What Pool & Hot Tub 2023/24

beautiful moment, once you feel the water around you it is like being in a time machine traveling back to beautiful memories. Just close your eyes, the water, the people you are with, smell, the mood, all of that can take you back to a moment time like nothing else can.

Dip into Luxury.

That beautiful moment, once you feel the water around you again it is like being in a time machine traveling back to beautiful memories. Just close your eyes, the water, the people you are with, the smell, the mood, all of that can take you back to a moment in time like nothing else can.

Compass Pools are a team of highly experienced and skilled swimming pool builders specialising in the design, construction and installation of luxury swimming pools. Our pool building professionals have more than 30 years of expertise in designing and installing exceptional pools for homes across the UK. Utilising our patented carbon-ceramic technology, we can customise our pools so that they are completely perfect for you. If you are interested in having a stunning pool constructed, please get in contact with us today – we would love to bring your project to life.

Why Compass?

∙ Swimming Pool Contractor of the Year 2019

∙ Highest rated reviews on Google

∙ Largest One Piece Pool installer in the UK For a brochure please visit www.compass-pools.co.uk or call 0333 4567 111

That beautiful moment, once you feel the water around you again it is like being in a time machine traveling back to beautiful memories. Just close your eyes, the water, the people you are with, the smell, the mood, all of that can take you back to a moment in time like nothing else can.

What’s inside this issue...

07 EDITOR’S LETTER

09 EMPORIUM

Four pages of the latest products and innovations on the market this summer to complement swimming pools, hot tubs and your wet leisure environment

14 WATER WELLNESS

Swimming is the best all round exercise there is and the hydrotherapy from hot tub jets can bring relief to a whole range of injuries and illnesses. We take a closer look at the health and wellness benefits on offer for all ages from both product types

17 THE COOLEST THINGS

out there to buy for pools which are mostly made of wood, often DIY assembled, don’t need planning permission and can be great fun to own. Includes our ‘8 of the Best’ for this summer’s pool season

33 ONE-PIECE POOLS CONVENIENCE

There’s real choice when it comes to inground pools – but one type that is becoming increasingly popular is one-piece pools – and it’s easy to see why. Includes our ‘8 of the Best’ for the season ahead

38 ONE-PIECE POOL CASE STUDY

Inspiration starts here! We take a look at the style, design and sheer class of pools and hot tubs being installed around the UK. Many of them are award-winning and all of them provide a glimpse into the luxury and glamour they bring to homes

25 SO WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BUY?

Our easy to follow guide looks at what options are on offer. It covers the types of pools available plus hot tubs, swim spas and more. We highlight the differences between each and suggest things to consider when choosing each type of product

28 POOLS THAT WON’T COST YOU THE EARTH

‘Starter’ or above-ground pools are a great first pool option for families. We look at what’s

A closer look at the numerous benefits and all round convenience provided by opting for a one-piece swimming pool at this stunning outdoor installation for a family in Cheltenham

40 COUNTER-CURRENT SYSTEMS

With compact and exercise pools becoming an increasingly popular choice, we look at counter-current systems which can both enhance a pool’s swimming experience plus create a certain wow factor too. Also featured is our ‘5 of the Best’ counter-current products

45 COOL POOL PRODUCTS THAT MAKE OWNERSHIP A BREEZE

Owning a swimming pool these days is made so much easier with some sensational labour saving and energy efficient products which make their day-to-day running simple and hassle free. Includes our ‘8 of the Best’ automatic covers

50 BUILDING YOUR DREAM SWIMMING POOL

The pool industry’s trade body offers an experienced and helping hand in finding expert help, advice, pool services and reassurance with your pool, plus experts provide the answers to some of the day-to-day questions and concerns about swimming pool ownership and maintenance

52 SWIMMING POOL WATER THAT’S CLEAN, CLEAR AND SAFE

Our easy to follow guide for consumers takes all the worry and myth out of maintaining clear, safe water as we look at products you should consider using. Also featured is our ‘5 of the Best’ pool cleaners and water testing products

57 A YEAR-ROUND SWIMMING EXPERIENCE

An enclosure over a swimming pool brings an outdoor environment indoors. The great advantage of covering over a pool is that it gives a wonderful option of also being open-tothe-garden for summer days. It also provides a safe shelter to the pool which suddenly means you can use it all year. Includes our ‘8 of the Best’ enclosures

63 THE SWIM SPA SOLUTION

Swim spas have become a sensation. A spa with enough room to swim against a current, they are proving a great option for people with limited space in their homes. We look at a flourishing market for the best of both worlds between a pool and a spa and have our own ‘10 of the Best’ buying guide

69 CHOOSING THE RIGHT HOT TUB

The hot tub trade association BISHTA promotes

high standards of safety, enjoyment and value of spas but can also help consumers find the right product at the right price

70 OUR EXCLUSIVE TOP 20 HOT TUBS

Here’s our own personal selection of the best value for money hot tubs available on the UK market, ranging from just over £4,000 and going right up to almost £30,000! If you are about to make a decision to buy, this is a must look at guide for you with detailed specifications product by product

83 HOT TUB BRANDS DIRECTORY

Our directory of key hot tub and swim spa manufacturers and brand distributors from around the UK and beyond

84 SAFELY AND EASILY MANAGING HOT TUB WATER QUALITY

Routines and products to ensure your hot tub and the water contained within it are always at their best

86 THE WARMING BENEFITS OF SAUNAS

Saunas are one of the great luxuries of life and more people than ever before are opting to include one in their own homes as a health benefit. As well as our ‘5 of the Best’ we look at why owning a home sauna is appealing to more owners

88 SAFETY FOR ALL IN AND AROUND THE WATER

Safety around a swimming pool is always important. Here’s a list of dos and don’ts of pool safety

COMPLETE CARE FOR HOT TUBS

Instant Filter Cleaner®

Fast acting cartridge filter cleaner which removes oils, body fats and dirt ensuring maximum filter efficiency.

No More Foam®

A fast acting antifoam eliminating unsightly foam from hot tubs.

Hot Tub System Flush ®

Concentrated formulation to remove scale and other waste from the internal pipework system of hot tubs.

Vinyl Restorer & Protector ®

Unique formulation to both restore and protect hot tub vinyl covers.

Ultra Spa Clarifier ®

A fast acting, non toxic and readily biodegradable natural clarifier which removes unwanted body fats, dissolved metals and aids filter efficiency.

Hot Tub & Spa Polish®

Seals, polishes and protects all hot tub surfaces against moisture and harsh chemicals leaving a showroom finish.

Spa Leak Sealer ®

A concentrated formulation to seal minor leaks in hot tubs.

What Pool & Hot Tub incorporating Pool & Spa Lifestyle is the official consumer magazine for the UK wet leisure markets and is the only consumer publication that invests in the industry it serves

editor’s LETTER

If you thought that ownership of a swimming pool, swim spa, hot tub or other wet leisure product was something reserved purely for the rich and famous, then perhaps it’s time to think again.

■ www.whatpoolandhottubmag.co.uk

What Pool & Hot Tub is published by

■ www.aqua-publishing.co.uk

Editor & Co-Publisher

Jon Wadeson

T: 020 8306 8150

E: jon@aqua-publishing.co.uk

Editorial Assistant Andrea Hartshorne

E: thewordsmiths@hotmail.co.uk

Sales Director & Co-Publisher

Tony Weston

T: 01474 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

Design: Colin Halliday

What Pool & Hot Tub is printed in the UK by The Manson Group

T: 01727 848440

Aqua Publishing accepts no liability for any insert, display or classified advertisement included in What Pool & Hot Tub. While every reasonable care is taken to ensure that all advertisers are reliable and reputable, What Pool & Hot Tub can give no assurance they will fulfill their obligations under all circumstances. The views expressed in the articles in What Pool & Hot Tub are the contributors’ own. All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication is not to be reproduced in whole or part without the prior permission of Aqua Publishing Ltd.

What Pool & Hot Tub magazine aims to show you how owning one of these products is more within your reach than you’ve ever imagined – and more straightforward to own and maintain too! In addition, with family health more important than ever plus with climate changing, holiday costs increasing and a need to reduce overall travel, there’s never been a better time to explore the world of wet leisure products for your own home and the benefits they bring.

So welcome to a celebration of swimming pools, swim spas, hot tubs and more – and to the pleasure and fun of being in and around the water in summer and throughout the rest of the year.

Once available to only a few, a swimming pool is now a realistic option for us all and the choice of designs and materials when it comes to owning one is huge. They range from quality, stylish aboveground pools, to sensational one-piece pools which arrive ready to fit and can give you a pool within days, through to the more glamorous designed indoor and outdoor pools which add something unique to any luxury home and lifestyle.

And don’t worry, as mentioned, even maintenance is no longer demanding these days.

If space is too tight for even a small swimming pool or if you are looking to relax and unwind rather than exercise, then a hot tub is a great option for people of all ages.

Inside you’ll find everything you need to know, including an exclusive ‘Top 20 Hot Tubs’ on the market – a guide to what you can expect to find when it comes to deciding what to buy. It covers a wide range of prices and offers a great starting point for your journey into hot tub ownership.

If it’s a combination of both that you are looking for, perhaps a swim spa is the ideal option and we also cover these increasingly popular products which offer the best of both worlds.

To help you decide which product is right for you, we explore each product in closer detail. We’ve pages of sensible, practical advice; you’ll learn about maintenance basics; how to provide safety around these products; how to get the maximum enjoyment out of each, who supplies them plus where to go for further help and advice.

In short, we answer a lot of the questions you might have about ownership and also cover other products that will complement each of them and enhance their use.

We also look at the health benefits that owning a pool or spa will bring – genuine water wellness provided by swimming through to the hydrotherapy benefits of hot tub massage jets.

We show you that ownership is now pretty much stress free too – thanks to high tech products which save energy costs, reduce carbon footprints and offer safe use.

Plus if you need some inspiration, there’s a glimpse of the many sensational swimming pool builds and creative hot tub installations that have recently taken place across the UK and beyond, bringing immense pleasure to new owners, their families and their friends.

With products available across such a wide range of budgets, there’s something for everyone. In fact, you may be surprised just how affordable this lifestyle choice is – so is this the year you join in?

PS – To see who is providing products in your local area, don’t forget to visit our new website.

Experience ultimate relaxation with Harvia Legend

The Harvia Legend tub is a cost effective and low maintenance hot tub. Featuring a stove heater, it consumes no electricity or gas and there are no pumps, wiring or filtration to operate. Simply fill the tub with water and the fire box with wood and within a couple of hours your hot tub is ready to use. The heated water rises and flows into the tub and pulls cooler water back into the heater to repeat the cycle.

Four to six people can easily fit in the hot tub making it suitable for versatile use, from evening parties to family moments. The large glass hatch of the stove allows you to easily see if more wood needs to be added while you enjoy the roaring fire of the stove and warming water of the tub.

The Harvia Legend is unique in that it is designed to be filled when you plan to use it and emptied when finished. This means you do not need to worry about water maintenance and equipment breakdown when not in use. It comes fully assembled and can easily be lifted with two people and conveniently slid into place. Attach the heater with a couple of clamps, attach the chimney and you are ready to go!

Why Not Enjoy Some Luxury Poolside Dining With A Secret Surprise That’s

Hot!

Keep cosy this season with the Aruba Cube Set from Desser & Co. Perfect for up to eight people, this outdoor dining set is comfortable, easy to clean and great for keeping warm in those cooler months thanks to the built-in fire pit table. The outdoor fabric furniture set will look great on any patio, garden or poolside. Made using easy to clean Sunbrella outdoor fabric, the seating is waterproof, UV resistant, mould proof and stain proof too. It’s also been designed to ensure constant air circulation inside the furniture for the maximum possible water drainage and will be completely dry in just 30 minutes!

• Tel: 0161 834 1795

• www.desser.co.uk

Emporium

What’s hot in the world of water and garden leisure

A Rotating Cantilever Parasol For Day And Night Use

The Zeus rotating cantilever parasol provides shelter from the sun on even the hottest of summer days! Position over sun loungers, outdoor dining areas, hot tubs or even pools – just turn and tilt to create the desired shade. Simply open up the parasol with the crank mechanism, adjust the height, tilt the canopy and use the foot pedal to rotate 360 degrees.

Use from day to night with the integrated solar powered LED lights, any garden environment will be kept illuminated with the outside space being enjoyed for longer.

The Zeus is available in a Taupe and Charcoal and comes with a matching PU protective cover and water/sand fill parasol base.

• Tel: 0191 691 4811

• www.atmliving.com

Keeping Warm Outside Has Never Looked This Good

With its timeless design The Dome Floor Lamp adds an air of elegance to any garden or patio.

Made from stainless steel and the hood from aluminium, it can be left outside all year round even withstanding our good old British winters! A perfect solution to those cool summer evenings, radiating heat up to 5 metres, it keeps friends and family toasty whilst enjoying a drink or two.

With a handy remote control both light and heat settings can be adjusted easily. There is also the option of waterproof Bluetooth speakers in the base to get the party started. Using less energy than typical outdoor heaters and with zero emissions, owners can enjoy any outdoor space for longer without feeling guilty!

• Tel: 01305 231231

• www.cuckooland.com

Summer BBQs Poolside

The Primo range of ceramic grills have been designed to fit everyone’s outdoor cooking needs.

If you’re new to ceramic grills, a Primo Ceramic Grill is one of the most versatile outdoor cookers in the world. You can use it as a grill, an oven, a roaster or a smoker with a simple adjustment to the air flow and cooking configuration.

Every Primo grill is made to be a primary outdoor cooker, but any of them can be added to a built-in outdoor kitchen or to complement an existing grill or smoker.

• Tel: 01787 238227

• www.primogrilluk.com

Let The Heat Roar With The Leo Chimenea

This chic modern matte black and antique gold Leo Outdoor Chimenea Fireplace is sure to bring a Mediterranean style wow factor to your outdoor space, after all, there is nothing quite like a roaring fire to keep you warm and extend your time outdoors on those cooler evenings. So load up with logs, keep the chill away and stay cosy poolside as the sun goes down.

This multiuse chimenea is perfect for family gatherings, group events, parties and more. Featuring a supersized log burning fireplace, the elevated fire pit reduces sparks and makes for better heat distribution while the tall chimney directs the smoke up and away. The foldable wood grate guarantees an easier cleaning process meaning more time to enjoy the pool and garden.

• Tel: 0330 058 4158

• www.limelace.co.uk

Relax With Stylish Protection From All The UK’s Elements

Relax and unwind, whatever the weather, with the Maze rattan 3 x 4m pergola. Offering complete UV protection, the adjustable roof panels can be set as needed. As the weather changes, simply tilt the roof louvres and drop the textilene sides to provide shade and shelter from the sun, wind, rain and more!

The roof features a built-in drainage system allowing water to run down the inside of the pergola legs and out onto the ground.

Ideal over garden furniture or a hot tub, the pergola also features remote controlled and dimmable LED mood lighting. Set the lights to white or choose from a selection of colours to liven up the evening!

• Tel: 01305 231231

• www.cuckooland.com

Recline, Rest And Relax With A Touch Of The Mediterranean

If you want to bring a little Mediterranean glamour to your garden, terrace or of course poolside, then look no further than this elegant double sun lounger which is available from Oka UK.

Made from easy care, durable ‘all-weather’ rattan, the Fontelina includes two showerproof seat cushions and reclines to different angles for total relaxation.

Named after one of the world’s most luxurious beach clubs, the Fontelina is designed to fit two people, but considering its oh-so-comfortable to lie on, you may want one all to yourself – and who could blame you!

• Tel: 0333 004 2042

• www.oka.com

Light Up Your Surroundings With This Illuminated Furniture

Put the fun factor into your home or garden and a smile on your face with this illuminated metal-framed furniture. The Yoko range is designed by Mojow who have created an inspiring collection of inflatable furniture that will seduce a cosmopolitan generation. Mojow furniture can be assembled and disassembled in a few minutes, then moved or stored easily. Made of eco friendly, UV-treated strong TPU, this furniture is easy to inflate and each piece comes with an electric pump. The LED lighting system works with a rechargeable battery and a remote control to adjust the lighting.

This trendy furniture is suitable for indoor or outdoor use and is perfect for the garden or patio. The collection includes chairs, sofas and coffee tables in a range of colours.

• Tel: 0330 058 4158

• www.limelace.co.uk

East Meets West With This Sakura Solar Lighting

Robust, sophisticated and highly versatile, this solar lamp is guaranteed to infuse any outdoor space with a finessed, Japanese inspired-design to evoke a feeling of zen. Features such as waterproofing, dimming and USB charging have been integrated into the lamp which emits a warm and inviting light.

These solar lights come with a smart mode that automatically optimises its luminosity according to solar power reserve stored in the batteries, the weather, the season and the length of the night.

Available in two sizes, this stunning pathway lamp has been crafted using highperformance Italian HPL in Slate with oiled teakwood in a Weathered Teak finish.

• Tel: 020 8804 7474

• www.bridgman.co.uk

Let The Sun Shine In With A Unique Terrace Enclosure

The multifunctional bioclimatic PERGOLA VENTI is a unique and exclusive solution for terrace enclosures. Thanks to the roof’s static resistance to snow, it is possible to use this patio system all year round making it not only a great choice for creating a covered terrace space, but also a superb option for small pool, hot tub, spa and many swim spa owners too.

Temperature is regulated by several independent systems – through the openable transparent roof, the adjustable shading under the roof, the sliding side walls and also through the screening side blinds.

Featuring a durable aluminum construction with integrated water drain, each is made to measure for the perfect enclosure solution.

• Tel: 0118 909 9844

• www.alukov.co.uk

Lie Back In The Sun And Live The American Dream

Residents of the American South know the best way to enjoy a warm, sunny day is to spend it relaxing in a hammock, and the American Dream Grey Hammock with Spreader Bar lets everyone have that experience! Outfitted with spreader bars, this hammock stays open at all times, so you don’t have to struggle to climb in and out of it.

The 200cm by 120cm hammock can hold up to 180kgs, allowing your family to snuggle up in it together. A detachable burnt orange recycled cotton head cushion is included and the grey hammock has orange trim to match.

The set comes with the Apollo hammock frame, handmade from European spruce (FSC-certified) which is weather-proofed. The high quality layered gluing ensures not only a fabulous design, but also greatest stability and safety.

• Tel: 0131 341 4896

• www.sleepyhammock.co.uk

Lounge Poolside In Luxury And Style

Available from Sweetpea & Willow®, the Bora Spa Chair is the statement piece needed for a luxurious and relaxing poolside or back garden experience. Lounge in style with this tall-backed woven frame which allows you to curl up, fully supported and in the utmost comfort. The lattice work adds an element of visual interest while also filtering the sun’s rays so you can truly enjoy the warm weather outdoors.

With cushions available in a wide range of colours, plus a chic and elegant Spa Coffee Table to match the look, relax in the knowledge that these are products which are sturdy enough to withstand the elements.

• Tel: 0345 257 2627

• www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

Relax Poolside This Summer With The Felix Lounger Beanbag

The fabulous Felix Lounger Beanbag is sure to add the wow factor to any outdoor space.

For those lucky enough to have a pool, they make ideal poolside loungers. Made from Sunbrella Plus® coated canvas, they can be left outdoors 365 days per year as they are water repellant, UV/fade resistant and algae resistant. Sunbrella Plus has a surprisingly soft touch which makes this fab chair suitable for indoor use too.

This cool Beige colourway is incredibly versatile and works with a variety of modern colour schemes, but the Felix Lounger is also available in Grey, Graphite and Taupe.

• Tel: 0330 058 4158

• www.limelace.co.uk

Guarantee The Light With A Powerful And Sophisticated Solution

Whether fixed or portable, this Skaal lantern is perfect for placing on a terrace, at the edge of a driveway, or of course, by a swimming pool. Its stylish and charming design will illuminate your garden beautifully, and at its base, the light is reflected to provide even more brightness.

The lantern is equipped with a smart mode that manages its energy independently throughout the seasons. It uses the energy generated during the day to operate all night, making it an efficient and environmentally friendly lighting solution for your outdoor space. Stylish and practical, it combines high-performance technology with environmentally friendly design and is crafted from Duratek treated teak.

• Tel: 020 7310 8880

• www.vivalagoon.com

Add The Wow Factor And Warmth To Any Garden

The fabulous Naples Square Fire Pit will give your garden some serious wow factor! Load up with logs, keep the chill away and enjoy watching the sun go down whilst creating a cosy mood – perfect for gatherings of friends or family.

This chunky, industrial style modern iron and fibrestone firebowl comes with a low level square fibrestone base in a choice of Cement or Granite finishes and is UV stable and frost-resistant.

With its four thick legs ensuring a sturdy build, its ultramodern design makes a striking statement in any garden and it provides the perfect place to sit around and enjoy drinks and conversation on a cool evening.

• Tel: 0330 058 4158

• www.limelace.co.uk

FEEL BETTER AND ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF

Water Wellness

Swimming is acknowledged as the best all round exercise there is and the hydrotherapy benefits from hot tub jets can bring relief to a whole range of aches, pains, injuries and illnesses. So whether it’s

through using a swimming pool, swim spa or a hot tub, the benefits to a family’s health, mood and lifestyle can be huge

“On a hot summer’s day, there’s nothing like being able to take a dip in the water...”

Swimming is good exercise – that’s obvious – but swimming is great because it can be enjoyed by all, regardless of ability and continued for a lifetime. The health benefits swimming offers are unmatched too but pool and swim spa owners across the land will tell you that there’s more to enjoyment of ownership than just pure exercise. On a hot summer’s day, there’s nothing like being able to take a dip in the water and whilst swimming is without doubt a healthy activity, a swimming pool or swim spa provides an opportunity for friends and family to get together too. It’s a lifestyle choice, one which allows people to enjoy and share their spare time, and it’s that complete package of health, exercise and social interaction which is putting a smile on the faces of families across the UK today.

When it comes to health and exercise, if you do a variety of strokes when swimming, it works practically all of the

10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD SWIM

1 Help life longevity due to fitness / lowered blood pressure.

2 It’s a sport which is almost free of injuries mainly because water resistance acts as a cushion so there are very few pulled muscles.

3 It’s a great way to burn calories – an hour of swimming will burn up 500 calories.

4 Swimming has been shown to be hugely beneficial to asthma sufferers as it encourages lung function and breathing control.

5 Age isn’t a barrier to swimming, people of all ages can enjoy its benefits.

6 Swimming balances blood pressure levels and normalises your pulse.

7 Swimming builds strength, stamina and fitness.

8 It’s a sport you can enjoy by yourself.

muscles in the body and regular swimming can develop a swimmer’s overall strength, cardiovascular fitness and endurance. Water is nearly 800 times denser than air so each kick, push and pull provides a mini resistance workout.

Swimming with increasing effort to increase your heart rate and stimulate your muscle activity gradually is easily accomplished in the water. After running, swimming a few laps can help you cool-down, move blood through your muscles to help them recover and help you relax.

Swimming burns calories at a rate of about three a mile per pound of bodyweight. In addition to burning calories as you swim, you build lean muscle, which increases your metabolism so that you burn more calories once you’ve showered and dried off.

However, many swimmers do not swim that quickly, and many cannot swim for that distance or duration, so

9 In a residential setting, a pool is a great social environment for friends and family to enjoy.

10 Finally anyone can do it. You don’t have to be a great athlete to enjoy swimming.

swimming to lose weight is not always the best plan.

Swimming exercises almost the entire body – heart, lungs and muscles – with very little joint strain. It is great for general fitness, not just a great way to drop excess pounds.

It does not help with bone density – you need weight bearing exercise for that – but that is about all that is missing from what swimming could do for your fitness.

Swimming is also kinder to your body. Water effectively neutralises gravity, so you become virtually weightless when immersed, giving your joints a much-needed rest and you can swim almost every day without the risk of injury. You can’t say the same for running or strength training.

Research in the US found that swimming can literally help you stay younger too. It found that regular swimmers were biologically up to 20 years younger than their actual age and revealed that a swimmer’s blood pressure, cholesterol levels, cardiovascular performance, central nervous system and cognitive functioning are all comparable to someone far younger.

There are psychological benefits to swimming too. You can relax and swim with a very low effort. Let your mind wander, focusing on nothing but the rhythm of your stroke.

This form of meditation can help you gain a feeling of wellbeing, leaving your water session refreshed and ready to go on with the rest of your day.

Many swimmers find an in-direct benefit from swimming. They develop life skills such as sportsmanship, time management, self-discipline, goal-setting and an increased sense of self-worth through their participation in the sport.

So why do you swim? For the health benefits to your heart and lungs? For the chance to be with some of your friends at the pool? Because you like the feeling of floating and sliding through the water? Whatever the reason, swimming and enjoying your own swimming pool or swim spa clearly has a lot to offer both from a physical and mental point of view.

Aqua exercise in pools and swim spas

The benefits of aquatic exercise for general fitness, rehabilitation or fun are all based on the resistance to activity in the water which encourage slow, controlled movements giving no muscle contraction, impact or pain.

By definition, an orthopaedic problem impairs mobility in some parts of the body. This means many forms of exercise are difficult or painful. People with impairments move more easily in the water without pressure on joints, bones or nerves meaning body toning and strengthening can be more easily achieved.

So another great way to get fit in the water – without even swimming a stroke – is by turning a pool or swim spa into a gym. Over recent years there’s been an explosion of products that assist with this form of aqua exercise. They range from personal weights, to trampolines, treadmills, exercise bikes and more, plus many swim spas also provide items such as rowing bars or resistant cords as enhanced exercise options. In short, when it comes to exercise, a pool or swim spa needn’t just be used for swimming in. There are a variety of land-based activities that can now easily be completed in either environment, with participants benefitting from the advantages which water provides.

Hot tubs provide multiple health benefits too!

It may be that you don’t have room, the budget or the need for a swimming pool or swim spa. If not, a hot tub may be a more practical option when it comes to seeking the health benefits from water.

Hydrotherapy is an age-old form of healing and stress relief based on three factors – heat, buoyancy and massage – and many hot tubs provide the perfect blend of all three. Heat generated in a hot tub dilates the blood vessels and

A HOT TUB CAN BE A LIFE CHANGING PRODUCT

This hot tub owner was diagnosed with polio at an early age, however, it never effected his working or family life of bringing up four children and running a successful clothing business. Having retired though, he started to feel the effects of many years of hard work which resulted in the requirement of a spinal operation in 2020 to help him obtain more movement and reduce pain.

Unfortunately, the operation did not go to plan and there were complications which lead to less flexibility and continued discomfort in his back and legs. With age a factor, the family chose against a further operation and instead decided on a process of constant rehabilitation and exercise.

The routine consists of daily short walks with this trusty stick, stretching, plus use of a newly acquired hot tub from Midlands-based Hot Tub Suppliers (www.hottubsuppliers. com) who advised the family on the hydrotherapy qualities on offer. The

client uses the hot tub daily and the sessions have improved his movement and reduced his pain from the operation. The use of the hot tub is an integral part of the daily routine and the hydrotherapy provided by the warm water and powerful jets are a vital part of his constant rehabilitation. Other family members enjoy the hot tub too. His wife is a keen gardener and also finds the therapeutic qualities beneficial after a day of pruning or weeding. She often enjoys its use along with of course, his visiting grandchildren!

increases circulation in the body. This enables enzymes and endorphins (the body’s natural pain relievers) to work more rapidly and efficiently on areas of the body, such as muscles and joints that have been stressed, strained or injured.

The buoyancy that the water in a hot tub provides means that pressure on the spine, muscle groups, ligaments and joints is significantly reduced. In fact the body weighs 90% less when suspended in water.

The jets in a hot tub provide a hydro-massage to various parts of the body. This stage is critical to the overall hydrotherapy process. All body systems benefit from hydromassage. Stress, injury and poor posture can all cause muscle aches, spasms and pain and the water from the jets helps to stimulate and relax trigger points, which are highly sensitive areas in the affected muscle. Hydro-massage has also been shown to increase circulation, improve flexibility and provide restorative benefits.

Hydrotherapy is a great way to relieve stress and stressrelated conditions, such as high blood pressure, headaches and chronic pain. It benefits every part of the body, including the skeletal, respiratory, circulatory, neuromuscular and digestive systems.

Hydrotherapy has been proven to be especially effective in reducing the pain of arthritis, tendonitis and inflamed areas which are the result of sports injuries and overexertion.

While many may think of hydrotherapy hot tubs as a luxury item, reserved only for those that have the financial means to enjoy the finer things in life, for others a hydrotherapy tub is an indispensable part of making it through their day-to-day. The scientifically proven benefits associated with regular use are beyond dispute and doctors even prescribe the use of hydrotherapy hot tubs for treatment of specific ailments.

So as you can see, hot tub hydrotherapy isn’t a case of having a few relaxing minutes that are over as soon as you step out. You get an immediate experience plus benefits that will have far-reaching effects on the quality of your, and your family’s life.

“Hydrotherapy is an age-old form of healing and stress relief based on three factors – heat, buoyancy and massage…”

AILMENTS THAT HOT TUB HYDROTHERAPY CAN HELP WITH

• Stress

• Arthritic pain

• Fibromyalgia

• Restless sleep

• Type 2 diabetes

Swim with no limits –Counter-current Systems from

SWIMEO is a range of jet stream turbines for beginners and advanced swimmers.

Unlike jet stream pumps, which offer limited power and uncertain reliability, the SWIMEO jet stream turbine is fully submerged, quiet and reliable.

SIREM turbines are recommended for competitive and amateur swimmers looking for a private swimming pool solution to complement their traditional pool or open water training. The maximum power of the SWIMEO is equivalent to a swimming speed of 1’50’’ per 100m.

All the turbines in the SWIMEO range are controlled either by a wireless remote control or via the smartphone application, which can be used to create training programmes.

SWIMEO X1

Available later this year, the SWIMEO X1 is recommended for new construction projects. This model is built-in and supplied with an integration kit and a grid that allows the turbine to be perfectly hidden in the pool wall.

SWIMEO APP

The smartphone application is used to control the SWIMEO turbines and to create training programmes.

In the programmes, the intensity of the stream can be varied over time.

SIMPLE INSTALLATION

Easy connection to the domestic electrical network.

HIGH PERFORMANCE

A thrust of 300m3/h at the exit.

SWIMEO S1

The S1 model is a functional, avantgarde design. The positioning of the inlets and the shape of the hydrodynamic appendages have been designed to offer the best performance and price combination available.

COMFORTABLE

A 1m wide ‘river’ stream 2m from the pool’s edge.

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, QUALITY PRODUCTS

The world of swimming pools, hot tubs and water leisure is now one of high quality style and design. From glamorous to everyday settings, anything is possible if you want to add a pool or spa to your home

COOLEST THINGS...

We just love this selection of quality which we hope will inspire you – a number of which are BISHTA and SPATA award winners from the recent British Pool & Hot Tub Awards, which were proudly sponsored by the following companies:

This image is a great example of how a pool can positively impact family life. The owner’s eldest son’s class was invited to the pool at the end of his last year at school. People were originally intending to come for a couple of hours – but it was such a great evening that the last guests left after midnight!

• Tel: 0800 037 0803

• www.bluecubepools.co.uk

This bespoke stainless steel swim spa features a Fastlane Pro countercurrent system as both owners are excellent swimmers. They participate in events regularly, with one of them competing for Team GB in Iron Man long-distance triathlons.

• Tel: 0151 424 9742

• www.spaflo.co.uk

Set into wooden decking, this subtle hot tub installation is sympathetic to it’s garden surroundings. It provides it owner’s with the perfect location to either chill out and enjoy a glorious sunset or be a focal point for a back garden get together of friends and family.

• Tel: 0191 410 9988

• www.northspas.co.uk

The pool area of this installation is finished in neutral tones to maximise the visual impact of the pool basin, which is clad in large format ‘oxidised copper’ effect porcelain tiles. The ‘random’ nature of the glazing layout adds to the effect, as does the overhanging structure.

• Tel: 0191 551 2048

• www.whitewaters.co.uk

The striking design of this spa has been skillfully executed. It features bespoke slotted grilles from porcelain to match the surrounding floors and LED lights in the spa surround, to cast light up the curved wall and showcase the tiled finish.

• Tel: 0191 551 2048

• www.whitewaters.co.uk

One-piece pool projects can provide ‘time and cost’ savings on site for owners in a hurry to get a pool up and running. In this instance, the pool was craned into position on the prepared ground, and the result is stunning. It’s a great example of an ideal one-piece pool installation.

• Tel: 01708 463090

• www.centurionleisure.co.uk

Set on wooden decking and surrounded by palm trees, this hot tub installation provides the ideal place to relax and unwind, whilst enjoying the picturesque views of the English coastline on a glorious summer’s day.

• Tel: 01803 872666

• www.hydropooldevon.co.uk

This contemporary indoor pool boasts stunning architecture and features. The pool hall is flooded with light creating a magnificent blend with the outdoors, reflecting and bouncing light off the pool tiles and waterfalls.

• Tel: 01883 622335

• www.tanbypools.co.uk

Accessible either from the garden building or seating area, this hot tub installation blends in perfectly with the uncluttered design and muted tones of this homeowner’s garden entertaining space.

• Tel: 0116 251 3378

• www.hottubsuppliers.com

The owner of this pool specifically wanted it built to mirror the design of the pool in her holiday home abroad. The client also designed her own steps, which were included in this build. This pool sits perfectly within its setting and whether night or day, it is aesthetically stunning.

• Tel: 01277 624653

• www.albatrosspools.co.uk

With its clean and simple lines, this understated garden swimming pool is the focal point of a garden entertainment area which provides its owners and any guests with the perfect space to relax, exercise or party in.

• Tel: 01883 622335

• www.tanbypools.co.uk

This installation is actually a pool refurbishment that features exceptional technical attention to detail. The care and thought given to its planning are evident in the final finish of this contemporary outdoor pool which perfectly complements its surroundings.

• Tel: 01580 753031

• www.mermaidpools.co.uk

This pool installation features a family play space and a high vaulted ceiling with roof lanterns to let in ample light. This allows the engineering of the exposed timber structure to become a prominent feature of the project and incorporates a specialist sculptural slide, sauna, spa and changing area.

• Tel: 01895 823366

• www.originpools.co.uk

Housed under a wooden gazebo, this Platinum Spa Infinity was perfect for this family’s in garden entertainment area. It features hydrotherapy options on multiple seats and the lounger features, which were high on this customer’s wish list.

• Tel: 01872 573350

• www.cornishhottubs.co.uk

Built in a conservation area, plenty of challenges were encountered by this garden installation. The final result though is a beautiful liner swimming pool which compliments its surroundings and features a Covrex cover system to provide energy savings and safety.

• Tel: 01580 753031

• www.mermaidpools.co.uk

This sauna and steam room combination is separated with very different design styles. Featuring a bespoke aspen cabin with an exposed feature stove and a fully glazed frontage, the steam room has a vaulted roof and partially glazed frontage.

• Tel: 0191 551 2048

• www.whitewaters.co.uk

This garden hot tub installation features a Covana cover which at the push of a button, seals the hot tub when not in use. With pull down graphics incorporated too, it really sets the scene for a relaxing experience, one which is sure to impress any guests.

• Tel: 01226 824463

• www.barnsleyhottubs.co.uk

The owner of this pool wanted one that matched their unique, awardwinning home with its contemporary design and finishes. This was accomplished using Synergy tiled edge finishing which provides that extra bit of ‘class’ to the Touch Elegance Liner finish within the pool.

• Tel: 01305 259253

• www.cresta-leisure.co.uk

Providing a real focal point for this back garden, the owners of this swim spa are able to both relax and workout whilst enjoying the peace and quiet of a domestic setting. With exotic plants surrounding the installation, it provides a great ‘on holiday whilst at home’ vibe.

• Tel: 01803 872666

• www.hydropooldevon.co.uk

This beautiful custom-made stainless steel hot tub was tailored to the owner’s garden and usage requirements. The result was the creation of a luxury bathing facility that does not look out of place in the garden of the owner’s grade-two listed property.

• Tel: 0151 424 9742

• www.spaflo.co.uk

The design brief for this pool was exceptional elegance and that it should sit beautifully alongside a historic property. It should be functional as a family pool and be used for serious exercise too. Everything has been achieved with this stunning pool installation.

• Tel: 0191 551 2048

• www.whitewaters.co.uk

This stunning high-end indoor installation creates an exotic mood of escapism. With an opulent and inviting, shimmering swimming pool, welcoming spa and even a sauna too, it’s the perfect environment to truly relax in and switch off for an hour or two.

• Tel: 01233 840336

• www.xlpools.com

The surface of the water within this stunning indoor installation looks like glass. Dive in though for a closer look at the beautiful tiles, which will really shine with any natural light that pours into the pool hall. Once out, admire the prefect blend of both modern and rustic elements.

• Tel: 0191 551 2048

• www.whitewaters.co.uk

Sitting at the side of a swimming pool, this contemporary spa perfectly matches its surroundings and gives any swimmers the chance to relax and unwind after exercising. It creates the perfect ‘swim and chill’ setting for its owners.

• Tel: 01932 353040

• www.falconpools.co.uk

One of the owners of this hot tub recently had a knee operation and is using the spa for rehab. The water has helped him get fitter again with minimal impact on his joints and has improved blood flow in recovery. The owners also enjoy using the spa together for the hydrotherapy features to relax.

• Tel: 01803 872666

• www.hydropooldevon.co.uk

All round entertainment was clearly a high priority for this swimming pool owner. With a billiards table inside and stunning pool along with spa outside, both the lucky owner and any lucky guests have options galore to explore and enjoy in this back garden any time of year.

• Tel: 01708 463090

• www.centurionleisure.co.uk

The landscaping combined with the clean, angular lines of this NIVEKO one-piece pool help to define a distinct area for relaxation within this property’s garden. The design contrasts with, yet also perfectly complements, the style of the house, and the blue waters of the pool provide an attractive and inviting oasis of calm.

• Tel: +420 572 693 246

• www.niveko-pools.com

SO WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BUY?

We take a closer look at a number of the most popular options...

Inflatable PVC pools

Easy to set up, and despite their lack of permanency, surprisingly tough and reliable, these pools are a step up from paddling pools and are available in a wide variety of sizes.

They are made from heavy gauge PVC, so are relatively long lasting and can still provide a first class pool ‘experience’. It is important to remember these pools are not large paddling pools and they are not designed to be emptied and refilled when you feel like it. They’ll need looking after and you’ll find that most are supplied with simple filters and electric pumps to clean and circulate the water.

Supported metal framed or ‘splasher’

pools

The next step up is a metal frame pool which normally comprises a one-piece liner which hangs from a tubular frame and is easy to install.

They come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and depths making them perfect for both older children and families, however the smaller models are really designed more for fun and splashing around – hence the name. These semi-rigid pools are very much for seasonal, warm weather use too therefore they should be taken down over the winter months.

They are unlikely to last beyond ten years but at anywhere from a couple of hundred pounds up to several thousand pounds for the largest models, they still represent pretty good value for money over their useable lifetime and like the inflatable pools, can come with basic filtration equipment plus extras such as ladders, debris covers and surface skimmers.

Above-ground/wooden pools

These are a significant step up from the lower end of the market which are normally used strictly for warm weather/seasonal fun.

All the models below 6 metres by 4 metres will be free standing and won’t need any ground supports which makes them quicker to install. Whilst a permanent solution, above-ground pools are clearly less permanent than other more expensive pools and if need be, most can be drained and moved to another location.

Overall the sizes range from around 2.5 metres right through to 10 metres or beyond and depths of up to 2.1 metres on

some of the larger models are available. Raised decks that partially or completely surround the pool can be added for safety, convenience and aesthetic purposes.

In many instances, if you wanted to, you can clearly buy what would be an above-ground pool in terms of its design and structure and have it secured and put in the ground giving it a much more permanent look.

Add decking and lighting and you have a secure, high quality pool.

These pools are the most budget-friendly but can still produce some spectacular results. There’s a number of manufacturers and a wide range of models on the market so expect to see some competitive pricing. Compare what you are actually getting for your money and shop around as this will still be a likely investment of several thousand pounds or more.

One-piece pools

If you are looking for a pool that will rival the best for longevity, keep its good looks and requires the minimum of maintenance,

Supported metal framed or ‘splasher’ pool

a one-piece pool is an attractive option.

The benefits of a comparatively straightforward pool installation and the fact that when the pool arrives it is prefitted with connecting pipe work, fittings, valves and now in some cases, even feature integrated pool covers, then it becomes clear why they are an increasingly popular pool option.

The choice of this type of pool has expanded greatly over recent years and they are now produced in a variety of durable materials and with a wide range of options.

Shells are factory-built meaning that quality can be carefully controlled and these hard-wearing swimming pools are also manufactured to withstand temperature changes, chemicals and UV so the beauty of the original surface should remain over time. Weekly chemical and cleaning maintenance is needed to protect the finish but you will probably need to use fewer chemicals on the whole than with some other pool types.

A huge benefit is the installation time is quicker than some other styles and unlike concrete pools for example, they can be installed in colder weather conditions. The pool shell is delivered complete to your home so do bear in mind location and access. After the hole is dug, the shell is lifted into place by crane, levelled and water is added.

One-piece pools will often come with comprehensive guarantees of at least ten years and often more. In reality, if well maintained, there’s no reason why a one-

piece pool shouldn’t last well beyond that though and a lifespan of 30 years isn’t uncommon and even enjoying 50 years of use is a possibility.

Liner pools

Traditional in-ground pools usually have reinforced walls with vinyl liners and these types of pools are the most common type of professionally installed pools in the UK.

Rectangular pools are increasingly the norm, but a variety of L-shaped, free form and other shapes are also available. Once the hole has been dug, support walls are typically made from polymer (plastic), fibreglass, aluminium, steel or pressure treated wood. Most vinyl pool liners are either .20” or .30” gauge (5.0mm and 7.5mm) and although tough, don’t expect them to last a lifetime as they are prone to tears and rips. You might get seven to ten years’ of use before a replacement liner is needed but this also gives owners the opportunity to refresh the look of the pool.

Replacement liners can be installed in one or two days and providing the basic pool shell has been constructed well, a pool may have several new liners over its expected life, which could be as much as 50 years in the case of a concrete construction.

There are plenty of choices when it comes to patterns, textures, colours and tilebands, meaning owners can add a personal and often bespoke touch to these pools.

Most liners are treated to prevent algae growth and some have UV protection –both prolong life and appearance.

As with one-piece pools, excavation work will be necessary before installation, so these pools fall into a higher price range than above-ground pools.

Concrete pools

Produced to bespoke designs and able to incorporate most wishes, however unique, concrete pools represent the top of the range in pool types. They will become a permanent fixture and will take several weeks and often much longer to complete. They therefore represent a serious investment so a

professional contractor, healthy budget and detailed designs are all necessary.

These are reinforced pools with concrete, plaster and finished with tiling instead of liners. There are various ways to construct this type of pool but normally a layer of concrete (gunite or shotcrete) is sprayed into a reinforced framework of steel or single concrete block or twin block construction.

Concrete pools are the most elaborate of the pool categories and allow for design to be of a free-form nature – so the shapes and finishing possibilities are limitless and the results are normally spectacular.

Excavation is necessary, and a variety of creative options are available to complement these top-end pools, including waterfalls, custom steps and beach entries.

The high quality and bespoke nature of these pools usually puts them in the highest price range.

Natural pools

A natural swimming pool, natural swimming pond or eco pool (the terms usually mean the same type of pool) is designed so you can swim in clear water with no traditional chemicals and they are often chosen for this reason.

Their design can range from formal to entirely natural and this kind of option is a practical swimming facility, a landscape feature and a wildlife sanctuary all at the same time! Natural pools have passed the most stringent tests in terms of water quality and are based on the eco system of interaction of water, sunlight, gases, minerals, plants and creatures to ensure the water stays healthy.

They are usually divided into two areas –the swimming zone and the regeneration

One-piece pool

Liner pool

Concrete pool

zone and the larger the pond, the more likely it is to have a better balanced eco system.

Hot tubs

In a domestic setting, the terms ‘hot tub’ and ‘spa’ mean the same thing. The choice of hot tubs in terms of makes, sizes, shapes and gadgets is huge and there’s something for every lifestyle, space and budget.

In recent years hot tubs have become more technology driven with more and varied therapeutic jets, waterfalls, cascading water features and for peace of mind, complete water management systems. There are also many more options now available for adding both light and sound to create a complete outdoor experience too.

At the top end, there’s visually stunning and mood setting lighting complemented by quality audio systems, which are often accompanied by smartphone docking systems. Apps are increasingly available to completely manage the running of some of the more premium hot tubs too!

Setting aside inflatable options, when it comes to rigid models, there are two types – self-contained and non self-contained.

With a self-contained or portable spa, the electrical, filtration and heating systems are contained in the spa’s exterior or cabinet.

These typically are installed aboveground; however you can easily achieve a built-in look by installing your spa partially above a surrounding deck. These self-contained units can be moved and reinstalled elsewhere, if you choose. Non self-contained hot tubs are installed in-ground and are considered permanent. Often these spas are part of a spa-pool combination.

Once you decide what you want and where it’s going, take some time to choose an experienced, reputable dealer and manufacturer. Look for a dealer who is a BISHTA member and you’ll get someone who is providing excellent service.

The best way to make sure you get the right hot tub is to try it out. Many retailers encourage you to have a ‘wet test’ or ‘test soak’ before you buy. If you do, note the depth of the water, the seating capacity, location of seats and the variety and power of the jets. Also enquire about eco features

and ongoing running costs, as this is an increasingly important factor for many hot tub owners.

Swim spas

Whether it’s for competitive training or for family fun, swim spas are versatile products which take the best elements from both swimming pools and hot tubs and put them into a single package. Their flexibility and price have meant they have become an increasingly popular choice in the UK.

Swim spas literally allow you to swim on the spot. You do not have to complete laps or turn around like in a normal pool, but just have to keep exercising within the space provided to ensure you get the swimming workout you need as you swim against a continuous stream of water or ‘countercurrent’.

Swim spas are a cheaper option than a full scale swimming pool. They take up less space, are easy to heat and provide an all year round swimming experience.

In terms of their size, they are available from 12 to almost 30 feet in length and are generally around 8 feet in width. Since they are made of acrylic, they are comparatively light for their size and can normally be easily installed – and in the event that you should move – in most cases uninstalled too.

An entry-level swim spa will provide excellent quality jets and a basic, safe and secure swimming environment. Mid-range and advanced swim spas are aimed at those looking for a more strenuous workout and will often feature a separate hot tub seating

area plus dual temperature water controls. They can be free standing or designed partially or fully in-ground.

Saunas

The popularity of home saunas is on the increase in the UK as the message about their benefits becomes more widely known and accepted. Saunas come in a range of sizes and styles and contrary to popular belief, they aren’t that difficult to find space for or construct.

Depending upon where you’d like to do your relaxing, a sauna can go in a basement, garage, bathroom, attic, area under a staircase, pool house, or a spot in the garden.

There are wet saunas, dry saunas, smoke saunas, steam saunas, and those that work with infrared waves. Infrared saunas offer most of the same benefits that traditional saunas do, but they do so at lower, more tolerable temperatures.

No matter what type of sauna you opt for, it is now generally accepted that sauna use will provide a multitude of health benefits. Due to a user’s metabolism rising and their body sweating, saunas burn calories. In addition, the enveloping warmth improves a user’s complexion, drawing out impurities and boosting their circulation whilst the body releases endorphins, which help to create an all round positive lift to the spirit.

So a sauna is an investment in greater wellbeing for both the mind and body, and is a place that is just as good for spending time with family and friends as it is for taking a break from the stresses of everyday life.

Hot tub Swim spa

Sauna

POOLS THAT WON’T COST YOU THE EARTH

If you’re at the stage where an inflatable or splasher pool no longer fits the bill and are thinking about having a swimming pool as a more permanent or regular feature, above-ground pools are a great option. Often DIY assembled, they don’t need planning permission to install, make the most of limited space and can provide great fun for friends and family

Above-ground and wooden pools are available in a wide range of options and therefore prices – from several hundred pounds for a small and basic model DIY kit with no additional equipment, right up to and beyond £10,000 for the more luxurious options which have many extras included. In fact, for £3,000 – £8,000 you can now buy a high quality above-ground or wooden pool which is perfect for most families and is the ideal solution for the smaller garden and patio areas.

An above-ground pool is an investment in your family’s outdoor space and thanks to increased media coverage over recent years, combined with the pandemic meaning families have spent much more time at home, there is much more awareness of these types of pools and the lifestyle and fun that they provide.

Another reason these are increasingly popular is because of the fairly affordable price tag for such quality. Add to this their flexibility, ease of use and a relatively straight forward and quick installation process and you can see why they appeal to so many.

With warmer summers apparently expected for the future, the popularity of above-ground pools is sure to grow even more. With limited stocks held, when hot weather kicks in, numerous suppliers report that stocks of many above-ground and wooden pools often run out –even quicker during periods such as the recent lockdowns and during holiday uncertainty – so be warned!

Above-ground swimming pools are often referred to as ‘starter’ pools, and come in a variety of sizes, with models generally ranging from the 10 ft to 30 ft mark in length.

“With warmer summers apparently expected for the future, the popularity of above-ground pools is sure to grow even more”

A number of aboveground pools can happily be located fully indoors, such as here with this Divina model from Laghetto

Doughboy pool walls are made from heavy copper bearing steel and can be installed either above-ground or in-ground as here

Increasingly these high quality pools are not exclusively above-ground now with more people opting to fit them fully or partially in a decking or putting the classic wooden frames in the ground, so in fact the term ‘above-ground’ is slightly misleading. This flexibility means that this kind of pool can either be a real feature in the garden or can be neatly incorporated into the surrounding landscape and its feature – the choice is yours!

One of the great things about above-ground pools is that they take less time to install and depending on the location you have chosen, you may not need

of the best…

ABOVE-GROUND POOLS

For dealer locations around the UK, call or visit the individual company’s website. For more above-ground pool information including other manufacturers and distributors, pay a visit to the What Pool & Hot Tub website.

This Timberpool wooden pool installation by Doughboy UK illustrates how a pool can be landscaped into any type of garden setting

SO WHAT WILL AN ‘ABOVE-GROUND’ POOL COST?

There’s a wide range of above-ground pools and they can be bought for as little as several hundred pounds for some framed options, but to get the right combination of quality and equipment, you need to start budgeting around the £3,000 – £8,000 mark and likely more if installation, especially in-ground, is required.

• £3,000+ will buy you a good quality small DIY pack pool, sturdy, functional and still good fun for the family

• £6,000+ will be the starting point for a complete wooden or galvanised steel panelled pool kit, installed above-ground

• £12,000+ a step up in quality to a ten metre wooden above-ground pool which has been sunk into the ground and fully installed.

1

Pop Crystal from Laghetto: This steelframed pool hit the market this year to delight users with its see-through liner strips that create a charming, yet striking aesthetic, both day and night. The Pop Crystal wants to stand out from the rest. Not only does it deliver everything a traditional pool does, but this model provides an aesthetic appeal through a design that lets users see the crystal-clear water through its walls thanks to incorporated LED lighting. Available in two colours, Pop Crystal is designed with curved and rounded shapes that will give any garden a casual, yet modern and fresh feel.

• Tel: 01329 514000

• www.piscinelaghetto.com

2

Garden Leisure Gemini from SCP: Influenced by contemporary trends, reflective of today’s new urban spaces, the Gemini is sure to satisfy the expectations of those looking for something different. Nothing has been left to chance with this easy to assemble above-ground pool. With steel and resin construction, textures, colours, angles and even proportions here redefine current trends and confirm its excellence. With new printing technology, combined with the wall’s graphic simplicity, the Gemini achieves a fantastic level of quality and comes with a patterned liner, combined sand filter/pump unit, skimmer, plumb kit, ladder and water treatment starter kit.

• Tel: 01293 546126

• www.scpeurope.com

HOW TO CREATE A YEAR-ROUND AND COMPLETE GARDEN SWIMMING EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR HOME

You can turn an above-ground pool into a much more thrilling swimming experience by fitting a counter-current on one end of the pool (as seen above). This simple device produces a powerful jet, which can be varied in terms of your swimming ability so that you can literally swim on the spot, the same as with a swim spa.

With some above-ground options, you can also add on extras to your pool such as lighting and cover rollers and for year round use, you can add an enclosure or some form of swimming pool ‘lodge’ over it.

3

Above-ground pools from Doughboy: This range of pools can be installed either above-ground or in-ground, are adaptable and offer a large variety of styles, shapes, sizes and depths. Doughboy pool walls are made from heavy copper bearing steel for a stronger pool wall. The zinc clad hot-dipped galvanised steel wall receives numerous protective coatings, providing the best defence against corrosion and condensation. In addition Doughboy skimmers have a large skimming surface area that removes surface debris much faster, allowing for more pool water height fluctuation and reducing the need to add water frequently!

a special foundation for your pool. Most of the aboveground pools can be constructed using pre-fabricated kits and all that is required is a flat and level surface, access to electricity and, of course, a water supply. Many can even be installed by someone that possesses some fairly competent DIY skills.

When it comes to buying an above-ground or wooden pool, the secret is to have a look for what you want using the internet. There are some great deals to be had through many online professional pool companies, but when it actually comes to making the purchase, ensure that the seller can advise you on safety in and around

4

Garden Leisure AGP Wooden Pools From SCP: For a more permanent solution for the garden or even indoors, this range of wooden pools is available in four models with differing shapes, sizes and depths. Made from dense Scandinavian 45mm high quality logs, over 20 years of manufacturing expertise goes into every one of these wooden pools. They can be installed on the ground, in-ground or partially in-ground and come with a five-year wood warranty. The pool comes complete with a kit that provides all the equipment needed to get you up and swimming in no time at all.

5

Wooden Pools from Plastica: A range of British made premium wooden pools that can be located above, below or partially in-ground, these premium wooden pools are some of the most affordable above-ground pools on the market. Made of natural, high grade redwood with a ten year structural warranty, they come in kit form with everything required to get swimming and will give years of pleasure. With a range of shapes and sizes to choose from, there will be a pool that works for you – from 3.3m up to 10m! Fit the wooden pool yourself or choose a local expert. • Tel: 01273 495971 • www.doughboyuk.co.uk • Tel: 01293 546126

www.scpeurope.com • Tel: 01424 857802

www.woodenpools.net

Families all over the UK are choosing British-made Sunsoka pools to enhance their homes. This one features an Abrisud enclosure

Plastica Pools offer a range of British made premium wooden pools that can be located above, below or partially in-ground

With the addition of a counter-current unit, even small above-ground or wooden pools can offer a thoroughswimming workout

the pool and importantly, on how to keep the water clean.

If they are not able to give you this advice or supply you with the relevant water treatment products, it is probably your best bet to bid them a cheerful goodbye and find someone who can.

You may also want to check out your local pool store or retailer as many will have a working model or at least a built model available to view. Seeing it ‘in the flesh’ will give you a much better idea about the product than any website images can.

There are many above-ground pools to choose

6Sunsoka Wooden Pools from Arcus: Sunsoka has been producing wooden pools for over 15 years and they offer bespoke pool options to match an owner’s exact needs. Manufactured in Cambridgeshire, bespoke shapes and sizes can be chosen meaning they can help to create the perfect swimming environment. Sunsoka pools only use high-quality materials and feature a unique curved wood design which replicates a log cabin. They are designed for simple home installation and each comes with a ten year guarantee. Available optional extras include lights, water purification systems, salt chlorinators and heating systems.

• Tel: 01945 450170

• www.sunsoka.co.uk

from and most are manufactured and distributed by well known and established names whose products can easily be found on sale through off and online retailers across the country.

When buying a wooden pool, look out for kits where the structural wood is treated and the timber is impregnated with wood preservative. This will protect the wood and therefore the pool against fungal rot and insect attack and ensure longevity.

Also pay attention to exactly what comes with each kit as adding extra components and options could dramatically change the overall cost of the pool.

7Deluxe Wooden Pool from Certikin: Quality construction and a luxurious finish sum up the wooden pools from Certikin. Each is made of attractive Scandinavian redwood (walls) with the addition of a premium quality Iroko top rail. The pool comes in three standard sizes with bespoke sizes available too. All the models below 6m x 4m are totally free standing and require no ground supports which makes them much quicker to install. All have a steel support beam around the top of the pool underneath the Iroko top rail. The pool’s high specification includes the pool walls, steps, Certikin flow fittings, filtration, maintenance kit, cover and liner.

“Increasingly the higher quality pools are not exclusively located aboveground now with more people opting to fit them fully or partially in a decking...”

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Dolce Vita from Laghetto: The Dolce Vita pool is one product which meets the tastes and expectations of demanding customers that are looking for an easy to install, functional and aesthetically beautiful product. Looking good in any environment, including commercial settings, it can be built where a traditional in-ground swimming pool can’t be placed and is available with an optional soft ground installation kit. Advanced technology used in the Dolce Vita design allows it to be either an in-ground, partially in-ground, or above-ground pool, thus offering the possibility to suit the characteristics of the ground perfectly.

• Tel: 01993 777200 • www.certikin.co.uk • Tel: 01329 514000

www.piscinelaghetto.com

Many one-piece pools come with long warranties, including this LPW Pools model which gives peace of mind for 30 years

ENJOY SOME ONE-PIECE POOL

CONVENIENCE

There’s real choice when it comes to in-ground pools – but one type that is becoming increasingly popular is one-piece pools and it’s easy to see why

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hen it comes to in-ground swimming pools, no matter what type you decide upon or where they are located, they all have one thing in common – they all start life as a hole!

BENEFITS OF ONE-PIECE POOLS

• As the shell construction is done off site, you could have your finished pool within as little as three weeks from the start of construction

• The strength and quality of a one-piece pool makes it a durable option, one which is resistant to deterioration and changes in temperature

• Warranties are often very impressive, providing peace of mind to owners

• Ongoing swimming pool maintenance is usually limited to cleaning and chemicals only

• One-piece pools are smooth to touch and attractively finished. You can customise your pool with a range of colours and finishes to make it look unique.

You can opt for a blockwork pool or prefabricated panel shell which is then made watertight with a tailor made PVC liner, or you can have a reinforced concrete shell, finished with tiles, marblite or special paint.

Despite their name, you can even put many aboveground pools into the ground too!

Finally you can opt for a one-piece pool which arrives, as the name suggests, as one complete piece with plumbing and other features such as steps, handrails and a pool cover fitted.

Whether it’s an indoor or an outdoor installation, onepiece swimming pools are becoming more and more popular and are often a first choice for domestic swimming pools.

They have been widely produced, accepted and installed around the world since the 1950s and it’s estimated that in Australia, around 60% of all pools are constructed in this way and it’s no real surprise – they are ideally suited to the domestic pools’ market thanks to their flexible design and ease of installation which provides instantly visible results once they are in the ground.

“They are ideally suited to the domestic pools market thanks to their flexible design and ease of installation which provides instantly visible results once they are in the ground”

“…each pool can be highly customised and so each is bespoke within its own right”

Create the perfect training pool with the addition of a counter-current unit as with this compact pool

It’s this ease and therefore speed of installation that is their biggest selling point. Being fully warranted and ‘ready to swim’ further adds to their appeal too.

One-piece pools come in a variety of materials but fibreglass and polymer are the two most common forms and the engineering strength of the construction and the impressive warranties offered has made these pools increasingly popular. The long warranties are possible as each pool is produced under strict factory conditions meaning quality products time after time and in some cases, a pool can last up to 50 years or even beyond!

For dealer locations around the UK, call or visit the individual company’s website. For more one-piece pool information including other manufacturers and distributors, pay a visit to the What Pool & Hot Tub website.

One-piece swimming pools are available in many styles, with infinity options, such as with this Starline pool, being very popular

Due to their flexible design capability, one-piece pools can be made into attractive customised shapes. They can feature uniform straight edges or contemporary curves, or with a deep and shallow end.

The pool shells are more resistant to damage than vinyl lined or tiled pools too, while also being easier to clean. There are even fully tiled one-piece pools which at first glance, you would think were concrete pools.

One-piece pools are pre-plumbed with flexible pipe and often arrive on site with components already fitted.

The pools can also come with everything complete

1Compass Ceramic Pools: This quality range of pools features a ceramic composite material which adds significant strength to the pool structure, is impermeable to water osmosis and increases the pool’s heat insulation properties. Compass Pools have also developed Bi-Luminite®, a unique finishing option which revolutionises the look of pools by inserting tiny ‘reflectors’ into clear gelcoat and using a second colour layer. Compass Ceramic Pools are strong, durable, easy to clean and resistant to algae formation making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects. They come with a whole host of features and plenty of optional extras.

• Tel: 0333 456 7111

• www.compass-pools.co.uk

EVi Pools from Waterstream: EVi Pools offer a range of one-piece pools that are simple yet luxurious by design, offering both perfect surface finishes and the latest technology in every pool. The cutting edge design means they are simplicity itself to look after and safety is a priority too with all of their models and packages including important built-in safety features that offer essential layers of protection. Available in three different lengths (6m, 8m and 10m), an EVi Pool will provide everything that you need – and all designed to fit perfectly in your home for assisted DIY pool installation.

• Tel: 01403 577674

• www.evi.co.uk

Niveko offer a state-of-the-art one-piece pool in polypropylene which is available in virtually any shape or size

such as steps, a gently sloping floor, seats, perimeter grip rails – all incorporated into the original mould and features such as steps and underwater ledges are produced for a fraction of the cost it would be for a concrete pool and incorporating them in this way saves money and time in the construction and installation process.

The options are also fairly endless – customised colours, mosaic tiled borders, overflow systems, special depths, overflow pools, light weight installations for penthouse and roof top installations and counter-current options are all available. They can even come with a ‘self

3Monopools from NIVEKO: As specialists in producing custom-built pools, this trend-setting manufacturer offers state-ofthe-art one-piece pools which are designed to accentuate the individuality of each and every customer. One of the biggest advantages of NIVEKO pools is their configurability which allows customers to express their vision without any compromises. Their top quality high-tech polymer pools are offered in seven types – two skimmer and five overflow. This ensures the maximum amount of flexibility for designers and owners. All their pools are designed and manufactured in an ultra-modern facility.

• Tel: +420 572 693 246 • www.niveko-pools.com

cleaning’ facility.

In fact when it comes to one-piece pools, there aren’t many drawbacks at all because with so many options and variations available, each pool can be highly customised and so each is bespoke within its own right.

But, there are a few. Firstly, there are restrictions on the shape of the pool, so unlike a bespoke concrete pool which has essentially limitless possibilities in terms of designs and shapes, there will be a limit to what is available. Of course, all popular shapes are covered though so the majority of peoples’ pool wishes will be catered for.

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Starline Monoblock Pools from Ocea UK: These Dutch-manufactured swimming pools are suitable for both outdoor and indoor projects. With six pool lines, Monoblock is a ready-to-use concept which consists of a onepiece pool plus steps. Each pool can incorporate Starline’s Roldeck pool cover system and built-in parts such as skimmers, lighting and jetstreams are all preassembled to each customer’s specification in the Starline factory and the pool is then delivered to site in one visit. With the wide choice of sizes, steps and colours, it’s easy to find a pool that meets the majority of family requirements.

• Tel: 01993 707910

• www.oceauk.com

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The Sterck from Ocea UK: Produced by the makers of Starline, this new onepiece offering is called The Sterck. Made from high quality polypropylene, thermoplastic polymer and a high-quality plastic, the result is a strong and sustainable option which is highly resistant to UV and chlorine damage plus the finish is resistant to cracking. The Sterck’s huge appeal is it can be designed from scratch incorporating a bespoke cover, counter-current system, lighting and steps all to suit owners. At the end of its lifespan, the pool can be repurposed, so it’s good for the planet too.

• Tel: 01993 707910

• www.oceauk.com

The Leisure Pools range of onepiece pools is distinguished by sharp, formal lines

Most one-piece pools are delivered on a low loader but cranes, boats and even helicopters have been used too

Secondly, there are the finishes. Again a concrete pool can offer an almost infinite amount of finishing options especially when it comes to tiles, but this will only appeal to a small proportion of owners. Although not infinite, one-piece pools come in a variety of colours and finishes, so there’s bound to be something available to ensure your pool to reflects your taste or personality. You can make your pool blend into its surroundings or perhaps become a striking statement in your back garden.

Of course, it is worth pointing out at this point that whilst the options provided by a concrete pool are never ending,

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Leisure Pools from Easy Pools: Each Leisure Pools manufactured composite fibreglass swimming pool benefits from Corrosive Resistant Vinyl Ester Resin for each layer of the pool construction (except the gelcoat colour layer). Leisure Pools is the only composite pool manufacturer using patented Composite Armour™ technology which is a combination of four of the most superior and strongest composite (fibreglass) materials used in one process to create not only one of the best looking pools, but also one of the strongest structures available for swimming pool designs.

• Tel: 01444 411411

• www.swimpools.co.uk

they can come at a cost though, one which can often be a premium one, so, one-piece pools can in comparison offer fantastic value for money when compared to some high end concrete pool installations, even if there is slightly less choice on offer.

Lastly, one-piece pools by definition, have to be transported in one piece and usually travel to their intended destination by road on lorries, so transport and access can occasionally place limitations on the size of pool possible. However cranes, boats and even helicopters have been used to provide owners with the one-piece pool of their dreams!

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LPW Pools from Fairlocks: Designed and constructed in Belgium, these goodlooking, quality pools feature six consecutive layers of vinyl ester resin reinforced with glass fibre incorporating a 15mm thick insulating honeycomb layer. The reinforced structure provides strength and insulation as well as ensuring the overall structural integrity of the pool itself. The unique structure and shape of the pools enables them to be fitted with the top of the range Covrex Automatic Slatted Cover system. There’s a range of 12 models to choose from and for peace of mind, each carries a lifetime warranty of 30 years.

• Tel: 01869 934333

• www.fairlocks.co.uk

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Stainless Steel Pools from SpaFlo: As a leader in the manufacture, design and installation of bespoke stainless steel pools and spas, SpaFlo provide a solution which has almost infinite shapes and possibilities, meaning they are able to offer the very best in unique, elegant design resulting in a timeless addition to any home. Stainless steel provides the perfect material for bespoke pools – it’s low maintenance, hygienic, lightweight, durable and provides an upmarket feel to any above – or in-ground pool. Why not add a touch of longlasting class and enjoy peace of mind with a unique one-piece pool from SpaFlo?

• Tel: 0151 424 9742

• www.spaflo.co.uk

A One-piece Pool Project That Offers Convenience All Round

One-piece swimming pools can offer a number of advantages to pools built using more traditional construction methods, with speed of installation being one of their biggest benefits. They’re also extremely flexible with regards to both the designs and equipment on offer, as this project in Cheltenham perfectly demonstrates

This award-winning pool belongs to a client of SPATA member Compass Ceramic Pools UK by Waterstream. The client’s wife had grown up with a swimming pool in her parent’s garden and having heard how much she enjoyed the convenience and exercise opportunities that such a luxury had afforded her, decided it was time for one of their own.

The plan was for a pool that was as low maintenance and as easy to use as possible and despite this particular Compass Pool exceeding the planned budget by around 20%, the couple

decided the costs were worth it for the higher-grade specification on offer.

The family wanted a pool they could use when the sun is shining, so needed to be able to close the pool down from September to April. They wanted to be able to enjoy the summer with friends and family and needed plenty of space around the pool to sit and entertain. They also needed the pool to look aesthetically pleasing.

In the end, the XL Trainer 110FB was the pool the client chose. Sandstone coping which matched the

rest of the tiled outdoor space was selected, along with stainless steel fittings. Three large lights made for pleasant evening swims, while the freshwater UV system reduced the chemicals required in the pool.

When it came to maintenance, the client was adamant that he wanted as little to do as possible. The cloud-based automation system was a huge selling point, allowing the husband to keep an eye on the pool’s needs from his phone, without the need to test the water on a regular basis. He also opted for a remote beachline cover, auto-dosing, auto-top-up, plus auto-backwash. A pool robot was purchased separately so that all he had to do was empty the leaf bucket from time to time and replace the chemicals when they ran out.

Ongoing energy costs were kept to a minimum by purchasing a large heat pump plus polycarbonate solar slats to keep the pool warm without resorting to gas.

The position of the pool changed slightly from the

client’s original plans. He had wanted the pool to have as much light as possible, but then realised it would be the first thing you see when coming in through the garden gate. He also decided he would prefer the deckchairs in the area with the most sun. In the end, he chose a space by the barbecue, making it the perfect area for entertaining.

The couple have a teenage son who loves spending time in the pool with his friends. The pool has been such a hit with the youngsters that the couple have had to refuse entry on occasion to enjoy a little peace and quiet of their own around the water! They have also thrown a few pool parties on the warmest days of the year, with the location of the barbecue making for a great entertaining area.

Compass Ceramic Pools UK by Waterstream • Tel: 0333 456 7111

• www.waterstream.co.uk

“The cloudbased automation system was a huge selling point, allowing the husband to keep an eye on the pool’s needs from his phone, without the need to test the water on a regular basis”

A counter-current is great for smaller pools including wooden options

THE CURRENT SWIMMING AGAINST

When it comes to increasing the functionality of smaller pool spaces, counter-current systems are perhaps one of the most effective add-ons for both new and existing installations. It’s a combination which has been a great success for swim spas and an increasing number of pools are now incorporating them. Affordable and easy to install, they deliver a more complete and flexible pool experience

T here’s a number of reasons why a larger swimming pool isn’t always a possibility, and in many scenarios, even a necessity. Perhaps space or even the budget are restricted.

Maybe there are aesthetic reasons why a large pool just won’t work. Whatever the reason, sometimes a small pool is the only viable option but whilst fun, they can often just seem to lack that certain something – and often,

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of the best… COUNTER-CURRENT UNITS

For dealer locations around the UK, call or visit the individual company’s website. For more counter-current information including other manufacturers and distributors, pay a visit to the What Pool & Hot Tub website.

Binder EasyStar from Ocea UK: Suitable for existing pools, this modern-looking hanging system is offered with the six standard performance levels and has all the benefits of a fully-fledged built-in HydroStar system. As opposed to conventional counter flow systems, it generates a wide water flow which carries the body in the water similar to a natural river current, without splashing. Unlike pump-operated swim systems, there is no concentrated jet that causes unpleasant concentrated strain on the head or shoulders. It’s perfect for all ranges of training whether it’s for health, fitness or elite swimmers.

• 01993 707910 • www.oceauk.com

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EVAstream from Golden Coast: With EVAstream, swimmers can improve swimming technique and ability, as the unit delivers a powerful jet of water to swim against to help build strength and conditioning. Extremely energy efficient, it fits to a standard 16A 230V connection, with a consumption of just 2.2kW. It’s available as a recessed model for new pool builds, or as shown here, as a surface-mounted model for retrofitting onto existing pools. The EVAstream is available in three variations: EVAstream Fit, Pro and Max, with each unit catering to varied levels of swimming experience and requirements.

• Tel: 01271 378100 • www.goldenc.com

it’s the ability to enjoy a proper, uninterrupted swim. For many pools and their owners, the solution is a countercurrent system – a product which enhances the usability of smaller pools, adds some much-needed wow factor and puts them more on a par with their bigger rivals. In many ways, you could even argue they surpass their larger rivals.

As their name would suggest, these flexible systems provide a constant current of water for pool users to swim against. Driven by pumps, they provide a flow of water from one end of the pool and offer a similar environment to swimming against the flow in a stream or river. Users are essentially swimming on the spot, and sometimes they are even likened to the aquatic version of a treadmill. With a broad range of settings, they can provide the perfect

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swimming environment for beginners through to serious athletes.

Once installed, a counter-current system makes it possible to have unlimited fun, swim for as long as a user likes, plus their introduction can often provide hydrotherapy options. Many of the latest options are programmable too, with a number utilising smartphone App technology to both control the units and specify workout schedules. With a wide range of stylish built-in and over-the-wall options available, there are no excuses for not exercising in smaller pools or maximising their potential, a fact that has been noted by many consumers as sales of countercurrent units, smaller pools that feature them and out and out exercise pools have really taken off over recent years.

Fluvo XANAS from Certikin International: This counter-current unit is state-of-the-art, both aesthetically and in terms of its high performance. It is designed with the regular swimmer in mind, who is looking to add another dimension to their pool and who wants both fun and a rewarding exercise. Suitable for liner, concrete and one-piece pools, the XANAS features an extra-flat design with a brushed stainless steel or ABS drop-shaped grill. It can be specified with rotary knobs in single or three-phase, with the latter having the option of pressure sensitive switches. • Tel: 01752 253525

4Velocity from Lighthouse: Designed and manufactured in the UK, this swim jet system produces one of the most powerful and pleasant resistance swimming experiences.With performance at the forefront of its design, the Velocity has been tested extensively by swimmers of all abilities. The flow of water at all speeds is smooth, wide and deep, providing users with the full body feeling of swimming in a river current which results in a more natural experience. At its heart, the Velocity’s motor has been designed to utilise the latest in inverter drive technology to give a fully variable and adjustable swimming experience.

www.hf-velocity.co.uk

Fluvo have

a range of countercurrent options including the brushed steel XANAS

“As their name would suggest, these flexible systems provide a constant current of water for pool users to swim against”

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SWIMEO S1 from Fairlocks Pool

Products: SWIMEO is a range of jet stream turbines for everybody for all swimming abilities. Unlike some jet stream pumps, which offer limited power and uncertain reliability, this jet stream turbine is fully submerged, quiet and reliable. The S1 model features a functional, modern design. The positioning of the inlets and the shape of the hydrodynamic appendages have been designed to offer the best performance and price combination available. Controlled either by a remote control or via a smartphone application, training programmes can also be created with the intensity of the stream varied over time.

• Tel: 01869 934333

• www.fairlocks.co.uk

COOL POOL PRODUCTS

THAT MAKE OWNERSHIP A BREEZE

Amazingly innovative products and advanced technology have combined to take a lot of the stress out of modern pool ownership – providing energy, labour and cost saving help to owners and leaving them just to enjoy their pools!

Not so long ago, owning a swimming pool was more likely to cause stress rather than relieve it, due to the maintenance required. For many, the thought of all the different components that needed looking after, the handling of chemicals and the balancing of the water was just too much to take in. Thankfully though, those days are long gone as new technologies, automated solutions and innovations have arrived to provide not only help and reassurance but more importantly labour, energy and therefore money saving solutions for today’s pool owners.

These include everything from automatic pool covers to highly efficient heat pumps plus many more in between.

Modern pools and products are now totally environmentally friendly and energy saving from top to bottom.

Of course, pool maintenance is still a necessary factor in pool ownership and can be something that concerns prospective pool owners. But, fear not, there really is no need to worry these days as there are so many great new products around that the work needed to keep a pool in tip top running order is minimised, meaning owners can spend their leisure time doing what they should be doing –enjoying their swimming pools.

Making energy and water savings

Over recent years, there’s been a lot of new developments inside the pool’s plant room. Thanks to new cutting edge technologies and a real focus on saving energy and therefore costs, there have been many new products launched.

One of the more recent innovations are pool pumps that feature variable speed and variable flow technology. These pumps provide vastly reduced energy consumption compared to a standard pool pump – in some cases saving as much as 90%! By reducing the speed of the motor and the velocity through the filter bed, not only is energy saved, but filtration is improved too.

The energy saving Viron eVo Pump range is one example of many of these pumps that are now on the market. These fully variable speed energy efficient pumps are available to

suit all pool sizes, filtration systems and budgets.

With 8 star energy rating, the Viron Pump reduces CO2 emissions, promises a quiet operation and long equipment life.

Advanced and green filter technology is also available. The MultiCyclone Plus from Waterco combines centrifugal and cartridge filtration into one streamlined housing and provides dual stage filtration with minimum maintenance.

This combination not only makes huge water savings but is also more energy efficient and simple to install.

Staying with the important subject of pool filtration, where sand has traditionally been used, there is now a debate over other methods. There is no doubt that sand is a very effective filter media but there are other media options available.

Pool water quality can be enhanced through using ‘ecoglass’, an eco-friendly finely ground recycled glass media as an alternative to silica sand in the filter with exceptional debris-capture performance. Used in exactly the same way as sand, because of its density the quantity of eco-glass required in standard filtration systems is between 15% – 20% less than sand and again requires fewer backwashes, thereby saving both water and money.

Another option for filter media is a relatively new product called OC-1 which harnesses the recent advances in pool pump technology and works on the principle of settlement as opposed to the entrapment of debris. This blue plastic filter media is lightweight, reduces maintenance and saves both energy and water consumption.

Heat pumps provide the perfect solutions

Heat pumps provide one of greatest benefits for swimming pool owners. They work like a fridge freezer – only in reverse – taking the heat out of the air and utilising it to heat the pool water. They are extremely efficient and because of that, economical too.

“... maintenance is still a necessary factor in pool ownership and can be something that concerns prospective pool owners. But, fear not, there really is no need to worry these days...”

“Ask your local pool dealer about what systems they recommend for automating the tasks of pool ownership...”

In fact, a typical heat pump will provide several times the energy it takes for them to run and with energy costs rising, they are now becoming a standard feature on many pools. The market has plenty of heat pumps to choose from and many of the leading companies in the UK pool industry have their own reliable and efficient brands. Do take advice and go for a reputable brand name and take care when looking on the web as there are a number of inferior products coming out of the Far East with specifications and performance claims that are not correct.

SPATA, the UK’s swimming pool trade association, can help with advice as to reputable brand names or visit our website for a complete list.

One such brand is Calorex. Their heat pump technology offers an extremely efficient method of pool water heating which fortunately does not rely upon the UK’s sunshine, or at times, lack of it! Every one unit of energy put into a Calorex heat pump will produce five units of energy at the right conditions, meaning that the cost of heating a pool with a heat pump is much lower than with other forms of heating. Quiet in operation, they are fully automatic and require minimal maintenance.

Automating water treatment

Establishing and maintaining the right chemical balance for pool and spa water has historically been another source of hassle for owners.

Fortunately, it’s a task that can be managed effectively and affordably by a number of innovative automated systems that are on the market. These systems manage both water testing and dosing –even adjusting the doses when necessary. With a number of quality brands available in the UK, ask your local pool dealer about what systems they recommend for automating the tasks of pool ownership as the options on offer are increasingly wide ranging and now even include Apps for smart devices which provide alerts, facilitate remote access and monitoring by both owners, and if required, pool professionals too.

Reducing the chemicals in your pool

Salt water chlorinators have been extremely popular in countries such as Australia for many years but were slow to gain popularity here in the UK. However, there has been a dramatic increase in sales of these products in recent years. This is thought to be partly due to the fact that they cut down on chemical usage and storage but also because they are extremely efficient and relatively inexpensive. Whatever the reason, they definitely provide the eco factor. Maintenance becomes hassle free with far fewer fluctuations in chlorine levels meaning more stable, balanced water. The water feels soft to the touch too.

UV systems are products which have made a huge impact in the campaign to produce clear water to swim in whilst at the same time reducing the amount of chemicals needed to keep the water in a pool in perfect condition.

For many years UV or ultraviolet was the sole prerogative of larger commercial pools where size was an issue. But the purification system is now available for smaller family pools to offer reassurance and confidence in the cleanliness of the water.

UV systems are very effective against chloramine reduction – scoring as high as 99.9% success and offer long term reduction in water and energy costs.

They are simple to install and swimmers often report better water quality when they use a UV pool.

Pool covers – heat efficient and safe

Pool covers come in a variety of materials and colour choices and are equally at home on an indoor or outdoor pool. You can even get biodegradable liquid covers which can be used on any size or shape of pool and they can either replace a traditional pool cover or be used in conjunction with it. They work by forming a transparent layer of particles over the surface of a swimming pool whenever it is calm. When sufficiently disturbed, these particles break apart and then reform when the water is calm again. They’re great for slowing down evaporation and therefore saving on costs.

If a physical cover is required though, they can be as simple

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For dealer locations around the UK, call or visit the individual company’s website. For more pool cover information including other manufacturers and distributors, pay a visit to the What Pool & Hot Tub website.

Aquatrac produce 100% automatic safety covers which are available in a variety of bespoke models for both indoor and outdoor pools. British made, these covers will provide a completely sealed pool, offering real safety for children and pets because the cover is locked shut and encapsulated in the tracking. On outdoor pools, when closed, they eliminate rainwater entering the pool, considerably reducing chemical, heating and maintenance costs. Made using only the best available components, expect great looks, 100% safety, ease of operation and energy reductions.

• Tel: 01268 571515

• www.aquatrac.co.uk

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Dripool are the UK’s only designers and manufacturers of automatic swimming pool safety covers. With over 35 years’ experience, Dripool will liaise throughout the pool construction process and manufacture a bespoke safety system to match your new pool installation seamlessly. With unique, invisible cover housings, a range of over 20 colours to choose from and a full three year manufacturer’s warranty, a Dripool cover guarantees both peace of mind and one of the most aesthetically pleasing finishes available today.

• Tel: 023 8066 3131

• www.dripool.co.uk

TAKE COMPLETE CONTROL

To make ownership a simpler task, a number of control systems have been introduced over recent years including the Zodiac iAquaLink, a system which takes the expense and complexity out of automation and which delivers a user friendly, intuitive and highly affordable solution to owners of both new and existing pools.

It integrates with a whole range of equipment including filtration pumps, booster pumps, pool lights, background lighting, heat pumps etc., as well as iAquaLink compatible water treatment systems. With its intelligent connections, the product can also be used to monitor and adjust pool water treatment from anywhere via an internet connection.

This gives owners complete control and automation of the pool system. As well as the integrated user interface, iAquaLink can be controlled via the web or using both Android and iOS apps. Plus, for further peace of mind, owners can also allow a pool professional to have access to the system for remote monitoring too!

as a standard bubble cover with a roller placed at one end to allow movement of the cover to and from the surface of the pool. Another option is the energy saving Sol+guard cover which is infused with weather and chemical resistant pigments to reduce algae growth, and chemical consumption.

In addition to the energy savings, many pool covers provide high levels of safety for swimming pools. Safety around pools is always a concern, especially if children or pets have access to it, so when choosing a cover, bear this in mind.

Automatic covers remove the hard work

Fully automatic covers move up the price scale somewhat but are practical and ideal for pools of any shape and size and are perfect for increased pool safety, heat retention and cost savings. There are a number of excellent slatted covers available such as the Covrex fully insulated auto cover that will actively encourage heat gain, the Roldeck Proflex or solar powered energy saving Easycover and the Ocea Eclipse automatic cover to name just a few. These clever cover ups open and close at the touch of a button or flick of a switch.

Single membrane, automatic safety covers are designed specifically to ensure the pool area is completely safe when not in use and these covers can even be walked on without

3CoverSeal Safety Covers from Lighthouse: 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. 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.

Tel: 01752 253525

www.lighthousepools.co.uk

any adverse effect. As with their slatted cousins, there are numerous choices available from a variety of manufacturers. The covers can be fitted with the tracks above or below the pool surround and as with the slatted covers, can be opened and closed quickly and efficiently.

Invisible Heatsavr pool cover saves on water and heating

Heatsavr, the original liquid pool cover available from Brenntag, can be used on any size or shape of pool and can replace a traditional pool cover or be used in conjunction with it. It is a liquid that forms a transparent layer over the surface of a swimming pool whenever it is calm. In non-technical terms Heatsavr is a mixture of carefully chosen ingredients which are lighter than water and which automatically float to the surface. The particles of the liquid are attracted to each other so that they always try to form a perfect, very thin layer over the whole pool surface. Heatsavr breaks apart whenever the water is sufficiently disturbed but reforms whenever the water becomes calm again. Consequently the product adjusts perfectly to changing

4CovLock safety covers from Fairlocks were introduced to the UK last year. This cover combines comfort and peace of mind, plus as it’s automated, handling it is child’s play. It allows quick opening and closing at the turn of a key, so the pool can be easily used and enjoyed. The cover is completely waterproof around the whole cover perimeter, so any pool will stay clean in summer and winter alike and it also prevents heat loss and stops evaporation. Available with four types of rails, it is suitable for all pool types and comes in a choice of seven colours.

Tel: 01869 934333

www.fairlocks.co.uk

“Did you know that 85-90% of heat in a pool will waft away if it’s left uncovered? There’s a simple way to stop this happening –cover it up!”

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The Starline Easy Roldeck has been introduced to sit alongside the company’s popular solar powered version and is available through Certikin. Ingeniously designed, it is highly versatile in application as it’s perfect for both outdoor and indoor installations. Indeed, it is ideal for small buildings, such as log cabins, as the end stands are slim and discreet. The Easy Cover is fully automatic – simply turn the key which is positioned on one of the end consoles to open and close the cover. For added safety, when the pool is not in use, the key can be removed from the side console.

Tel: 01993 777200

www.certikin.co.uk

AUTOMATICALLY ADDING SAFETY TO SWIMMING POOLS AND EVEN SPAS

Thanks to the hard work of Lifestyle Pools & Leisure (www.lifestyle-pools.co.uk), a bespoke Certikin tiled spa took centre stage in this beautiful garden in Creaton, Northamptonshire and adorning it is a Coverstar safety cover.

Given the brief to install a spa to provide fun for all of the family, but also to enhance and do justice to the garden, the Northamptonshire-based pool and spa firm chose a bespoke 3m x 2m domestic tiled skimmer spa, also from Certikin.

With a family of children, safety was naturally an issue. The Certikin Coverstar was chosen for its outstanding safety qualities and for the aesthetic appearance of its flat/ covered leading edge. The cover will also save on heat, water, electricity and chemicals too!

“... it is useful to know that there are now countless ways that your pool can be made ecologically friendly and cost effective...”

activity levels in the pool throughout the day.

Heatsavr promotes water efficiency as it slows evaporation from the surface of a swimming pool, resulting in less water top-up on the pool and subsequently less water heating. Its green credentials are further added to as it’s biodegradable and decomposes a few days after dosing into carbon dioxide, oxygen and water.

Solar power – a sensible option for pool owners

For years, solar pool heating was all too often discounted as not suitable for use in the UK, thanks to our somewhat limited days of bright sunshine. However, other countries, whose climates are every bit as challenging as our own, grasped the fact that solar energy was a sensible option in a variety of pool situations and its use in the UK is on the rise.

There are a number of solar heating options, such as panels that can be installed on the roof or south facing in an unobstructed garden area. Evacuated tube technologies can provide maintenance of the pool temperature throughout the season, once the pool has been conventionally warmed up in the spring. Another simple method is solar

6Covrexslatted pool covers have been hailed as one of the best on the market. Covrex slats are fully insulated so there is far less heat loss than with outdated hollow slats. With in-built all year round weather resistance, they can withstand extremes of temperature and still maintain their flexibility. Covrex profiles also have flexible seams and no gaps, so preventing dirt and algae from taking hold. Covrex covers can be cut on site ensuring a perfect fit every time and a new, super efficient solar slat version is now available which avoids algae build up making it easier to maintain than other slatted covers.

• Tel: 01869 934333

• www.fairlocks.co.uk

matting where the pool’s filtered water passes through and is warmed by the sun’s rays.

Solar Pods harness the sun’s energy, transfer it to the pool water using ‘heat trap’ glass house effect technology.

All of these solar products can be used in conjunction with conventional swimming pool equipment whilst offering pool owners ecologically sound alternatives.

Get advice from a professional

Whether you already have a swimming pool or are still making your mind up, it is useful to know that there are now countless ways that your pool can be made ecologically friendly and cost effective through the use of many hugely sustainable and modern pool products that are available in the UK today. All reputable manufacturers and retailers have websites that are full of product information so it may be beneficial to spend some time researching the available options, however our advice though is to leave the final say of products and specifications to a pool professional.

For expert advice on buying, building and maintaining a swimming pool consult your local swimming pool dealer – a regional directory of them is available on the What Pool & Hot Tub website.

7DEL Tixit from Golden Coast: This cover is designed with elegant, modern end stands to ensure that it easily integrates with surroundings, and is available in solar and electric variations. The electric models feature LED lights and built-in Bluetooth speakers, so owners can bring the party to their pool. DEL Tixit end-stands are available in matt grey, white or black, with a textured powder-coated aluminium finish and are 100% recyclable. The cover can be remotely operated by the wireless Wi-key control box, which is password protected to stop unauthorised access.

• Tel: 01271 378100

• www.goldenc.com

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Eclipse from Ocea: This slatted cover solution features an exclusive tri-extrusion slat profile which includes a special layer of UV protection and a new chamber design to help prevent algae formation, adding years to their lifespan. By exclusively manufacturing their own cover materials, Ocea are able to ensure that quality and elegance remain their objectives. When it comes to drive systems, two kinds of systems are available – Classic and Logic, with the latter fitted inside the cover roller itself, thus minimalising the installation space and having no moving parts outside of the pool.

• Tel: 0845 458 3223 • www.oceacovers.co.uk

Building Your Dream Swimming Pool

SPATA OFFERS 60+ YEARS OF EXPERT ADVICE

The pool industry trade association offers consumers an experienced and helping hand in finding expert help, advice and pool services

SWIMMING POOLS YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Our experts provide the answers to some of the day-to-day questions and concerns about swimming pool ownership and maintenance

Q. Can you give me some tips for opening up my pool in spring?

A. You might want to re-commission early in the year which means that you do not miss the first of the warm weather to go swimming: Easter usually heralds the start of the season for many pool owners. Remember: as the weather gets warmer, everyone will want their pools opened, and it is useful to liaise with your pool maintenance company to book a time for them to come to open your pool.

As a guide, the work comprises:

• Remove winter cover from the pool, clean it off, fold it carefully and store it away.

• Clean the coping stones to remove any mould or algae growth.

• If necessary, re-assemble all the filtration and heating equipment in the plant room.

• Start the equipment and thoroughly test it. Heaters need not be left running unless you

want to swim immediately.

• Set all time clocks for summer running.

• Check all valves for freedom of operation.

• De-leaf pool and vacuum or set the pool cleaner to action.

• Check and adjust the chemical levels.

• Check your stores of pool chemicals, to ensure you have an adequate supply. Most chemicals have a good shelf life of over two years but always check the dates. At the beginning of the season, many SPATA members offer a discount for buying a season’s supply in one go.

Q.

How can I save water when using my pool?

A. There are a number of ways to conserve water when you have a swimming pool. Follow this easy checklist to ensure you are doing your bit for water conservation:

• Keep floating covers on the water surface

whenever swimming has stopped to reduce evaporation (and cooling).

• Try and keep splashing to a minimum as this will increase evaporation, and some water will naturally be forced out of the pool.

• Reduce backwashing from weekly to fortnightly.

• The condensate produced from heat pumps can amount to 100 litres per day. Consider collecting and putting this back into the pool (but it must be suitably treated).

• Consider rain water harvesting by installing collection tanks to collect winter rain which can be used for watering the garden, and if properly treated, for topping up the pool.

• Re-cycle the backwash water by pumping it into a settlement tank and then sucking it back into the system; this will save up to 90 – 95% of the backwash. Treat the water with chlorine before sucking it back to the pool.

• Lower water temperatures to reduce evaporation and minimise the effect of algae etc.

Q. How can I keep my swimming pool warm throughout the season?

A. Getting into any swimming pool will always initially feel cold. That is because the water temperature is below the blood or body temperature of 37°C (98.6°F).

Heating an outdoor pool is quite expensive,

@Spata.Swimming.Pool.Association

GOVERNMENT RULES TO MAKE POOLS MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT

If you are having a new indoor pool built then the Government want it to be as energy efficient as possible. Guidance comes from Part L of the Building Regulations and stipulates a 25% reduction in carbon emissions from new buildings including pools. It also wants to see improved energy efficiency when carrying out the refurbishment of existing buildings.

A new building must meet a ‘target emission rate’. Any SPATA member builder will be fully up to date with the practical implications of these regulations and will be able to advise you on thermal insulation advice in and around the pool which will reduce the energy requirements of the pool.

Visit www.spata.co.uk for FREE factsheets with helpful guidance and advice on pool ownership.

and the cost increases dramatically as the difference between the required water temperature and the ambient air temperature increases at the beginning and end of the season. However, by putting a structure over the pool, the air temperature within that structure will increase. Structures can be as simple as an air inflated polythene bubble, a market garden poly tunnel, or a conservatory style structure both rigid and telescopic. These structures cannot be internally heated by law, as the construction does not conform to Building Regulations (Part L) but they can efficiently increase the swimming season by up to two or three months.

Q. Is there anything I can do to make my pool eco-friendly?

A. For eco-heating, there are two primary methods available – heat pumps and solar panels.

When it comes to making any decisions about buying, owning and maintaining a swimming pool, SPATA (the Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association) can stand side by side with you. The association has over 60 years of experience and can offer a whole range of advice and services for both its members and the general public. SPATA represents leading specialist companies in the pool industry, including consultants, engineers, builders, manufacturers, suppliers, architects and retailers.

SPATA works for the industry and its customers and has been influential and responsible for raising standards in the pool industry to their current high level and is currently working with colleagues in Europe to set common standards across over 30 countries.

SPATA CAN HELP IN A NUMBER OF WAYS:

1) It has an online record of members and can signpost you to pool contractors or suppliers in your area.

2) It provides customer information packs, which will help you find out more information and the questions you should ask any potential supplier.

3) It offers technical advice, for both members and customers.

4) It can help in dispute resolution, including a facility to safeguard contract money for both parties (Stakeholder account).

SPATA has grown and developed alongside the pool industry in the UK since it evolved into its present format, when the original Association of Swimming Pool Contractors (ASPC) merged with other allied trades in 1971.

A heat pump is simply a refrigerator which is trying to refrigerate the atmosphere and put the heat it collects into the pool water. Some heat pumps are designed to work in air temperatures below 0°C (32°F), and these versions should be selected when an indoor pool is heated throughout the year. Although water freezes at zero, there is still some heat available because the temperature at which there is no heat is minus 273°C. The heat gathering is achieved by a large cylindrical fan in the heat pump, which quietly moves the air through the heater. The air, which is relatively warm, passes over an evaporator containing a liquid, which boils at very low temperature. When it boils, like water turning to steam, it turns into a vapour. This vapour is pumped into a compressor, which increases its temperature by five to six times; that is to say for every unit of electricity you pay for to run the compressor, you get four to five free units to heat the pool water. This is known as the Coefficient of Performance (CoP) and the figure just quoted is for a UK made unit operating at 10°C. Be wary of cheap imports which try to boost their customer attraction by claiming better performance. These claims are usually based on higher ambient temperatures (not often reached in the UK) which naturally increase the CoP figure. By combining the two systems, your SPATA member will be able to supply a system which will maintain a steady

water temperature throughout the season using low energy input.

Solar thermal systems have been available for swimming pools for over 40 years, typically as flat panels placed to collect heat energy from the sun. There are now several different types of panels and systems, which vary in cost and efficiency. Solar panels come in two main technology types, they both collect energy from the sun but do it in different ways. Thermal ones extract heat energy and transfer it either directly or indirectly into the water. Photovoltaic or PV units work differently in that they convert light energy into an electric current which can then be stored or used immediately to perform many tasks including heating.

A structure such as an enclosure will help to keep an outdoor pool warm through the season

It’s known that one of the things which concerns, if not deters people from owning their own swimming pool, is how much work and worry it takes to keep the water clear and safe to swim in.

The good news is that the task is neither complicated nor onerous.

You certainly don’t need to know a lot about chemistry to keep a pool safe and clean for swimmers and by following a number of straightforward, routine steps, any pool owner can maintain their own swimming pool.

CLEAN, CLEAR AND SAFE WATER THAT’S

A good routine together with quality products will give you confidence about keeping the water in your swimming pool clean, clear and safe

There are regular checks you need to make on a daily and a weekly basis to highlight what condition the pool water is in and there’s some great products on the market to ensure you do this properly.

Alkalinity, pH and calcium hardness are all interlinked and affect each other so it’s a question of trial and error and understanding the state of the water on any given testing day.

Regular chemical treatments keep the water clear by ridding it of body wastes, algae and other contaminates.

And you’ll need to make sure that pool surfaces are kept clear and free from debris. A pool sweeper, vacuum or cleaner will take all the hard work out of cleaning pool floors and often walls too. They are safe and very effective. There’s a lot of help available if you get confused or concerned about water maintenance. Your pool installer will offer advice and many now include a full maintenance service contract and will come round and do it all for you.

SPATA (The Swimming Pool and Allied Trade

of the best… POOL CLEANERS

A pool sweeper will take all the hard work out of cleaning pool floors and are safe and very effective.

All these products or similar will be available from your local retailer. For retailer locations around the UK, visit the What Pool & Hot Tub website.

1Pool Baster Max From Golden Coast: For customers looking for lower cost alternatives, there is the award-winning Pool Blaster Max, the flagship product from Water Tech. Carefully considered to maximise efficiency and convenience, the model features a high-flow pump and industry-leading suction for deep cleaning. Offering up to ten hours of battery life, it pumps longer and stronger. Every detail of the Pool Blaster Max has been carefully thought out to maximise efficiency and convenience. It really is the perfect cleaning tool for smaller residential pools and is great for spas and hot tubs too.

• Tel: 01271 378100

• www.goldenc.com

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Cosmy The Bot 250 from Lighthouse: Available in eight colours, this lightweight and compact pool cleaner is intuitive and easy to use. Don’t be fooled by its size though as its ultra-modern design allows it to clean faster and more efficiently while consuming less energy, plus a dual filtration system traps even the tiniest particles and leaves the water crystal clear. An indicator light warns when the filter is full and needs to be emptied and at the touch of a button, the filter is freed and can be pulled out from above without getting hands dirty!

• Tel: 01752 253525

• www.lighthousepools.co.uk

Association) recommend chlorine as its preferred system for cleansing pools.

It is also likely to be recommended by most pool installers and retail pool outlets.

All you are doing when you add chlorine to a pool is sterilising the water.

If chlorine is used carefully and correctly then there won’t be a problem. Chlorine works because it kills bacteria and algae consistently and thoroughly.

There are checks to make sure you are adding chlorine correctly:

• Buy the chlorine product best-suited for your pool. There are many types of chlorine products. Liquid chlorine is used for large pools and is difficult to use for the average pool owner. There are tablets that contain chlorine and a chlorine stabiliser or conditioner. You can also purchase granular chlorine that dissolves quickly. It is best, however, to talk to a pool specialist about your pool, its size, and filter and pump system.

• Use the correct amount. After you purchase your chlorine, you will need to put the chlorine in the correct location in the pool carefully, either in the floaters, skimmers or in-line erosion feeders. Follow the manufacturer’s directions and wear gloves and goggles as a precautionary measure.

• You may need to add a chlorine stabiliser or conditioner to your pool. Discuss this with your pool specialist, but depending on the chlorine you use, you may only need to do this once per season or once every few weeks.

• Test your chlorine levels a couple of hours after adding more chlorine. Also test your pH levels since they are often affected after adding chlorine. Do this before you let anyone

CLEAR WATER CHECKLIST

• pH, total alkalinity and calcium hardness are all interlinked and affect each other, so it will take trial and error to get all three in the proper range at once. Before you add any chemical – especially an acid – to the water, remember you first need to turn on the pool’s filter

• Add chlorine three to four times a week for a pool in heavy use

• Occasionally – no more than once a week – you may need to superchlorinate (also called shock) the pool

• Keep the pool floor clean by regularly sweeping with a pool vac or cleaner

• Clean your pool filter thoroughly at least monthly. Clean a sand filter by backwashing: Reverse the flow of water through the filter for at least 2 to 3 minutes until the wastewater is clear

• For a cartridge filter, remove and wash it with a hose with a high-pressure nozzle. Allow it to dry before replacing.

swim. If necessary, add the correct chemicals to bring your levels back to normal. Follow all manufacturer directions and test again before allowing swimmers in the pool.

No or low chlorine alternatives

For pool owners who are worried about using chlorine there are a growing number of products available which are either chlorine-free or that help to reduce the amount of chlorine needed to sanitise the pool.

These products are ideal for people with sensitivities to chlorine and in some cases

FOLLOW A ROUTINE

DAILY

• Make sure you check the skimmer basket which must be cleared of any debris. If it isn’t then fresh, clear water can’t circulate around the pool.

• Debris such as leaves, twigs and insects must be cleared from the surface using a leaf net.

WEEKLY

• Check the pH level of the pool. This is important as you need to get the right balance of the water.

• The pH level is the measure of acidity or alkalinity in the water. The pH level needs to be slightly on the alkaline side which is a reading of about 7.2 to 7.6. It is at this level that chlorine is most effective. Moreover this level is similar to the pH of our skin. The readings can be controlled by adding either an acid or an alkali.

bromine or those preferring a gentle, odour free bathing environment.

Look out for non-halogen water treatment products that are based on Active Oxygen Systems. They will reduces smells and potential irritation created by halogen treatments, and will also produce softer, more gentle water that is kinder to the skin, eyes and hair.

Many of them are extremely easy to use with some available in twin sachet systems. They make treatment as simple as possible and can also include substances to clarify water and to minimise scale formation, thus ensuring water

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3Hayward AquaVac® 6 Series from SCP UK:

WaterLink® Spin from LaMotte: Just fill one unique Spin reagent disk with water and vital tests are done automatically. In just 60 seconds all the test results are transferred into the DataMate 10 software and analysed to display results and recommend precise treatment instructions. This ground-breaking analysis method is so simple anyone can do it! Each sealed reagent disk contains the precise amount of reagent needed to run a complete series of tests. No measuring water, no vials, no prep time!

This series of pool cleaners are reinventing the robotic market with first-of-their-kind capabilities. While other cleaners can lose suction, these feature patented SpinTech™ filterless technology with 18 hydrocyclones, maintaining the maximum constant and powerful suction power. In addition, the six variable-speed-driven rollers with HexaDrive™ adaptive traction expertly navigates, climbs and scrubs all pool surfaces, wall-to-wall cleaning on any pool surface. After cleaning, with the press of a simple quick release button, the unique TouchFree™ debris canister – designed for effortless cleanup – empties and rinses itself.

Tel: 01293 546126

Tel: 01926 498203

www.lamotte-europe.com

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eXact iDip handheld photometer from ITS Europe: The new eXact® iDip™ is the first product in the recreational water testing market to provide complete wireless connectivity between the iPhone®, iPad®, and iPod Touch® and a handheld photometer. Data is seamlessly transferred between the two devices when paired with the eXact® iDip™ using Bluetooth® Smart wireless technology. The new eXact® iDip™ handheld photometer uses the patented iDIP4 Reagent Delivery Method, a quick yet safe and easy procedure for analysis. Simply select your test then push a button.

Dolphin M600 from Certikin: The Maytronics Dolphin M600 makes cleaning pools up to 15m really easy; its dynamic dualdrive motor, combined with multidirectional water outlets and precise navigation control, provides maximum cleaning coverage to floor, walls and water-line. It features an efficient yearround filter, and a full filter indicator removes the guesswork. There’s even the option of a thicker cartridge and larger filter capacity. A dual active scrubber rotates 1.5 times faster whilst the cleaning cycle offers 1.5, 2 or 2.5 hour options. Weighing just 11.5kg it’s easy to handle too.

Tel: 01993 777200

Tel: 01722 717911

• Tel: 01926 498203 • www.lamotte-europe.com

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PM 600 / PM 620 from Lovibond

Tintometer: The ergonomic, portable, waterproof design enables users to select just one unit for accurate analysis of up to 34 parameters anytime and anyplace. Both units offer a large, back-lit graphic display to aid analysis by providing on screen method prompts, information regarding test measurement range and reagent type and automatic countdown timers for accurate reaction periods. The internal memory is capable of storing up to 1,000 results with date, time and sample ID.

5Cordless Pool Cleaner from Ocea UK: Unlike with many predecessors on the market, new for 2023, this cleaner is guaranteed to impress with its i-Mapping technology, long battery life and ability to clean all pool finishes – and it doesn’t stop at the walls and floor – it does the waterline too! Being cordfree, there’s never any tangled cables and the cleaner navigates easily and effectively without the need for intervention. With multiple cycle lengths plus a delay-timer option, owners have up to seven days of automatic cleaning without any fuss – it’s a cord- and hassle-free solution!

Tel: 01993 707910

Tel: 01980 664800

www.lovibond.com

• Tel: 01993 778855 • www.certikin.co.uk

remains crystal clear and scale free.

Biofilm can be another problem with pools and treating this layer of bacterial slime is another essential task. Thankfully there are a number of products available which break down biofilm, which when used, can lead to a huge reduction in chemical usage. These treatments are normally needed weekly and each dose cleans and balances the water, eliminating greasy water lines, slimy surfaces, foaming, calcium and scale build up.

Biofilm treatment products completely recondition the water and equipment, massively reducing the threat of contamination. As a result, there’s less ‘killing’ to do, which means the need for chemicals such as chlorine or bromine can be significantly reduced.

Chlorine-free additives that are hypo-allergenic and non-corrosive are also available and use traditional chemistry in innovative new ways. They can contain mixtures various elements and their combination eliminates the need for chlorine, algaecides and flocculants by bringing about a change in the enzyme processes of algae and bacteria, and breaking down their DNA structure and cell walls.

These charged particles then flock together so they can be trapped more effectively by the filter.

A stable residual is left in the water until it is used up by this process, and products that use this method of treating water have a lower toxicity than chemicals such as chlorine or bromine.

UV systems use ‘light’ to destroy bacteria

Many more swimming pools, both big and increasingly small, are now using an ultraviolet system to maintain clean water.

The UV systems offer the most

PREVENT OVER-STABILISED SWIMMING POOL WATER

A “classic” 200g chlorine tablet generates about 100g of cyanuric acid. Therefore a 50m2 pool treated with 200g of stabilised chlorine is saturated with cyanuric acid after just 5 months! The chlorine is then blocked, meaning the water is no longer disinfected, plus there are further consequences too –the water must be drained and replaced with fresh water because the stabiliser does not wash out. There is a solution to this issue though, and that is to treat swimming pool water with calcium hypochlorite (chlorine without cyanuric acid) and thus limit any changes to the water. hth® (formerly known Fi-Clor®) provides a wide range of water treatment products for use in swimming pools, including popular calcium hypochlorite products either for Shock and Regular disinfection. They include hth® SHOCK, hth® STICK and hth® ADVANCED options.

• Tel: 01924 792909

• www.hth-pool.com

of the best… WATER TESTING PRODUCTS

From digital systems to test strips, ease of use and accuracy are essentials for testing pool and hot tub water.

All these products or similar will be available from your local retailer. For retailer locations around the UK, visit the What Pool & Hot Tub website.

comprehensive cleaning available and they are often used in pools where the owners are concerned about using large amounts of chlorine to clean the water.

It is a system which is simple to install and to maintain. The popularity of the UV disinfection technique is due to the ease and efficiency in which it treats pool water.

A constant rate of water treatment gives a more stable water purity level that is simpler to manage, with reduced chemical input.

A correctly sized UV system can reduce the need for chlorine by up to 60%. A small quantity

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FlexiTester from Water-i.d.: As with testing with traditional strips, this simple to use product scoops water to be measured and a tablet is added to colour it. However, unlike with strips, which have the colour scale printed on them for comparison, the FlexiTester inserts a colour measuring dipstick with the colour scale printed continuously on it. This is moved up and down until the dipstick colour matches the water sample in a window. Due to this continuous colour scale, colour comparison is simple and straightforward. Simply change the dipstick in order to measure different water parameters.

• Tel: 01495 792790

•www.water-id.com

of chlorine (or bromine) is still required to give an in-pool residual treatment and to maintain clean pool surfaces.

UV works by having already filtered water pumped into a chamber. When it flows through the chamber microorganisms are exposed to and absorb powerful UV light. It is this light energy that destroys or inactivates these ‘bugs’ once the water leaves the UV chamber and is returned to the pool.

Salt chlorinators reduce irritations

The days of swimming in a pool with that all too familiar smell of chlorine could soon be a

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Scuba II from Lovibond: Domestic pool owners can now benefit from the entrusted Lovibond® technology used in public pools but at a fraction of the cost. The Scuba II is a small, compact, easy-to-use digital water tester for the five most important tests: free chlorine, total chlorine, pH, alkalinity and cyanuric acid. This buoyant, watertight instrument is ideal for quick home testing (results displayed in a large viewing area within one minute). Supplied with sufficient tablets for a normal season’s testing, it is the ideal solution for accurate, digital results.

• Tel: 01980 664800

• www.lovibond.com

CONTROLLING PHOSPHATES

Lo-Chlor Chemicals is recognised as one of the global leaders in phosphate control, ever since they launched the original phosphate remover Starver® in the mid-1990s. Advancements in phosphate control have changed the way that algae is treated in both domestic and commercial swimming pools.

Starver® X has been specifically designed to reduce high levels of phosphate efficiently (up to 6ppm in 50,000 litres of water) and maintain low levels of phosphate when dosed weekly to remove 1ppm.

Pool professionals and owners across Europe have adopted Lo-Chlor’s phosphate prevention programme, enabling them to save time and money, help make other chemicals last longer and reduce the need to dump water to waste. In essence, maximising the water quality of swimming pools and reducing their impact on the environment.

Lo-Chlor Chemicals is not just at the forefront of phosphate removal and prevention, they also supply a full range of speciality chemicals including algaecides, natural clarifiers, stain and scale treatment, and spa products.”

• Tel: 01639 823233

• www.lo-chlorchemicals.com

distant memory and salt chlorinators are one of the products that are helping realise this vision. Salt chlorinators are far from a new product but their use in the UK is not as widespread as in other countries.

The science behind the products is simple. When water that contains sodium chloride (salt) has a small electric current applied to it, the salt converts into chloride ions and then into chlorine gas. Once the chlorine gas dissolves back into the water, a pure form of chlorine is created and distributed throughout the pool.

The result is sanitised water that lessens

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skin and eye irritation and which is odour free.

End users will find that these systems are eco friendly thanks to the reduction of the chemical footprint of the swimming pool. They are also very easy to use too and relatively maintenance free. So with these benefits, it’s no wonder more and more pools are turning to salt chlorinators.

A new refreshing and natural water treatment system

Magnesium is one of the essential minerals required for our bodies to function properly.

It is found in seawater as well as the human body and all living tissues. In particular, we know that magnesium is beneficial for soothing pain, caring for the skin or easing muscular problems and the relaxing virtues of magnesium-enriched baths have been recognised for many years.

MagnaPool™ is an exclusive magnesium-based water treatment system for swimming pools that combines the natural clarifying properties of MagnaPool’s own unique mineral blend with an exceptionally fine filtration system using Crystal Clear glass media and an exclusive water treatment unit that purifies water automatically by hydroxination.

The system combines these three unique components for a healthy, balanced and environmentally friendly mineral-enriched swimming pool.

The self-contained system is easy to use and provides exceptionally clear water without adding any sanitising chemicals.

No phosphate equals no algae

Phosphates are organic building blocks that form when phosphoric acid reacts with various elements found in nature.

Phosphate comes from source water, leaves, fertilisers and bather waste such as sweat and urine. Other phosphate sources are detergents, some insecticides, soft drinks, toothpaste and even some pool chemicals.

By removing and/or controlling the phosphate levels in your pool the demand for your sanitiser and algaecide should reduce. This will save you money as you will end up using less of these products.

WaterLink® Spin from LaMotte: Just fill one unique Spin reagent disk with water and vital tests are done automatically. In just 60 seconds all the test results are transferred into the DataMate 10 software and analysed to display results and recommend precise treatment instructions. This ground-breaking analysis method is so simple anyone can do it! Each sealed reagent disk contains the precise amount of reagent needed to run a complete series of tests. No measuring water, no vials, no prep time!

eXact iDip handheld photometer from ITS Europe: The eXact® iDip™ was the first product in the recreational water testing market to provide complete wireless connectivity between the iPhone®, iPad®, and iPod Touch® and a handheld photometer. Data is seamlessly transferred between the two devices when paired with the eXact® iDip™ using Bluetooth® Smart wireless technology. The eXact® iDip™ handheld photometer uses the patented iDIP4 Reagent Delivery Method, a quick yet safe and easy procedure for analysis. Simply select your test then push a button.

Tel:

• Tel: 01722 717911 • www.itseurope.co.uk

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eXact iDip handheld photometer from ITS Europe: The new eXact® iDip™ is the first product in the recreational water testing market to provide complete wireless connectivity between the iPhone®, iPad®, and iPod Touch® and a handheld photometer. Data is seamlessly transferred between the two devices when paired with the eXact® iDip™ using Bluetooth® Smart wireless technology. The new eXact® iDip™ handheld photometer uses the patented iDIP4 Reagent Delivery Method, a quick yet safe and easy procedure for analysis. Simply select your test then push a button.

Tel: 0191 491 0808

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Lumiso Pooltest from Palintest: These handheld Lumiso pool photometers are lightweight and designed for complete portability. They’re built on the same reliable Palintest technology as previous models, but include new and improved features. Three models are available: Pooltest 3 is ideal for monitoring of outdoor pools, covering the three main tests of chlorine, pH and cyanuric acid. Pooltest 4 is perfect for indoor pools and tests for alkalinity, bromine, chlorine and pH. Lastly, the Lumiso Pooltest 6 provides simple and effective pool testing of all six tests required for a water balance calculation. • Tel: 01495 792790 •www.water-id.com

PM 600 / PM 620 from Lovibond

5PoolLab from Water-i.d.: Building on the success of its predecessor, the PoolLab® 2.0 photometer now has a large colour display with backlighting for easy operation, plus triple measuring chambers so that up to three water values can be measured in parallel. Providing professional water analysis, results are obtained after only two keystrokes and this photometer can measure 24 pool water values. With Wi-Fi connection now included, immediate synchronisation of data is now possible with sophisticated calculations, reports and recommendations available at the touch of a button.

Tintometer: The ergonomic, portable, waterproof design enables users to select just one unit for accurate analysis of up to 34 parameters anytime and anyplace. Both units offer a large, back-lit graphic display to aid analysis by providing on screen method prompts, information regarding test measurement range and reagent type and automatic countdown timers for accurate reaction periods. The internal memory is capable of storing up to 1,000 results with date, time and sample ID.

Tel: 01980 664800

www.lovibond.com

Abridéal has been designing and crafting fully customised telescopic and fixed enclosures for swimming pools, spas and patios since 1979. As specialists in toughened safety glass, Abridéal only use the highest quality materials and certified manufacturing processes. Your enclosure is unique and by choosing Abridéal, you are guaranteed expert knowledge.

Leisure

Extend the swimming season by increasing the temperature by 6 to 10°C.

Maintenance

Keep your pool clean and protected from contamination and other debris.

Transparency

Walls made of toughened safety glass provide a crystal-clear view of the surroundings.

EXCEPTIONAL

Made-to-measure

Fully customised structures that can be installed anywhere and fit all pools.

Safety

Enclosures that are compliant with AFNOR NF P90-309 standards and CE certified.

Reliability

Premium quality materials guarantee that our enclosures will last longer than any others.

Arch Enclosures provide a variety of high level and increasing popular low level enclosures in a wide range of styles and finishes

A YEAR-ROUND SWIMMING EXPERIENCE

An enclosure over a pool in the UK effectively brings an outdoor swimming environment indoors. This brings a number of benefits, often including the wonderful option of being able to be open-to-the-garden on warmer days. They also provide a safe shelter to the pool, which means you can use it all year round and not just as a summer treat

For outdoor swimming pool owners located around the UK, for many, it’s often a case of the good news and the bad news.

The good news is that on long, warm summer days they have a great, fun addition to their home bringing lots of excitement and pleasure for all the family.

The bad news is that they are not really making the most of their investment because the not so reliable British weather will seriously limit how much they are able to swim outdoors.

The solution is of course to cover the pool and an enclosure of some form – ideally a permanent one –does exactly that, and many owners around the UK are benefiting from their use.

There will be a pool enclosure to match your budget

Today’s swimming pool enclosures come in a plethora of shapes, sizes and finishes to suit all budgets. Low level, standing height, telescopic or fixed, the choices are almost infinite.

You can opt for something as simple as a DIY dome cover suitable for a garden pool but the most popular is a sectional telescopic canopy. With this type of structure several sections telescope out to cover the pool during cooler weather and retract to leave the area uncovered during warmer days. These canopies can be motorised or opened manually and slide on runners.

“A swimming pool enclosure will help to minimise heat loss from the pool and maintain pleasant swimming temperatures”

A swimming pool enclosure will help to minimise heat loss from the pool and maintain pleasant swimming temperatures.

In addition to helping to keep the water at an ideal and comfortable temperature, the air temperature remains warmer and free from cold draughts. The addition of an enclosure also means that airborne debris is also reduced. The result is cutting down on maintenance and chemical consumption so therefore saving a pool owner time, energy and ultimately money.

An enclosure will also reduce the risk of unauthorised entry to the swimming pool by either children, pets and pretty much anything else, so there’s peace of mind for all too.

WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS?

• A simple dome or bubble cover which is weighted down and is ideal for a small garden pool

• A retractable telescopic pool cover which will cover the pool during bad weather but can be folded back when the weather is fine

• A permanent cover for the outdoor pool, often architect designed, turns the whole area into an indoor pool, usually with a glass roof.

Sleek low profile models such as this Aquacomet Horizontal from Certikin are becoming increasingly popular

To take the manual strain out of opening and closing the structure, many enclosures can be fitted with a drive system such as

The materials used now are lightweight and strong –polycarbonates not acrylic or fibreglass; aluminium not galvanised iron. The height of the canopy can vary but the effect has often been likened to a greenhouse so that even though it’s winter outside, it could feel as if you are swimming in the summertime.

Using natural sunlight to warm the pool is also environmentally friendly and anything which means you don’t have to rely on a British summer has to be a good idea.

This type of canopy offers maximum versatility and

it can even be positioned in a half open and half closed state and most models will have manually adjustable ventilation openings.

The case for covering a pool is a strong one. The benefits to pool owners are clear – much greater use of the pool, significant maintenance savings and enhanced safety.

A pool enclosure of whatever size, shape and price is a natural cost effective solution for pool owners and the choice on the UK market is wide and varied.

Aesthetically pleasing and with the ability to blend

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For dealer locations around the UK, call or visit the individual company’s website. For more enclosures information including other manufacturers and distributors, pay a visit to the What Pool & Hot Tub website.

Champion from Alukov: This swimming pool enclosure is ideal for every garden. It cleverly combines comfort, aesthetics and userfriendly features. Thanks to its discreet look, it blends into any surroundings and provides much needed protection of a pool against debris, pollen, dust, leaves etc – it simply becomes a part of your pool care. The telescopic enclosure has a strong but lightweight structure for easy sliding. When you fancy a swim you simply slide the cover off the pool without any hassle or need to remove the often very cumbersome roller cover. The Champion is a perfect little gem in any garden space.

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Sydney from Albixon: Developed in cooperation with automotive designers, this telescopic enclosure is from a range of lowlevel models. This relatively new ultra-low profile option features elegant curves and unique look. Glazing consists of UV stabilised 4mm compact carbonate and this model offers a left or right guide rail location option. The Sydney is sure to make a statement in any environment and is available in four sizes as standard. With custom options available on many of Albixon’s enclosures range, including for size and colours (over 40) on the supporting structures, there’s an enclosure solution for every possible situation. • Tel: 0118 909 9844 • www.alukov.co.uk

• Tel: +420 777 795743 • www.albixon.com

ENCLOS URES

this Endless Summer motor drive from Certikin

Some enclosures can also be attached to existing walls as with this Alukov model

into any surroundings, an enclosure is the perfect pool addition to thwart inclement weather and bring an outdoor pool indoors.

It’s worth noting that more permanent enclosures are also available from a variety of sources but these structures may require planning permission and are usually referred to as ‘pool houses’. This type of structure has a considerably greater cost than its telescopic counterpart and it has the effect of converting an outdoor pool into an indoor one.

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Aquacomet AQBox from Certikin: As its name suggests, the AQBox arrives in a wooden package with assembly manual and can be easily erected by any self-build enthusiast using basic tools. The attractive enclosure comes in a low and standard height offering three different lengths for each and two different glazes. Featuring a high specification, which includes a patented child safe locking system, the low level enclosure comes with removable front and back walls – both in one piece – with side mounted sliding doors while the standard enclosures feature a front wall, including a French door in the middle and a removable end wall.

The glazing materials on enclosures varies, however Abridéal exclusively utilise tempered safety glass

POOL ENCLOSURES SOLVE OUTDOOR POOL PROBLEMS

If you own an outdoor swimming pool in the UK, the five keys to getting the most from your pool are all answered by installing some form of a swimming pool enclosure.

1. Making sure the pool can be used all year round – whatever the weather.

2. Keeping heating costs as low as possible.

3. Keeping the pool clean and free of debris.

4. Reducing chemical usage in the pool.

5. When closed and locked, providing the ultimate in safety.

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Abridéal Enclosures from Fairlocks Pool Products: Abridéal have manufactured premium quality, luxury enclosures since 1979 and each is custom manufactured to a client’s exact needs. By exclusively utilising tempered safety glass, they are able to provide unmatched levels of clarity and transparency that won’t fade or craze over time. A CE certified manufacturing processes ensures the highest standards of craftsmanship, quality and finish are consistently met, and by choosing an Abridéal enclosure, pool owners can confidently place their trust in specialists with over 30 years’ experience – from conception through to installation and beyond.

5Omega from Alukov: The design of this enclosure gives a spacious walking and leisure area immediately around any pool, allowing tables and chairs to be placed within. Unlike with an indoor pool, on sunny days owners can open it up completely and feel the fresh surroundings. Alukov and its vast line of swimming pool enclosures are custom designed, paying attention to every last detail during the design and subsequent installation. Technical visits are carried out regularly throughout the country by staff from UK offices who are ready to discuss projects and provide a variety of alternatives depending on requirements and budgets.

Spacious enough to walk around, Alukov’s unique Olympic telescopic model can feature a half dome either end of the enclosure

An open and shut case

As you hopefully now appreciate, a swimming pool enclosure can be a godsend in a disappointing summer and many manufacturers have made the ownership of one even more attractive through the introduction of drive systems to open and close the enclosure.

The Certikin Endless Summer motor drive system is one example of these and it can be retrofitted and easily modified to work on any manufacturer’s enclosure and will take the manual strain out of ownership.

Quick and easy to install, the ingenious design

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The Endless Summer from Certikin: The Endless Summer range of high quality, custom-made enclosures includes fixed models (with opening side windows) and various telescopic options. Using its standard profile the Endless Summer Enclosure is available in widths up to 10 metres and is fixed along its length, which allows the windows and wall sections to slide up into the roof, leaving the sides open. The enclosures are suitable for many applications and not just swimming pools and spas – indeed they can offer an outside ‘living’ room for any use. Certikin offers a free site survey and installation is optional to give full peace of mind.

Tel: 01993

consists of two drive motors powered by 12V batteries that are trickle charged by solar panels on the roof of the enclosure. The system is operated by a hand-held remote which moves the building forward, backwards, left and right. The twist control is a PCB that allows the drive motors to be run individually or both together in opposite directions so that the building can be turned and steered into its lock down positions.

Highly adaptable, it is suitable for low, intermediate and high standing enclosures and is compatible with every brand of telescopic pool enclosure on the market.

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Galaxy Fixed Arch Enclosure from Swimex: Swimex are one of the UK’s leading suppliers and their Galaxy swimming pool enclosures are designed to bear heavy loads from wind and snow whilst elegantly spanning from small to wide pools of any length. The fully lift up sides enable a wonderful open-air feel in summer and allow controlled aeration at all times. Superb manufacturing quality along with the attractive design and wide choice of colours means that the Galaxy enclosure blends in with the surrounding environment and is often chosen for schools and camping parks.

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Aluminium Arch Domestic Enclosure from Arch Enclosures: This French manufactured large enclosure perfectly fits a sizeable outdoor pool area and provides great architectural finish. The roman arch design is made from structural aluminium beams, stainless steel fixtures and fittings and polycarbonate glazing. The ground tracks are rounded, with no sharp edges to damage feet. Multi wall polycarbonate insulates the roof area reducing heat loss on colder days and providing free heat through solar gain even on dull days. It also happens to be one of the safest enclosures available too.

Alukov’s Orient model means even round aboveground pools can benefit from an enclosure

The perfect add on for year round benefits

A pool enclosure is the perfect answer to the changeable British climate as it allows an outdoor pool to be converted to an enclosed pool in a matter of minutes. Not only that, the year round benefits extend to easier pool maintenance and cost savings.

From advanced low lying designs to sleek telescopic sliding mechanisms, Certikin’s range of pool enclosures deliver unrivalled performance while also blending seamlessly into any home or garden.

SOLUTION THE SWIM SPA

When it comes to swimming and relaxing, a swim spa offers the best of both worlds. It provides a strenuous swim workout against a powerful current and has jets to soothe away aches and pains. An increasingly popular option for many, they take up less space than many swimming pools, are easy to heat and give all year round swimming

Don’t you wish there was something which had all the best features of a swimming pool and a spa combined, but at a really reasonable cost?

Well, your wish has come true because although swim spas have been around for a number of years, their popularity is increasing with record numbers of sales being recorded. The good news if you’re looking to buy one is that thanks to the surge in demand, manufacturers have been quick to ensure more models, options and choices are available than ever before.

of the best… SWIM SPAS

For dealer locations around the UK, call or visit the individual company’s website. For more swim spa information including other manufacturers and distributors, pay a visit to the What Pool & Hot Tub website.

1Activity from Passion Spas: This compact swim spa combines three massage seats with the Adjustable River Swim System, allowing for a vigorous swim while keeping your head comfortably above the water level. The force and flow of the stream is completely adjustable and can be used in combination with the unique Current-Lift technology, enabling you to also remain prone in the water even while swimming at a slower pace. The three massage seats are designed for different body lengths and incorporate specially designed options including an exclusive Aqua Rolling Massage™, one of Passion Spas’ most popular and effective massage features. At £16,490, it represents great value for money.

• Tel: 0116 466 5666

• www.passionspas.com

So what exactly is a swim spa? Well, as its name suggests, it’s a spa that also allows you to swim too, thanks to a continuous current of water being pumped in the spa. You never ‘hit the wall’ or have to turn around to continue to swim laps like in a regular or lap pool. Swim spas provide a full swimming exercise work out, using the least amount of space in your home or garden. They’re basically swimming treadmills.

The depth is adjustable and the flow of the water jets can also be fine tuned to deliver just the right amount of force and direction.

2Dynamic from Passion Spas: This awardwinning £20,900 Dual Zone swim spa from Passion Spas is an excellent blending of two worlds. On one side you have all the comfort and therapy benefits of the hot tub, on the other side the swim function is equipped with the River Swim System™. This unique system consists of 5 large swim jets which create a steady flow of water over the entire width of the swim spa. The water stream is effectively positioned below the water surface, enabling users to swim with their head comfortably above the water. With the separate swim and spa sections, temperatures can be varied in the two units.

• Tel: 0116 466 5666

• www.passionspas.com

SWIM SPA V TRADITIONAL SWIMMING POOL

• Swim spas are often cheaper and take up much less space than a traditional swimming pool which is why they have grown in popularity

• The running costs and maintenance are cheaper and more straightforward

• They are often called ‘exercise spas’ as they combine the physical exercise of swimming with the opportunity to relax in a hot tub environment

• Some models provide attachments allowing users to walk, jog or run against the current for a cardiovascular workout

• You can take a swim spa with you if you move home

They can also provide a whole range of aqua aerobics activities, from swimming to weight resistance training, to water jogging, making them the ideal training tool and environment. To make exercise even easier, some manufacturers offer a selection of underwater exercise equipment, such as resistance bands, which make it possible to target muscle groups that standard swim strokes don’t. A number of them are even selling a new breed of swim spa – the exercise spa – that’s more compact and often more affordable than the

3Marathon Dual Temp from Catalina Spas: Priced at £24,995, this new for 2023 model is a 5.8m swim spa boasting numerous features including LED underwater lights, perimeter jets and pop-up fountains, a Bluetooth™ music system with a subwoofer, and of course, a swim tether that allows users to enjoy a challenging workout or add variety to exercise routines. The spa end has seating for 4 including one lounger, plus dual Balboa™ controls means owners control of both ends of the spa at the same time. With its powerful jets, built-in music system, lights, and a lounger, get ready for a party!

• Tel: 01980 611555

• www.catalinaspas.co.uk

standard, larger models.

Swim spas have also been found to be effective for those recuperating from various sports injuries too. So the potential health benefits of a swim spa are especially appealing, particularly to consumers who are generally unable to exercise, due either to age or injury.

Swim spas also act as smaller swimming pools in the sense that you can play around in them, or with some of the split-models, you actually have a hot tub spa in one end of it and a swimming area in the other.

Amazonas from Wellis: Available at £24,995 and designed specifically for swimming enthusiasts, this extraordinary swim spa product combines the benefits of an ideal workout tool with a relaxing space for quality family time. With the innovative W-Flow system, owners can customise individual workout programs to fit their preferences perfectly. Its impressive dimensions of nearly 2.5m x 5.5m, along with its updated design, give it a prestigious appearance. The semicabinet design eliminates the need for expensive and time-consuming installation work, allowing effortless and instant enjoyment. Experience the ultimate blend of fitness and relaxation with the Wellis Amazonas swim spa.

• Tel: +36 29 564 380

• www.wellis.eu

5St Lawrence from Canadian Spa Co.:

Costing £25,000, the 16ft St. Lawrence swim spa is a swimmer’s delight. It features a unique Swim Lane System, created using 3 resistance and 2 profile-aligning jets to ensure that users receive the appropriate pressure and support needed for exercise. One of the main problems that experienced swimmers encounter is the challenge of staying in their lane and the completely customisable system resolves that issue, keeping swimmers centred in the swim lane. With 6 seats and a full-length lounger to maximise the spa massage benefits, The St. Lawrence provides not only muscle development but also muscle repair.

• Tel: 01293 824094

• www.canadianspacompany.com

So while ‘swim’ is one feature of swim spas, ‘spa’ is clearly another and many models come with standard hot tub features, including optional accessories such as mood lighting, sound systems and aromatherapy inserts.

Swim spas come in a few different categories and sizes. Almost any type of swim spa can facilitate an environment that will allow a person to exercise continuously, relax by just soaking in the warm water to soothe the mind and body, or spend time with family/ friends in the comfort of your home.

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Zelus from Platinum Spas: Priced at £26,999, the Zelus offers the perfect combination of a swim and spa experience, making it one of the most cost-effective swim spas in the market. It features two distinct water sections, allowing owners to enjoy a hot and relaxing spa end, while simultaneously adjusting the swim end to a lower temperature ideal for swimming against the vigorous counter-currents. This innovative design ensures that owners can indulge in both therapeutic relaxation and invigorating swimming within the same unit, providing the best of both worlds in terms of functionality and value.

• Tel: 01246 559071 • www.platinum-spas.com

WHAT WILL A SWIM SPA COST ME?

The range of swim spas on the market has expanded considerably over the last few years, so it really depends on what you are choosing your swim spa for, the size of the unit itself and the specification. The simple answer is anything between £15,000 and towards £55,000 with the lower figure securing an entry-level swim or party spa which will provide powerful jets and a safe, secure swimming environment.

After that it depends on how elaborate and

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Oasis Spas AS-50 from Sunbeach Spas: Costing £27,999, this 4.8m long model provides Sunbeach’s Smart Spa+ experience, with its R18 full foam and foil insulation solution, Clearcore ozone mixing system and Wi-Fi connectivity. It also offers the ease-of-use of Gecko’s touch screen and instream.2 control system, along with 4 transducer speakers and subwoofer for a great music experience. The real star of the show is the 10-speed inverter pump system which allows for genuine speed control over the water flow. Combined with patented turbo jets for smooth flowing water, this provides a sublime swim experience for everyone from beginners to professional athletes.

• Tel: 01623 706185 • www.sunbeachspas.co.uk

REMEMBER TO BUDGET FOR INSTALLATION

• When you come to do your budgeting on the cost of a swim spa don’t forget to allow for installation costs. Some companies will offer an all inclusive service which includes installing the spa so it is ready to use but the chances are the costs will be on top of the price of the swim spa itself. Installation isn’t complicated and it’s certainly not like installing a full scale swimming pool.

• You need to think about the area around your swim spa but a site survey is normally included in the price.

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Helios from Platinum Spas: This £29,999 swim spa is a remarkable combination of luxury and functionality. Designed to provide the best of both worlds, it offers an exceptional swim and spa experience. It stands out with its two distinct sections, each tailored to specific needs. The spa end features a hot water environment, perfect for relaxation and hydrotherapy, while the swim end maintains a lower temperature suitable for vigorous swimming against powerful countercurrents. With its superior craftsmanship and cutting-edge design, it ensures a truly immersive and rejuvenating aquatic experience. It’s a great choice for individuals seeking the ultimate blend of relaxation and exercise.

• Tel: 01246 559071 • www.platinum-spas.com

Whether automatic or manual, ensure you invest in a heavy, insulated cover to save energy and for the colder months

‘high tech’ you want your swim spa to be – and that depends on things like lighting, the number of swim jets, the seating area at the end of the pool and so on. By adding the extras the more sophisticated models could take the price up to the £25,000 mark and beyond.

Beyond that, you are looking at the top end of the market with very impressive specifications and numerous extras. Many will feature a separate or sectioned off hot tub area and dual temperature controls allowing the water temperature to be different between the swimming and non-

9Oasis Spas WSAL-550 from Sunbeach Spas: Whether it’s a full swim workout or relaxing with family and friends, the £32,999 WSAL-550 has owners covered. It features a spacious swim area combined with spa area for 4 people which includes a lounger. New for 2023, the WSAL-550 provides the Smart Spa+ experience and powering any workout is the 10-speed inverter pump system which allows for genuine speed control over the water flow. Combined with patented turbo jets for smooth flowing water, this provides a sublime swim experience for everyone. It also provides a more efficient system, saving up to 80% energy usage. • Tel: 01623 706185 • www.sunbeachspas.co.uk

swimming areas. These top of the range models could cost you £30,000 or more.

HOW YOU CAN ADD TO YOUR SWIM SPA EXPERIENCE

Like any other luxury products, today’s swim spas come with lots of options to make them more exclusive and reflect the owners’ tastes. These range from the strengths of the jets to swim against through to music centres and popup DVD players.

• When you choose a swim spa you will have

10TidalFit DLT Spa from Artesian Spas:

Priced from £38,995, this model combines a separate exercise pool with a choice of hydrotherapy spa, seamlessly integrated with a beautiful L-Shaped Dual Temp swim spa. Each area offers separate temperature, jet and lighting controls plus all the premium quality features found in other Artesian products. The DTL features a unique Quad Swim Jet System to provide a powerful and adjustable swim current. It is also available with a variety of optional features including an Aquatic Training System featuring rowing bars, stretch cords, swim tether… everything for the perfect exercise pool. A semi in-ground version is also available.

lots of options in terms of size, jets, the positioning of the jets and water current

• A dedicated swimming against the current area with front and side option jets. The jets should be adjustable depending on how rigorous a session you want

• Some swim spas come with a separate sectioned off area – others have removable barriers. The idea is you should be able to prepare water with two different temperatures – one 25 to 27°C to swim in –the other up to 35°C to relax in

• Many now have dedicated hydro massage jets in the relaxing area and here it’s a question of what suits your tastes

• An insulated heavy duty lid

• An access stepped area to enter the swim spa

• Extras include music centres, pop-up DVD players and so on.

WILL I NEED PLANNING PERMISSION?

No, the installation of a swim spa won’t need planning permission. Much the same as a hot tub, you can install a swim spa anywhere in your garden as long as it is flat, has a solid base and there is a supply of both power and of course, water.

WHERE CAN I BUY ONE?

There’s a fantastic choice of swim spas on the market and the offering increases as each new season comes round. Why not visit the company websites of those included within this feature – many will list where their products are available across the UK. You can also take a look at the What Pool & Hot Tub website where there’s a section for both manufacturers and suppliers along with a regional listings section which displays retailers that sell swim spas.

Another option is to contact BISHTA on 01264 356211 or visit www.bishta.co.uk

HELPING YOU CHOOSE THE

right hot tub

FROM THE RIGHT COMPANY

BISHTA is the hot tub trade association for companies in Britain and Ireland. It promotes high standards of safety and quality within the industry and can also help consumers find the right product at the right price

Buying a hot tub is a major decision

As hot tubs and swim spas have become more popular, this industry has attracted a very small number of unscrupulous suppliers. They have become a concern within the authentic hot tub market due to poor advice and training, substandard and potentially dangerous products, with no (or inadequate) after sales service or support. As a result of this, the major manufacturers, importing distributors and retailers formed a trade association called the British & Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association (BISHTA) to set the minimum quality standards and formal after treatment training customers should expect to receive.

BISHTA members are trained to provide information about the water treatment regime needed to maintain your hot tub safely and also abide by a Code of Ethics to give you peace of mind.

How can BISHTA help?

BISHTA was established to ensure that companies displaying and selling hot tubs are properly trained in water hygiene management. BISHTA is recognised by the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) and Health Protection Agencies including Public Health England.

What are the benefits of dealing with a BISHTA member?

• Clear warranties in case of any issues.

• A thorough after sales service.

• Purchasing quality products that conform to European Standards.

• Public Liability Insurance cover.

• Training for members in water treatment and the handling and transport of chemicals to comply with dangerous goods legislation and registration with their own Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser.

• Knowledgeable staff who have access to an expert technical advice service, if needed.

What advice can you give about buying a hot tub on the internet?

If you’re looking to buy online, check that the company is genuine by asking for customer

references that you can follow up in your area. It is useful to see the quality of the hot tubs to ensure you are going to get a good piece of equipment for your home. Ask them if they are a BISHTA member otherwise, you may run a risk of buying a product that is not to a suitable standard.

Make sure you know what you want from the hot tub or swim spa. This will determine which model and what fittings you need: is it for fun, fitness, medical reasons or relaxation?

Where will you want to put your hot tub? You would benefit from having a site survey to see if there is suitable access to the site and to determine the final location.

Make sure you know what features you will be getting in terms of the number of seats, number and style of jets, entertainment systems available and the manufacturer of the control box (powerpack). If you see a hot tub you like, ask to ‘wet test it’ and try it out for yourself. Some hot tubs can be plugged into a socket with a 3 pin plug and may only require a 13 amp fuse, depending on the heater and pump size, so check this very carefully with the retailer/supplier, as others must be hard wired.

Ask to see the warranty on offer before you buy, as this may vary between products and in some instances it may not actually be offered by the same company, which may cause difficulties if there is a problem with the equipment.

Check what arrangements there are for call outs and servicing if anything goes wrong with your purchase, including timescales and costs.

Clarify in writing when the product is to be delivered, as genuine companies will inform you if there is going to be a delay. Sometimes genuine companies will need to wait for a full container to be shipped to the UK, while other companies may try and mislead you, so get the details in writing from them.

If you are unsure whether an internet company is going to be reliable, find out where the company is based and if possible visit them.

You will often be required to pay a small deposit for a hot tub that is a general stock item, but unless it has to be custom made, be very careful about being asked to pay for the item in full when you buy it and use a payment method (such as a credit card), where you will have some protection, if there is a problem with the sale.

Ask if the company that you are buying from are BISHTA members and always check by visiting www.bishta.co.uk or call the BISHTA office on 01264 356211.

20 OUR TOP HOT TUBS

If you are about to make a decision to buy a hot tub, then the choice that awaits you is quite daunting.

The variety of hot tubs on the market in the UK is both wide and varied – and could be confusing.

The prices quoted on the hot tubs have been checked with the manufacturers and are as accurate as possible. However, it is important that you check with your dealer as there will be some differences in the market.

You will see that many of the hot tubs we have selected come with a variety of options. Some are standard and will be included in the price –others will involve added costs and so this will naturally affect the price you are finally quoted.

So where do you start and what are the options?

For a first-time buyer we believe it is about three things: price, value and reliability. Hot tubs now are produced almost bespoke to the

buyer, with therapeutic jets positioned to suit your specific needs. But it’s also about water cleansing, how environmentally friendly the tub is and whether you want television, DVD or music systems as part of the package.

It is also about the warranty which will be given with the tub and the help and service you will be offered.

We also recommend where possible that you ‘wet test’ a hot tub before buying it.

In our selection we’ve included just some of the technical information you will need to know about the tub – including in every case what the manufacturer is offering as a warranty.

It isn’t comprehensive and of course there are some great hot tubs which haven’t made it on to our list but it does, we hope, offer a starting point as you try to find the tub you are looking for.

Here’s our personal selection of the best value for money hot tubs on the market across a wide range of price points.

It’s a selection we hope means that there’s a tub to suit all tastes and pockets and is designed

Here’s our personal selection of the best value for money hot tubs on the market across a wide range of price points. It’s a selection we hope means that there’s a tub to suit all tastes and pockets and is designed to illustrate what you can expect to find in the market.

to illustrate what you can expect to find in the market.

01 The CX-4 from Catalina Spas £4,495

The CX-4 is brand new for 2023 with high quality features that include LED headrests, LED perimeter lighting and LED multicoloured cabinet lighting on all four sides. With dual loungers this spa offers unbeatable relaxation complemented with 23 adjustable stainless steel hydrotherapy jets. For a reliable and speedy performance the CX-4 is fitted with Balboa controls, you’re able to adjust the jets, pumps and temperature with the simple touch of a button meaning you can sit back and listen to your favourite music or podcasts through the Bluetooth music system. The CX-4 is also fitted with both ozone and a chlorine feeder, removing the hassle of adding sanitiser to the spa on a regular basis.

01 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style 4 People, inc 2 Loungers

Dimension: 1900 x 1700 x 760mm

Water Capacity: 800 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 23 Heater: 2kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED Filters: 50 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 5 Shell & 2 Equipment

Website: www.catalinaspas.co.uk

02 The Thermals Spas Hydro from Superior Wellnes £4,999

We have taken great care to check with the manufacturers and distributors that the prices quoted on these pages for hot tubs are as accurate as possible. It is important however that you check with the respective dealers as there may be some price differences in the market. What we quote here is the manufacturers’ recommended retail price. It is worth mentioning that when you buy a hot tub there will be a number of options or extras offered to you which will either affect the price or give you some room for negotiation.

This award-winning Hydro hot tub from the Thermals Spas range is a five person model and the perfect choice for family entertainment. With one lounger making up the five seats, this model provides the maximum space to relax and entertain without feeling over crowded. Built in LED lights change slowly through seven different colours one by one, creating a warming atmosphere. Other features include 25 jets with an array of jet formations, Ozone system, LX pumps, 2kW heater, R10 insulation, LED waterline lights, Thermal LED cabinet and pillow logo plus Gecko control system.

02 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 5 person, inc 1 Lounger

Dimension: 2000 x 2000 x 850mm

Water Capacity: 1,250 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 25

Heater: 2kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED Filters: 50 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 7 Shell & 2 Parts Website: www.thermalsspa.com

£5,000 - £6,495

03 The Relax from Passion Spas

£5,490

The Relax has already won many awards and that is understandable given the fantastic varied massage, strong construction and warranty conditions. It is equipped with two loungers, which have been created by the collaboration of the Passion Spas design team and physiotherapists. Both loungers differ in layout, offering comfort to people of different heights, with a unique lumbar support, which immediately relaxes your back when lying down. Furthermore, the spa is equipped with Easyclean Shield™, a silent filter pump and Ozone sanitation, making it a cinch for you to always have beautifully clear water, that’s ready to enjoy!

03 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 5 People, inc 2 Loungers

Dimension: 2040 x 2040 x 850mm

Water Capacity: 1,300 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 54

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED Filters: 50 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 10 Structure, 5 Shell, 2 Parts & Labour Website: www.passionspas.com

04 The Monarch Pro from Hot Tub Suppliers

£5,495

The Monarch Pro is designed to meet all the criteria required of a modernday hot tub. The enhanced insulation both on its base and surround is complemented by the 12cm deep thermal cover for complete 360-degree energy saving hot tub efficiency. The beautifully crafted design comes with 5 seats and 1 lounger, 2 water features, ice buckets plus floor and surround LED lights. The mood is completed by balboa Bluetooth, Clear Water Ozone system plus the Monarch Pro is heat pump ready to take advantage of further energy saving options. Even delivery issues are considered with the lower base enabling easier access to gardens without any compromise on comfort.

04 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 6 People, inc 1 Lounger Dimension: 2000 x 2000 x 820mm

Water Capacity: 1,000 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 61

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED

Filters: Twin filtration

Warranty (Years): 2 Parts & Labour Website: www.hottubsuppliers.com

05 The Iris from Garden Spas by Artesian £5,995

After a long day, you can engulf your aching muscles in the fantastic hydrotherapy of the Iris hot tub. The strategically placed jets in this spa massage and loosen tense muscles, from the neck and back to the legs and feet. There is even the option to customise your massage with our in-spa diverter. The built-in LED light offers ambience and visibility during nighttime. For dependability, the Iris comes standard with a deluxe safety cover, resilient Grandwood cabinetry and double layered insulation. Garden Spas also come with a series of upgrade options, including the option to add full foam insulation, multicolour LED lighting and Ozone water treatment system.

05 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 4 People

Dimension: 1980 x 1530 x 760m

Water Capacity: 871 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 27 Heater: 2kW

Lighting: Single Light

Filters: 35 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 1 Parts & Labour Website: www.gardenspas.co.uk

06 The Palma from Platinum Spas £6,499

The award-winning Palma is from the new Platinum Spas Deluxe Range and includes Superior Aristech Acrylic making it an ideal hot tub for family or group fun. Now incoporating the award-winning energy efficient insulation Platinum Premium Shield providing a considerable difference in the heat retained in the hot tub as well as a reduction in energy costs. Stand out features include the integrated Bluetooth sound system making it perfect for hosting small gatherings and an excellent choice for relaxation.

06 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 6 person, inc 1 Lounger

Dimension: 2000 x 2000 x 900mm

Water Capacity: 1,190 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 83

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: LED Waterline Filters: 2 x 50 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 5 Shell & 2 Parts Website: www.platinum-spas.com

07 The SB366L-B Pro Light from Sunbeach Spas £6,799

The SB366 is just one of Sunbeach Spas’ classic designs which has received their new Pro-Light treatment for 2023. On top of the multi award-winning R10 insulation solution, it now includes as standard the Gecko in.K1001 touchscreen control system and topside speakers, along with visual touches such as RGB corner panels and a chrome waterfall. The SB366 comes with all the quality features you’ve come to expect from Sunbeach Spas, including 50 stainless steel jets for relaxation and hydrotherapy, American acrylic shell, multicoloured lighting above and below the water line and a Darlly-branded twin filter system for water clarity.

07 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 5 People, inc 1 Lounger

Dimension: 2100 x 2100 x 880mm

Water Capacity: 1,300 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 50

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED

Filters: 2 x 35 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 5 Frame, 2-3 Shell & Components

Website: www.sunbeachspas.co.uk

09 The CX-6 from Catalina Spas £7,499

Website: www.hottubsuppliers.com 07

Catalina’s all new CX-6 is an improved and an enlarged version of the brand’s extremely popular CS-6. This spa incorporates a variation of seating with different jet layouts, plus a contoured lounger and headrests. Thirty eight jets give a great massage and the bather experience is further complemented with a Bluetooth™ sound system, LED perimeter lighting, two pop-up water features and cabinet lighting. It’s a great value for money model that’s sure to get lots of attention this season.

08 The Perseus Pro from Hot Tub Suppliers £7,495

The Perseus Pro is a luxury hot tub design and showpiece model found within the Hot Tub Suppliers range. The 6-seater model boasts the ultimate in Balboa control systems with spa touch screen, Wi-FI and Bluetooth enabling the most interactive and efficient spa experience. All the demands and requirements of a modern-day hot tub are considered with 360 degrees of energy saving insulation plus the stylish features of floor and surround LED lights, ice buckets and water features. The Perseus Pro is heat pump ready for further efficiency alongside its 12cm deep thermal spa cover.

08 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 6 People, inc 2 Loungers

Dimension: 2300 x 2300 x 970mm

Water Capacity: 1,230 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 60

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED

Filters: Twin filtration

Warranty (Years): 2 Parts & Labour

THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN BUYING YOUR HOT TUB

• Test the tub first – A showroom soak is the best way to ensure the spa fits your needs, and most retailers are happy to oblige. At the very least, you need to climb into an unfilled spa to ensure it’s roomy and comfortable.

• Safety first – As with pools, a hot tub cover stops heat from escaping (thus reducing your energy bills), discourages impurities from entering the water and prevents children and small animals from falling in. Look for important cover features like highdensity foam for structural soundness, an R-value of 12 or higher and a longer apron (or side flaps) to ensure heat conservation.

09 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 6 People, inc 1 Lounger

Dimension: 2250 x 2250 x 950mm

Water Capacity: 1,600 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 38

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED

Filters: 50 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 5 Shell & 2 Equipment

Website: www.catalinaspas.co.uk

- £8,495

10 The Resort 300 from Softub £7,990

Unrivalled energy efficiency, light, durable materials and simple installation make the Resort 300 from Softub an affordable and easy to look after hot tub model. Bespoke accessories and luxurious surrounds along with gazebos complete the stylish design and create the perfect oasis of relaxation for any home, garden or roof terrace. Any Softub is the quintessence of design, style and superior quality – and the Resort 300 is no exception and as a result, is one of the brand’s best sellers!

10 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 6 People

Dimension: 2000 x 800mm

Water Capacity: 1,200 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 7

Heater: N/A – recycled motor heat

Lighting: LED

Filters: 50 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 2 Parts & Labour

Website: www.softub.co.uk

11

The Oasis Spas RX-562 Heatwave from Sunbeach Spa £7,999

For 2023, Sunbeach Spas have made their best spas even better! The Heatwave range of spas include top flight features – Gecko in.K1001 touchscreen controls, in.stream premium transducer speakers and subwoofer for a sublime in-water music experience, plus a 400W hot air massage system for an ultra-relaxing and therapeutic experience. All this comes on top of their SmartSpa Plus experience: award-winning R18 energy efficiency thanks to its full-foam insulation, combined with dual foil and high-density foam cabinet lining; Wi-Fi connectivity allowing the user to control their spa from anywhere, including adjusting the heating settings to ensure they’re always in control of their energy usage; and Clearcore’s advanced ozonator system, promoting cleaner water with fewer chemicals. Along with Oasis Spa’s legendary build quality and warranty, this truly is a modern classic.

11 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 6 People, inc 1 Lounger

Dimension: 2180 x 2180 x 920mm

Water Capacity: 1,480 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 46

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED Filters: 2 x 35 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 7 Frame, 3-5 Shell & 2-4 Components Website: www.sunbeachspas.co.uk

12 The Delight from Passion Spas £8,490 Passion Spas’ Delight has two full-body loungers allowing two users to lie down at the same time. There are three seats, which feature all the massage technology that the Signature Collection is known and loved for. The Delight is very economical, especially due to its Hybrid Heating™. This unique system consists of a ring with teeth that is integrated at the powerful massage pump. The teeth ‘cut’ the water, which creates friction –a process which provides additional and free heat. All in all, the Delight Spa is an energy efficient spa, which owners are sure to enjoy for a long time.

12 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 5 People, inc 2 Loungers

Dimension: 2130 x 2130 x 910mm

Water Capacity: 1,420 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 80

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED

Filters: 50 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 10 Structure, 5 Shell, 2 Parts & Labour Website: www.passionspas.com

series

Full colour touchscreen

Free from physical buttons, keys and overlays, the Gecko in.K1001 touchscreen keypad is simple to learn and use. It features an intuitive and engaging onelevel-menu interface. Controlling your spa functions has never been so easy

400w Hot Air Jet System

Each Heatwave tub now has an added array of air massage jets that release a steady stream of warm air, creating bubbles that help to relax and soothe tired muscles, providing a unique, relaxing and therapeutic experience.

13 The Emperor Pro from Hot Tub Suppliers £8,495

The Emperor Pro boasts 5 seats and 2 loungers within its 2560mm x 2260mm frame. Each seat is specifically designed to deliver comfort and hydrotherapy. The contoured design of the seats and loungers are both deep and relaxing for ultimate comfort, whilst hydrotherapy is delivered courtesy of 83 finely tuned jets fuelled by 3 x 3hp massage pumps reliably orchestrated by Balboa’s Spa Touch control system with Wi-Fi capability. This smart technology enables total control of the hot tub via any smart device. With additional twin filtration system, Bluetooth, water diverters, ice buckets, LED fountains and waterfall, advanced drainage plus the pure water Ozone system, it is no surprise the Emperor won ‘The Best Health Benefits’ category at the British Pool & Hot Tubs Awards 2023.

13 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 7 People, inc 2 Loungers

Dimension: 2560 x 2260 x 1000mm

Water Capacity: 1,750 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 83

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED Filters: Twin filtration

Warranty (Years): 2 Parts & Labour

Website: www.hottubsuppliers.com

15 The Solstice Leisure Celeste from Catalina Spas £9,999

The Celeste is the flagship model from the Solstice Leisure hot tub range and is set apart by its contemporary, angular exterior design, whilst still maintaining a modern yet ergonomic interior design. The Celeste features a Bluetooth music system, LED interior and exterior lighting, LED Jets, LED Valves, water features and Balboa control systems. It features seating for six including a relaxing lounger seat with comprehensive leg, calf and foot jets for the ultimate massage.

14 The Atlas Life Deluxe from Wellis £9,699

The five seats and one recliner of the Wellis Atlas Life Premium hot tub provide an unforgettable bathing experience for six people at the same time. The unique massage experience is enhanced by the perfectly arranged four infinity jets, whilst the WOW system – electronic water with the diverting pulsar function – provides perfect consumption and a massage experience that many users will never have experienced before.

14 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 6 people, inc 1 Lounger

Dimension: 2150 x 2150 x 865mm

Water Capacity: 1,382 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets 43

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED

Filters: 70 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 3

Website: www.wellis.eu

THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN BUYING YOUR HOT TUB

• Think long-term – like a car, a hot tub is a big investment. Consider financing your spa – paying a small bill each month, as opposed to a lump sum up front – to make the acquisition more affordable.

• Think location – keep in mind the additional expenses of hot tub installation. Delivery can add to cost, especially if extra equipment is needed to move the hot tub into place. If you plan to put your spa on a deck, check building codes to ensure that your joists and posts are strong enough. A typical four-person hot tub weighs 4,000 lbs filled with water. If you don’t have a deck, you may need to pour concrete or purchase a spa pad – a prefabricated, modular and weatherproof product with a sturdy, flat surface to hold and support the tub. Upgrades to the existing electric power at your home may also be required. Have the site inspected by a spa sales representative to find out what home improvements are needed.

15 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 6 People, inc 1 Lounger

Dimension: 2300 x 2300 x 900mm

Water Capacity: 1,900 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 80

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED

Filters: 100 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 5 Shell & 2 Equipment Website: www.catalinaspas.co.uk

£10,000

16 The Oasis Spas HE-760 from Sunbeach Spas

£11,495

Quiet, roomy and comfortable, the world-renowned Oasis Spas are available exclusively in the UK through Sunbeach Spas. Featuring one of the thickest shells on the market and strong frames, Oasis Spas are built to last! Available in two colours, the HE-760 features in the SmartSpa+ range and comes complete with Sunbeach’s award-winning, R18 full foam insulation and multi-layered cabinet insulation for high thermal efficiency. It’s fitted with up-to-date Gecko electronics and controls, and the Clearcore ozone module has a boost chamber for ultra clear water with fewer chemicals. The HE range also boasts a Gecko Instream 2 music package with a 2 transducer speaker system and subwoofer, along with illuminated valve controls and exterior corner lighting.

16 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 6 People, inc 1 Lounger

Dimension: 2300 x 2300 x 930mm

Water Capacity: 1,490 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 50

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED

Filters: 2 x 35 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 7 Frame, 3-5 Shell & 2-4 Components

Website: www.sunbeachspas.co.uk

JET PROPULSION! A GUIDE TO HOW HOT TUB JETS DIFFER

• Therapy Jets – Powerful directional streams that are easily controllable to provide the right amount of massage.

• Swirl Jets – Nozzle design to swirl water in a circular pattern, giving a wide, overall massage.

• Laser Jets – A pinpoint stream to soothe individual joints. These are the smallest jets, but extremely powerful. When clustered together and positioned properly, they provide an intense massage.

• Whirlpool Jets – Large, round jets particularly good for those with special therapy needs. Each has the power of up to six Therapy Jets or 12 Laser Jets.

• Pulsating Jets – Ideal for gently kneading tired muscles. They are the same size as the Laser Jet, but actually pulsate the water.

• Shoulder Jets – Installed above the waterline, these jets are angled specifically to direct a powerful stream of water toward the neck and shoulders.

• Pillow Jets – Combine an unbeatable neck massage with a pillow. They include a control valve to adjust the intensity.

17 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 5 People, inc 1 Lounger, 1 Levitation Bed

Dimension: 2300 x 2300 x 910cm

Water Capacity: 1,550 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 104

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED

Filters: 50 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 10 Structure, 5 Shell, 2 Parts & Labour

Website: www.passionspas.com

17 The Euphoria Mighty Wave from Passion Spas £11,900 Passion Spas’ Design Team has hit the bullseye with the Euphoria Mighty Wave spa. The Levitation Bed™ will actually let users float on the warm water massage. The all-active jets are placed all over the body, creating a feeling of being massaged whilst floating on warm clouds. This unique feature –designed and built by Passion Spas – broadens the horizon in terms of the variety of massages that are possible in a spa. This, together with the other massage options, makes the Euphoria Mighty Wave an excellent choice for those who choose their spa for real hydrotherapy and luxury.

18 The AquaSolus Derwent from Superior Wellness £12,999

18

The award-winning Derwent can accommodate up to 5 people with its 4 seats and 1 lounger. Formed with Superior Aristech Acrylic finish and the Ozone water clarifying system –with AquaSolus, you can have confidence in the components used. The Derwent hot tub has an integrated W-Fi and Gecko In.stream2 bluetooth music system making it an excellent choice for relaxing or entertaining friends. Superior Wellness are proud to partner with industry leading suppliers to bring you the highest quality hot tubs with the best hydrotherapy experience.

18 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 5 Person, inc 1 Lounger

Water Capacity: 1,400 Litres

Dimension: 2300 x 2300 x 950mm

Hydrotherapy Jets: 66

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED + Backlit Jets

Filters: 2 x 50 sq ft

Warranty (Years): Lifetime Shell Structure, 7 Shell Surface & 3 Parts

Website: www.superiorwellness.co.uk

HOT TUBS

WHY ‘WET TESTING’ A HOT TUB IS A MUST

• You want a hot tub that’s just right and the only way to find it is to wet test it. Take a test soak to judge the space. Does the tub you’re considering have enough room for your family? Not too big, not too small? Also, think of your garden space. You’ll want a hot tub that fits your landscape.

• Seating depth matters. Note the torso depth when you’re sitting up comfortably. On cold nights, you’ll want the water depth to be over your shoulders.

£13,000 - £21,495 19

• Don’t neglect your feet. Is there enough room in the foot well and are there jets to massage your tired feet?

• Select the best seats in the house. Multi-level seating should accommodate both adults and children. Make sure there are seats that fit everyone in your family. It’s important to test the lounge seat. Some people love them; others don’t. Make sure any lounge seats fit you and other family members.

• It’s all about the jets. Pay attention to jet types and jet placement. Most hot tub users prefer to adjust jet pressure for the hydrotherapy they’re seeking. Most people prefer a variety of jets that hit their sore spots – like calf, wrist, shoulder and back jets. Check out the jet placement to see that they are focused on the spots where you need relief.

• Listen for the silence. A truly quiet hot tub has no audible noise when the water is circulating, heating and filtering. You don’t want any noise when it’s running not only for your own peace of mind, but that of your neighbours.

• Take a deep breath and smell the water! Crystal clean water without effort or hassle should be your number one concern.

• Feel the water. Note how your skin feels after soaking as manufacturers use different systems for water treatment.

20 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 6 People, inc 1 Lounger

Dimension: 2320 x 2320 x 1080mm

Water Capacity: 1,533 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 67

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicolour LED

Filters: 150 sq ft inc Micron filtration

Warranty (Years): 3 Parts & Labour

Website: www.artesianspas.co.uk

19 The Everest Life Premium from Wellis £15,449

New design, new solutions, and a new insulation system are the best features of the brand-new hot tubs being presented by Wellis. With 61 patents and many innovations, this Everest Life hot tub, which is unique in energy efficiency in the world, has finally become available to anyone. Thanks to its highly favourable energy consumption, the daily consumption has been greatly reduced to 2.9 kW/h in the case of this five-person flagship model.

19 TECHNICAL DATA

Capacity & Style: 5 people, inc 2 Loungers

Dimension: 2360 x 2360 x 950mm

Water Capacity: 1,100 Litres

Hydrotherapy Jets: 68

Heater: 3kW

Lighting: Multicoloured LED

Filters: 105 sq ft

Warranty (Years): 3

Website: www.wellis.eu

CONSIDER FITTING A HEAT PUMP TO SAVE ENERGY

• Heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular as a way to heat the water in hot tubs and spas, especially with energy costs the way they are!

• Whilst they will require an initial investment, they will slash ongoing running costs, especially for heavy users.

• Fitting a correctly sized heat pump allows rapid heating with water going from cold to hot in only a few hours without using the hot tub’s own heater.

• With plenty of choice now available, speak to your hot tub retailer about them and the benefits they offer.

20 The Dove Canyon (Elite Class) from Artesian £21,495

Escape the pressures of your daily routine with this top-of-the-line therapeutic getaway. Equipped with seven powerful pumps and six seats, its spacious layout and elegant design will whisk you away into a vacationlike state of mind. The Artesian Elite class outperforms other spas by utilising patented DirectFlow™ technology with Variable Flow Control™. This fantastic invention maximises power with an individual pump per seat to provide the user with their own direct flow and control. Not only does this smart gadget act akin to a dimmer switch adjusting the massage pressure from low to high, but it saves up to 50% of the energy used by the pump when set to low. With the Helix™ hydrotherapy jets, an opulent design and a backlit touchscreen control with wireless technology, the Artesian Elite class just keeps getting better.

NEW!THE LIFE SPA RANGE BY WELLIS

Step into the future of eco-friendly relaxation with Wellis!

Introducing the Life Spa Range - an innovative collection of hot tubs and pools, designed for the environmentally conscious relaxation connoisseur.

Everest:

Our premium hot tub, Everest, offers unparalleled luxury.

Size: 2 360 × 2 360 × 950 mm

Total number of jets: 68 pcs

Energy consumption: 2.9 kWh/ day*

Atlas:

The perfect blend of style and function, Atlas is a top-notch hot tub designed to deliver the utmost comfort.

Size: 2 150 × 2 150 × 865 mm

Total number of jets: 43 pcs

Energy consumption: 2.8 kWh/ day*

Budapest:

The Budapest spa, bringing world-class design to your backyard.

Size: 2 000 × 2 000 × 890 mm

Total number of jets: 42 pcs

Energy consumption: 2.8 kWh/ day*

*With energy-efficient solutions and environmentally conscious production technologies, we’ve managed to cut energy consumption to just 2.9kW per day for a five-person model!

*Our Smart-In Step System sets a new standard in green spa technology. This built-in heat pump system can adjust temperatures from -5°C up to +40°C, offering potential energy savings of 70-75%.

The Wellis OZMIX Water Sanitizing System, WOW Electronic Water Diverter System, Crystal Clean System, New Scandinavian Insulation, and Unique Jet Design are groundbreaking innovations that enhance your outdoor living experience. These features ensure a clean, energy-efficient, and highly customizable experience that is designed to provide maximum comfort and enjoyment.

For more information, contact us at sales@wellis.hu or visit our website at www.wellis.com

Hot Tub Brands

The specialist companies listed here offer hot tubs – some made in the UK, others imported from the US, Europe, the Far East or Australasia. Some sell direct, others sell through their own dealer networks across the UK. To find the nearest dealer to you, search the What Pool & Hot Tub website where you can also discover additional brands too.

ARTESIAN SPAS

Artesian House, Quest Park, Wheatley Hall Road, Doncaster, South Yorkshire DN2 4LT

T: 01302 730295

W: www.artesianspas.co.uk

Artesian Spas is the manufacturer of five unique lines of hot tubs and swim spas. Experience the ultimate in cutting edge, American built spas with the highest quality backed by great service for which Artesian is world-renowned. Why not visit your nearest Artesian Spas retailer and see for yourself?

AWARD LEISURE

Watling Street, Dordon, Warwickshire CV9 2PZ

T: 0808 169 6555

W: www.awardleisure.com

CATALINA SPAS

Downs Farm, Gomeldon, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 6JZ

T: 01980 611555

W: www.catalinaspas.co.uk

With 7 showrooms across the UK and counting, Award Leisure showcase a wide range of hot tubs, as well as swim spas, cabins, gazebos and saunas. For over 35 years they have focused on providing luxury products, and maintaining a high level of customer service for years to come.

Formed in 1997, Catalina Spas Ltd is the longest established hot tub and swim spa supplier in the UK. The company is proud to be a family business and in addition to the Catalina brand, they also offer spa models from Solstice Leisure.

PLATINUM SPAS

Superior House, Broombank Park, Chesterfield, Derbyshire S41 9RT

T: 01246 559071

W: www.platinum-spas.com

One of Europe’s leading innovative hot tub and swim spa brands, creating world class premium quality products focused on improving health and wellbeing. Choose from the wide range of hot tubs to find the style and features that suit your needs.

HOT TUB SUPPLIERS

11 Midland Street,

The Cultural Quarter, Leicester, Leicestershire LE1 1TG

T: 0116 251 3378

W: www.hottubsuppliers.com

CANADIAN SPA COMPANY

Canada House, Salbrook Road, Salfords, Redhill, Surrey RH1 5GL

T: 01293 824094

W: www.canadianspacompany.com

The Canadian Spa Company is a global brand, they manufacture their hot tubs and other products in North America, Asia and Europe and distribute around the world.

Producing both hot tubs and swim spas, the Canadian Spa Company has been recognised as an industry leader since their first spa was sold around 30 years ago.

ROTOSPA

35 Boldmere Road, Boldmere, Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, West Midlands B73 5UY T: 0121 354 3428

W: www.rotospa.c`o.uk

SUPERIOR WELLNESS

Multiple gold award winning retailers of luxury hot tubs with additional service and support. Their commitment to design and performance culminates in a high specification range for domestic and commercial use.

PASSION SPAS UK

Unit 19 Meridian North, Meridian Business Park, Leicester LE19 1WR

T: 0116 466 5666

W: www.passionspas.com

Passion Spas offers four exciting spa collections, a range of swim spas, as well as a full line up of traditional barrel saunas. The Signature series incorporates the innovative Aquarolling Massage, a unique massage system developed by the company. Passion Spas are designed to provide outstanding therapeutic therapy as well as the most comfortable underwater seating available.

RotoSpa are renowned for the design and manufacture of hard wearing hot tubs. As one of the market leaders in portable spa technology, offering the only truly portable, smooth, high performance, low maintenance spas of this kind at affordable prices.

Superior House, Broombank Park, Chesterfield, Derbyshire S41 9RT

T: 01246 559071

W: www.superiorwellness.co.uk

Europe’s largest hot tub distributor creating premium high-quality products focused on improving your health and wellbeing. An innovative distributor, importing from several countries to offer the widest choice of hot tubs and swim spas.

SUNBEACH SPAS

Unit 3a Hallam Way, Old Mill Lane, Mansfield Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire NG19 9BG

T: 01623 706185

W: www.sunbeachspas.co.uk

Sunbeach Spas are a multi-award winning importer and designer of hot tubs, swim spas and accessories, with a wide product portfolio incorporating iNHEAT air-source heat pumps, Woodpecker saunas and wood-fired spas, plus gazebos and outdoor cooking.

SOFTUB UK

2a Harwood Road, Northminster Business Park, York, North Yorkshire YO26 6QU

T: 01904 643212

W: www.softub.co.uk

Coming up to almost four decades of innovation and excellence, Softub is proud to look after happy customers across the whole of the UK and Ireland. To find out more about their energy efficient and portable spas please contact their friendly team or visit their website to find a dealer near you.

WELLIS

2371 Dabas, Manteleki Road, Hrsz 0417, Hungary

T: +36 29 564 380

W: www.wellis.eu

The increasing demand for healthy lifestyles has meant a surge in the demand for quality products. Thanks to continuous development and growth, Wellis has become one of the largest hot tub manufacturers for the European market and has retailers located throughout the UK.

SAFELY AND EASILY MANAGING HOT TUB

Water Quality

The high water temperatures in a hot tub provide an ideal environment for bacteria to develop, so managing your water quality is essential. The good news is, making sure the water is always safe to use isn’t difficult

As with a swimming pool, it is important to ensure the water in your hot tub is clear, clean and hygienically safe, as potentially harmful micro-organisms could cause problems if left unchecked.

Increasingly, many hot tubs now feature water treatment systems and technologies that are used by their larger swimming pool counterparts, but these will vary depending on the hot tub model and manufacturer.

BISHTA (The British and Irish Hot Tub Association) also recommends the continuous use of a residual sanitiser. A residual sanitiser is a substance which kills potentially harmful microorganisms rapidly and leaves a residual in the water which can be measured. This is irrespective of any other back-up equipment or substance (i.e. UV system, ozone generator or mineral cartridge).

The good news is that keeping the water in your hot tub in tip top condition is neither expensive nor time consuming and there is a wide choice of water treatment products on the

5 of the best… HOT TUB PRODUCTS

Including cleaners, chemicals and more, keeping your hot tub in tip-top condition should be straightforward and an easy task. All these products or similar will be available from your local retailer. For retailer locations around the UK, visit the What Pool & Hot Tub website.

market which are safe, reliable and easy to use.

Add to these the correct advice from a reputable dealer plus a regular maintenance routine to help you keep your hot tub in good working order and once you get into the swing of it, you’ll minimise the amount of time and money you spend on it and maximise the time you spend enjoying it!

Choose quality for your hot tub filter

One of the key areas to keeping the water in a hot tub clean is the quality of the filtration system, the effectiveness of modern filter cartridges and the maintenance of the filter itself.

The filter cartridge in a hot tub works tirelessly to keep crystal clear water free from contaminates such as body fats, debris and sediments. A dirty and clogged filter will result in an impaired performance, deteriorating water conditions and reduced flow-rate through the jets.

So it is essential that quality filter cartridges are used, in line with manufacturer

recommendations, and that they are regularly cleaned too.

One of the key components in any cartridge filter is the filtration media itself. The quality of the fabric is vitally important to the filtration process, so it’s an area where corners and costs shouldn’t be cut as cheaper cartridge filters using inferior materials have been shown to remove less contaminants and can also have lower life expectancy.

Reemay filtration media is one of the best in the world and a number of well-known filter cartridge manufacturers use the material.

Microban® is another name to look out for as it means built-in antimicrobial protection which helps to protect the filter and makes it easier to clean. There are various products available to assist with cleaning filters, these range from handheld and mechanical cleaners that remove dirt, debris and other accumulated materials from between the pleats, to chemicals and fast acting fizz cleaning tablets which have been specially formulated to penetrate deep into the filter cartridge.

1 AquaFinesse Hot Tub: Spa owners can enjoy the luxury of bathing in pure, clean and crystal clear water without the need of time consuming, multiple daily measurements and high doses of harsh chemicals. The product completely reconditions the water and equipment, massively reducing the threat of contamination. In one simple weekly treatment AquaFinesse’s environmentally friendly formula gets to the root of the bacterial problem by gently removing slime, calcium and debris from the pipe work.

• Tel: 01348 841116

• www.aquafinesse.co.uk

2 Spa eXact® EZ Photometer Kit from ITS Europe: Included within a range of digital photometers from ITS, the Spa eXact® EZ has the ability to test seven important spa water parameters and provides accurate results in just seconds. All tests with the Spa eXact® EZ use patented eXact® Strips, a quick and easy reagent system for analysis. Simply dip an eXact® Strip Micro into the water sample for 20 seconds using a simple back and forth motion, discard the strip, and read the results instantaneously – spa water testing has never been easier!

• Tel: 01722 717911

• www.itseurope.co.uk

EFFORTLESS ACTION AND MAXIMUM VERSATILITY FOR HOT TUB OWNERS

Installing a cover to your hot tub will keep the warmth in and any debris out, therefore making ownership significantly easier and cheaper too.

Keeping your hot tub or spa clean shouldn’t need to come at a cost of usability though and covers can sometimes be awkward to use and often a lifter is required.

The Ultralift range of hot tub cover lifters offers a solution which

takes the effort out of hot tub ownership.

Suitable for use with all major brands, these lifters feature a unique pivot design for quick and easy opening, that saves owners time, while minimising heat loss, too.

The innovative range features Visionlift, which offers spa users a full, unobstructed 360° view, thanks to its powerful hydraulics and clever design which allows the

cover to fully drop alongside

when open.

• Tel: 01271 378100

• www.goldenc.com

HOT TUB CARE – IN JUST A FEW MINUTES EVERY WEEK

Looking after your hot tub shouldn’t take you more than a few minutes a week and there’s a simple regime to follow:

DAILY

• When you use the tub, test the chlorine levels to see if they fall between 3-5mg/l (ppm) for organic chlorine or 2-4mg/l (ppm) for inorganic chlorine.

• If using bromine, test for levels between 2 to 4mg/l (ppm).

• Check the pH levels to see if they fall between 7.0 and 7.6. Do not check pH for at least 20 minutes after the hot tub was last used. If water is foaming use a hot tub anti foam product.

WEEKLY

• Shock your hot tub with a suitable oxidising

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3Spa Bromine Tablets from hth®: To treat spa water effectively, filter it to remove pollutants, ensure it is balanced and disinfect regularly. If you want disinfection without active chlorine, these 20g slow dissolving bromine tablets are a great option. Bromine is especially recommended for spas as it remains effective at high pHs and temperatures. With excellent disinfectant properties, whatever the pH of the water being treated (98% at pH 7.0 and still 75 % at pH 8.2) these tablets leave no residue and with a glove supplied, there’s no direct contact with the product either.

Tel: 01926 498203

www.lamotte-europe.com

agent such as non-chlorine shock or calcium hypochlorite.

• Clean the filter and swap with spare. You should always have a spare filter as filters have to be allowed to dry first so that the fibres can bind together after cleaning.

MONTHLY

• Check total alkalinity level which should be at 80 to 160 (ppm). If required, add an increaser.

• If you live in an area with hard water (high calcium) add a hot tub scale remover.

• Add a clarifying agent according to manufacturer’s instructions.

BI-MONTHLY

• Completely drain the hot tub down

and clean the inside of the shell with a specialist hot tub surface cleaning product.

• Clean hot tub cover with a weak solution of chlorine.

STILL NOT SURE? GET SOME ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS

BISHTA represents the hot tub industry within the UK and offers consumers advice and help on all aspects of hot tubs from finding a reputable dealer near you who is a BISHTA member, to essential home routines and safety measures. You can contact them on 01264 356211 or why not visit their useful website at www.bishta.co.uk where you can also download a number of helpful factsheets completely free of charge.

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Sanistream Plus Spa Filtration from Darlly: This latest innovation from filtration specialists Darlly is an advanced filter which is also an auto dosing system for chlorine or bromine. This new system simply screws into the centre of the filter. Owners and users can control the amount and flow rate of sanitiser needed to ensure a clean and safe water environment for a spa, swim spa or hot tub and best of all, it’s so simple to use. It’s easier, cleaner, safer and so much cheaper than alternative methods that are on the market.

Tel: 01926 498203

Tel: 01722 717911

eXact iDip handheld photometer from ITS Europe: The new eXact® iDip™ is the first product in the recreational water testing market to provide complete wireless connectivity between the iPhone®, iPad®, and iPod Touch® and a handheld photometer. Data is seamlessly transferred between the two devices when paired with the eXact® iDip™ using Bluetooth® Smart wireless technology. The new eXact® iDip™ handheld photometer uses the patented iDIP4 Reagent Delivery Method, a quick yet safe and easy procedure for analysis. Simply select your test then push a button. • Tel: 01980 664800

www.itseurope.co.uk

www.lamotte-europe.com

5Ultra Spa Clarifier from Lo-Chlor: Utilising by-products of the shellfish industry, this product fully uses otherwise discarded natural resources to harness their water clarification properties. By utilising the compound Chitosan – which is found in the shells Ultra Spa Clarifier is able to remove unwanted oils, including suntan lotions and body fats which other clarifiers struggle to deal with. This multifunctional clarifier also improves filtration by preventing sources of blockages and even removes unwanted metals and calcium that once deposited can lead to staining. If you want to see Chitosan in action, look no further than the Great Barrier Reef!

5PM 600 / PM 620 from Lovibond Tintometer: The ergonomic, portable, waterproof design enables users to select just one unit for accurate analysis of up to 34 parameters anytime and anyplace. Both units offer a large, back-lit graphic display to aid analysis by providing on screen method prompts, information regarding test measurement range and reagent type and automatic countdown timers for accurate reaction periods. The internal memory is capable of storing up to 1,000 results with date, time and sample ID.

Tel: 01993 778855

www.certikin.co.uk

www.lovibond.com

THE WARMING BENEFITS OF

SAUNAS

Saunas are one of life’s great luxuries and provide some great health benefits, so it’s no surprise that more UK families than ever are opting to choose one

Once, a sauna was something most of us would only ever encounter when abroad in a country with a much colder climate than the UK or perhaps when visiting a high-end hotel, spa or leisure centre. Now though, the luxury, style and design of a new generation of saunas has seduced consumers and the demand for them as luxury items for private homes keeps on growing.

The warmth provided by a sauna in your own home or garden is one of the great luxuries of life and more Britons than ever before are finding out just how sensational the experience is.

Enjoying a sauna is not just limited to family members either, as more and more people are opening their home saunas to friends.

Space is rarely a problem, thanks to creative new style designs and families that wanted to bring an additional touch of luxury and glamour to their homes are regularly enjoying sauna experiences.

The message about the benefits of saunas is now much more accepted and as a result, there are a wide variety of options available. Heat sources include wood, electricity, gas and other more unconventional methods including solar power. There are two main types of stoves: continuous heating and the heat storage-type. Continuously heating stoves have a small heat capacity and can be heated up on a fast on-demand basis, whereas a heat storage stove has a large heat (stone) capacity and can take much longer to heat.

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of the best… SAUNAS – FROM QUIRKY TO FUNCTIONAL TO SHEER LUXURY!

For dealer locations around the UK, call or visit the individual company’s website. For more sauna and wellness information including other manufacturers and distributors, pay a visit to the What Pool & Hot Tub website.

Hekla Barrel Saunas from Superior Wellness: These barrel saunas have been inspired by nature using Baltic traditions and have been built in a sustainable way. Featuring terrace seating and accommodating up to six people, they are produced using Thermowood (thermally modified Nordic Spruce) which is 100% natural, aesthetically pleasing, plus significantly more durable and stable than conventional timber. Roof shingles are also provided for protection to the sauna and increased insulation. Options for heating include an electric heater or wood burning stove and Superior Wellness recommend Harvia or Narvi products for either.

• Tel: 01246 559071

• www.superiorwellness.co.uk

There are wet saunas, dry saunas, smoke saunas, steam saunas, and those that work with infrared waves. Sometimes called radiant heat saunas, soft heat saunas or heat therapy rooms, infrared saunas offer many of the same benefits that traditional Finnish saunas do, but they do so at lower, more tolerable temperatures and in a drier environment. It is worth noting that they are also a more cost effective option too when compared to their traditional counterparts.

No matter what type of sauna you opt for, it is now generally accepted that sauna use will provide a multitude of health benefits. Sauna use burns calories – due to your metabolism rising and your body sweating, it’s easy to lose about 300 calories, which is about 30 minutes

2Harvia Variant View from Certikin International: The modern design of this cost-effective range of saunas incorporates large glass walls on the front to let in natural light and create an open and spacious feeling. Interior and exterior walls are made of spruce with benches made of aspen. Six models are available in the range, each are easy to install and give the choice of placing the benches on either side of the sauna. There is the option to add lighting to Variant View saunas, and with the lights being controlled by DMX, allowing users full control of colour and brightness.

• Tel: 01993 777200 • www.certikin.co.uk

OTHER THEMED HEALTH OPTIONS FOR YOUR HOME

There’s a range of wellness options which can also be added to your home which offer a different experience to a sauna.

• STEAM SHOWERS – the benefits of a steam shower are similar to a sauna. The steam produced helps to open the pores and alleviate the toxins which we accumulate through a combination of modern day lifestyles and poor diets. These are ideal as they can fit into a small, spare corner.

• SALT ROOMS – the benefits of breathing in salt have been apparent for decades. Salt therapy works by clearing mucus from the airways and decreasing inflammation caused by dust, pollen or pollution allergies.

• ICE TUBS – these offer a therapeutic treatment using cold-water immersion therapy which provide a range of health benefits but are most often used by individuals looking to reduce muscle soreness and

of exercising. In addition, the enveloping warmth improves your complexion, drawing out impurities and boosting your circulation with the body releasing endorphins which help to create an all round positive lift to the spirit. In addition, your immune system can also benefit from a daily embrace of heat.

Colds and flu seemed to be prevalent over the winter months and the warmth provided opens pores and helps the body to adapt to changes in temperature. If you are plagued by cold or flu symptoms the atmosphere in a sauna can invariably bring welcome relief to the symptoms along with any aches and pains. Breathing can become easier and the sinuses cleared.

A British Medical Association study found

3Chilliwack from The Canadian Spa Company: This 2-person Far Infrared sauna is equipped with a simple yet advanced digital control system, bluetooth audio system, LED chromotherapy lighting and an aromatherapy system. Six Far Infrared Carbon Heaters work to ensure that heat is distributed quickly, evenly and efficiently to help achieve the maximum benefits of a full body sauna treatment while keeping energy costs low. A natural Canadian hemlock wood construction adds a calm, earthy feel that will complement any décor, while dual-wall construction ensures that the sauna is well insulated.

inflammation after physical activity.

• ICE ROOMS – a constant delivery of ice flakes is made to a central point within the room and these are then rubbed over the body in handfuls after various heat experiences which stimulates both the body’s circulation and immune system.

• HERBAL SAUNAS – the walls, constructed in rustic hand made bricks radiate heat back into the room providing an even temperature. At intervals water is sprayed in rotation into an aromatherapy system containing different herbs which then release their individual aroma.

• HEAT AND ICE – rooms which combine both experiences. A combination of the two extremes of temperature help to boost circulation and removal of the body’s toxins.

that people who enjoy a sauna two or three times a week reduce their incidence of colds and flu by more than 65% – consider the impact that could have on your own life.

Sauna use not only helps to eliminate harmful toxins from the body through perspiration, but rejuvenates you physically, relieves mental stress and leaves you feeling both fresh and relaxed. If fatigue is an issue, research shows that sauna use can both effectively reduce the symptoms, whilst improving the overall wellbeing of those affected.

A soothing time spent in a sauna can help with a restful night’s sleep too. The body’s core temperature rises steadily and once you leave the warming influence of the sauna,

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S1 Sauna from KLAFS: The designers at KLAFS have developed a whole new, radically different sauna design – the revolutionary S1 sauna. This space-saving and futuristic sauna is the world’s first to retract at the touch of a button – just like a zoom lens on a camera. In its fully retracted position the S1 is a mere 60cm deep, yet the S1 is a really stylish, high-quality, beautifully designed sauna down to the last detail. With room for the whole family, it is available in three sizes (small, medium and large) and offers numerous trim and panel options.

your body works to correct the rise in body temperature and this change helps to bring on a peaceful slumber.

Should you suffer from aching muscles from sport or even just the daily grind, the heat from a sauna penetrates the body, improves circulation, helps to reduce inflammation and provides some relief. Saunas also help to alleviate the pain and joint immobility from arthritis and rheumatism.

In short, and as you can see, there are numerous health benefits to owning or using a sauna and the good news is most people can enjoy one. However, if you are pregnant, suffer from high blood pressure, heart problems or any other medical conditions, it is always best to check with your doctor before use.

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Tylö Harmony from Golden Coast: The new Harmony range of saunas, from Swedish manufacturer Tylö, is a high-end sauna that meets both space and lifestyle requirements. A design tool means this modular sauna room offers numerous possibilities as you can mix and match from a variety of materials. These units also suit wallets too, thanks to Elite, Tylö’s state-of-the-art control panel which allows you to customise your sauna’s efficiency and performance to your needs. What’s more, it lets owners pre-programme schedules, set the perfect temperature and humidity, select lighting and even choose music.

• Tel: 01293 824094 • www.canadianspacompany.com • Tel: 01271 378100

www.tylolife.co.uk • Tel: 01798 343725 • www.klafs-uk.com

SAFETY FOR ALL IN AND AROUND THE WATER

Making sure your pool is safe will always be the most important priority for any pool owner. Whether it’s your own pool or taking the family to a public pool, safety in and around the water is the number one concern

Always supervise children in and around water, and when they are walking around the pool surround, instruct them to keep away from the pool edge and only to go into the water when they are told they can do so. It is tempting to allow your children to go in and out of the pool as they choose, however, where water is concerned, supervision is essential, and you need to be fully alert to check swimmers continually, even older ones when the pool is in use.

There are a number of options to make sure your pool is safer, especially when it is not in use:

1) Choose a good quality pool cover

Whatever type of pool you have, indoors or outdoors, you will save money with a good quality pool cover. An uncovered pool will lose at least 75% of its heat through evaporation. The success of pool covers has been such that pool owners everywhere consider the use of a high quality cover a vital part of owning a pool. Safety will be more of a concern if small children and family pets can access the pool area. Safety covers range from a simple safety net, which is tensioned over the pool when not in use, to a fully automated system, which will cover the pool in minutes, by simply pressing a remote control switch. So in summary, pool covers keep a pool safe, clean, warm and eco friendly. However, please read any manufacturer’s warnings about the risk of drowning.

2) Put an enclosure over your pool

It makes sense to be able to use your pool whenever you want, day or night and whatever the weather. Covering your pool not only reduces the risks of unauthorised entry but has financial benefits too; reduced heating and chemical costs and substantial reductions in water lost through evaporation. Pool enclosures come in a variety of types, both fixed position, and telescopic versions (which can be opened up or rolled back in fine weather), air inflated domes, large

TEACH CHILDREN TO SWIM – THE YOUNGER THE BETTER

To reduce the likelihood of any incidents further, all children should be encouraged to be able to meet the National Curriculum requirement to be able to swim 25 metres unaided, by the age of 11 years old. Where possible, use a swim school so that your child(ren) can learn to swim correctly and safely.

A number of organisations can provide courses and these include the STA (www.sta. co.uk). The STA is a registered charity founded with the objective of preserving human life by the teaching of swimming, lifesaving and survival techniques, and they have details of swimming classes, lifesaving courses and water first aid.

The ASA (www.britishswimming.org) are the governing body of the sport in the UK, and they also have a large range of qualified teachers around the country.

Water Babies (www.waterbabies.co.uk) is the world’s largest baby teaching organisation and has a list of classes near you.

‘conservatories’ and log cabins.

Make sure you check if planning permission is required. Since changes in the planning rules for England in 2008, it has become easier to understand, and your local authority can confirm the relevant regulations.

3) Fencing around the pool

A safety fence is one of the best safety options designed to provide a barrier around residential swimming pools for toddlers and young children. In France, a pool safety fence separating a swimming pool from your home and all access doors is a legal requirement. Fences are installed in sections for easy removal and reinstallation. Pool fencing can be fitted in almost any type of deck with a variety of fence heights.

Depending on where your pool is located, it is a sensible precaution to ensure your pool is not easily accessible to your neighbours, especially if they have children. Many gardens have adequate walls or wooden fence panels (at least 5 feet high) to deter unwanted guests from accessing the pool.

4) Pool alarms

Pool alarms can be fitted to detect movement in the water, and an audible alarm will sound to warn of an issue. When the pool is in use, there are systems, such as wristwatches that can be purchased that monitors individuals in the water and can operate where there are swimmers of various standards and ability in the water. Some of the systems can also monitor an unattended pool for any unsupervised entry.

STAY SAFE – POOL ACCIDENTS DON’T HAVE TO HAPPEN

Awareness can help ensure that you take adequate precautions to enjoy the water safely. RoSPA – The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (www.rospa. com) offers lifesaving advice for everyone, everywhere! Visit their website for the latest water safety messages.

WHEN THE POOL FUN IS OVER

With CovLock, the cover can be opened and closed at the turn of a key. One or two minutes are enough to roll up or unroll the cover thanks to a hydraulic motor without a limit switch or power supply near the pool.

CovLock is completely waterproof around the whole perimeter, so the pool will stay clean in both summer and winter. It also prevents heat loss and stops evaporation.

CovLock is completely automatic, made in France and offers four models, suitable for all pool types.

The CovLock automatic cover complies with standard NF P 90308 and is designed to ensure maximum safety for children and pets.

The CovDeck Mobile Safety Deck –A Clever Design For Pools And Spas

CovDeck is a timber deck and safety cover all in one.

This 100% safe rolling deck slides over the spa or pool, combining both design and practicality. Watch as the pool is transformed into a real treat in under two minutes!

This innovation wins over more customers every year by building up a reputation as a must have for pool and spa covers! You will love the resolutely elegant and clever design of this decking, as it will make your life easier and give you more space.

Both a shelter and safety cover to be used all year round, CovDeck combines the best of protection while optimising space, as the pool becomes a playground, a place of relaxation or an open-air dining area.

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, QUALITY PRODUCTS

Designed and manufactured in Devon, using insulation made from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles, HeatForm’s exercise pools, with integrated counter current units, are designed to optimise all levels of training and physical therapy.

Available in any size, and with wall depths of 1.2m or 1.5m, they are suitable for installation both inground or above-ground, indoor or outdoors, and provide the ultimate home swimming experience.

Delivered with a Velocity counter current as standard, the HeatForm pool kit system also includes pump and filtration equipment, pool wall fittings and pipework, underwater LED light, 6kW electric heater, solar pool cover, ready to fit bag liner from Aquaflex with liner lock and a stainless steel over-the-wall entry ladder.