CONSUMER GUIDE -...

Everything You Need to Know WhenChoosing a New Pool or Spa

CONSUMER GUIDE

www.spasavic.com.au

CONTENTS2 SPASA CEO’s Message

2 Contents

3 Welcome

4 SPASA - The Industry Peak Body

5 Look for the SPASA Member Logo

6 SPASA FACT SHEETS6 The Starting Point

7 Safety Barriers

8 Legislation, Regulation and Contracts

10 Pool & Spa Safety

11 Water Balance

12 Water Conservation

13 Sanitisers

14 Salt Chlorinators

15 Ozonators & Ionisers

16 Filters

17 Solar Heating

18 Gas Pool Heating

19 Electrical Pool Heating

20 Covers & Blankets

21 Cleaning Systems

22 Chemical Controllers

23 Spa Maintenance

24 Water Features

25 Pool Lighting

26 Maintenance

27 Water Wise Behaviour

A WORD FROM OUR CEO

This publication was proudly written, edited, designed and printed in Victoria, Australia!

Published by SPASA Victoria • ABN 66 076 867 091 • www.spasavic.com.au

ISO 14001 EMS Accredited, paper from responsible sources • Printed January 2016

Reproduction of the contents of this book is strictly forbidden unless approved in writing by the Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Victoria.

The material contained in this publication has been compiled by the Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Victoria Ltd (SPASA Victoria) for the benefit of its readers. SPASA Victoria does not warrant or represent that the material is free from errors or omission, or that it is exhaustive. The material is provided without SPASA Victoria assuming a duty of care to readers. SPASA Victoria is not in the business of providing professional advice and gives no warranty, guarantee or representation about the accuracy, reliability or timeliness or otherwise, of the information contained in this publication. SPASA Victoria disclaims, to the full extent permitted by law, all warranties, representations or endorsements, express or implied, with regard to the material including but not limited to, all implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. The material is made available on the understanding that SPASA Victoria and its employees and agents shall have no liability (including but not limited to liability by reason of negligence) to readers for any loss, damage, cost or expense whether direct, indirect, consequential or special, incurred by, or arising by reason of, any person using or relying on the material and whether caused by reason of any error, omission or misrepresentation in the material or otherwise. Readers of this publication are responsible for making their own assessment of the material and should verify all relevant representations, statements and information with their own professional advisers.

Congratulations on the decision to purchase a pool or spa, or maybe you’re a current owner looking to update.

Either way, your swimming pool is - or will shortly become - a very important part

of your family’s life. Put simply, a swimming pool or spa can enrich your life and in particular, your health.

Your local SPASA member is the most valuable resource available when embarking on the purchase of a spa or pool.

There are many technical and legal issues to consider: contracts, permits, warranties, fencing, insurance, pumps, filters, chemicals, etc. The best way for consumers to ensure a stress-free purchase is to use a proven industry leader, a SPASA member.

All members of the association are bound by a strict Code of Ethics and have specialist industry training and resources made available to ensure that the highest levels of professionalism are maintained.

Many changes are currently occurring with relation to pool and spa fencing and hydraulics - SPASA members have the most up-to-date information available around these laws. I strongly urge you to not use an unregistered builder / installer. You may be exposing yourself, and your family, to unforeseen liability and safety issues.

The pool and spa industry is an important part of the Victorian economy, employing up to 10,000 workers and generating $500 million in revenue annually. Pools and spas also add significant social value to our communities, and are an iconic feature of the Australian way of life.

To make a well informed decision, I encourage you to take the time to review the important information contained in this guide.

Brendan Watkins

Chief Executive Officer SPASA Victoria

Call SPASA for a free copy of our

Member Directory & Awards of

Excellence Showcase magazine, also

available online at spasavic.com.au

MEMBER DIRECTORY &2015 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

SHOWCASE

www.spasavic.com.au

2016 Member Directory Brendan Draft 3.indd 1 10/12/2015 9:40:23 AM

2 • SPASA POOL & SPA BOOK 2014

A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

Welcome to the SPASA Consumer Guide, filled with all the need-to-know information for prospective pool owners.

This publication is designed to ensure you, the consumer, has impartial and current advice to make an educated decision.

The Swimming Pool and Spa Asscciation of Victoria came into being in Victoria in 1961 when a small group of pool builders met to discuss their industry. It now covers the entire pool and spa industry across the state and includes: builders, retailers, manufacturers, fencing and service agents. The original aim was to establish standards of business ethics and product quality that would protect the pool and spa buyer and ensure their complete satisfaction.

SPASA seeks to avoid potential misunderstandings by helping prospective pool and spa buyers understand what’s involved in buying, renovating or maintaining a pool or spa. The SPASA Consumer Guide is the start of that process.

The following Fact Sheets outline the basic components of a pool or spa, their functions and their interactions.

They cover the key options and features, but they do not presume to judge which option is best for any particular installation. For that advice, you will need to consult your nearest SPASA member.

Nicole Livingstone, OAMSPASA AmbassadorTriple Olympic Swimmer & Triple Olympic Medallist

WELCOME

SPASA CONSUMER GUIDE • 3

The Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Victoria’s mission

is to represent both SPASA members and the broader

swimming pool and spa industry to the general public,

government and relevant statutory bodies. The Association

strives to enhance its profile as a means of promoting the

significant health and social value of pool and spa use.

Our core goals are to ensure the viability of our members’

businesses and to promote the highest levels of

professionalism, ethical behaviour and standards within the

industry.

Both pool and spa owners’, and members’ interests, are

represented on many technical and government committees,

including Standards Australia, the Victorian Swimming Pool

& Spa Safety Committee and the Victorian Building Authority.

Among many others, we liaise closely with the Planning

& Water Ministers’ Offices, DSE, Lifesaving Victoria, Water

Authorities, Builder Warranty & Liability insurers, WorkSafe,

Kidsafe and the Department of Consumer Affairs – all of

which shape legislation and establish standards of workplace

practices, safety, energy and water use.

To maintain the highest standards SPASA conducts Industry

Training programs, trade events and publish member OHS

training and resource materials. SPASA also promotes the

important consumer-focused Water Neutral Pool Program.

The association promotes pool and spa use to consumers

in several ways, including annual consumer events and

communications.

Promoting member businesses, industry professionalism, safety & pool and spa use.

SPASA • TH E I N DUSTRY PEAK BODY

Standardised Construction

Contracts

The Water Neutral Pool

Program

6

Awards of Excellence Industry Training Program

Pool & Spa Expo

Show

Spa & Pool Show

Consumer Guide

Everything You Need to Know WhenChoosing a New Pool or Spa

CONSUMER GUIDE

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Member Directory & Awards

of Excellence Showcase

MEMBER DIRECTORY &2015 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

SHOWCASE

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2016 Member Directory Brendan Draft 3.indd 1 10/12/2015 9:40:23 AM

SPASA App

SPASA

4 • SPASA CONSUMER GUIDE

Proud member of

SPASA MEMBERS THE INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALSSPASA has a diverse membership – a member for all occasions.

Whether you are looking for a new swimming pool or spa, to

renovate or maintain your current pool, or to equip your pool

with a fence, cover or water tank there is a SPASA member to

assist you. SPASA members are at the forefront of the industry in

regards to their experience, professionalism and reputation.

Bound by the Association’s strict Code of Ethics, all SPASA

members have demonstrated a history of successful ethical

trading and knowledge appropriate to their membership category.

You should look for the SPASA member logo to ensure you are

dealing with an industry professional – we’ve taken the hard work

out of finding businesses that you can trust with your pool and

spa needs.

SPASA Pool Builder Members are pool

builders with appropriate experience,

practitioner registration and

insurances. Bound by the Association’s

Code of Ethics, SPASA Pool Builder

Members also agree to perform all work

in accordance with Australian Standards, and to meet all legal

requirements.

As part of the application process, SPASA Pool Builder Members

are vetted throughout the industry as to reputation and

professionalism. They are also required to demonstrate exemplary

trade and consumer references.

Only SPASA Pool Builder Members can issue you with a

SPASA Contract – the essential contract of the well informed

consumer. SPASA Pool Builder Members also have access to

the latest technical training, educational programs and industry

specific information to ensure their staff perform with technical

excellence.

M E M B E R

With access to quality training and the

latest industry information, SPASA Pool

Service Members are experienced,

knowledgeable and ready to assist you

at every step to maintain your pool or

spa in the optimum condition.

Our SPASA National Members have

industry interests in multiple states

across the country. Proudly, many of

the Association’s National Supplier /

Manufacturer Members are based in

Victoria, helping fuel a healthy rivalry in

the pursuit of industry excellence.

For a complete list of members see spasavic.com.au/member

SPASA Associate Members can supply

you with the final touches needed to

complete your pool or spa. Pavers,

tiles and water tanks are just some of

the specialised products and services

available through our Associate

Members.

Equipped with the latest regulatory

information from the Victorian Building

Authority, SPASA Pool Fencing Members

can supply you with compliant fencing and

balustrading to secure your pool or spa.

With access to quality training and

the latest industry information, SPASA

Pool Shop Members are experienced,

knowledgeable and ready to assist you

at every step to maintain your pool or

spa in the optimum condition.

At the forefront of the spa sector,

SPASA Spa Industry Members are

proven performers. You are likely to

see them exhibiting at the SPASA

consumer shows, selling you the latest

and greatest in spa technology.

Often behind the scenes but integral to

the smooth operation of your pool or spa

are the SPASA Supplier / Manufacturer

Members. It is their research and

development, innovative design and

quality products that allow you to enjoy

your pool or spa to the utmost.

Look for the SPASA Member logo.

CONSUMER GUIDE • 5

FACT SH E ET 1 • TH E STARTI NG POI NT

“Are You A Registered Building Practitioner?”The First Questions You Should Ask.

WHY USE A REGISTERED BUILDING PRACTITIONER?Every building project, no matter how big

or small, carries some sort of risk. By using

a Registered Building Practitioner you are

engaging a qualified, knowledgeable and

experienced professional.

If you are building a swimming pool or spa

valued over $5,000, the first question you

should always ask your builder is: “Are

you a Registered Building Practitioner?”

Being a Registered Building Practitioner is

a mandatory requirement of SPASA Pool

Builder membership.

You can check if your builder is registered

by calling the Victorian Building Authority on

1300 360 320 or use the ‘Find a

Practitioner’ menu at vba.vic.gov.au

DO SWIMMING POOLS AND SPAS NEED TO BE INSTALLED BY REGISTERED BUILDING PRACTITIONERS?

They should be, installing a swimming pool or spa involves a number of specialised trades and techniques.

By using a Registered Building Practitioner to undertake the work they must provide you with a major domestic building contract for work over $5,000. For work over $16,000 they must also provide domestic building insurance.

Many contracts can be confusing, or in the case of unregistered pool builders, you may even find there is no contract. Only SPASA Pool Builder Members can issue you with a SPASA Contract – a consumer friendly and easy to understand contract for the construction of your swimming pool or spa.

The SPASA Contract is tailored for pool and spa construction and provides the latest

consumer protection.

It is an offence for an unregistered builder to

carry out building work on a swimming pool or

spa where the contract is over $5,000.

For consumer caution / warnings on owner

builders, kit pools and unregistered builders

go to the media section of spasavic.com.au

DO YOU NEED A BUILDING PERMIT?Yes, all swimming pools and spas (both in ground and above ground) greater than 300mm in depth, require a building permit in order to undertake construction work.

A building permit is also required for installing and altering all swimming pool and spa safety barriers, including windows, doors and gates that provide access to a pool or spa area.

You should always check with your municipal or private building surveyor prior to undertaking any building work and obtain a copy of the building permit.

HOW DO YOU RESOLVE BUILDING ISSUES?Your relationship with your builder is like any other business relationship. It carries certain roles and responsibilities and, as a consumer, it is important to know where to go if problems arise. There is a range of services available to advise and assist you to resolve issues or disputes, should they arise. In the first instance you should contact your builder directly to discuss and rectify the problem.

Building Advice and Conciliation Victoria is a one-stop-shop for consumers and builders, providing free advice and assistance to resolve domestic building issues.

BACV is managed and delivered jointly by Consumer Affairs Victoria and the Victorian Building Authority. Available services include advice, conciliation and technical inspections of building work.

You can contact BACV on 1300 557 559 for free advice from trained staff.

Independent legal advice may be sought from the Law Institute on 03 9607 9550.

POOL BUILDER


FACT SH E ET 2 • SAFETY BARRI E RS

Pools & spas are great fun and very tempting for curious children. Every pool & spa must have a barrier and every child must be supervised.Pool and spa barriers are required by

legislation for any swimming pool or spa in

excess of 300mm in depth and must be

maintained for the life of the pool or spa.

The key elements of the relevant Australian

Standard, A.S. 1926.1-2012 are designed

to restrict access by unsupervised young

children, especially those under 5 years of

age, to the swimming pool area.

SAFETY BARRIERSEssentially, a safety barrier can be made of

any material that has a reasonable life span

when exposed to the likely conditions of

weather, pool chemicals, pollution, decay,

insects, salt water spray, impacts, etc.

Safety barriers must have an effective

perpendicular minimum height of 1.2

metres. Existing boundary fences can be

used as a safety barrier provided that they

are well maintained, at least 1800mm high

measured on the inside of the barrier to a

solid finished surface and have no climbable

elements within 900mm measured from the

top of the inside of the fence.

GATESThese must open outward only (away

from the pool area) and have an effective

perpendicular minimum height of 1.2 metres.

They must return to the closed position

and engage the latch automatically from

any position and not re-open without using

the manual release mechanism. The latch

release must be at least 1.5 metres above

ground level unless it (i) is inside the fence

(ii) can only be reached over or through

a fence higher than 1.2 metres or (iii) is

300mm below the fence top (no hand hole)

or at least 150mm away from the edge of

any hand hole opening. Latch releases less

than 1.5 metres above ground level must

be shielded so that no opening greater than

10mm is closer than 450mm. Any hand

hole shall be at least 1.2 metres above

ground level.

WALLSExternal walls of a building can be used as

swimming pool barriers so long as they do

not contain any doors opening into the pool

area and windows are treated to prevent

access to the pool area.

DOORS & WINDOWSDoors from a dwelling are prohibited from

opening into a swimming pool area. The only

exception is for doors opening directly to an

indoor swimming pool or spa.

Acceptable window fixing treatments are as

follows:

• Those totally enclosed by screw fixed security screens that can only be removed by the use of a tool.

• Those that are fixed so the window cannot open more than 100mm max.

• Those with a lowest opening panel not less than 1.8 above the ground level to the pool area.

• Those that have firm fixed metal fly-wire installed that is fixed to the building with fasteners that can only be removed by the use of a tool.

This is only a general summary of A.S 1926.1. Please refer to your local SPASA member or the VBA for more information.


FACT SHEET 3 • LEGISLATION, REGULATION & CONTRACTS

Use the right people and ask the right questions.If there is one thing SPASA members know

a lot about, it’s building pools and spas. It’s

a complex process with a number of steps

to move through. There are also certain

legal requirements that must be met and it

is critical that your intended builder meets

them all. SPASA members stand ready to

help at every step, but it’s a good idea to

familiarise yourself with each one before

you start.

STEP 1: LOOK FOR THE SPASA POOL BUILDER MEMBER LOGO The SPASA Pool Builder Member logo

signifies you are dealing with a company

which is obliged to be registered, is suitably

experienced and insured, and which is a

current financial member of the industry

peak body.

SPASA Pool Builder

Members are the only

builders who can issue

a SPASA Pool & Spa

Construction Contract.

Based on the collective

experience of our

members the SPASA

Contract is detailed but easily understood

by the lay person, and it clearly explains

any exclusions.

STEP 2: MAKE SURE YOU ARE FULLY INSUREDState law requires that domestic building

insurance must be issued for all domestic

building work over $16,000 in total value.

SPASA recommends that you DO NOT

commence any work until your builder has

provided this insurance and you have the

certificate in your possession, or ask to

see the building permit and their builder’s

registration card. The purpose of this

insurance is to ensure that you end up with

a completed pool and / or spa, holding a 6

year structural warranty. Without it, you are

totally unprotected and exposed. And if you

sell your home you will be required by law

to provide this transferable insurance to the

purchaser.

STEP 3: ENSURE YOUR BUILDER IS REGISTERED AND LICENSEDTo provide protection for every person

having building works done, the Victorian

government has legislated that builders

undertaking work with a value over $5,000

must be registered with the Building

Practitioners Board. So, before signing a

contract please check if your builder is a

Registered Building Practitioner, by asking

to see their registration card, calling the

VBA on 1300 360 320 or using the ‘Find a

Practiitioner’ menu at vba.vic.gov.au

STEP 4: ASK IF A TOWN PLANNING PERMIT IS REQUIREDIt is possible that town planning overlays

may apply to the location of your proposed

pool or spa. If so, a town planning permit

for a swimming pool / spa at that address

may be required before a building permit

can be issued. Check with your local

council before commencing any work.

SPASA has successfully negotiated a

general exemption for pools and spas

where the following overlays apply: Design

Development Overlays and Neighbourhood

Character Overlays.

STEP 5: ASK IF A BUILDING PERMIT HAS BEEN ISSUEDPrior to the commencement of work, a

building permit from a Registered Building

Surveyor must be issued to the owner

with the registered builder’s details. The

purpose of this building permit is to ensure

that your pool meets all the applicable

requirements of your municipality, as well

as structural and safety requirements.

In order to obtain this building permit your

builder will need:

• Copy of the Certificate of Title.

• Copy of the block plan showing all existing buildings.

• A letter of authority for the builder to apply for a building permit on your behalf.

• A signed agreement to comply with the requirements to provide a safety barrier / pool fence.

M E M B E R


In addition to this, the Building Surveyor

will require:

• A copy of town planning permit (if applicable).

• A copy of the insurance certificate (from your pool builder).

Important Note: A certificate of final

inspection will be issued to the owner

with a copy to the builder when the final

pool inspection has been carried out and

approved.

STEP 6: SAFETY BARRIERSPool fencing / safety barriers are required

by legislation for any pool or spa with water

in excess of 300mm in depth and must be

in place prior to filling the pool or spa with

water. The key elements of the relevant

Australian Standard, A.S. 1926-2012 are

designed to deny access by unsupervised

young children, especially those under 5

years of age, to the swimming pool area.

There is an expanded discussion of the

fencing regulations on Fact Sheet 2 “Safety

Barriers”, but it is worth noting here that

fences and gates must have an effective

minimum perpendicular height of 1.2

metres. Existing standard paling fences

can be used provided they meet certain

conditions.

Gates must open away from the pool

enclosure and return to the closed position,

engaging the latch automatically.

Although walls of buildings can be used

as swimming pool safety barriers, child

resistant doors from the building are no

longer permitted for new pools. Windows

within external walls of dwellings are

permitted to open to the pool enclosure but

must be constructed in accordance with

the standard. Please refer to A.S 1926.1 for

the specific details of the safety barrier and

window requirements.

STEP 7: WATERWhen thinking of investing in a pool or

spa is to read up on our Water Neutral

Pool Program. The pleasure derived from

your pool need not impinge on water

catchments. In fact, a Water Neutral Pool

can provide you with a means of producing

thousands of litres of surplus water for use

around the home.

STEP 8: COMPLETIONOnce the pool construction is complete

according to the terms of your contract,

your warranty period begins. At that

point, your builder must issue you with a

Completion Certificate. However that is not

necessarily the end of the relationship. The

pool is under domestic builder’s insurance

for 6 years during which time you are able

to check with your builder if you have any

major concerns.


FACT SH E ET 4 • POOL & SPA SAFETY

Enjoy your pool or spa, while always being conscious of safety.

A pool is just like any other type of playground and exercise equipment. Pool and spa owners can enjoy the benefits, but they also need to be safety conscious.

POOL AND SPA FENCINGSwimming pool regulations require that all swimming pools and spas in excess of 300mm of water must be fenced. Fences must be at least 1.2m high and separate the pool from residential buildings and neighbouring properties. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, and open away from the pool.

Remember:

• Fencing requirements must be met prior to filling the pool.

• Fencing and gates should be checked periodically and must be maintained to ensure they continue to satisfy the regulations.

• Don’t leave furniture or other items that children can climb on near your pool fence or above-ground pool.

POOL COVERSPool covers are not designed to stop children getting into the pool. Rigid covers may provide a greater barrier but even they are not totally child-proof. Soft covers can give the illusion of being solid but if a child walks on them they will sag and create a pond deep enough to be dangerous.

When the pool is being used, the cover should never be left partially over the pool. If trapped under the cover a child may not be seen.

Remember, pool covers should never be considered a substitute for a fence or proper supervision.

SPASA GUIDELINESThe backyard swimming pool is an Australian icon that for many years has provided good times and healthy recreation for people of all ages.

While swimming pools allow us to get together with our friends and family to share fun, fitness and relaxation, they can also pose a risk. There are some easy to remember rules that need to be followed to ensure the safe use of swimming pools and spas at all times.

SPASA recommends these safety guidelines be followed at all times:

• Supervise children at all times around water. If you need to leave the pool or water area, even for a moment, take the child with you.

• Make sure your pool or spa has compliant fencing and child-proof locking gates. Always remember that a swimming pool fence is not a substitute for supervision.

• Don’t leave furniture or other items accessible that children can climb on near your pool or spa fence.

• Be aware that hair, bathing suit strings and tassels, or body parts can become entangled in an improperly covered drain or suction point.

• Display a resuscitation chart on your pool fence and take a CPR course so you will know what to do in an emergency.

• Familiarise children with water by taking them to swimming lessons at the local pool.

• Make sure all pool users are warned against sitting on, or covering, a drain or suction point. This can cause injury, or in extreme cases, death.

• Empty paddling pools, baths, basins, sinks and troughs when they are not in use.

• Never take your eyes off children when they are in or around water. It only takes a few seconds for a child to drown.

• Alcohol and swimming don’t mix. Never drink around water.

• Most backyard pools are too shallow for diving. Place “No Diving” signs prominently around your pool.

• Be aware that poorly designed pools and spas can create an entrapment hazard. Get a Registered Pool Builder or Building Surveyor to check your pool or spa to ensure safety, replace broken or missing suction covers and have anti-entrapment covers fitted if needed.

• Never put your head under water when in a spa.

The following websites are also recommended for more useful information:

www.royallifesaving.com.au/programs/home-pool-safety

www.kidsafevic.com.au

www.watersafety.vic.gov.au

www.lifesavingvictoria.com.au

www.vba.vic.gov.au


FACT SH E ET 5 • WATE R BALANCE

Like everything in nature, water will always strive to be in balance.

In a pool or spa, we need to help nature

achieve balance. Chemically balanced

and sanitised water provides a healthy

environment for your family and friends, but

untreated, or improperly treated water is not

quite so appealing.

When the chemicals are out of balance,

the water will aggressively seek to balance

itself by either attacking the pool surface,

corroding pool equipment, or forming scale

on various surfaces. This can be expensive

and it can also inhibit the sanitising process.

In simple terms, the pool owner should

balance the pool’s pH, its total alkalinity and

the calcium hardness.

MEASURING PHThe pH reading tells us whether the water

is acidic or alkaline and incorrect levels may

cause itchy skin, red eyes, etc. The pH level

ranges from 0 to 14, with 7.0 being neutral.

Values below 7.0 are acidic.

The Australian Standard for pool water is 7.0

to 7.8 with 7.2 to 7.6 recommended. SPASA

recommends 7.2 to 7.4 for fibreglass pools

and 7.2 to 7.6 for spas.

The pH level can change after heavy rain,

heavy pool usage, topping up the pool, or

adding chemicals, which in turn affects

sanitising. Sanitiser and pH levels should

be checked and adjusted frequently.

Regardless of the chlorination process used,

any pH drift above the recommended range

(7.2 to 7.6) will inhibit the sanitising effect of

your chlorine.

CALCIUM HARDNESSThis is a measure of the amount of dissolved calcium in your pool water. Depending on the other balance factors, the Australian Standard recommends a range of 80 to 500ppm. Both Total Alkalinity and Calcium Hardness need to be in balance. Calcium Hardness cannot usually be tested with the standard test kit so you will need to take a water sample to your nearest SPASA Pool Shop for testing.

In areas where calcium levels are not naturally high, you should only need to test about once a year – unless you are using Calcium Hypochlorite to sanitise your pool.

This chemical raises Calcium Hardness levels, so more frequent testing may be necessary. When adding chemicals, use small amounts, run the filter and test the effect after several hours. Adding large amounts of chemical to achieve large changes can result in large problems.

And always consult your authorised SPASA Pool Shop before buying chemicals or using

them in your pool.

TOTAL ALKALINITY (T.A.)This is a measure of bi-carbonates,

carbonates and hydroxides in the pool. The

Australian Standard recommends a range of

60 to 200 parts per million (ppm).

Usually, 120 to 160ppm in swimming pools

and 60 to 150ppm in spas is the accepted

range, depending on the other balance

factors. Consult your Pool Shop or Pool Builder

for the recommended level for your pool.

Low T.A. will lead to erosion of pool surfaces

and corrosion of equipment. It will also

cause the pH levels to be very unstable so

small additions of chemicals can result in

major shifts in pH. This is sometimes known

as “pH bounce”.

Adding buffer will RAISE the Total Alkalinity.

Adding acid to lower pH will also LOWER

Total Alkalinity. Topping up the pool will

change the Total Alkalinity depending on the

T.A. of the top-up water.

Acids lower the pH and Total Alkalinity

so these two chemical components need

to be adjusted together. And remember,

hydrochloric acid must always be diluted

(one part acid to ten parts of water) before

being added to the pool.

Always add acid to water, never water

to acid. Most importantly, always

check with your SPASA Pool

Builder, Pool Shop or technician

for advice on the best way to

maintain the T.A. in your pool.


FACT SHEET 6 • WATER CONSERVATION

A pool may hold a lot of water, but it doesn’t need to consume very much.

SPASA has embarked on a significant sustainability campaign to guarantee a long-term future for pools and spas in Victoria.

Water conservation is a priority in the State of Victoria. The best thing a pool owner can do is install a new, or convert your existing pool to a Water Neutral Pool.

For full details go to: spasavic.com.au

If you already have a pool or are thinking about buying one, there are many ways to help conserve water. The average domestic swimming pool holds between 20,000 and 60,000 litres of water. Once it’s filled, it should only need topping up occasionally.

Just reducing the amount you top up, and the number of times you do it, can result in significant water savings. Water that is not filtered and balanced can become so contaminated it has to be drained away and replaced. That’s a waste. Poorly maintained pools may also require more frequent backwashing. So the best way to conserve water is to maintain the right chemical balance and ensure your filtration is adequate.

ADEQUATE FILTRATIONRun the filter for 8 to 10 hours a day in summer or whenever anyone is using the pool. This will skim surface leaves and dust away and keep the water clear and clean. Sand or DE filters are cleaned by reversing their flow to flush away any trapped material. This process is called ‘backwashing’, and is wasteful if done too often or for too long. Only continue backwashing until the sight glass provided is clear. See the Filters Fact Sheet No. 10 for more details.

CHEMICAL BALANCEMaintaining the correct water balance will avoid the need to empty and refill your pool, but you don’t have to be a scientist to correctly balance your pool. Just follow these three basic rules. First, adjust the Total Alkalinity level. Second, adjust the pH. Third, ensure the required amount of sanitiser is added either manually or by an automatic chlorinator.

See Fact Sheets No. 5 & 7 on Water Balance and Sanitation for more information and always consult your SPASA Member Pool Shop or service agent before handling chemicals.

CORRECT WATER LEVELThe water level should always remain about half way up the skimmer box opening. Overfilling the pool reduces the effectiveness of the skimmer.

POOL COVERS & WATER TANKSPool owners often invest in a pool cover to keep heating costs down. But these covers also dramatically reduce evaporation and water loss.

SPASA strongly endorses the installation of water tanks to provide adequate supplies of top up water.

LEAKSOne drip per second can waste 7,000 litres of water in a year and a steady dribble would drain the entire volume of water in the pool. All pools - especially older pools - need to be checked regularly for damp spots. Consult your SPASA Pool Shop Member or Service agent for a thorough audit of your entire water management system.

SAFETY SAVES WATER TOOAround a pool, children can become over excited and over confident. They should be supervised at all times when in the pool and their behaviour monitored. “Bombing” and general horseplay can cause accidents and waste a lot of water. Healthy exercise, or relaxation, is what the pool is for; excessive splashing will see many litres evaporate from the surrounding deck or paving.

To put all this in perspective, a pool contains a lot of water but it doesn’t consume very much – or at least it shouldn’t. Showering, watering the garden, washing the dishes all consume much more water. They send it into the ground or down the drain, whereas a pool or spa stores water for use over and over again.

SPASA

Learn about SPASA’s Water Neutral Pool program at: spasavic.com.au


FACT SH E ET 7 • SAN ITISE RS

Pools and spas require ongoing protection from their major pollutant – swimmers.

Bacteria will grow in any untreated body of

water. Swimmers are the primary source

along with top up water, leaves, grass, dust

etc - be aware that a large dog contributes

twenty times as much as a human.

Bacteria are a serious health risk and need

to be killed quickly and effectively. Adding a

sanitiser at recommended levels to the water

regularly will do just that.

Dead bacteria are removed by the filter

and the “residual sanitiser” left in the water

will kill any new bacteria. Most bacteria

will be killed when exposed to residual

sanitiser provided recommended levels are

maintained.

Water testing regularly and adding

the required amount of sanitiser will

maintain the required residual level. It is

recommended to test water prior to using

the pool or spa or at least weekly.

TYPES OF APPROVED SANITISERS:CHLORINE Chlorine is available in granular, liquid,

or tablet form and can be stabilised or

unstabilised. It can also be generated by

a salt-water chlorinator. Each form has its

features and benefits.

Granular chlorine is convenient, easy to

store and relatively cheap, but cannot be

dosed automatically. Liquid chlorine can be

dosed automatically, but is bulky, and has a

limited shelf life due to loss of strength over

time. All work effectively, so consult your

SPASA Pool Shop Member for expert advice.

Safety Note: Never mix chemicals - even

different types of chlorine - fire and / or

explosion may result.

SALT CHLORINATORSSalt chlorinators make chlorine, and come in

different sizes to suit different pools so select

one that is able to produce sufficient chlorine

for your needs. Even then, you may still need

to add extra chlorine from time to time to

maintain a satisfactory residual level.

CHLORINE FREE SANITISERSFor people who have developed an intolerance

to chlorine, or who live with Asthma, there are

sanitisers that do not contain chlorine and that

are registered by the Australian registration

authority, further details at www.apvma.gov.au.

These products include Biaguanide, Hydrogen

Peroxide and Hydrogen Peroxide with Silver

Nitrate (the latter two are liquids and can

be automatically dosed). The residual on

Hydrogen Peroxide based products is several

days.

STABILISERStabiliser (Isocyanuric Acid) is a chemical

added to the pool water to reduce the loss of

chlorine due to the sun’s UV rays. Stabiliser

can also be added manually to the pool, or

in stabilised chlorine. Check the level

of stabiliser in the water periodically.

Stabiliser is not consumed like

other chemicals in the pool,

so it can build up to levels

high enough to inhibit the

effectiveness of the chlorine.

Stabiliser is not required with the chlorine

free sanitisers.

CHLORINE ODOURA strong chlorine smell doesn’t mean too

much chlorine, it may mean too little.

Ammonia can produce chloramines and

these produce odour, sore eyes and itchy

skin. To remove them, add a boost of

“superchlorination”, but always consult your

authorised SPASA Pool Shop first.

HEATED POOLS AND SPASHeated pools and spas require more

sanitiser than non-heated pools because

sanitisers are consumed more quickly in hot

water.

Alternative methods of sanitising pools and

spas are available and are covered in Fact

Sheets 8 and 9. Always consult your local

SPASA members for expert advice on all

pool and spa chemicals.


FACT SH E ET 8 • SALT CH LORI NATORS

People assume swimming or bathing in a salt chlorinated pool or spa must be like swimming in the sea, but it is quite different.Salt chlorination uses an electrolysis process

to produce chlorine from common salt

(Sodium Chloride) which has been added

to the pool or spa water in a measured

amount. The chlorine gas produced by this

process is soluble in water, and so dissolves

instantly to form Hypochlorous Acid which is

the sanitizer used to sterilize the pool or spa

water. Recent developments within the spa

industry have lead to the introduction of salt

water brominators as an additional option for

spa water disinfection.

A salt chlorinator consists of two major

components: the power supply, and the cell.

Recent developments with salt chlorinators

have seen the addition of an ORP probe

which regulates the amount of sanitiser

delivered to the pool or spa water

THE CELLThe cell is the component which pool water

passes through. A very low voltage electric

current is applied to electrodes inside the

cell, causing the electrolysis process to take

place. The electrodes are usually made from

titanium with exotic metal coatings applied

to their surface. Various sizes are available

to suit the pool size / chlorine demand.

THE POWER SUPPLYMost power supplies come with a number of

options: chlorine output control, time clock,

salt level indicators, etc. The power supply

must be matched to the correct size cell.

SELECTING A SUITABLE UNITThe correct salt chlorinator for your needs

will not only depend on the size of the

pool or spa. Larger pools do need larger

chlorinators but the bathing load also has

an impact – high usage consumes more

chlorine.

The size of the filtration system is also a

factor. Poor water flow will require longer

running time. In summer, or in a spa, high

water temperatures and strong sunlight

create an increase in chlorine demand.

HOW MUCH SALT?The amount of salt needed varies depending

on the type of chlorinator. Most models

require only weak salt solutions of between

0.3% to 0.7% (3000ppm to 7000ppm) to

effectively chlorinate a pool or spa.

These levels are between one fifth to one

tenth the level of salt in sea water. Follow the

manufacturer’s recommendations strictly

to avoid damage to the chlorinator and to

ensure adequate chlorine production.

Salt is not consumed in the electrolytic

process but will need to be topped up after

any water loss due to filter backwashing,

splash out, or overflow due to rainfall.

MAINTENANCEThere are maintenance free cells available.

Other cells will require periodic cleaning

to remove the calcium deposits that build

up on the electrodes during electrolysis.

Again, follow the manufacturer’s

instructions strictly to avoid damage to

the assembly.

OTHER CHEMICALSSalt chlorinated pools need to achieve the

same chemical balance as traditionally

chlorinated pools. Total Alkalinity, pH,

Calcium Hardness and chlorine levels

should be checked regularly. Chlorine

stabiliser (Isocyanuric Acid) should be

added to the pool or spa and maintained at

approximately 30ppm to 50ppm, to reduce

chlorine loss due to UV rays.

During periods of high pool usage it may

be necessary to manually supplement

with an alternative sanitiser to maintain

correct chlorine levels, and regular

superchlorination or shock dosing should be

carried out.

As with all chemical issues, check with your

local SPASA member for expert advice.


FACT SH E ET 9 • OZONATORS & ION ISE RS

Sky-blue gas? Heavy metal? There’s more than one way to sanitise a pool or spa.

Ozone is a sky-blue gas formed naturally

by the action of the sun’s ultraviolet rays

or when a large electrical discharge, like

lightning, passes through oxygen. It is a

relatively unstable, highly toxic gas which

decomposes to re-form oxygen and is very

effective against bacteria.

TASTELESS AND ODOURLESS OZONEUsed for many years in the USA and

Europe, ozone is the standard purifier in

both water bottling plants and in pools

approved by the Olympic Federation.

One of the most effective disinfectants and

oxidisers, ozone starts killing bacteria and

oxidising organic waste as soon as it is

injected into the circulation stream.

TOXIC TO MORE THAN BACTERIAAll traces of ozone must be consumed or

removed prior to it reaching the pool, so

small amounts of residual sanitiser like

chlorine or bromine must be used to provide

continuous protection within the pool.

If using ozone with chlorine, follow the

manufacturer’s recommendations on

maintaining pH. If using it with bromine, the

oxidising power of ozone will regenerate the

inactive bromine, reducing the consumption

of bromine product.

Due to its instability, ozone remains in the

water for only a short time and has no

effect on pH or water balance. Nor does it

contribute to Total Dissolved Solids. It can

even reduce the need for shock dosing.

OZONE GENERATORSRecent developments in technology have

enabled manufacturers to produce smaller,

more economical ozone generators more

suited to domestic pools and spas. These

units produce the gas in two ways. Passing

air over an ultra violet light source or

through a Corona Discharge chamber will

generate ozone.

The gas concentration produced in

both systems can vary, so follow the

manufacturer’s recommendations and select

the unit most suited to your pool or spa.

IONISING SILVER AND COPPERAncient Greeks found that water kept in

silver containers mysteriously purified,

and algae didn’t grow in copper water

pots. In the late 19th Century, water was

passed through various porous materials

impregnated with silver creating positive

ions and purifying it.

ELECTRIC HEAVY METALToday, an ion-generating device can be

installed in the circulation system. It’s made

up of an electrode assembly (a copper

electrode & a silver electrode), and

the electronic control unit that

supplies an electric current to

the electrodes. Electrolysis

then passes either silver or

copper ions into the water

where the silver disinfects

and the copper prevents

algae growth.

PURIFICATION AND BALANCEElectrolysis of metals does purify but it

does not chemically balance the water. See

SPASA Fact Sheet No.5 to correctly balance

the water. Silver and copper residual levels

can be measured; however the registration

authorities require maintaining a chlorine or

chlorine free disinfectant residual as well.

The metal ions kill algae and bacteria but they

do not oxidise organic waste. It is therefore

necessary to ‘shock treat’ or ‘super chlorinate’

the pool to oxidise any build up of organic

waste and maintain disinfecting action.

Note that dissolved metals may stain a pool

or spa, or discolour the water. Always keep

the copper and silver residual levels within

the manufactuer’s recommendations.


FACT SH E ET 10 • F I LTE RS

Innovative designs and a focus on quality, make Australia a world leader in pool & spa filtration.

The task of the filtration system is to pump

the water from the pool, pass it through

some form of filter medium and return it to

the pool in pristine condition.

SAND FILTERSBy far the most popular option, these units

force pool water through a tank filled with

finely graded sand. As it passes through, the

impurities attach themselves to the grains

of sand. The larger particles are trapped at

the surface of the sand bed and the finest

particles are collected deep inside the bed

where the grains are more tightly packed.

BACKWASHINGOver time, the accumulated impurities will

restrict the flow through the filter and the

pressure gauge will indicate backwashing

is required. This process can be controlled

by the filter’s multiport valve. Once set to

‘backwash’ this valve will reverse the water

flow and send the unwanted particles down

the ‘waste’ line.

After a minute or so, the water should be

clear again. Usually a sight glass will allow

you to monitor the process. Some filters

even allow for automatic backwashing and

this ensures the filter is always at peak

efficiency, even if it has been left unattended

over winter for example.

DIATOMACEOUS EARTH (DE) FILTERSThe water clarity achieved by a DE filter is

quite remarkable, but there is a downside.

DE filters are both more expensive to buy

and more work to maintain.

The DE medium is actually fossilised

diatoms, which are not unlike coral. When

crushed they create a very fine powder and

each grain has microscopic holes running

through it to trap even the finest particles.

It’s added to the filter by mixing with water

in a bucket and pouring the slurry into the

skimmer box.

Once inside the filter, dacron pads, septums

or tubes trap the DE material to form layers

or cakes of DE, and these cakes then begin

to trap the particles in the water flowing

through.

Backwashing is the same as it is for sand

filters but here the DE material is also

flushed away and a new slurry needs to be

added after the backwashing is complete.

For the system to operate efficiently, the

septums will also need to be removed and

hosed down once or twice a year. Pads can

clog at times and using granular chlorine

as a sanitiser can cause a calcium layer to

build up on the pads. So maintenance is

greater but the brilliant end result may be

well worth it.

CARTRIDGE FILTERSAs the name implies, these filters use a

man-made cartridge as the filter medium.

Folded into the tank like a concertina,

the filter material has a surprisingly large

surface area. The principle does not

involve a backwash line so they don’t need

connection to the sewer or waste line. This

makes them ideal for spas and areas where

disposal of waste is an issue.

They can be installed before the pump, and

if necessary inside an oversized skimmer

box when space is restricted. Cleaning is

simply a matter of removing the cartridge

and hosing it off, although having a second

cartridge to use while the clogged unit is

soaking overnight in a cartridge cleaning

solution is recommended.

There are many factors to consider when

selecting the type of filter that’s best for

any installation and it is wise to seek the

advice of a SPASA Pool Builder or Pool Shop

Member.


FACT SH E ET 11 • SOLAR H EATI NG

Increase the use of your pool by up to six months using the free energy of the sun.

Solar systems may vary, but the basic

principal remains the same. Pool water is

circulated through a series of tubes (the

collector) usually mounted on the roof,

where heat is absorbed and the heated

water is then returned to the pool. The

collector can be of either EPDM Rubber,

PVC / TPR material or UV stabilized

polypropylene and is usually supplied in

multi-tube “strips” or panels.

The amount of heat absorbed and the

resultant increase in pool temperature

depends on the size or area of collector

and number of tubes per square metre, the

location or positioning of collector and the

control system used.

SIZE OR AREAThe size of the collector is usually expressed

both in square metres, and as a percentage

of the surface area of the pool. Australian

Standard 3634 suggests a minimum

collector area equal to 60% of the surface

area of the pool, but only in ideal, hot

climate conditions. SPASA recommends

a minimum area of 80% for the majority

of installations. And if higher than average

water temperatures, or extended swimming

seasons are required, then a larger system

may be necessary.

Note that the “area” referred to in relation to

collector size is the area of actual collector

strip NOT the roof onto which it is placed.

LOCATION & ORIENTATIONCollectors (other than those on flat roofs)

should ideally be on north or west facing

roofs. If not, more collector area might be

needed. Avoid shade from objects ie. trees,

neighbouring houses, etc for at least six

hours every day.

PUMPING REQUIREMENTSYou can choose to use either the existing

pump or provide a dedicated pump. With an

existing pump remember:

a) the minimum flow rate for filtration must

be maintained.

b) the filter’s operating pressure should not

be pushed above the manufacturer’s

maximum.

c) the pump should have sufficient capacity

to handle the static head and friction

losses introduced by the addition of the

collector circuit.

The average solar system needs a flow

rate of at least 100 to 200 litres per minute

to operate effectively. So, in most cases a

dedicated solar pump is required.

Check the flow rate of the collector

when selecting your pump

as this will vary with the

diameter of the tubing

used.

To avoid blocking up the

collector with dirt and

debris, use a dedicated

pump with some form

of strainer.

SOLAR CONTROLLERSNobody knows when the sun will shine so

time clocks are of little use in solar heating

systems. Instead, a temperature-sensing

controller will operate the system only when

heat can be gained.

Using a pool blanket can increase the

benefits of solar pool heating. See SPASA

Fact Sheet No.14 on Covers & Blankets.


FACT SH E ET 12 • GAS POOL H EATI NG

Increase your swimming season and the value of your investment.

The ideal pool temperature is around 25 to

28 degrees celsius, but this is very rarely

achieved naturally.

The average unheated water temperature

in most of Victoria is 13 degrees and only

reaches 18 – 20 degrees for short periods

during the swimming season. Gas heating

can quickly and efficiently heat your pool to

a comfortable temperature at any time.

Your swimming season can be as long as

you like, and the value gained from your

substantial investment in your pool will be

much greater.

Increased availability of natural gas and LPG

has made it a popular form of swimming

pool heating. It’s always available and can

be closely regulated so it’s ideal for use on

both pools and spas.

HEATER RATING (SIZING)The gas energy consumed by a gas heater

is measured in Megajoules (MJ), and the

energy output rating is in Kilowatts (kW).

Smaller heaters are in the range of 60

to 100MJ and range through 250 up to

500MJ. The output ranges from 15 to

110kW.

WHAT SIZE HEATER SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?Selecting the right heater depends on a

number of factors. You need to consider the

size of the pool and / or spa, the maximum

temperature you want and how long you are

willing to wait for it to heat up.

If you have a pool / spa combination

remember to consider both when deciding.

Spas usually need to be heated more

quickly and to a much higher temperature

than pools, so select a heater with this in

mind. If only a pool is being heated, it is not

as critical to heat it quickly, so perhaps a

smaller heater could be considered.

CONTROLSAll gas heaters are fitted with thermostatic

controls. These range from simple

mechanical thermostats to sophisticated

digital controls with temperature and status

read out. Heaters connected to pools

and spas must have a safety high limit

thermostatic control with a maximum set

temperature of 42 degrees.

Controls range from the basic to the very

sophisticated. Seek expert advice and

consider your budget, lifestyle and most

importantly, what will best match the way

you want to use your pool and / or spa.

INDOOR OR OUTDOORINSTALLATIONHeaters can be installed indoors but require

special fluing and may require additional

ventilation specifically designed to suit the

size and type of heater to be used. Never

install a heater designed for outdoors

inside unless the appropriate flue is fitted

in accordance with the manufacturer’s

instructions.

Heaters should always be installed on a

stable, non-combustible base, preferably a

minimum of 50mm above ground level.

Spa blowers must be located a minimum of

1.5m from outdoor gas heaters, and never in

the same plant room as indoor gas heaters

unless separate ventilation is provided.

COST EFFECTIVE ANDCONVENIENTGas pool and spa heaters are very cost

efficient. Running costs are relatively

inexpensive. On pools, these can be further

reduced, in summer, by incorporating a

solar heating system and, all year round by

using a pool blanket to stop overnight heat

loss.

See SPASA Fact Sheet No.14 on Covers &

Blankets.


FACT SHEET 13 • ELECTRICAL POOL HEATING

Heat pumps are super efficient - just 2kW of electricity can produce 6 to 10kW of heat.

Heat pumps have been used for pool

heating for many years, although mainly for

commercial users. The lowering cost of the

technology sees it now playing a far more

significant role for the home pool owner.

For the technically minded, heat pumps

gather heat from the surrounding

atmosphere by drawing heat through the

unit - it is then transferred to the refrigerant

where the temperature is increased by

compressing the refrigerant.

That heat is then transferred to the pool

water. In this way, heat pumps are a

powered form of solar heating.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY IS THE KEYElectric heat pumps are extremely energy

efficient. They consume very little electrical

energy to operate, and produce much more

in the form of heat. For example, if a heat

pump consumes 2kW of electricity it will

produce 6 to 10kW of heat energy.

SIZINGPool Heat Pumps range from 6kW to 300kW

output. Which one suits your application

will depend on careful consideration of the

following factors:

• Location – local climatic conditions will have a bearing on performance.

• Target temperature – it’s your choice, however as a guide: - exercise and / or fun pool 24 to 28 degrees C - therapeutic exercise 28 to 35 degrees C - spa pool 34 to 38 degrees C

• Pool volume – the amount of water to be heated can be determined by multiplying the surface area in square metres by the average depth (including wading areas and spa).

• Shading and exposure to wind – these can effect the heat losses and gains of heated water.

• Pool position – indoor or outdoor.

• Swimming season – do you want to swim all year round or just extend the season?

INSTALLATIONHeat pumps are usually installed outdoors

since they extract heat energy from the

surrounding air. If installed indoors, they

require large volumes of intake air, and

the discharge of chilled air must be vented

outside away from the unit. Positioning

of the heat pump should be carefully

considered so that noise levels create

minimal disturbance.

Plumbing can be included as part of the

pump / filter network, or as a separate

heating circuit. Average size domestic

installations generally require a single-

phase electrical connection. Larger pools

may require three phase power. Where

available, time-of-use or off-peak electricity

tariff connection will further reduce running

costs.

CONTROLAll heat pumps should have some form

of flow control device to prevent the unit

operating without adequate water flow. All

are thermometrically controlled with either

analogue dial type units to microprocessed

digital devices. These types all control the

pool temperature to your desired setting with

the digital devices displaying the settings

more clearly.

Some manufacturers also provide additional

controls including time clock and / or pump

interlock to ensure the most economical

operation of the heat pump / pool pump.

The addition of a pool blanket is strongly

recommended. See SPASA Fact Sheet

No.14 on Covers & Blankets.


FACT SH E ET 14 • COVE RS & BLAN KETS

A cover can save water, reduce heat loss and keep out leaves & debris.

A pool and spa cover performs a multitude

of tasks. Stopping evaporation and keeping

the pool and spa clean are the most

obvious. They can keep out the dirt, dust,

airborne micro-organisms and even the

sunlight that promotes algal growth. Some

covers can actively warm the pool while

others aid in heat retention.

SAVING WATERAll covers will significantly reduce

evaporation and are highly recommended.

KEEPING IT CLEAN

In winter, high winds blow debris into the

pool and in autumn leaves from overhanging

trees can fall into an uncovered pool.

Almost all covers and blankets will help keep

this material out of the pool. Mesh covers

are specifically designed for it. They allow

rain water to pass through while leaves

and other debris are trapped. The mesh

is lightweight, strong and held in place by

anchor ropes.

BUBBLE BLANKETSThe most common pool covers are blankets

of tiny, transparent bubbles that are

designed to trap sunlight and warm the

pool. At night a floating bubble blanket also

reduces evaporation thereby reducing heat

loss and chemical consumption.

As bubble blankets are regularly moved on

and off the pool, a roller is very useful.

And once on the roller, their solar efficiency

is so great they need to be covered if they’re

out in the sun to stop them overheating.

THERMAL BLANKETSThermal blankets are designed to insulate

the pool overnight by reducing evaporation

and convection heat loss. They can reduce

pool heating time and costs by reducing the

time it takes to reheat a pool in the morning.

Less evaporation also saves water and

chemical consumption. It can also reduce

condensation on indoor pools. They are not

as thick as a bubble blanket, but a roller is

still almost mandatory.

SLAT COVERSThe latest covers are made up of slats that

roll out onto the pool surface very much

like a horizontal garage roller door. When

fully extended across the pool the slats lock

together to form a barrier that can support

the weight of a small child or a small pet.

Another variation achieves much the same

result using a sturdy material supported

by metal rods at regular intervals. Being

thermal insulators, both these options also

operate like a thermal blanket, in that

they reduce overnight heat loss

and evaporation.

Slatted covers are usually installed during

construction. They are built into an

underground pit at one end of the pool and

appear and disappear through a slot that is

the full width of the pool. They can also be

retro-fitted to existing pools.


FACT SH E ET 15 • CLEAN I NG SYSTE MS

A sparkling clean swimming pool is a joy, and with today’s technology,it’s no chore to keep it that way.There are a number of different types of

cleaning systems, and it’s a matter of choice

to find the one that fits your requirements

and your budget.

You could of course, choose to manually

vacuum your pool on a regular basis - but by

far the most popular choice today is to use

one of the many portable cleaning systems

or a built in cleaning & circulation system.

Broadly, these can be broken into four

categories.

1. Suction Cleaners

2. Pressure Cleaners

3. Electric Self-Propelled Cleaners

4. Built-in In-Floor Systems

SUCTION CLEANERSIn most cases, these systems are designed

to plug into the pool’s skimmer box, and are

powered by the filter pump. They vacuum

the floor in a random pattern, picking-up

debris, and placing it in the skimmer basket,

for later emptying.

Most manufacturers usually recommend

they be removed during swimming times.

PRESSURE CLEANERSThese cleaners are designed in most cases

to use a separate boost pump. They take

some of the filtered water from the pool

return line, boost the pressure, and return

it to the cleaning system. This filtered high-

pressure water is then used to jet into every

corner of the pool. They use venture action

to vacuum debris into a bag or their own

body for later emptying. This method puts

no load on the filter system which makes

it especially useful in very leafy situations.

Most manufacturers recommend they be

removed during swimming times also.

ELECTRIC SELF-PROPELLEDCLEANERSAs the name suggests, these cleaners are

independent devices, operating under their

own low voltage power. They travel the entire

floor of the pool, sweeping and vacuuming

debris, which they pick up and carry in their

own body. They have their own pump and

drive motor as well as a small built-in filter,

which cleans the water before returning it

back into the pool.

This type of cleaner is more suited to

commercial pool operators, as they can

install them at night, after the pool has been

closed for the day, and remove them the

following day.

IN-FLOOR CLEANING SYSTEMSAn in-floor cleaning system is central to

a low maintenance pool - the ultimate in

pool ownership. Not only do they clean the

entire pool, including steps, seats and swim

out areas, they improve heat distribution,

chemical distribution and general

circulation.

Some in-floor cleaning systems

require a separate pump,

while the most energy

efficient systems operate

from a single pump in

conjunction with the

pool’s filtering system.

All in-floor systems pump water through a

valve to sequential groups of pop-up floor

and step nozzles. Water returns to the pool

through these nozzles and directs debris

towards collection points for removal.

The decision to install an in-floor cleaning

system must be made well in advance.

Systems are built into concrete and

fibreglass pools during construction and

should only be installed by accredited

builders backed by a reputable system with

computer designed plans.

Once installed, an in-floor cleaning system is

virtually maintenance free and will keep your

pool spotless. Some pool owners prefer to

turn the system off during swimming.

However, there is no requirement to do so,

as there are no hoses in the pool.


FACT SH E ET 16 • CH E M ICAL CONTROLLE RS

Automatic controllers can now monitor and adjust pool chemical balance with a high degree of accuracy.

Automatic Chemical Controllers are

designed to take the potential for human

error out of the chemical management of a

pool or spa.

They automatically measure and accurately

control the set levels of sanitiser (chlorine or

bromine) and pH balance, the two chemical

components of pool & spa water that require

constant attention.

Manufacturers claim that they reduce

waterborne infections and that constant

small doses mean no chemical smell or

taste. Backwash water can then be used for

watering your garden or lawn.

AUTOMATIC CONTROLConditions in and outside the pool or spa

are always changing and that affects the

demand for sanitiser and pH balance. On

hot, windy days, when the pool or spa is full

of people, the demand for sanitiser is far

greater than on a cool overcast day with only

one person in the pool or spa.

Chemical controllers are truly automatic.

They are programmed to consistently

monitor and maintain chlorine and pH levels

at all times whilst the system is running.

SET-POINTSMost modern controllers are very user

friendly. You can usually adjust the set

points by pressing a touch pad button on a

clearly marked faceplate. These set points

are the levels you select to achieve the

correct chlorine and pH level in your pool

or spa. Once the levels are set, the unit will

automatically maintain those set levels.

PROBES AND SENSORSSome controllers use two sensors, one for

chlorine (ORP) measurement and the other

for pH.

Others combine both into one probe

containing both the ORP and pH sensor.

In both cases the probes sense sanitiser

levels, pH and transmit these signals to the

controller.

DOSING SYSTEMSChlorine and acid, which are readily

available from pool shops, are injected

into the water either by dosing pumps or

solenoid valves.

DOSING PUMPSGenerally, peristaltic pumps are used. They

employ a squeeze tube system and the

tube will eventually need to be replaced.

With higher pressures there can be issues

with the injection point back pressure.

Diaphragm pumps are more expensive but

can inject into higher pressure applications

and are claimed to be more reliable,

especially with automatic bleed valves fitted.

SOLENOID VALVESThese are very reliable and low

maintenance, with only two moving parts.

They require suction to operate. Installation

is before the filter, on the suction side of the

circulating pump, or after by using a venture

system.

MAINTENANCEThe modern Automatic Chemical Controllers

are very low in maintenance requirements.

If an adjustment or calibration of the unit

is required, this can be easily carried out

by untrained persons by just following the

prompts on the controller screen. Probes

do not generally require regular cleaning in

domestic situations.


FACT SH E ET 17 • SPA MAI NTE NANCE

Regular maintenance and common sense will ensure the full benefits of your personal spa.

A spa pool can enrich your life. They can ease tired and aching joints and muscles. And observing just a few simple rules should ensure that you always feel better for the experience.

Spa owners must aways put safety first, please refer to Fact Sheet 2 & 4.

HEALTHY GUIDELINES• Keep the temperature below 40 degrees.

A range of 26 to 36 degrees is ideal.

• Children must be supervised at all times when either in or near the spa or hot tub.

• Spa use should be restricted to approx 20 minutes to avoid stress.

• Never put your head under the water.

• If you have any physical ailments, see your doctor before using a spa or hot tub.

• People with heart or blood pressure problems and pregnant women should seek a doctor’s permission beforehand.

• It is extremely important to ensure alcohol is never consumed while using the spa.

HEALTHY WATERIt’s best to change the water every three to four months, or replace about one-third of the volume every three to four weeks.

Being hot changes the treatment regime for spa pool water. Properly applied, chemicals will keep it clean and healthy eradicating all viruses, bacteria and algae.

Your Spa retailer or local SPASA Pool Shop can provide a test kit and advice on its use.

It’s best to test the water before each use or weekly when not used. Always allow one hour before using the spa after adding chemicals to the water. Regularly check Total Alkalinity, pH and sanitiser (Chlorine or Bromine) levels.

TOTAL ALKALINITYThe range is between 60 to 150ppm (parts per million), with 80 to 120ppm recommended.

TESTING PHThe pH level measures acidity or alkalinity and it is measured on a scale of 1 to 14 with 7.0 being neutral. Below 7.0 is acidic, and above is alkaline. Incorrect pH levels can cause poor chlorine or Bromine efficiency, eye and skin irritations, corrosion of metal fittings, cloudy water and the formation of scale on the pool walls and fittings.

It should be above 7.0 when measured at room temperature to avoid possible corrosion of equipment, and lower than 7.8 to ensure sanitiser efficiency. The recommended range is 7.2 to 7.6. It can be increased by adding soda ash and reduced by adding acid, always test again after one hour.

SANITISINGChlorine or Bromine can keep your spa free of harmful micro-organisms. Ozone may also be used, but there is no residual so chlorine or Bromine must be used in conjunction with it.

Salt water chlorinators are generally designed to chlorinate swimming pool water volumes and may produce excessive chlorine when used on spas. If choosing a salt chlorinator, ensure it is designed and sized to produce the correct level of chlorine required to sanitise a spa.

CHLORINE FREE SANITISERSFor people who have developed an intolerance to chlorine, or who live with Asthma, there are sanitisers that do not contain chlorine and that are registered by the Australian registration

authority, further details at www.apvma.gov.au. These products include Biaguanide, Hydrogen Peroxide and Hydrogen Peroxide with Silver Nitrate (the latter two are liquids and can be automatically dosed) The residual on Hydrogen Peroxide based products is several days.

CHEMICAL DOSAGEThe amount of disinfectant required depends on water temperature and on how many people use it and how often. Very hot water consumes the sanitiser very quickly so check the level regularly when in use. Chlorine must be kept at 2 to 3ppm, Bromine at 3 to 4ppm and Hydrogen Peroxide 100ppm.

After heavy use, the water should be shock dosed with sanitiser or chlorine free oxidiser weekly.

Be sure to check the level again before use. And if the spa or hot tub is not being used, add sanitiser every day to prevent contamination.

GENERAL MAINTENANCEIt is important to keep the filter and pump clean. Clean the filter regularly and empty hair and lint from the pump as often as required.

Store chemicals in a cool dry place and always OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN. Never mix chemicals together and never add water to chemicals - only add chemicals to water.


FACT SH E ET 18 • WATE R FEATU RES

Today’s pools are created with more than just swimming in mind. With a little imagination and some professional guidance you too can create your own oasis.The soothing sights and sounds of running

water have been intriguing people for

generations. Even before Roman times, man

has been inventing ways to move water to

create beautiful effects.

Today, these effects are created by two

types of water feature – the waterfall and the

fountain – and with modern technology, the

only limitation today is your imagination.

The number of “off the shelf” devices now

available gives the domestic swimming pool

owner a vast range of options.

WATERFALLSProbably the most popular water feature

today is still the waterfall. These can be

installed in raised walls or rock mounds,

and are the ideal way to draw attention away

from those less attractive features of the

backyard - the boundary fence, the service

area, the clothes line, etc.

Many of the smaller waterfalls will run off

the filter pump. So there are no additional

running costs. Larger features may require

separate pumps to operate.

Manufacturers of the “off the shelf” units

can provide the flow rates required so you

can design the perfect system for your

requirements.

Waterfalls can be divided into two

categories.

The more formal or structured systems

involve a sheet or fingers of water that

cascade in a very controlled and stylized

manner. Most commonly, the water falls

from a long pre-fabricated slot, or from holes

in a wall, down into the pool.

The less formal type or natural waterfalls

are constructed in situ and involve water

tumbling over rocks into the pool.

FOUNTAINSThere are numerous forms and styles of

fountains today. Some of the more formal,

cascading systems may require a separate

section to be added on to the pool.

However there are many single or multiple

stream water jets that can be mounted in

the pool wall, or even in the pool coping.

These styles can be made to arch up, over

and into the pool, creating both a stunning

visual effect and the relaxing sound of

tumbling water.


FACT SH E ET 19 • POOL L IG HTI NG

Enjoying your pool shouldn’t be limited to daylight hours. Maximize your investment by installing pool lights.

Many of us do not have time to swim during

daylight hours. Installing underwater pool

lights allows you to swim safely and enjoy

your recreation time in the pool at night.

Your pool and spa are a feature in

your garden. Without lights, your pool

feature becomes a black hole at night.

A comfortable ambience can be created

using lighting. At night your pool can be

transformed from a swimming centre to a

tranquil, relaxing entertaining area.

WHAT LIGHTS ARE AVAILABLE?Underwater lights are available in two styles.

You can install a Surface Mounted Light or a

Flush Mounted Light, commonly known as

a Niche.

The Surface Mounted Light is installed on

the side of the pool wall. Which brand of

light you choose will help to indicate how far

the light will protrude from the pool wall.

The Flush Mounted Light is installed inside

the pool wall and exposes only the face-plate

of the light, therefore it sits flush against

the pool wall with minimal protrusion. It

is always advisable to discuss which style

of light is suitable for your pool with your

chosen SPASA member.

HALOGEN VS LED Once you have chosen the exterior of your

light you will then need to decide whether the

pool light internals should be a Halogen globe

or an LED. Light output for either of the above

varies according to the brand of light, and

should be discussed in detail with the SPASA

member, light manufacturer or builder.

The difference between the two: When

choosing Halogen lights, a higher wattage

always produces a brighter light - the only

way to produce more light is to use more

power. By comparison, one of the key

benefits of high quality LED technology

is the ability to deliver more light while

using less power (compared to Halogen

technology).

As technology evolves, lights are becoming

brighter while their energy consumption

remains the same or even reduces.

Therefore, it is possible for an advanced

10W LED light to have a noticeably higher

light output than a less advanced 20W LED

light. The technical term for this is Luminous

Efficacy – how many lumens of light are

produced for every Watt of power used. A

common mistake is selecting an LED light

based on lumens or watts alone. LED light

selection should be based on Luminous

Efficacy to ensure that you get both a bright

and efficient LED for your application.

MORE INFORMATION All underwater lights require a waterproof

rating of IPX8 and new installations must not

exceed 12V A/C or 30V D/C.

Your light must be water cooled at all

times. It must never be turned on

unless it is completely submerged

in water, otherwise damage will

occur. Cable size and cable

length have an effect on voltage.

Extending or reducing supplied

cable lengths can alter the

performance of the light. If you

are unsure contact the light

manufacturer.

Always ensure your lights are positioned,

installed and accessible, leaving enough

cable length behind the light for ease of

servicing. The depth of the light should be

between 300 to 400mm from the top of

the coping, any deeper will make the light

difficult to service.

Use your pool light at least fifteen minutes

per week. This will aid in removing any

excess moisture within the light cavity and

increase the longevity of your globe.

Positioning and quantity of lights is

important. Safety for swimmers at night

should be taken into consideration when

positioning your lights. To maximize and

create pleasing effects seek advice from

the underwater light manufacturer or your

chosen SPASA Pool Builder Member.


FACT SH E ET 20 • MAI NTE NANCE

Consider a regular maintenance program as insurance to protect the life of your pool and equipment.

A regular maintenance program can provide

the following benefits to the new pool owner.

PREVENTIONRegular check-ups or visits allow the pool

shop and service department to come to

you. This is usually done on a monthly basis,

but can be as frequent as fortnightly and

weekly during the peak swimming season.

Generally it is organised as required to

achieve the best possible performance

for your pool water quality and equipment

function.

Make sure the Pool Service technician that

performs your regular maintenance visit is

SPASA trained and qualified to service and

repair your pool or spa investment.

Filtration equipment performance and new

finish protection can be enhanced with

regular check-ups, to correct faults before

expensive replacement is required.

HEALTHY LONG LIFECorrect water balance and salt levels are

required to maintain healthy water for

bather comfort, sanitiser performance

and equipment protection. Many new

rendered pool interior finishes require

strict chemical level control to ensure the

maximum life expectancy and good looks

are retained. Regular visits by a SPASA

trained pool technician will achieve this

task and will provide the correct mineral

and salt additions, “no more and no less”

to save wastage and the storage of bulk and

hazardous chemicals.

Your maintenance visits can be tailored to

the use of the pool and spa. You may choose

to increase visits during the swimming

season to achieve maximum use, but still

maintain regular visits during the off season

when neglect can cause unseen equipment

and interior pool surface damage.

ALWAYS READYYour new swimming pool and spa is

an entertainment area; your family and

friends deserve to have a healthy and safe

environment to enjoy for the maximum time

weather conditions allow.

The pool can be kept in tip top condition, so

it is always ready when the hot weather hits

or the special pool party is arranged.

The best advice on heating your pool is

readily available to save time and money,

but most importantly to get the most use

from your pool and spa.

Pool systems are becoming more

sophisticated with automatic control units,

heating systems, and filtration and dosing

systems installed. Regular check-ups like

your car maintenance, ensure that the

chance of breakdown is dramatically

reduced. However, if something does

fail, attention is usually super

quick, as your SPASA trained

pool professional is intimately

acquainted with your system’s

operation and is dedicated to

return the pool back to full

operation.

POOL SERVICE

P O O L S H O P


Ideas for how you can actively conserve water while still enjoying your swimming pool or spa.

SPASA has developed the Water

Neutral Pool Program as an

industry “best practice” guide

for consumers. A Water Neutral

Pool utilises both water saving

and water harvesting devices to

ensure that it is water-wise.

Purchasing a new pool that is

Water Neutral, or retro-fitting an

existing pool, will generate real cost savings

through reduced chemical, water and

energy use.

The Water Neutral Pool Program is

explained on Page 12 or check out the full

story at: spasavic.com.au

It’s not as challenging as you may think,

all you need is a tank, pool cover and a

backwash minimising system.

HOW CAN I PREVENT EVAPORATION?Evaporation is a major cause of water loss

from your swimming pool. It is important to

remember that most evaporation occurs in

the early evening and can be prevented by

covering the pool’s surface.

COVER YOUR POOLThis lowers the pool’s temperature,

decreasing evaporation while also preventing

debris from falling on the pool surface. By

preventing sunlight from penetrating the

water, you will also reduce the amount of

chemicals needed to keep the pool clean.

Pool covers are generally more expensive

than blankets. They cover the whole pool,

preventing up to 95% of evaporation,

compared with a blanket where there may

be gaps between a blanket and the edge of

a pool.

Pool blankets are an affordable option,

available in bubble plastic or foam, which

float on the surface of the water.

Liquid pool covers are another alternative

available for those who don’t want to hide

their pool water with a cover or blanket. The

chemical forms a barrier on the surface of

the water which inhibits evaporation by up

to 40%.

INCREASE SHADE By covering the pool area with shade you

can further reduce evaporation as well as

protecting swimmers from sunburn.

PREVENT WIND EXPOSURE Wind contributes to evaporation. To reduce

water loss, adjust the landscape around

your pool with walls and hedges that create

shelter from the wind.

TANK TO POOL SYSTEMSInstalling a rainwater tank is a great way

to reduce the use of mains water in your

swimming pool. For more information on

rainwater tanks visit savewater.com.au

Rainwater diverters are an inexpensive

alternative to installing a tank. They attach

to a downpipe and can be used to divert

rainwater into your swimming pool. You

should consult a plumber about storm water

diversion.

WHAT TYPE OF FILTER SHOULD I USE?Sand filters require backwashing which, if

you backwash every week in summer, can

use up to 5000L of water every year. It is

recommended that you purchase a cartridge

filter if you are installing a new pool or

replacing the filter. Cartridge filters do not

require backwashing to be cleaned so they

use less water. If you are not at a stage

where you can change to a cartridge filter,

there are secondary filter systems which

will allow you to return water used in back

flushing to the swimming pool.

HOW CAN I PREVENT LOSS OF WATER FROM SPLASHING?Avoid overfilling your pool. The water level

should be about half way up the skimmer

box opening for the filter to function

properly.

MAINTENANCE• Backwash only when necessary.

• Check regularly for cracks and leaks.

• Keep the pool and filters clean to reduce frequency of filter backwashing.

• If acid has been used to clean the pool, the water should be neutralised.

HOW CAN POOL CHEMICALS SAVE WATER?By maintaining the correct balance of

chemicals in your pool year round, you will

prevent your pool water from going green

over winter. This means you won’t need

to empty and refill the pool in spring. And

will also prevent you from having to discard

polluted water.

SPASA


www.spasavic.com.au

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