AND INNOVATION FEATURE STRONGLY ON THE ASTRALPOOL STAND AstralPool UK is looking forward to returning to SPATEX and can be found in their usual location within the hall.

Adding value through customer collaboration, excellence and innovation, AstralPool staff are looking forward to welcoming customers on their stand to discuss business and requirements for 2023 and also view first-hand some of the exciting new products and supply agreements available for the year ahead.

Product highlights for this year include: • Bio UV residential and commercial UV water treatment, exclusively available through AstralPool UK. • VORTRAX & ARCOMAX Robotic Cleaners – ultra-efficient designed for use in public pools. Available exclusively through AstralPool UK. • REDOX, pH, CL2 Monitoring & Control – new range of monitoring kit, trickle feed sanitiser & commercial dosing systems.

• Modular pool construction solutions – INOXPOOL stainless steel construction, SKYPOOL commercial pools and Laghetto above-ground residential pool solutions.

• COVERPOOLS – T4 safety cover system from the USA. “The first and only automatic pool cover system designed for stainless steel cable”.

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SHOW PREVIEW

B34 Also available to see on the stand again is the Skimmer UNIK, the perfectly designed and evenly integrated skimmer plus LumiPlus FlexiMini LED, the compact design LED lighting solution with customisation for everyone’s style. Moving away from warmth of pools and spas, last, but by no means least, there’s a the range of water air chillers – ALASKA/SIBERIA along with the Bering Chiller.

See them on stand E66

BIO-UV GROUP REAFFIRMS ITS PRESENCE IN THE UK MARKET International pool, spa and wellness company BIO-UV Group are exhibiting for the first time at SPATEX in 2023. The company, a specialist in UV water treatment, salt electrolysis, ozone and AOP, is already established and recognised on the UK market, following the acquisition of triogen® in 2019. For more than 35 years, triogen® has been home to ozone and UV disinfection systems for private, commercial pools, semicommercial pools and water parks. Today, BIO-UV Group aims to expand its customer base and affirms the ‘Made in France’ and ‘Made in Britain’ marks of quality in order to strengthen its presence in the pool market in the UK and more broadly throughout Europe.

BIO-UV Group now benefits from a very high level of expertise, with more than 35 years of experience in water disinfection, pooling know-how and skills since the acquisition of the AKERON and triogen® brands. The group now masters the three chemical-free technologies (UV, salt electrolysis and Ozone) at the heart of water treatment, with an offer adapted to the needs of installers and operators, whether in terms of bathing quality,

46 February 2023 SPN 43-56_SPN_Feb_23_SPATEX.indd 46

SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK installation or maintenance.

BIO-UV products are distributed across Britain through AstralPool UK (UV) and Golden Coast (Ozone, salt electrolysis products).

See them on stand B34

the technicalities of the brand’s best-selling equipment.

See them on stands C16 & D14 & D30

EXPECT SOMETHING FOR ALL SECTORS SPREAD ACROSS THREE CERTIKIN STANDS

Cranbourne Stone is a well-established family-run business based in Hampshire.

They specialise in providing swimming pool surrounds and landscaping solutions and use only the highest quality natural stone and slip-resistant porcelain.

With their wealth of knowledge of pool design and installation, unlike other stone suppliers, they are able to talk in detail with pool builders to help create cost saving solutions for even the most complex projects.

For any bespoke projects Cranbourne’s digital template service is available. Using years of experience on site, the company are able to create perfect fitting copings for any free-form shaped pool.

The company are marking 19 years of trading and are truly thankful to their loyal trade customers. As a thank you, in July 2021 they became a trade only supplier. This change afforded more time to spend with builders and enabled staff to process quotes and orders more quickly. It has also ensured that the company are not cross selling by mistake and so their great trade discounts are kept to the trade.

Cranbourne Stone is looking forward to presenting its latest range at the three-day exhibition.

See them on stand A13

Certikin are keeping the finer details of what can be found on their stands at SPATEX under wraps until the first day of the show, but what the UK’s largest water leisure supplier can disclose is that they’re planning a “prodigious number of launches” across a large number of product sectors. From filtration, enclosures, sauna and steam to automatic covers, liners and heating and ventilation – there’s something new.

Speaking about Certikin’s plans, Marketing Manager, Chris Green said: “Certikin regards SPATEX as one of the industry’s most important dates in the calendar, a great opportunity to fly the flag, both for ourselves and the industry as a whole. This year coincides with our 60th anniversary so it’s fitting that we have a bumper load of groundbreaking innovations.”

To mark its long-standing position in the industry, Certikin will be holding a celebration on its main stand (D14) on the Tuesday of the show, with bubbles and canapés, to which all are invited.

Adjacent to this main stand (in the centre of the Hall), are three other stands featuring automatic pool covers (Roldeck and Coverstar) plus liners and covers, the Unibeo panel pool and Certikin/Calorex H&V equipment. The latter will be manned by Certikin’s H&V specialists ready to advise on how the carbon conscious Calorex units can reduce pool running costs, and demonstrate

CRANBOURNE – EXPERTS IN POOL SURROUNDS – BY THE TRADE, FOR THE TRADE!

SEE DARLLY, EUROPE’S LARGEST SUPPLIER OF CARTRIDGE FILTERS AND MORE! Now in its 13th year, Darlly Europe will showcase some of its exciting new products

A13

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 19/01/2023 13:05

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THE POOL, SPA & WELLNESS SHOW

STAND E31

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SPN FEB 2023.qxp_Layout 1 19/01/2023 09:00 Page 48

SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK

SHOW PREVIEW

D2

H17 and developments at SPATEX 2023.

Darlly are Europe’s largest manufacturer and supplier of spa cartridge filters. Indeed, they carry the most extensive stocks of over 200 SKUs and 120,000 units ready for nextday despatch from their UK or Netherlands warehouses.

But they don’t stop there.

Darlly are always looking for innovation and development of new products to ensure customers gets the safest, cleanest and most enjoyable usage from their hot tubs.

At the show, they will launch brand new products, including the new and exciting SaniStream PLUS, directed at the consumer

market, a range of popular and very different Spa Cocktail fragrances, and the first-ever specific filter cleaning bucket to help make maintaining a spa just that little bit easier.

In addition, the Darlly team would be happy to discuss with vistors any opportunities for own-brand white-label products, which are becoming ever-popular in the fight against cheap, race-to-the-bottom products currently available from online retailers.

The Darlly team will be delighted to see existing customers and welcome new customers at what is becoming one of Europe’s leading Pool and Spa shows.

See them on stand H17

WHAT’S ON: WEDNESDAY 1 FEBRUARY ARENA 1: ISPE WORKSHOPS 10:30-11:00: SAVING ENERGY & REDUCING COSTS WHILST CONTROLLING CONDITIONS IN YOUR POOL HALL with John Harvey & Martin Killen – Recotherm 11:15-11:45: WHAT FLAVOUR IS THE LEGIONELLA IN YOUR HOT TUB? with Matt Morse – Legionella Control Association 12:00-12:30: WHAT PARAMETERS ARE TESTED IN A SWIMMING POOL OR HOT TUB & WHY ARE THEY TESTED? with Colin Day - FISPE – Lovibond Tintometer 12:45-13:15: PUMP INVERTER TECHNOLOGY with Will Dando - FISPE – Plastica Ltd 13:30-14:00: INSURANCE CLAIMS - HOW TO GET CLAIMS PAID PROMPTLY & IN FULL (OR AT LEAST TRY!) with Michael Bickers – NSURE 14:15-14:45: EQUIPMENT UPGRADES FOR PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT & ENERGY EFFICIENCY with Bastien Warnier – Dantherm Ltd 15:00-15:30: ASPECTS OF FILTRATION with Chris Carr - FISPE – CC Filtration Services 16:00-16:45: HOW TO INSTALL A ONEPIECE POOL with Alex Kemsley – Compass Pools ARENA 2: SPATEX SEMINARS 10:30-11:00: HOW IS THE HOT TUB INDUSTRY EMBRACING ENERGY

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EFFICIENCY? with Chris Hayes – BSPF 11:15-11:45: HOW CAN THE SWIMMING POOL INDUSTRY DEMONSTRATE THEIR SUSTAINABILITY CREDENTIALS? with Chris Hayes – BSPF 12:00-12:30: TOP TIPS TO BOOST THE PERFORMANCE OF YOUR WEBSITE with Xavier Hodgetts & Paul O’Donoghue – Adtrak 12:40-13:00: “GETTING IT RIGHT FROM THE START” - A GUIDE TO ENSURING WATERTIGHTNESS IN CONCRETE POOL STRUCTURES with Tim Boarer – Mapei UK 13:15-13:45: ANIMAL HYDROTHERAPY - A CASE STUDY with Howard Gosling FISPE – Pool And Spa Advice 14:00-14:30: CANINE HYDROTHERAPY – WATER TREADMILL EXERCISE OR SWIMMING? with Alison Wills – Hartpury College 14:45-15:15: ROTATIONAL MOULDING – WHY SHOULD IT HAVE ITS OWN CATEGORY WHEN COMPARED TO OTHER SPAS with Ian Dore – RotoSpa 15:30-15:50: AVOID POOL BUILDING PERILS AND PITFALLS... ORBRO PRO with Benedict Bonsor – OrbroPro 16:00-16:20: WHY CLIENTS CHOOSE A HYDROFLOORS® MOVABLE POOL FLOOR with Robertus Plompen – Twinscape Group 16:25-16:45: INNOVATIONS WITHIN THE INDUSTRY - VORTEX SPAS with Anthony Schneikert – Spa Solutions

FIND STUNNING TILE SOLUTIONS ON THE DESIGNWORKS STAND Returning to SPATEX, Designworks Tiles is proud to be a leading supplier of commercial and high-end residential pool and spa solutions, working on some truly standout projects. They provide clients across the UK and in the USA with quality swimming pool tiles and surrounds designed and made in Europe.

With an almost endless range of quality mosaics including glass and porcelain with decorative effect, sparkling finishes or recycled glass – they have a tile that is sure to be perfect for any future swimming pool projects. All of the company’s mosaics are suitable for residential and commercial swimming pools and use the JointPoint system to ensure optimum adhesion and superior grip, resulting in a beautiful and durable finish. They are very easy to work with and install – the sheets are flexible, controllable and easy to cut, so curves and irregular surfaces don’t pose problems. They have also been tested and approved by the Tile Council of Northern America.

For visitors with an upcoming project, don’t hesitate and drop by the Designworks stand.

Their sales team will be on hand and would love to discuss projects and help to create beautifully unique pools, spas and stunning outdoor living spaces!

See them on stand D2

FAIRLOCKS LOOK FORWARD TO SPATEX WITH NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHES SPATEX 2023 marks the launch of several new and exciting products from the Oxfordshire-based distributor.

Firstly, there’s the CovLock+ safety cover which is fully compliant with the NF P 90-308 Standard and tested by LNE. Suitable for all pool types, with four track options, automatic hydraulic motors and a selection of seven colours it is the cover of choice for 2023.

Also, newly available from Fairlocks, is SWIMEO – a range of counter-current swimming jets for amateurs (S250) and experienced swimmers (S400 & X400).

Unlike counter-current swimming jet

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SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK

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B50 B55 E58 pumps that offer limited power and uncertain reliability, SWIMEO is a fully immersed counter-current swimming turbine that is both silent and dependable. The maximum power of SWIMEO is the equivalent of swimming at a speed of 100m in 1’20’’.

It doesn’t stop there! Also new for 2023 is the Abridéal, range of telescopic pool enclosures. Based in a large factory near Toulouse in France, the company has been designing and crafting fully customised telescopic and fixed enclosures for pools, spas, and patios since 1979. As specialists in toughened safety glass, they only use the highest quality materials and certified manufacturing processes. Every enclosure is unique and by choosing Abridéal, buyers are guaranteed expert knowledge, reliability and the ultimate product.

With a wide range of options and bespoke features Abridéal enclosures really do have something for all pools and their owners, both domestically and commercial.

See them on stands B50 & B55

LOOK OUT FOR UNIQUE TILED SPA SOLUTIONS FROM GMT As a regular participant of SPATEX, GMT Spas are once again looking forward to returning to Coventry and can be found in their usual location within the Hall. The event

D33

gives them the opportunity to show off their amazing spas and is a fantastic way to meet and catch up with existing customers and meet potential new ones too!

GMT’s unique business model of supplying to the trade only and not installing, enables them to concentrate on, and remain true to their ethos of manufacturing superb highend products. It also gives assurance to customers that they will never compete for their contracts.

Over the past few years GMT Spas has established itself as a leading manufacturer of mosaic tiled spas, gaining many new exclusive contracts such as with AstralPool UK and Certikin, as well as maintaining excellent relations with over 50 long-term loyal customers including a growing oversees clientele through representatives in Europe.

GMT’s ethos is quality first, from design to delivery. Design is of paramount importance but the finish is what’s seen – aesthetics are everything. With this in mind and after careful and precise manufacture of the shell, the company’s superb tilers go to work paying meticulous attention to detail. GMT work closely with designers, architects and pool installers merging their extensive knowledge and flair to produce bespoke luxurious spas, swim spas and hydrotherapy pools to fulfill the needs of the most exacting clients.

See them on stand D33

their stand at SPATEX and get hands on with both the Andromeda EC and Phoenix EC. These Heatstar systems are at the forefront of innovation and sustainability and able to offer unbeatable energy efficiency.

Energy efficiency continues to be a source of focus for the pool industry and Heatstar continues to be at the very forefront of developments in this field with both systems utilising the latest components to offer the very best in optimum energy efficiency with reduced energy costs.

Also on show will be Heatstar’s LYNX technology, a state-of-the-art touch-screen interface, enabling users to access and interact directly with their Heatstar system, all from a clear single-screen display.

The full colour LYNX touch-screen display gives users fingertip control of all control and monitoring functions. It also has the ability for users to alter temperature and humidity levels, and adjust set points to suit both application and other requirements.

Heatstar’s friendly and knowledgeable team will be on the stand to answer any technical questions visitors may have on any aspect of Heatstar’s pool environmental control systems, along with offering excellent advice with regards to the recent changes in 2022 to UK building regulations and the major implications this has on indoor pools.

See them on stand E58

DISCOVER PRODUCTS WITH UNBEATABLE ENERGY EFFICIENCY FROM HEATSTAR

PRODUCTS FROM NAMES BOTH OLD AND NEW ON THE LIGHTHOUSE STAND

Heatstar invites all visitors to come and see

Lighthouse pools will once again be

SUPPORT THE STA’S SWIM TO THE BEAT CAMPAIGN Everyone has a heart… so, let’s show it by supporting the STA (Swimming Teachers’ Association) when they launch their month-long Swim to the Beat campaign on the Aqua Warehouse stand (E2) on the Wednesday of the show, to raise valuable funds for the British Heart Foundation.

From 10.30am, throughout the day, swimmers will be taking part in a series of sponsored aquatic exercises, including STA’s Zoe Cooper, a member of Aquabatix, the world’s leading professional synchronised swimming team, who has featured in The Rocket Man and The Muppets films and Britain’s Got Talent.

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With energy costs rising and with concerns surrounding the environment, there’s bound to be a big focus on new, greener products that are sustainable too”

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to Lighthouse line-up too with the introduction of the patented CoverSeal cover which comprises a unique mechanism that allows the fabric to be cleanly unrolled onto the pool whilst locking it in place in an extra-flat, extremely discreet, parallel guide rail system.

Why not drop by to the stand and the team can bring visitors up to speed with everything that’s new!

See them on stand E32

PEACE OF MIND SOLUTIONS TO INDUSTRY VISITORS AT SPATEX exhibiting Zodiac and HeatForm products at Coventry, and have some exciting new products from both brands to show visitors to their stand.

Building on the successful launch of the HeatForm Velocity hydraulic counter-current system last year, a new performance control system has been developed and can be demonstrated on the stand. The system is designed to offer swimmers the ability to use the Velocity as a training tool with the ability to set full routines of interval swimming. The Velocity Performance Control System is fully backward compatible and can be installed onto all machines that have already left the factory.

There’s also two new heat pumps to admire from Zodiac – the vertical Z350iQ and horizontal Z250 – both of which will operate down to temperatures as low as -7°C and feature the latest full inverter technology.

Also from Zodiac, there’s the EiSalt. Suitable for all installations, this simple new salt chlorinator is one of the longest-lasting in its category too (up to 8,000 hours) thanks to its high quality titanium electrode.

Visitors will also be able to see a new brand

Nsure have over 20 years’ experience of arranging specialist cover for the wet leisure industry and have developed the policies in partnership with SPATA (Swimming Pool and Allied Trade Association) and BISHTA (British & Irish Hot Tub Association), who are part of the BSPF (British Swimming Pool Federation).

The company believe arranging insurance should be simple. From the beginning, getting to know a client is their top priority and it is because of this that they can be sure to offer the best advice on how to protect a business for the future.

Nsure arrange cover for all sectors of the wet leisure industry from swimming pool contractors involved in the design, supply, installation and maintenance of swimming pools, to hot tubs, leisure equipment and chemicals. It is designed for both the commercial and residential sectors, as well as companies involved as consultants or the manufacture or supply of products to the industry, including specialist activities such as filtration and water testing.

The company offer bespoke policies from Public Liability only, to the full package including Employers Liability, Products Liability,

THE INDUSTRY’S BIGGEST NETWORKING EVENT

Contractors All Risks, Material Damage, Business Interruption, Personal Accident, Goods in Transit, Money and Motor Fleet.

See them on stand A3

OCEA UK – MUCH MORE THAN JUST SLATTED COVERS As part of the European Ocea Group who based in Belgium, Ocea UK manufacture in the UK and specialise in serving this market.

The Oxford-based business have been designing and manufacturing luxury, fully automated, slatted pool covers for over 20 years and fully understand what pool owners in the UK need.

The company is passionate about bringing the UK market more choice and luxury in at-home leisure and wellness facilities and over recent years, have extended the Ocea UK family to include the luxury one-piece pools by Starline plus Binder who produce HydroStar and EasyStar counter-current systems.

The company are excited about the future and will continue to evolve, innovate and widen their range – all delivered with quality, passion, creativity and care.

Ocea UK started 2022 with a brand new website showcasing the existing family of products and ended the year with an annual Seminar which was held at the impressive Williams F1 Conference Centre in Oxfordshire. There, current and potential dealers were given a sneak peak of the company’s new handpicked premium products for this year. These will be officially unveiled on the Ocea UK stand at SPATEX 2023 and the company are looking for exclusive dealers for these exciting additions.

See them on stand C2

C2

The Arena has offered SPATEX and its attendees the chance to enjoy some great and memorable networking opportunities since the show’s move to the Midlands-based venue and this year is no dufferent.

All visitors and exhibitors are invited to join the exhibition team at the nowfamous SPATEX Networking Party – the UK industry’s largest engagement opportunity. Held in the Arena’s Clubhouse Bar, from 5pm on Wednesday, both visitors and exhibitors are assured of a warm welcome, free drinks, canapés and party fun.

Organiser Michele said: “The SPATEX Networking Party is now something of a tradition and, along with free drinks, canapes and silly headgear, we are planning something a little different. Be there or be square, as the saying goes!”

In addition, SPATEX will again be hosting the industry’s most prestigious awards evening with the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards (presented by SPATA and BISHTA) returning for their gala dinner on the night of Tuesday 31 January.

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Welcome to our new world

For over 20 years, Ocea has been the market leader in automatic pool covers.

We’ve now added Starline’s sleek one-piece pools and Binder’s hi-tech counter current systems HydroStar and EasyStar to our product range.

Do you want to be part of our Dealer Network?

www.oceauk.com @oceapoolcovers @oceapoolproducts

We offer full product training.

Contact us if you are interested in joining our growing Dealer Network.

Sales: 01993 707910 | Email: sales@oceacovers.com

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D36 PLASTICA – CONTINUING TO DO WHAT THEY DO BEST This year at SPATEX, Plastica will be focusing on their UK manufactured products, plus their range of Heat Retention Covers, Liners, Extreme Liners and Water Treatment.

Plasticas’ stand display will include: • Argonaut and AG Pumps – Plasticas’ popular pumps are the best choice for small and medium sized pools with their superior build quality and performance.

• Clever Pool Pump Inverter – Saving money and energy is on everyone’s minds and this product does just that and is compatible with 95% of single speed pumps up to 2.0hp.

• HeatSeeker Inverter Heat Pumps – Plasticas’ range has been developed to compete at the top end of the heat pump market.

• Helios II – A solar-powered domestic reel kit, with improved end stand access for a smoother install.

• Relax Pool Water Treatment Display Stand – Made from sturdy 316 Stainless Steel ladder stringer supports and powder coated steel racking. It also comes fully stocked with over 20 essential chemicals to offer customers’ a comprehensive range and look stylish in showrooms!

In addition to the above, visitors will be able to view Plastica’s Slidelock Telescopic Reel, Slidelock Max Telescopic Reel System and Slidelock Reduction Gearbox.

Finally, Plastica manufacture their own ABS piping and fittings in-house, ideal for bespoke jobs. Large fittings are available upon request… In fact, no job is too big or small for this leading independent company.

See them on stand D36

EXPECT SOME STAINLESS STEEL STUNNERS ON THE SPAFLO STAND SpaFlo will be exhibiting at SPATEX, showcasing their range of striking, luxurious,

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A19 custom-built spas and pools that they manufacture exclusively from stainless steel. The timeless material is perfect for the manufacture of pools and spas, due to its chemical resistance, longevity and workability.

SpaFlo’s in-house designers use stainless steel to create stunning bespoke products that satisfy the most demanding and highend client brief.

“Thanks to our in-depth knowledge, experience and ingenuity around the use of this material, the demand for stainless steel 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,” advised Richard Gowland, founder and Managing Director at SpaFlo. “We’re looking forward to sharing some of our favourite innovations, which will be on display at SPATEX, including our unique window-fronted hot tub that recently featured in a high profile show garden − plus a brand new feature for 2023,” added Richard.

As a multi-award winning business, SpaFlo works with many of the leading pool and spa installation companies, as well as spa consultants on projects for high-end hotels, super yachts and luxury spas. All products are designed, manufactured and fabricated in their own UK based factory in Widnes, enabling SpaFlo to innovate and a provide a quality guarantee; every job is designed, fabricated and tested under one roof, to exacting standards.

See them on stand A19

SEE A SPECTRUM OF WELLNESS PRODUCTS ON SHOW FROM SUPERIOR Superior Wellness is set to showcase a number of hot tub brands at SPATEX including Platinum Spas, Thermals Spas, Spa Berry and their brand-new premium range AquaSolus.

Visitors to their stand will find two

models from the company’s premium brand AquaSolus range which have been designed to improve the state of both the mind and body of users. The hot tubs have been carefully thought out with wellness and hydrotherapy at the forefront and are the Chesterfield-based company’s most

WHAT’S ON: THURSDAY 2 FEBRUARY ARENA 1: ISPE WORKSHOPS 10:30-10:50: THE MORNING QUESTIONS with various members of the ISPE Council of Management 11:00-11:30: CHEMICAL DOSING BASICS with Matt Roberts - MISPE – Certikin 12:00-12:30: WHY ARE SPA FILTERS SOMETIMES BIGGER THAN POOL FILTERS? with Jimmy Lamb - FISPE – PPG UK And Ireland 13:00-13:30: MONEY DOWN THE DRAIN, LITERALLY! with Steve Burke MISPE – Interplan / Aquaplan ARENA 2: SPATEX SEMINARS 10:30-10:50: MAPPING ENERGY USAGE IN THE SWIMMING POOL with Ian Ogilvie – PWTAG 11:00-11:30: POOL CHEMICAL SPILLAGE INCIDENTS with Mike Shuff – PWTAG 12:00-12:30: CRYPTOSPORIDIUM IN SWIMMING POOLS - WHAT THE NUMBERS TELL US with Rachel Chalmers – Public Health Wales 13:00-13:30: USING REMOTE MONITORING TO IMPROVE YOUR POOL OPERATIONS with Lester Simmonds & Martin Wood – PWTAG 13:45-14:15: REGENERATIVE MEDIA FILTERS with Neal Hershey – PWTAG

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CPD POINTS IN ARENA 1 & MORE

ISPE Workshops return on all three days of the Show in Arena 1 and attendees at any of them will be awarded with a Continuous Professional Development (CPD) point on a Certificate of Attendance – a valuable record of the courses that have been attended.

In addition, and repeating the success of previous years, SPATEX is hosting a second seminar programme in Arena 2 featuring speakers from a wide range of organisations.

Whilst we’ve provided details all of all the workshops and seminars here, it is worth pointing out that both full descriptions for each seminar along with a brief bio for each of the speakers are available for all three days on the SPATEX website (www.spatex.co.uk). At the show, daily flyers are given out advising what seminar is scheduled for the day ahead and this information is also posted outside each seminar arena. Information for all three days plus much more is also included within the free SPATEX Show Guide.

premium hot tub range to date.

New and improved deluxe models from Platinum Spas will also be unveiled at 11am on the first day of SPATEX. Alongside these hot tub products, Superior Wellness are proud to introduce some brand-new products for 2023 including Hekla Saunas, Chill Tubs and a new range of heat pumps by Aquark.

All new products are extensions to their ever-expanding brand portfolio and the Superior team is excited to launch such a variety of new products and are confident that they will offer improved choice and exceptional hydrotherapy.

For those travelling to Coventry with an interest in wellness, visiting the Superior stand is likely a must and will offer a first look at some of the latest innovations plus exciting new products.

See them on stand B66

B66 WHATEVER THE REQUIREMENT – SWIMEX HAVE GOT IT COVERED Enclosure specialist Swimex are an established, industry renowned supplier who have been providing premium pool enclosures to homes, hotels, leisure centres, holiday parks and schools for over 20 years.

The company’s friendly team have a wealth of experience in enclosure installation and will be available in Coventry to answer any questions and provide advise. So, whatever the shape, size and location of a pool or hot tub, they have a structure to suit all requirements. All the enclosure products supplied by Swimex are manufactured to the highest quality and built to withstand the harsh weather; they also come with a 10-year guarantee.

They can supply both fixed and telescopic enclosures, with any width, length or height to suit all requirements. They offer curved/ arched or angled structures and can help installers/clients choose what design would be best for any particular site.

Swimex also have a wide range of other enclosure-based products, including some newly introduced Box enclosures plus solutions for hot tubs and spas, more of which can be seen earlier in this issue of SPN. See them on stand B63

FIND OLD FAVOURITES AND DISCOVER NEW INNOVATIONS ON WATERCO’S STAND Once again Waterco Europe are pleased to be supporting the UK pool industry by participating in the SPATEX 2023 exhibition.

“The exhibition has long established itself as the perfect opportunity to showcase new developments, technologies and innovations within the industry and this year looks to be no exception to this,” commented Tony Fisher, CEO Waterco Europe.

On Waterco’s stand, the company will be displaying a diverse range of products ranging from their commercial and domestic filters, their media products to the company’s latest range of high-end cleaning accessories and maintenance equipment.

Waterco staff will be on hand throughout the exhibition to help with queries about the products on display, or indeed any of the impressive and varied product ranges that will be present in Coventry.

See them on stand E20

E20

B63

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HOT TUBS

2023 Hot Tubs – The New Season

With demand across the hot tub and spa sector having slowed, manufacturers and distributors are keen to ensure the New Year brings new opportunities – and energy efficiency and value for money will be key over the next 12 months and beyond. With that in mind, we look at hot tubs for the year ahead including enhanced and fresh models supplied by both established and new brands which feature the latest in design and technology By Jon Wadeson

L

ooking back over recent years, it is fair to say that hot tubs and spas in their various forms were steadily establishing themselves as some ‘must-have’ products. Whether that was for wellness reasons or just to show off to friends and neighbours, they were without doubt edging towards becoming what I’d call mainstream and therefore accepted items to be found in many gardens across the country.

Through the pandemic that changed, with demand quickly skyrocketing to levels never seen before. Post lockdowns, as normality resumed, that enthusiasm faded almost as quickly as it had arrived, and now the sector looks like it will face a much tougher business environment.

Of course, demand hasn’t totally dried up, far from it. However, we are someway from the pandemic peaks, which could only last so long.

Despite the challenges on the horizon, there’s plenty of changes still taking place within a sector that never stays still for long.

Energy is sure to play a big part this year, and I suspect reducing its usage and therefore costs, will be key to making sales in 2023.

New brands and models always attract attention too, as do new innovations. So what’s new for this key season? Read on as we round up just some of what’s on offer for the 2023 season.

AWG INTRODUCE A NEW GERMAN-MADE SPA BRAND WITH WHIRLCARE 2023 is going to be another exciting year for the Aqua Warehouse Group (AWG) as they introduce a new German-made range of hot tubs and swim spas to the UK. Whirlcare is a relatively new brand to the sector and the Essex-based company have been appointed exclusive UK distributor for their products.

Founded by Managing Director Richard Hart, AWG has grown from a single brand

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invest in German technology and reliability.

AWG believe that the UK market has become saturated with budget products so the Whirlcare brand offers dealers an opportunity to sell to those high-end customers who think quality is more important than price.

CATALINA’S ALL NEW CATALINA CX-6 BUILDS ON AN ALREADY POPULAR MODEL Aqua Warehouse Group been appointed exclusive UK distributor for high-quality German brand Whirlcare

supplier in 2003 to multiple brands today, all within the hot tub and outdoor living sectors.

Commenting on the new range, Richard said: “In my 20 years of experience in the industry I have never come across hot tubs and swim spas built to such high quality.

Most hot tubs are still constructed by hand but Whirlcare use robots! When you look at the design and manufacturing process, the components they use, it’s a real eyeopener.”

AWG are actively looking for new dealers who wish to sell a luxury brand with a build quality of the highest order.

Whirlcare, established in Germany in 2018, manufacture products that combine wellness, health and technology. They have created a new generation of hot tubs and swim spas that are according to Richard, unrivalled in their quality, style and features.

Whirlcare produce a stunning range of spas aimed at those customers looking to

Launched towards the end of last year, Catalina Spas’ new CX-6 hot tub is an improved, larger and deeper version of the extremely popular original CS-6 that incorporates a more ergonomic seating and jet layout plus a larger open footwell.

With a retail price of £7,499, this 2250 x 2250 x 950mm hot tub features 38 jets that provide a great massage and the bather experience is further complemented with Balboa controls, a Bluetooth™ sound system, perimeter LED lighting, two pop-up water features, ozone and cabinet lighting.

The CX-6 is also equipped with a thick,

Catalina Spas’ new CX-6 hot tub is an improved, larger and deeper version of the extremely popular original CS-6

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HOT TUBS • Timeless aesthetics with textured plastic panels in neutral colours that give the appearance of real wood, but are much lighter in weight and more durable too.

• Excellent portability thanks to a weight of under 120kg. The spas are easily transportable and are ready to go right out of the box.

• The FRAME collection ‘combines revolutionary design and legendary performance’ and both of these new models certainly appear to fit that description.

ENJOY EXCLUSIVE ITALIAN STYLE WITH NOVELLINI’S DIVINA SPA RANGE

Late last year, MSpa added new spa models to their premium FRAME Series including this Oslo model

insulated PVC cabinet and a durable acrylic shell, this ensures the very best structural support and heat retention. Built with a 304 galvanised stainless steel frame, the CX-6 comes with a fully sealed ABS waterproof moulded base.

The CX-6 comes complete with an insulation cover and chemical starter kit and for peace of mind, it includes a five-year warranty on its shell and structure, plus twoyears on the equipment and plumbing.

For business settings, an HSG282 compliant model is also available. The CX-6 HP has a retail price of £6,495 and has been designed to keep all the popular functions and features of the CS-6 but to incorporate upgrades and modifications to suit the ever-growing holiday park and letting market. These include a simple push button ‘non tamper’ topside with separate auxiliary controls for temp and filter cycles plus an in-line chemical feeder.

Catalina Spas UK is the longest established hot tub supplier in the UK, staying loyal to their original supplier Catalina Spas, who have been making high quality hot tubs and swim spas in the USA since 1978.

are expected to do the same with retail customers in 2023.

With super stiff DWF material and plastic wood grain materials applied to the body of these products, they both enjoy a more traditional appearance, similar to that of an acrylic hot tub. What’s more, the models incorporate some of the most advanced spa systems in the inflatable sector and stand out features include: • One of the most advanced spa filtration systems. A patented direct current pump has a specialised impeller to cut energy consumption by up to 30% while a UVC sanitiser and ozone generator keeps water germ free.

• MSpa’s proprietary 360 degree air jet system delivers thousands of bubbles for an allencompassing body massage plus adjustable hydro jets with customisable strengths build a custom bubble massage experience.

The Divina Outdoor Spa Collection from Italian designer bathroom brand Novellini offers a stylish option for 2023.

The brand is one of Europe’s leading bathroom and spa manufacturers and the Dvina range includes top-of-the-range, Italian made, outdoor spas that are equipped with hydro massage. The collection, designed for head-to-toe wellness, includes four models of different sizes – M, L, XL and XXL – which can accommodate from two up to six people.

Attention to detail is the manufacturer’s number one priority. This four-model range is distinguished by an exclusive design with clear-cut lines, but also a focus on ergonomics, to ensure relaxing use in total safety and peace of mind.

Textured, eco-friendly surfaces resistant to weathering, guarantee both the hygiene and long-lasting performance of each spa.

The Divina’s exterior panels are made from materials with a low environmental impact and are resistant to both weathering and bacteria. They are easy to clean and effectively insulate the water even in low outdoor temperatures.

The shells of Divina Spa tubs are made from the highest quality acrylic and are available in a range of colour finishes. Easy The Divina Outdoor Spa Collection from Italian designer bathroom brand Novellini offers a stylish option for the 2023

MSPA ADDS TO ITS FRAME RANGE WITH OSLO AND TRIBECA MODELS Known as one of the industry leaders in portable, inflatable and semi-rigid spas, MSpa has over 20 models is its range, all packed with features.

With decades of experience operating within the inflatable sector and being used to develop and utilise advanced spa technology, the company is determined to provide the ultimate spa relaxation experience at a more affordable price point.

Late last year, the company added new spa models to their premium FRAME Series – the Oslo and Tribeca. Both caught the eye at international trade exhibitions and

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HOT TUBS

The Oslo (left) and Colombo (right) are two recent additions to the Premium range of models in the Platinum Spas line-up

to clean and extremely resistant to impact, they do not deteriorate or fade over time. The tub shell is reinforced by a low environmental impact polyurethane foam, which guarantees excellent thermal insulation of the tub and significant energy savings.

The whirlpool jets positioned on the walls of the tub have a thin profile, soft-touch effect and are easy to clean.

The reliable, cutting-edge technology, which is both hidden and silent, is always ready to offer users complete relaxation and water, air, music and other features can all be controlled remotely from the dedicated App via Wi-Fi. This is high-end wellness with a surprising design, characterised by exclusive finishes and accessories that perfectly blend into the home.

PLATINUM SPAS’ ALL-SEATER OPTIONS ADD TO PREMIUM RANGE The Oslo and Colombo are two recent additions to the Premium range of models in the Platinum Spas line up.

Launched last autumn, 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 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 a s 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.

Commeting on the models, Gareth Ward, Sales Director at Superior Wellness advised: “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.”

REXENER OFFER AUTHENTIC HOT TUBS FROM THE FROZEN NORTH

Rexener fibreglass hot tubs are handmade in Finland and their workmanship exhibits uncompromising quality and unmatched comfort

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Rexener fibreglass hot tubs are handmade in Finland and their workmanship exhibits uncompromising quality and unmatched comfort.

Three models are available: the Silence, Aurora and Polar. Each of these square hot tubs are easy to embed in a terrace, feature good ergonomics, and are comfortable to sit in.

The top of the range Rexener Polar model is a high-quality premium hot tub with a wooden frame and fibreglass tub which is available in Gabro Black or Arctic White options. A built-in filter and UV system ensures the water stays clean for a long time while a jet system with an eight nozzles brings a touch of luxury to this functional hot tub.

A thermostat-controlled Rexener Bioheater ensures it takes considerably less time to heat than when heating with wood.

At first glance, the Aurora looks identical

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HOT TUBS to the Polar, however this model is more basic and lacks the UV / LED lighting and jet system. Both models are HSG282 compliant making them perfect for use in business settings.

The Rexener Silence respects the traditions of hot tubs in many ways. It is made of Finnish wood and insulated with polyurethane sheeting throughout.

Simple and atmospheric, this quiet hot tub brings users closer to nature.

The Rexener Wood Heater wood stove exudes northern character with the blaze of wood burning flames being visible through glass reindeer antlers.

The Heater, which utilises the thermal energy of wood very efficiently, warms the hot tub’s water at a rate of up to 15 °C per hour.

Whether it’s a model with a wood stove or one with Rexener’s advanced Bioheater, operating costs will remain relatively low for all of these models.

ROTOSPA ANNOUNCE TWO NEW SPA MODELS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD 2023 will see the launch of two new hot tubs from RotoSpa. Significant investment in the company’s office space, production facility, and cutting-edge manufacturing processes will bring with it the launch of a new Orbis hot tub and a brand-new contemporary designed spa offering great aesthetic appeal, improved user function, a range of twinned accessories, and flexible model options – and all designed and built right here in the UK. Both new products can be fitted with a fully integrated ASHP, reducing energy consumption by up to 75%. In addition, improved insulation will vastly increase thermal efficiency, reducing running costs further through the continued development and improvements of RotoSpa’s unique RotoTherm two-layer roto-moulded construction.

These new models will also see the transition to silicone-free jet bodies.

This new high-tech approach to manufacturing will ensure that RotoSpa becomes more efficient and vastly reduces its carbon footprint, resulting in manufacturing the most environmentally friendly hot tubs on the market.

The new products will complement the brand’s current models and provide B2B customers with a sustainable and lucrative revenue stream.

RotoSpa is making way for a cleaner, safer, super-efficient, and environmentally friendly

Superior Wellness are delighted to announce the launch of AquaSolus, the brand new range of luxury hot tubs hitting the market for 2023.

manufacturing solution and providing their customers with the most sustainable, efficient, and reliable hot tub products.

NEW PREMIUM RANGE ‘AQUASOLUS’ OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES Superior Wellness are delighted to announce the launch of AquaSolus, the brand new range of luxury hot tubs hitting the market for 2023.

The new AquaSolus product range offers six new hot tubs. It encompasses various well sculptured models, from all seater models to models with one lounger.

The new AquaSolus range has been designed to improve wellness. The hot tubs have been carefully designed with wellness and hydrotherapy at the forefront With AquaSolus, owners can have confidence in the components used.

Superior Wellness are proud to partner with industry leading suppliers to produce the highest quality hot tubs with the some of best hydrotherapy experiences. All AquaSolus hot tubs are built around an impressive tubular stainless-steel framework, due to its robustness the compaby are proud to give a lifetime warranty on its integrity.

In a world of increasing energy costs, it’s vitally important to put energy efficient insulation at the forefront when designing a new hot tub and the AquaSolus range is no exception. Utilising a tried and tested Heatlock Insulation Process, where the exterior of the spas is insulated in the same way we insulate our homes, an inner heat shield is created. Using this method, heat is reflected and then used to help maintain

Despite the challenges on the horizon, there’s plenty of changes still taking place within a sector that never stays still for long.

Energy is sure to play a big part this year, and I suspect reducing its usage and therefore costs, will be key to making sales in 2023” 62 February 2023 SPN 59-62_SPN_February_2023_Hot_Tubs_Rev.indd 62

the temperature of the spa through heat transfer via the vast amount of plumbing. This process assists with the overall running costs.

Graham Message, Superior Wellness Business Development Manager said “Our new AquaSolus range sees Superior Wellness venture into the high end, high specification hot tub marketplace for the first time.

“We had to make the AquaSolus range the best we could and I’m pleased to say we have achieved the brief we set ourselves.” SPN

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Aqua Warehouse Group 01245 477400 www.aquawarehousegroup.co.uk Catalina Spas 01980 611555 www.catalinaspas.co.uk MSpa +86 21 6491 3300 www.the-mspa.com Novellini UK 01727 229922 www.novellini.co.uk Platinum Spas 01246 559071 www.platinum-spas.com Rex Nordic UK 01355 377370 www.rexnordic.uk RotoSpa 0121 354 3428 www.rotospa.co.uk Superior Wellness 01246 932448 www.superiorwellness.co.uk

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Up to 70% energy savings

INCREASE YOUR SALES AND REVENUE Not all heat pumps are equal. Sleek and modern designs, made with the highest spec technology giving customers peace of mind and huge energy savings while using hot tubs.

UK stock holding and operates in up to -10 degrees.

Mr. Silence Inverpad Noise cancelling technology Anti-rust Aluminium Alloy Operates in up to -10 degrees

AquaIntel Smart touch controller - 5°C

Built in Wifi Silent mode Double energy savings

For an additional revenue stream, become an Aquark stockist contact sales@superiorwellness.co.uk

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UV SYSTEMS

Shining A Light On Ultraviolet Options For many commercial and increasingly domestic settings, when it comes to the effective treatment of water in pools and spas, ultraviolet systems are an established choice. Their success is no real surprise when you consider UV’s many benefits, but their big selling point is a large reduction in chlorine use. As more installations make the switch to UV, additional products have come to market and we take a look at the current crop By Jon Wadeson

I

t is a well-known fact that ultraviolet (UV) light, when used correctly, is an extremely successful disinfectant. UV’s power lay in its ability to inactivate viruses, bacteria and pathogens and in the world of wet leisure, that includes the nasty Cryptosporidium and Giardia variants which are able to survive in water despite the presence of various sanitisers, including chlorine.

In addition to its biocide action, UV has a powerful oxidising effect which successfully removes organic pollution from pool and spa water. So when UV is used in conjunction with chlorine, the various chloramines that cause eye and skin irritation are turned into easily removed by-products. This action leads to healthier bathing for swimmers and improved working conditions for staff in commercial environments.

Although hugely effective, UV is still a secondary disinfection process that is used alongside, primarily chlorine as the principal disinfectant in swimming pool and spa water. The reason for this is that UV only treats water as it passes through the lamp, therefore a sanitiser such as chlorine is needed to provide a constant defence throughout the rest of the water system.

So whilst chlorine use is minimised, it still plays an essential role in providing the safest possible water.

Through the use of UV, it is possible to reduce the sanitiser level drastically by as much as 80% and down to as little as 0.5ppm. In addition to requiring less chemicals, water treated with UV will also require less backwashing plus heating costs will be lowered too – both great money savers at this current time of high prices. So in summary, the water in a UV treated pool or spa is better for anyone using or operating it, it uses less chemicals, requires less backwashing and both water and heating costs are reduced – what’s not to like?

With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that UV has become a popular choice for pools of all sizes and its use is rapidly expanding

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into residential installations at a fantastic rate. There are plenty of options available to choose from for both residential and commercial sectors too, so in this latest issue, we shine a light on just some of the ultra effective options that are making water safer through the power of UV. AstralPool UK and BIO-UV will be working together with the UK distributor supplying UV systems for both residential and commercial pools

LET BIO-UV AND ASTRALPOOL MAKE LIGHT WORK OF WATER DISINFECTION In a new arrangement for the 2023 season, AstralPool UK and BIO-UV will be working together with the UK distributor supplying UV systems for both residential and commercial pools to the British market.

For more than 20 years, BIO-UV Group has been developing and marketing chlorine-free water treatment systems based on type C ultraviolet disinfection technology.

BIO-UV Group was the first 100% French company to be approved by the French Ministry of Solidarity and Health for medium pressure dechloramination in 2004 (MP range). The company has also been approved for low pressure since 2013 (LP and UV HO ranges). These two technologies ensure the lowest operating costs on the market.

So, if a more natural disinfection system with low operating costs sounds appealing for either commercial or domestic pool clients, AstralPool UK are now able to offer a range of UV water treatment solutions.

Easy to install and maintain, the range features models to suit different pool sizes, each designed for long service with lamps lasting up to 13,000 hours.

To date, more than 150,000 private pools and spas in Europe are equipped with BIOUV systems.

BIO-UV MP (medium pressure) is an ideal solution for commercial pool set ups. The system can reduce combined chlorine levels by up to 80% for an average level of 0.1 to 0.3 ppm, and is capable of destroying the three types of chloramines (mono, di and trichloramines) as well as trihalomethanes. Units are available with either a digital screen or touch screen (BIO-UV MP TS) for displaying different reactor parameters to enable more efficient management and maintenance.

ENJOY A CLEAR SOLUTION WITH UV SYSTEMS FROM CERTIKIN Certikin UV systems have been specifically designed to help prevent green water in swimming pools and swimming ponds.

They work by emitting 254nm UV light inside a sealed tube, damaging and destroying single celled algae which Certikin UV systems have been specifically designed to help prevent green water in swimming pools and swimming ponds

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UV SYSTEMS cause green water. Lower pressure UV-C breaks down monochloramines, reducing the associated symptoms and the amount of chemicals required, allowing the pool to be operated at a lower free chlorine level.

The UV systems are fully serviceable which means both the lamp and control box can be replaced should there be a problem. The control box uses less plastic to produce and the serviceability means less plastic waste.

Additionally, the control box is fitted to a bracket which allows the unit to be wall mounted. There are seven models available in the range for pools between 15,000 (15m3) and 150,000 (150m3) litres.

In addition to their own UV products, Certikin also added the Blue Lagoon Xpose UV-C system to its range last year.

The first stand-up pool UV system designed specifically for domestic above-ground and small in-ground pools, the Xpose UV-C features a plug and play concept that’s powerful, affordable and easy to install.

It’s introduction means that owners of all sizes of pool, big and small, can enjoy the fantastic benefits of UV-C technology. Its 42W lamp offers a staggering 9,000 hours.

Constructed from a high-quality copolymer, its high technical specification means it can operate within 1°C to 40°C; has a maximum flow of 15m3/h – 250 L/min and a maximum pressure of 1 bar – 14.5psi.

ELECRO SYSTEM PROVIDES THE ULTIMATE INTERNAL REFLECTION Available through distributors Certikin, Plastica and SCP, the H.R.UV-C one is of newest members to the Elecro family.

Designed using the latest knowledge of

highly reflective reactor casing materials, the H.R.UV-C features the highest UV reflective index on the market thus optimising the UV-C radiation and dramatically increasing its performance.

This is achieved thanks to the E-PTFE reach chamber which is extremely repellent, maintaining UV reflectivity. Up to 95% reflection amplifies the exposure of microorganisms to UV. It’s win, win as no harmful gases or by-products are produced in the process and the powerful sterilisation eliminates the smell of chlorine. It is highly effective in neutralising bacteria, viruses, algae and fungi that traditional chemicals cannot.

The inside surface casing is extremely repellent and therefore selfcleaning. 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 Available from Plastica, SCP and now Certikin, the H.R.UV-C is one of the newer members to the Elecro family of sanitisers

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 retro fitted 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 the unit is always performing optimally and has a long lamp life, up to 9,000 hours.

The H.R.UV-C is available in three sizes: Mini (30m³), Single (55m³) and Double (110m³) and in three models − Standard, Classic and Pro.

PURIQ – A 100% ECOFRIENDLY UV WATER PURIFIER

The PURIQ-UV-C water purifier from Fairlocks offers optimum technology and crystal clear water

Available through Fairlocks Pool Products, the PURIQ UV-C Bright Series water purifier offers optimal technology for crystalclear water without the need for multiple chemicals and is kinder for water users too.

Featuring the latest technology, the lamp placed in the pool water emits a very powerful UV-C light with a wavelength of exactly 253.7nm

CASE STUDY UV DISINFECTION ELIMINATES CHLORAMINE ISSUE AT UK AQUATIC FACILITY The Gloucester Institute of Technology operates an on-campus swimming and leisure facility and required a solution to its poor water quality due to high levels of chloramines.

Enter Evoqua, who contracted with a local engineering consultancy to provide a start-of-the-art UV water treatment system for its on-campus leisure facility. The quick and easy installation of the UV system from the ATG product family will provide protection for the campus pools and spa facilities by allowing operators to achieve optimum water disinfection without the use of chemicals, such as chlorine.

“I have been running an atg UV system in my facility for over 18 months now, and I cannot begin to tell you how easy it has made things from a chemical balance issue. Because of our load, our Combined Chlorine in the form of chloramines had always been a problem, so much so that I had to shock the pool every two weeks,” advised leisure Manager Chris Miller.

After turning on the state-of-the-art Inline ECL dual lamp system, over the

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course of a couple days, everything changed and the water was balanced.

“I can’t tell you the relief I felt to watch

the ‘Gremlin’ that had taunted me for the past several years simply disappear,” added Chris.

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UV SYSTEMS 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.

EVOQUA ATG UV RANGE – IMPROVING WATER QUALITY ACROSS THE INDUSTRY From the smallest hydrotherapy pools to leisure centres, spas and water parks, Evoqua ATG has a UV system to meet the needs of the aquatics industry with flow capability from 5 up to 5,000m3/h. One of the more recent additions to Evoqua ATG’s product range is the compact Wafer® UV generator. It’s about one third of the size of comparative units making it easy to install and retrofit in the most restricted of plant rooms. The eight models in the range use the latest in medium pressure UV lamp technology, in single and twin lamp configurations to handle flows from 5 to 600m3/hr. As with Evoqua ATG’s WF range includes UV intensity monitoring, over-

... water within a UV treated pool or spa uses less chemicals, requires less backwashing and both water and heating costs are reduced, however chlorine use, whilst minimised, still plays an essential role in providing the safest possible water”

The Filtreau UV-C system from Lighthouse helps to ensure crystal-clear water

temperature control and automatic cleaning.

Lamp life is 9,000hrs, and the enhanced safety quick release Twistlok™ UV lamps can be changed without removing the wiper motor, so maintenance requirements are significantly reduced by comparison with other systems. The SPECTRA control system includes features such as data stream monitoring, process interlocks and programmable set points, and it interfaces with most BMS protocols. A key feature is variable power stepping from 100% down to 30%, allowing operators to optimise the operational power of their system to match bather loads and pool opening times.

The Wafer generator is 3rd party validated, NSF-50 certified and Model Aquatic Health Code Model (MAHC) compliant and designed to provide a minimum 3-log reduction of Cryptosporidium. UV improves water quality by breaking down chloramines giving bright sparkling water, fresh clean air and residual chlorine levels as low as 0.5ppm.

LIGHT UP WITH FILTREAU UV-C FROM LIGHTHOUSE The Filtreau UV-C system from Lighthouse helps to ensure crystal-clear water in a swimming pool or spa. The sophisticated design and high quality materials produce high UV-C radiation with a wavelength of precisely 253.7nm. This high level of radiation kills almost all bacteria, viruses and even fungi, providing clear and clean water. As a result, the level of added chemicals (e.g. chlorine) can be reduced, ensuring more natural feeling and healthier water.

The system is easily installed into domestic pool pipework whether it is a retrospective installation or as part of a new build. The units are also covered by a two-year warranty on The Evoqua ATG WF range is the next generation of medium pressure UV systems and is the most compact on the market

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manufacturing defects.

Due to the extra-wide DUPLEX housing on the Filtreau range, the water stays in contact with the UV-C radiation for a longer time. This broad housing also ensures that there is minimal pressure loss during the water treatment. The housing is polished on the inside to minimise the chances of dirt sticking to the walls. Overall, this increases the effectiveness of the UV-C radiation by up to 35%.

The intelligent electronics indicate when the lamp is not producing enough radiation and needs to be changed (approx. 12,000hrs), ensuring users know that the device is energy efficient and environmentally friendly.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.co.uk Certikin International 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Evoqua 0300 124 0500 www.evoqua.com Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.fairlocks.co.uk Lighthouse 01752 25325 www.lighthousepools.co.uk Plastica Pools 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

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WATER TREATMENTS & SYSTEMS

Creating A Clean, Clear And Safe Water Setting Whether in a domestic or commercial setting, providing a clean and safe environment is a must for any pool or spa owner. When it comes to water treatments (and putting UV only systems aside), traditional methods are still popular, effective and proven, but with an ever-increasing range of alternative products and systems on offer, is there such a thing as the best solution? With numerous options available for a variety of settings, this issue we examine what’s on offer By Jon Wadeson

W

hen it comes the ownership and operating of swimming pools and spas, effective water treatment and the peace of mind it brings should be at top of the list in both residential and commercial environments. After all, these products are supposed to promote enjoyment and relaxation for users, so the last thing that’s needed for anyone responsible for the running of a pool or spa is a worry around the quality of the water and that it is clean and safe. A fact that’s especially true when there is so much else going on in people’s day-to-day lives already – and that applies both at home and in the workplace.

So implementing the right products and water treatment options that are proven to work time after time is a huge benefit and often, another box ticked. If automated, well that’s better still, particularly when time is tight or when distractions could lead to any manual treatment being missed.

Until relatively recently, that meant relying on just a handful of options, however there are now a number of methods available for the treatment of water. . This expansion of options

has been partly driven by a want to reduce traditional chemical use. Cost, availability and Eco credentials are all factors too.

One such system that has been widely embraced is UV, however with that having been covered separately already prior to these pages, in this feature we take a closer look at a variety of water treatments and systems which are providing a clean and safe environment for bathers in both residential and commercial settings.

CHOOSE FROM THREE CHEMICALFREE TECHNOLOGIES WITH BIO-UV BIO-UV Group, a specialist in water treatment for over 22 years, designs, manufactures and markets ultraviolet, ozone, salt electrolysis and AOP disinfection solutions.

A main player on the European swimming pool market providing sustainable water sanitation systems for residential, municipal, semi-commercial pools and water parks. BIOUV Group also offers equipment for multiple water disinfection applications in various industries too.

Well established and recognised on the market, following the acquisition in 2019 of

the Scottish company triogen® (formerly part of SUEZ), BIO-UV Group offers and combines all three water treatment technologies (UV-C, Ozone and salt electrolysis) for the swimming pool industry to guarantee well-being and bathing comfort. These are ecological and automatic processes that do not require the addition of any chemical products to the pool.

The company mixes advanced technologies, engineering and expertise with smart, sustainable solutions, all of which are either ‘Made in Britain’ or within its own production sites in France.

Whilst the company’s UV range provides an incomparable bathing comfort while reducing respiratory, skin or eye irritations related to chlorine or harmful by-products, their O’CLEAR product takes sanitisation a step further in residential pools. Combining UV with salt electrolysis, the O’CLEAR concept guarantees a perfectly disinfected pool without the addition of chemicals, therefore limiting again the risk of allergies and irritation.

Hundreds of times more powerful and effective than chemical treatments, and suitable for both residential and commercial environments, the company’s triogen® ozone compact purification systems are easy to install and maintain for superior water quality! Generated on site, Ozone dissolves in the water, eliminating all bacteria and viruses, leaving the water perfectly clear and bright, without any bad odour or taste.

BIO-UV products are distributed across Britain through AstralPool UK (UV) and Golden Coast (Ozone, salt electrolysis products).

SUSTAINABILITY A KEY FEATURE OF GAFFEY’S ELECTROCHLORINATION SOLUTIONS

Combining UV with salt electrolysis, BIO-UV’s O’CLEAR concept guarantees a perfectly disinfected pool without the addition of chemicals

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The energy crisis isn’t the only challenge faced by pool owners and operators. As the world recognises the importance of sustainability, the industry turns their attentions to technologies that boast ecocredentials, as well as cost-efficient benefits.

Sustainability has become a buzzword in recent years, holding a subjective meaning which changes between people and over

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WATER TREATMENTS & SYSTEMS time. Yet simply put, it is the use of best practices that have the least impact on the environment.

Electrochlorination systems offer a unique future-proof solution for chlorine generation, providing a sustainable, cost-effective and safe method for water disinfection which can be utilised throughout the industry.

Electrolytic on site chlorination removes chemical use from the equation, generating a reliable, low-cost source of chlorine on demand through electrolysis, which only uses renewable and harmless salts, water and electricity. These salts aren’t expensive or rare, providing an eco-friendly, cost-efficient and safe alternative to traditional chlorine donors.

Generating sodium hypochlorite in-situ isn’t just sustainable, it promotes safety for pool staff due to the removal of hazardous chemical transportation, PPE handling implications and storage. This elimination of chemical use also ensures pools can always continue their operations, even if recent chlorine shortage issues re-emerge in future.

Gaffey manufactures a range of Hyprolyser® electrochlorination systems. These unique British-built plug-and-play systems are quick and easy to install, offering reduced maintenance and minimised running costs which equate to exceptional return on investment for swimming pools of any size, from small spas to large aquatic centres.

This unique combination of sustainability, safety and cost-efficiency makes Hyprolyser® electrochlorination systems possibly the ‘best solution available on the market’ for reliable pool water disinfection; all whilst helping the industry pave the way towards a greener future.

Gaffey’s electrochlorination systems offer a unique future-proof solution for chlorine generation

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

ENJOY EXCEPTIONAL WATER QUALITY WITH CERTIKIN’S QUEST 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 chlorine-based systems. In fact, one user of the system commented that they “thought their existing saltwater pool was awesome however now it does not come close to this freshwater system”. Within just two days they noticed a massive change with the water, clean and clear giving the feeling they had just stepped out of a shower!

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 with 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, giving pool owners the opportunity to be selfsufficient in managing their water quality.

QUEST is in stock and ready for immediate despatch.

RELAX AND LET THE DAVEY PROMATIC LIFEGUARD KEEP AN EYE ON THE POOL Available through SCP UK, the distinctive ProMatic Lifeguard from Australian

manufacturer Davey is a complete pool chlorination and chemistry control system.

Wi-Fi enabled with a fully integrated and intuitive app that can be used on either a smartphone or tablet, the ProMatic Lifeguard allows for state-of-the-art remote monitoring and control of the pool system right at the owner’s fingertips and offers the flexibility of salt or mineral chlorination.

The ProMatic Lifeguard utilises; pH sensor and acid dosing, ORP control, temperature and salt measurements for effortless pool balancing. It includes low salt cut-out to protect the cell and boost mode for additional chlorination during heavy bather load periods.

With a range of models available, the ProMatic Lifeguard is ideal for residential swimming pools up to 175m3. Key features include: • ORP control to prevent over chlorination when pool cover is used • Next generation high performance reverse polarity in-line cell with integrated safety flow switch • Operating salt level of 3,000 – 6,000ppm.

With a comprehensive multilingual userfriendly LCD interface, the ProMatic Lifeguard comes with a three-year warranty.

It is part of an established range of salt chlorinators available from SCP UK, whose other solutions include popular options from leading brands Hayward and Pentair.

The ProMatic Lifeguard from Australian manufacturer Davey is a complete pool chlorination and chemistry control system from SCP UK

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WATER TREATMENTS & SYSTEMS HARNESSING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY FOR SPARKLING CLEAR WATER 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

by Elecro Engineering and available from distributors Certikin, Plastica and SCP UK, 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.

WATERCO’S HYDROCHLOR MINERAL CHLORINATOR ENHANCES CHLORINE PRODUCTION Available through Golden Coast and Fairlocks Pool Products, Waterco’s energy efficient Hydrochlor MK3 Mineral Chlorinator chlorinates the pool making it healthy, crystal clear, and ready to swim in year-round. A saltwater chlorinated pool in fact requires

Waterco’s energy efficient Hydrochlor MK3 Mineral Chlorinator chlorinates the pool making it healthy, crystal clear, and ready to swim in year-round

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calcium build-up from its electrodes. If no water flow is detected in the chlorinator cell, Hydrochlor automatically switches off the chlorine production to protect the chlorinator cell and activates the No Flow LED indicator.

ORIGIN AQUA LAUNCHES MINERAL+BIOME® FILTRATION SYSTEM

Elecro’s Quantum will give peace of mind as dangerous organisms are destroyed by the photocatalytic process

considerably less attention than a standard chlorinated pool.

Hydrochlor can work with a standard salt pool, but the company’s engineers didn’t stop there – they also designed it to work in synergy with Waterco’s Mineral Crystals to transform your pool into a therapeutic oasis.

Hydrochlor uses the latest Switch Mode Power Technology to increase energy efficiency by over 50%, significantly reducing power consumption. Hydrochlor draws less current and this translates to high power conversion and less energy wastage, without compromising chlorine output.

Its unique Intelligent Power Pack intuitively recognises the size of the connected chlorinator cell and automatically adjusts its power output to suit. This allows customers to stock one power pack, rather than a power pack per cell – while simultaneously reducing inventory.

Also, the cell housings are identical, which means that the salt cell can be easily upgraded or downgraded.

An alarm indicates when salt levels in the pool water are too high or too low; if the pool is running beyond the maximum recommended salt level, the chlorinator will limit its output to protect the chlorinator cell.

Hydrochlor includes an in-built, easy to use timer equipped with battery back up, which will maintain settings for up to 150 hours and its self-cleaning chlorinator cell has the added ability to reverse its polarity and automatically clean

UK-based Origin Aqua are offering a different route to a chemical free pool environment with the introduction of their Mineral+Biome® filtration system.

This modular, automated pool filtration system, which uses 50% less energy and generates 50% less waste water than traditional filtration systems, can be fitted to virtually any new build or existing swimming pool, and according to the company, renders the use of chlorine or other disinfection chemicals obsolete.

Origin Aqua has spent three years developing the Mineral+Biome®, which, in addition to operating without chemicals or aquatic plants, includes innovative features such as IoT touchscreen automation, air assisted auto-backwash, flow/pressure sensing and a modular fully recyclable onepiece filter housing.

Notably, in June 2022, Origin Aqua published ground-breaking scientific research in Nature Magazine (the world’s leading multidisciplinary science journal), which unequivocally proves its filter technology destroys common pathogens found in pools, such as e-coli, Pseudomas and Enterococci via the process of ‘biological predation’ and key nutrient starvation.

Origin Aqua CEO, Andrew Cox, said: “Our leading scientific research proves that the beneficial bacteria in our filter sanitise water to safe levels without the need for disinfection chemicals. This cutting-edge research runs contrary to the perceived wisdom of the swimming pool industry,

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: BIO-UV Group +33 4 99 13 3 911 www.bio-uv.com Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.fairlocks.co.uk Gaffey 01254 350180 www.gaffey.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

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WATER TREATMENTS & SYSTEMS

So whilst tried and tested solutions still have their place and are indeed still popular with some, owners of pools and spas are becoming much more open to the use of less well-known but equally reliable alternative water treatment options” Beneficial bacteria in Origin Aqua’s Mineral+Biome® filter system sanitises water to safe levels without the need for disinfection chemicals

which continues predominantly to use environmentally damaging chlorine. Increasingly pool customers are rightly asking for alternative solutions which provide sustainable, chemical free bathing water, whilst lowering the environmental and financial cost of pool ownership.”

While the product is initially aimed at the top 20% of swimming pool consumers, the payback on its technology can be as low as five years for indoor pools and seven years for outdoor pools.

THERE’S A LOT TO LIKE ABOUT ZODIAC’S MAGNAPOOL® SYSTEM 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™ is a magnesiumbased water treatment system from Zodiac® which utilises minerals derived from the ocean

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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 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.

PLASTICA’S RESILIENCE E NATURAL SALT CHLORINATOR – A NO IRRITATION SYSTEM Traditional chlorine, when combined with swimmer waste and bacteria in the water, creates chloramines. Chloramines cause common undesirable side effects associated with chlorine. Salt chlorinators convert salt in the water into an endless supply of ‘free chlorine’ that continuously oxidises or eliminates chloramines. With salt chlorination, pool users will not suffer irritation to eyes and skin, bleaching of hair and bathing suits, and there’s no sharp chlorine odours either. Swimmers will enjoy silky soft water and unmatched water quality that can actually be felt.

The Resilience E features advanced digital electronics and simple installation in an ‘allin-one’ compact unit. It was designed to ease and optimise the pool owner and operator’s job. From the simple and quick installation (averages 15 minutes without wiring requirements) and easy maintenance.

Resilience E is equipped with a straightforward display that indicates the various chlorine output levels. Maintenance and service alerts notify if salt levels in the pool are too low. Most importantly this unique device alerts when the cartridge requires cleaning or nears the end of its life span. The pull out cartridge method makes servicing or replacement an easy task to perform.

Ideal for private pools and available in three sizes to fit pools up to 150m3, the Resilience E which has been designed to work with variable speed pumps, benefits from:

Plastica’s Resilience E features advanced digital electronics and simple installation in an ‘all-in-one’ compact unit

• Bi-directional flow sensor • Double ‘low flow’ protection • Full range input voltage automatically accepts 110 or 220V • Built in salinity and water temperature sensors • Replaceable electrolysis cartridge.

Manufactured using IP-66 rated materials that contribute to its weather proof nature, the Resilience E is a durable and reliable salt chlorinator that can be installed both outdoors as well as inside. It is designed with reverse polarity that allows self-cleaning. SPN

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk Origin Aqua 0330 128 9885 www.origin-aqua.com Plastica Pools 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu

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Energy Savings, Versatility And Silent Operation – The New KS EVO VS

¢ Simple installation, direct substitute for

Single Speed models can be

easily replaced with a VS equivalent (No need to retrofit or modify hydraulic connections).

¢ Variable speed: high efficiency for each

application, optimised consumption ¢ 5 programs, 3 preselected speeds ¢ Super-silent operation ¢ Wing-nut closing system, rapid access (no tools required) ¢ Double drain, easy opening (no tools required)

KSE pumps ¢ Impeller and diffuser made of Noryl®, very hard-wearing and corrosionresistant ¢ Permanent magnet motor ¢ Automatic "Skimming" function: cleans the surface every 1, 2 or 3 hours ¢ Usage: for residential pools up to 126m3 ¢ Prefilter size: 3.5L

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

POOL & SPA PUMPS

Pump Products That Go With The Flow Providing powerful circulation for installations both large and small, pools and spas pumps are essential components found at the centre of every effective plant room. With the introduction of variable speed technology and many new models, the pump sector is one that has witnessed a lot of change in recent years.

With plenty of choice out there, choosing the right solution just became easier as we highlight some of the best models that are available By Jon Wadeson

D

elivering the water circulation for swimming pools and spas of various sizes, pumps are crucial pieces of equipment that work away in the background of every domestic or commercial installation. Increasingly quiet as they go about their day-to-day business of keeping the water flowing, other technological advances continue to be made with these rather humble pieces of equipment which have resulted in improved operation, lowered energy usage and increased reliability.

With a numerous choices available from both well-known brands and names that are less familiar, in this issue we take a look at what’s available to keep the water flowing.

THE NEO RANGE – GERMAN PUMP EFFICIENCY FROM HERBORNER Herborner offer a wide range of pump solutions for the wet leisure sector and their herborner.neo range offers a combination of an energy-efficient motor and fully smoothcoated pump hydraulics which guarantee maximum protection against wear, corrosion and deposits.

An IE5 permanent magnet motor, specially adapted and built-in frequency inverter plus the maximum impeller diameter demonstrate the complete efficiency of the new generation of pumps, which use a speed controller to

The herborner.neo range offers a combination of an energy-efficient motor and fully smooth-coated pump hydraulics

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regulate the available power of the motor within a typical working range.

For the operator, this series means lower life cycle costs thanks to the best possible energy efficiency and quality, resulting in cost savings at every operating point where the pumps can be used. As a result, this innovation creates a resource-saving product that reduces CO2 emissions in the long term.

That makes the herborner.neo one of the most sustainable products in the pump industry.

The herborner.neo pumps are tailored to the specific application in each case.

The herborner.Fneo can be used flexibly as a block pump, which makes it ideal for the complex world of plant engineering.

The herborner.Xneo is ideal for use as a circulating pump, with its built-in hair and fibre filter. The portfolio is rounded out by the inline block pump, herborner.Dneo, which can be installed directly in pipelines. And of course the WATERblue-B is also available in the ‘maximised’ design, as WATERblue-Bneo.

In addition to the herborner.neo range of pumps, the company also has pump selection software – PAHN AI. This web-based software allows simpler, intelligent pump selection.

LIGHTHOUSE’S ZODIAC FLOPRO™ – RELIABILITY AND AN EXCEPTIONAL WARRANTY Zodiac’s FloPro™ pumps are designed with corrosion-resistant materials. The body of the pump is made of very thick glass-reinforced polypropylene, which makes it long-lasting and silent – and the quality is backed by a three-year warranty.

With power ranging from 0.5hp up to 2 hp, FloPro™ pumps are easy to install, even as a replacement. Thanks to the ‘Easy Retrofit’ system, all FloPro™ pumps can be installed without adjustment to the pipework using the included riser plates. So, they are compatible with most existing installations from all UK popular brands.

Thanks to its variable speed, the FloPro™ e3 pump can operate longer at a lower speed, reducing electricity consumption by up to

With power ranging from 0.5 hp up to 2 hp, FloPro™ pumps are easy to install, even as a replacement

80% whilst up to 10 dB(A) quieter than many standard filtration pumps The FloPro™ e3 accessible in a simplified version with three programmable speeds and offers the key advantages of variable speed technology.

The FloPro™ e3 can be set from 1,000 to 2,850 rpm for even greater savings.

Engineered for the connected world of the 21st century, the 1.65hp FloPro™ VS is a variable speed pump that can be controlled remotely using the iAqualink app through Zodiac’s eXO and Hydroxinator Salt Water Chlorinators. A connected pool offers customers unparalleled access to their pools 24/7, 365 days a year.

Thanks to its variable speed, the FloPro™ VS pump has two significant advantages: reduced electricity consumption by up to 90% and an ultra-silent operating mode reducing noise up to 24 dB(A).

With automatic priming at start-up and programmable speed in +/- 10 RPM increments, the FloPro™ VS Series offers unrivalled customisation and performance and its reliability is backed up with the same three-year warranty.

FAIRLOCKS INTRODUCE A NEW VARIABLE SPEED PUMP FROM KRIPSOL SPATEX 2023 marks the launch of a new variable speed pump from Oxfordshire-

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POOL & SPA PUMPS

Available through Fairlocks Pool Products, the Kripsol KS EVO VS pump offers energy savings and versatility with silent operation

based distributor Fairlocks Pool Products.

The Kripsol KS EVO VS pump offers energy savings and versatility with silent operation.

With a wingnut closing system for rapid access to the pump basket (no tools required) and benefitting from simple installation, the KS EVO VS and a direct substitute for KSE pumps and features five programmes, with three preselected speeds.

This pump is suitable for all residential pools up to 125m3 and comes with a threeyear warranty.

In addition, Fairlocks continue to offer the popular range of KSE range of self-priming centrifugal pumps for domestic use, which are some of the highest quality pumps available. Engineered with German design, they feature a reinforced thermoplastic injection moulded casing which is reinforced with glass fibre to withstand all the elements.

The hinged lid closing screws with stainless steel studs and O ring ensure the KSE’s fixings are durable and all pumps are suitable for all types of water, including saltwater. KSE pumps come in various motor sizes from 0.33hp to 32hp all IP54 class F rated to suit a wide range of settings required to enhance a pool’s efficiency and effectiveness.

AQUASPEED – A NEW GENERATION, BUT STILL AN INDUSTRY FAVOURITE As well as a modern look, the latest Aquaspeed model which is exclusive to Certikin has an upgraded motor which is manufactured using the latest technology to provide an efficient and powerful pump. Despite this upgrade, there are no changes to the dimensions meaning it will still fit in perfectly to the original pump’s footprint and pipework connections. This makes the pumps ideal for retrofit as well as new installations.

Suitable for salt chlorinated pools, the pump has a solid clear lid for simple inspection of the basket and comes

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PPG Inverpro inverter pumps not only offer virtually silent performance, but also help to reduce energy usage greatly

complete with quick connect unions for ease of installation and a 316 high grade mechanical seal. The single piece fibreglass filled pump body ensures maximum strength and durability. It is available in a range of sizes from 0.5hp to 3hp and features a hydraulically efficient impeller and diffuser for maximum hydraulic output whilst minimising turbulence.

The range also includes the Aquaspeed variable speed pumps. With all the features and benefits of the renowned Aquaspeed, these models bring variable speed economy to an industry favourite. Equipped with a state-of-the-art variable speed, permanent magnet brushless motor that results in the ability to vary the motor speed depending on the installation. This in turn varies the water flow resulting in a reduction of energy consumption. Ideal for new installations or retrofit as the connections are exactly the same as the single speed Aquaspeed.

For those who are interested in increased efficiency on an existing pump, the Certikin iSAVER Inverter which is a lowcost solution designed to greatly reduce the running costs of pool circulation pumps and improve the efficiency of swimming pool filtration. Pumps in swimming pools invariably run at higher flow rates than necessary, and the iSAVER Inverter enables you to control both pump flow rates, and pump run times.

The latest Aquaspeed model which is exclusive to Certikin has an upgraded motor which is manufactured using the latest technology

Running costs can be reduced as much as 60% simply by linking your existing pool circulation pump to an inverter.

ENJOY PEACE AND PERFORMANCE WITH INVERPRO In an ideal world, swimming pools should be a relaxing experience, so why ruin the atmosphere with unwanted noise from equipment?

PPG Inverpro inverter pumps – available from Golden Coast – not only offer virtually silent performance, but also help to reduce energy usage greatly.

“The key thing customers love about Inverpro pumps is the fact that there’s no compromise needed on performance to achieve the low noise,” explained Luke Honnoraty, Technical Sales at Golden Coast.

“The auto inverter mode means the pump is capable of detecting the system pressure and adjusting its capacity to maintain a consistent flow.”

The inverter drive has the ability to control the speed of the pump accurately, which allows for the running capacity to be automatically adjusted within a range of 20% to 100%. This function is particularly useful for energy conservation, as it allows the pump to operate at the most efficient capacity while still meeting the required needs. By adjusting the running capacity in this way, the inverter drive helps to save energy and reduce costs.

The range of pumps feature InverSilence technology. This was designed with the goal of creating the most silent and energy efficient pump solutions possible. To achieve this, the technology integrates full inverter technology, a volute hydraulic system, and a DC brushless motor. This combination allows the technology to reduce the sound level of

Increasingly quiet as they go about their day-to-day business of keeping the water flowing, other technological advances continue to be made with these rather humble pieces of equipment” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 19/01/2023 12:56

POOL & SPA PUMPS

The innovative SmartFlo pump range has been engineered to create optimal flow rates for the back pressures found on today’s highly jetted spa pools

the pump significantly by more than 30 times while also saving energy by up to 90%.

SPANET’S SMARTFLO POOL AND SPA PUMPS OFFER UNIQUE WET END TECHNOLOGY The innovative SmartFlo pump range from SpaNet has been specifically engineered to create optimal flow rates for the back pressures found on today’s highly jetted spa pools. The high efficiency SmartFlo wet end technology generates increased water flow without consuming additional power. With the following performance features, it’s no wonder they are a preferred pump choice for spa manufacturers and service technicians: • Perfectly tuned impeller and wet end to ensure smooth and efficient water delivery back to the spa • For increased product durability against harsh sanitisers and overdosing, their impellers use superior PPO plastic as standard • Carbon / silicon carbide mechanical seals with Viton elastomers provide greater heat/ chemical resistance and longer life span • Unique split lock nut and smart inlet/ outlet design ensures SmartFlo pumps are compatible with other major brand union tails.

In addition to requiring a pump to be a performance powerhouse, flexible options, which make installation easy and straightforward, are also needed. Add on smart features that make ownership and usage simple, and it is clear to see why these pumps provide a perfect install.

SmartFlo provide complete flexibility for installation with multi-directional discharge orientations on both circ and boost pump models. Bleeding air locks has never been simpler too with every SmartFlo pump featuring an easy to grip and turn bleed screw. All boost pump wet ends have multiple bleed screws to assist with rotated discharge orientations better. Bleed screws can also be replaced with optional bleed nipples to achieve self-priming.

All SmartFlo pumps also feature three weep holes, one at the base of the wet end

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The Lacronite ECO-V is a variable speed that offers optimum filtration, quieter operation, higher reliability and maximum energy savings

and one on either side. Regardless of which orientation the pump discharge is installed in, the weep hole will remain located at the base of the pump.

LOWER THE FLOW WITH WATERCO’S LACRONITE ECO-V PUMP The Lacronite ECO-V is a variable speed pump from Waterco that offers optimum filtration, quieter operation, higher reliability and maximum energy savings.

As an established manufacturer, Waterco is committed to the continuous improvement and re-development of all of their products to provide the very best quality and value to their customers, ensuring that the most costefficient and ecologically sound solutions can be provided for any installation.

As a pool filtration cycle occupies 99% of the run time of a pool pump, Waterco offers several variable speed Eco pumps capable of moderating their motor speed, reducing water flow when required, and reducing energy consumption by up to 82% compared to a standard motor pump. Lowering a pump’s flow rate not only significantly decreases the pump’s energy requirements, but also reduces water flow resistance in pool equipment and plumbing. Even though the pump may need to be operated for longer, it is far more efficient pumping low water flow compared to high water flow.

The ECO-V is ideal for domestic swimming pools with ancillary systems such as heating, in-floor cleaning, fountains and vacuum cleaning. Owners can operate the product on a low (ECO) speed setting for the majority of its running time.

Available in single-phase 1.00hp and 1.50 hp versions, the three-speed Lacronite ECO-V variable pump is equipped with the very latest permanent magnet brushless DC motor, reducing water flow when needed to lower energy consumption.

PLASTICA’S ARGONAUT® PUMPS ARE A RESOUNDING SUCCESS The Argonaut® and smaller counterpart the AG Pump have been a resounding success for Plastica and all wet end components

are made in the UK, with all assembly work undertaken in their purpose-built pump workshop in their St. Leonards factory. The packaging has been greatly improved with all pumps encased in specially moulded foam to guarantee that every pump arrives at its final destination in perfect condition, no more broken fan casings!

Both pumps are versatile in their application for either small to medium sized pools and also work well with a hot tub.

The Argonaut® pump comes with a heavyduty long life IP55 rated motor that is quiet running with a 60 dB rating and the pump self-primes up to 3 metres.

The mechanical seal made with AISI 316 stainless steel is suitable for a wide range of applications including chlorine, bromine and salt chlorinated pools, the glass filled polypropylene tank has an unparalleled high chemical resistance. All motors include a high grade stainless steel shaft, input power ranging from 0.25 (hp) 0.19 kW – 2 (hp) 1.5 kW available in single phase and three phase.

Their pump incorporates a large 1.75 litre strainer basket and clear lid for easy inspection, as a last effort to avoid leaf or hair contamination reaching the close-

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.fairlocks.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com Herborner Pumpen +49 2772 9330 www.herborner-pumpen.de Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk

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POOL & SPA PUMPS Davey’s SilensorPro Models incorporate a high performance water-cooled motor for ultraquiet, efficient use all year round

The Argonaut® pump comes with a heavyduty long life IP55 rated motor that is quiet running with a 60 dB rating

tolerance impeller section of the pump. For ease of installation, the Argonaut comes with adjustable unions for both metric (63 mm) and imperial (2”) with inserts taking it down to metric 50 ml and imperial 1.5 inch.

Backed by a three-year warranty, they are the perfect choice for exceptional performance and unrivalled value.

SPECK OFFER VARIABLE SPEED CONTROLLED POOL PUMPS FROM BADU With variable speed controlled pool pumps from BADU Green – highly efficient and quiet as a whisper – swimming pool owners can enjoy their investment with a clear conscience because this range of pumps save energy and thus protect the environment.

From private pools in the garden to large public facilities, this range of pumps can improve the energy efficiency of pools because they only use as much energy as necessary and work with as little energy as possible. Whether filtering, heating, partial load operation or backwashing: thanks to the highly efficient permanent magnet motor, the pool pumps found within BADU Green range can be set to different operating modes. This allows owners to adapt the pump performance perfectly to the respective operating conditions. Even a slight reduction in speed saves electricity and is easy on the wallet. With a speed controlled pool pump from BADU Green owners and operators can

reduce annual energy consumption compared to conventional swimming pool pumps.

Around 10% of the required energy is saved by using highly efficient permanent magnet motors. Further savings of up to 30% result from regulating the pump to the required operating points (filtering, heating, night operation, backwashing). Through the use of modern motor technologies, speed control and operation adjusted to the requirements, CO2 emissions can be drastically reduced with a frequency controlled swimming pool pump from BADU Green – it’s a significant contribution to environmental protection. In addition to reduced power consumption, the improved filtration performance also results in a lower demand for oxidising agents, i.e. water treatment agents, and consequently a more natural bathing experience.

DAVEY’S SILENSORPRO MODELS OFFER SUPER QUIET OPERATION SCP UK offer a wide range of pumps from a variety of leading brands so whether it’s for a commercial or domestic setting, they have a pump to suit any need.

One of the more recent manufacturers to be offered by the company is Davey and their new SilensorPro models – the VSD200 and VSD400 Premium – offer high efficiency and super quiet operation.

The VSD400 Premium is Davey’s top of the range model. With an 8 star energy rating, and iOS and Android app control via

Bluetooth® control, the robust and super quiet SilensorPro Premium has fully variable speed control and is suited to a wide range of pumping applications such as filtration, water features and pool and spa heating systems.

The SilensorPro is efficient, with an ability to cap peak flow, priming and backwash speeds. It is ideal for retrofit installations with sand filters and it uses backwash speed cycling technology for effective media cleaning and reducing waste water while backwashing. Other features shared by both models include: • Fully variable frequency drive with user friendly selectable speed dial • Large leaf basket with easy to remove, clear lid • Loss of prime protection to protect the pump when there is no water inside the pump • Quality ABS quick coupling barrel unions for simple installation • Drain plug enables quick draining of the casing for easy removal and maintenance.

SilensorPro Models incorporate a high performance water-cooled motor for ultraquiet, efficient use all year round and for peace of mind, come complete with a threeyear warranty.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Plastica Pools 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com SpaNet Europe Ltd 020 3376 3610 www.spanet.co.uk

Thanks to the highly efficient permanent magnet motor, the pool pumps found within BADU Green range can be set to different operating modes

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Speck Pumpen +49 912 394 9400 www.speck-pumps.com Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 19/01/2023 12:56

A NEW GENERATION of an industry favourite The new and improved Aquaspeed pump, which is available exclusively from Certikin

AQUASPEED

As well as a modern look, the new model has an upgraded motor which is manufactured using the latest technology to provide an efficient and powerful pump. Despite this upgrade, there are no changes to the dimensions, so it remains fully interchangeable with previous Aquaspeed models without any changes to the pipework.

Available in a range of sizes from 0.5hp to 3hp including variable speed models The variable speed versions of the Aquaspeed pump have 3 pump settings. Each setting can be programmed to ensure that the performance is the most efficient and therefore cost effective.

 01993 777200  info@certikin.co.uk

www.certikin.co.uk

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BUYERS GUIDE CONTROL PANELS

HEAT EXCHANGERS

ON-SITE LINING

PLAY EQUIPMENT

HEAT EXCHANGERS

ON-SITE LINING

POOL BUILDERS

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 COVERS

POOL COVERS

POOL ENGINEERS

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

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

SAUNA & STEAM

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

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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POOL FLOORS – SERVICING

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

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BUYERS GUIDE SPRAYED CONCRETE

TILED SPAS

WATER MONITORING & CONTROL

ADVERTISERS INDEX

Alukov UK

10

Aquaflex

29

Artesian Spas

IBC

AstralPool UK

37 & 48

BIO-UV

73

Bowman

64

Certikin

60 & 68

Complete Pool Controls

24

Darlly Europe21

30

Dripool

30

Fairlocks Pool Products IFC, 01 & 74

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £495!

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68

GMT Spas

54

Golden Coast

UNDERWATER DIVING REPAIRS

WATER TREATMENT

15, 21 & 45

Heatstar Europe

18

Innovative Water Care / hth

47

ISPE

13

Lighthouse

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

SPRAYED CONCRETE

Gaffey

OBC

Mikel Tube WDB

26

Mosaic Spa and One Pool

23

MSpa

58

NIVEKO

42

Ocea UK

16 & 53

On-site Pool Linings

29

Plastica

45

Pool Tech Services

15

PoolLock

29

Recotherm

50

SCP UK

57

SpaFlo

48

Spanet

24

SPECK Pumpen

42

STA

37

Suitmate

08

Suntrap Systems

50

Superior Wellness

63

Swimex Encosures

50

T&A

07

Ustigate Waterplay

30

Water-i.d.

38

Waterco

02

Waterco/Certikin

79

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OPINION

Spare A Little Change “If you don’t like the way the world is at the moment, just give it a minute and I’m sure it will soon all look completely different. It will have changed. Again.” After a challenging 2022, Jamie Adams, Managing Director of Golden Coast gives his thoughts on a changing industry and the wider world

W

e have always lived in uncertain times. The simple fact that, try as we might, we can’t predict the future with any degree of accuracy has made sure of that, but this new world of uncertainty seems much more changeable and challenging than any we have lived in before. It is more than simply the fact that it changes at all; who would want a world that never changed?

Rather it’s the speed of change, the power of it and the all-encompassing nature of that change.

Life used to be characterised by decades, didn’t it. We used to say, this is what life was like in the 80s and this is how things were by the 90s. Now it seems as if we need to track those changes on a yearly basis. This is how the world was in 2021 and how it changed by 2022. Plus, we tend to focus on what is different rather than what has stayed the same and so we can feel our lives are built on shifting sands.

IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT ANXIETY IS ALL THE RAGE If we live in a changing world, we need to have reliable information as to what those changes actually are and that isn’t always so easy to find.

The digital news media are in the business of selling your attention to advertisers and they grab your attention with an alarming headline about a new crisis that you hadn’t yet started to worry about. Clickbait. It doesn’t have to be exactly true because we are all used to the world changing overnight. There will be something new to worry about tomorrow that will overshadow today’s concerns.

For all of us, and particularly if you are running a business, it’s as important to know not just what is happening, but why it’s happening.

CLOSING DOWN SALE! In 2022 more shops closed for good than during the pandemic; 50 closures a day on average. They closed on the High Street and in the out-of-town shopping centres.

Independents were closing at a faster rate than

larger retailers; over 11,000 of them.

And you can’t lay the blame on the internet. Online retail sites had an awful year.

Many have gone out of business and many more expect to. Sales are down by up to 50% and profits are down across the board.

The spiralling cost of energy and the broader price increases that are driving the cost of living crisis are robbing people of their ability to spend.

The conflict in Ukraine is pushing up energy costs even though only 12% of our oil and gas come from Russia. Studies have suggested that BREXIT has cost UK households £5.8billion; which is perhaps why nobody talks about it anymore.

The economy may not be in recession yet but the media is wallowing in doom and gloom and recessions are driven more by how people feel than the actual state of their bank account.

To say this year might be challenging is probably an understatement.

WHATEVER NEXT? Well, in some ways we have been here before.

An excerpt from the Wet Leisure Survey results of 2011 stated “2011 was a difficult year for our industry and, indeed, the whole UK economy. We had relatively high inflation, high unemployment and a shrinking economy.

Businesses in the wet leisure sector who had enjoyed reasonable prosperity in 2010 and 2011 were suddenly revising their outlook and considering a difficult future”.

Business conditions didn’t start to improve until 2013 but improve they did and the

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survey showed that our industry looked different after coming out of a recession. We began to see more businesses with staff of ten or more rather than the previous picture, which had comprised a lot of one and two man bands.

Businesses were increasingly working across both the domestic and commercial sector and offering pool, sauna and spa products to their customers.

By 2014 the industry was strong and confident again.

FORTUNE TELLING The future, they say, belongs to those who learn from the past but the past is so easily forgotten.

It’s easy to see the Wet Leisure Survey as something that is just focussed on a single year and paints a picture of the industry that you can set your own business against.

I think it’s even more useful when you look back over the 11 years of the survey and see how our industry has changed. When you see those changes and understand how and why they happened you can make better plans for how you structure and market your business in the conditions we face today.

I find it encouraging to know that we have gone through hard times before and come out stronger and better. It proves how much good change can bring. A new catalogue with new products means new opportunities for us to work together. Meeting new faces at SPATEX often means adding to our list of friends. A new year means exactly that, a new season where we can make the most of what the world has to offer. After all, changes should be things you make the most of.

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

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