Author: Catherine Saunders

Taking full advantage of the breath-taking views that the Monmouthshire countryside affords, this beautiful pool, constructed by Gloucestershire-based Aquascape Swimming Pools Ltd, required little adornment. Demonstrating that simple designs are the best, this hillside pool more than fulfilled the brief to keep it “pared-back and timeless.”

“The client came to us on the recommendation of an existing customer of ours,” says Aquascape’s MD, Lee Turley. “He’d been considering installing a pool for a while, and after the lock down of 2020 and 2021 decided now was the time. The brief was to build a classic, timeless concrete and tiled pool to capture the amazing views; somewhere for the family to entertain and where their three sport-fanatic sons could exercise and work-out.

“The 12m x 4.2m constant depth pool may give the illusion of simplicity, but its design and four-month construction proved far from straight-forward. We had to cut into the hillside and put the excavated earth under a retaining wall in order to construct a porcelain stone terrace.”

From its Aquaspeed filtration pump, six PU6 underwater lights and white ABS fittings to its Calorex extended summer season heat pump, Roldeck PVC white slatted automatic cover with Iroko pit cover, the pool bears the Certikin hallmark.

“Having worked with Certikin for over 30 years we knew we could rely on them to help us complete this fantastic project to the highest of standards,” says Lee. “Always suppling the best quality products, coupled with fantastic customer service and technical support, are the reasons we choose to work with Certikin.”

t. 01453 886952 | w. aquascapeltd.com

Certikin’s Calorex I-PAC and V-PAC inverter heat pump range is designed in the UK specifically for the UK climate. They are eco-friendly, carry an impressive 5 year on site parts and labour warranty and are available exclusively in the UK from Certikin.

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

Inverter heat pump technology allows for efficient control of the pool temperature with the I-PAC/V-PAC only using the energy required. High efficiency with modulating step-less inverter compressor gives an average COP of 10.3 (I-PAC+), 9.7 (I-PAC) and 10.7 (V-PAC), which is twice as efficient as the traditional on/off models. Complying with the European F-Gas regulations, the heat pumps use the low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerant R32. It requires less refrigerant volume per kW and is easier to recycle.

Roldeck – as stylish as it is functional

The ultimate in energy saving, evaporation control and durability, the Roldeck offers a wide variety of installation options, plus of course creates an attractive finish to any pool.

Each Roldeck is made to measure for new or existing pools with the coiling mechanism installed above or below ground or in the pool itself. In an above ground installation, the protective roller cover can be reinforced to create a bench. Touch pad type switch and remote control for easy calibration and operation, a safety lock available for new builds and the ability to interlock with the air handling system (indoor pools), are just some of its outstanding features. Rainwater will pass through the cover and not collect on the top and it, of course, minimises pool debris.

Roldeck’s standard PVC slats come in white, blue, cream, grey, solar, and transparent (with a blue tint). The solar option, with a black base, collects heat from the sun and transfers it directly into the water, greatly reducing heating costs. The translucent slats allow under water lighting to shine through.  In addition to the PVC range, there is a choice of 6 Eclipse® Polycarbonate Slats to choose from – 3 with solar gain, plus the crystal-clear version and all with a 5-year pro-rata warranty. The Eclipse® range includes a special layer of UV protection, plus a new chamber design to help prevent algae formation.

Powered by a 24 volt In-Roller Motor system (negating the need for a separate motor pit) features Formula 1 shock absorber seal technology and built-in pressure sensor and a concealed stainless steel motor driven spindle.

Elite Swimming Academy Ltd was recently presented with the Small Business of the Year title in the prestigious Cambridgeshire Live Business Awards 2022. A key to its success was this once-derelict swimming pool which, with the help of local pool installer, Aqualeaf, and a host of
Certikin equipment, was transformed into a smart all-year round facility, thus becoming a major component of this innovative business.

As a company that offers expert swimming tuition for all ages and abilities throughout Cambridge and Suffolk, Elite Swimming Academy is reliant on the provision of warm, clean, private swimming pools. As the Academy’s founding director – English and Irish Solo Channel Swimmer, Ed Williams, says: “Part of our success is predicated on providing warm, inviting environments in which our pupils feel secure and comfortable to learn in.”

This dilapidated school pool in Cambridgeshire is a fine example of the Academy’s ability to identify a pool’s potential and, employing the right team and equipment, transform it into a pool that meets their exacting requirements.

The Academy turned to Huntingdon-based Aqualeaf to do the refurbishment, with Certikin supplying all the main ingredients. The major restoration began with the installation of a welded on-site liner which was crowned with an Aquacomet enclosure to make it an all-year round facility.

A fine liner

Certikin’s site-applied lining option was an obvious choice, given its speed of installation and its long-lasting tailor-made finish and durability. The Infinite on-site lining range uses a 1.5mm – 2mm three ply product compared to the traditional single ply 0.75mm vinyl used for factory made liners. The service is quick and efficient – taking around four working days for an average sized hopper pool with steps and there is no curing or standing period.  It’s suitable for both new and old pools of domestic and commercial size and can accommodate complex shapes, steps, ledges and pits. The longevity of the product, when compared to thinner linings or paints, is a major advantage, particularly for commercial pools. It comes with a 15-year pro rata warranty but the life expectancy can be double this in a well-maintained pool.

Undercover

Making the pool weather-proof and extending the pool season were top priorities for the Academy. An enclosure also decreases the amount of chemicals needed and reduces water evaporation and heat loss.

Certikin offers a huge range of enclosures, suitable for any pool size or shape and with a variety of colour options and styles. Ranging from low-level enclosures to the full-height fixed style with wood effect finish, there is something for application. The Academy chose an Aquacomet endless summer enclosure measuring 17m x 10m which they bolted on to a custom-built changing block.

Safety is, of course, a number one priority for any swimming school and enclosures have a number of proven safety benefits. This model comes with a secure locking system, making it almost impossible for children to be in the pool unattended. Slips and falls can also be reduced by keeping the surrounding ground covered from ice and rain.

Certikin offers a free site survey, available on request if the quotation is acceptable. Installation is included for all enclosures with the exception of the AQ Box DIY which offers the option of installation or supply only.

The Academy’s shopping list also included: Thermal cover and roller; Calorex I-PAC (Y range) – 22kw single phase March-Nov heat pump; Alpine Filter; pipes and fittings; skimmers; main drain with anti -vortex grille; PU6 White Led liner; Certikin 120VA transformer; Bowman; Monitair; Blue Lagoon; Mini Led Liner Pools; Mini LED Receiver; and WiFi Controller

Taking 20 weeks to complete, the derelict pool was transformed into a state-of-the-art indoor facility, complete with luxury changing facilities, toilets and showers, that the Academy is justly proud of. “The pool has come a long way from when we first visited it at the start of this journey,” says Ed. “We are delighted with the end product and are actively looking for further opportunities to replicate the model.”

t. 01223 930291 | w. aqualeaf.co.uk

t. 01223 633699 | w. eliteswimmingacademy.co.uk

…says Steve Preece of Warwickshire-based Preece Pools. A long-term customer of Certikin and a fan of the one-stop shop approach to buying, he’s a great believer that you get what you pay for.  Nestled in the rolling Warwickshire countryside, this beautiful pool is a fine illustration of why Certikin is the company’s supplier of choice.

The house renovation and extension complete, the owner turned his attention to landscaping the sprawling garden. An old swimming pool had been filled in some 15 years ago but the house’s new owner wanted to start afresh with a new location for a new pool.

Callling on the services of local pool installer, Preece Pools,  a new site was carefully marked out but, as the best laid plans so often go awry, the initial dig managed to hit the foundations of the old pool so the 10m by 4m pool had to be moved another 2m in order to miss it. The bumpy start behind them, the shell was soon complete and Certikin’s on-site lining team were called in to fit the eye-catching 3D Athena liner.

Certikin’s site-applied lining option was an obvious choice, given its speed of installation and its long-lasting tailor-made finish and durability. The Infinite on-site lining range uses a 1.5mm – 2mm three ply product compared to the traditional single ply 0.75mm vinyl used for factory made liners. The service is quick and efficient – taking around four working days for an average sized pool with steps and there is no curing or standing period.  The longevity of the product, when compared to thinner linings or paints, is a major advantage, particularly for commercial pools. It comes with a 15-year pro rata warranty but the life expectancy can be double this in a well-maintained pool.

The ‘Certikin-hallmarked pool’ was completed in just five weeks and further enhanced with the addition of an adjacent summer house, housing a hot tub, glass fronted bar, changing room and plant room.

“This pool is testament to what can be achieved with Certikin equipment and the expertise of my colleague, George Alexander Smith, who put a lot of time into this pool. I believe in the ‘buy once, buy well’ philosophy,” says Steve, “after all, you get what you pay for. With Certikin, you know that the quality is assured and you’re buying the best in the marketplace. Not only that, you get full technical and service back-up which is priceless, particularly if you’re working on a challenging installation. The process is seamless and joined up because you’re buying everything from one source.”

Equally delighted with the end result is the pool’s owner and he loves the fact that, wherever he is in the world, he has at his fingertips, the control of the pool’s heating and lighting.

t. 01788 819344 | w. preecepools.co.uk

Preece’s Certikin shopping list

Lighting the way – At night, the pool comes into its own with the PU2 Mini LED colour changing light system which offers a choice of colours and shades, programmable lighting sequences and is dimmable. It can be used as a stand alone light, or in multiples.

The PU2 Mini LED Light was recently introduced in a liner as well as concrete pool version. Available in both RGBW and white, these highly efficient lights are easy to install, have a high output and the neatest of finishes. The RGBW version is controllable via a smart phone using the free app. In liner applications, like this, the light screws into a standard Certikin inlet fitting leaving an attractive, clean finish.

When three becomes one – The pool is fitted with a Walu Starlight 3 in 1 cover.  First and foremost, a safety cover, it is manufactured to the stringent French NF P90-308 safety standard. In addition, the Walu offers solar and heat retention benefits and acts as a first-class winter cover.

The most unique feature of the Walu is its modular design.  Unlike other safety covers, where the whole system needs to be replaced if it is damaged, all individual parts on the Walu cover are replaceable. The cover’s panels and anodised aluminium tubes can easily be exchanged on site for new pieces, restoring the cover to its original standard. All fabrics are of a reinforced flexible composite with an anti-abrasion treatment and all fittings are stainless steel.

The Walu is easy to install and operate. This one features a Walu-Power motorised winding system which makes removing the cover effortless.  The Walu-Power is a fully rechargeable system which needs no maintenance and is suitable for all in-ground pool cover sizes.

Current affairs

Adding another dimension to the pool, Preece fitted a Certikin counter current unit – an affordable option designed for small private pools. It is equipped with a 3 HP pump to create a counter-stream of water and, being adjustable, it is suitable for swimmers of all abilities. The directional inlet allows a 15-degree inclination in any direction and also features an adjustable air/water mixer for a relaxing bubble massage effect.

Hot topic

With the owner looking to use the pool all year-round, Steve knew he needed to install a reliable and cost-efficient heating system. A 22 kW Calorex I-PAC inverter heat pump, designed in the UK specifically for the UK climate, fitted the bill nicely.

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

Complying with the European F-Gas regulations, the heat pumps use the low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerant R32. It requires less refrigerant volume per kW and is easier to recycle. They are eco-friendly, carry an impressive 5-year on site parts and labour warranty and are available exclusively in the UK from Certikin.

Up to speed

An Aquaspeed 3 HP pump is Steve’s pump of choice. The latest model, which is exclusive to Certikin, has an upgraded motor providing even more efficiency. The pump has a solid clear lid for simple inspection of the basket and comes complete with quick connect unions for ease of installation and a 316 high grade mechanical seal. The single piece fibreglass filled pump body ensures maximum strength and durability. It is available in a range of sizes from 0.5hp to 3hp and features a hydraulically efficient impeller and diffuser for maximum hydraulic output whilst minimising turbulence.

The engine room of this striking pool and fitness suite, designed and built by Warwickshire-based Buckingham Pools for a luxury retirement development in Romsey, Hampshire, proudly boasts the Certikin name.

The health and wellness complex is built with versatility and functionality in mind to provide the residents with a relaxing facility in which to unwind. In constant use, the pool features a Fluvo Rondo counter-current unit supplied by Certikin.  The unit comes with separate rotary buttons to provide the desired setting for air and water adjustment.

Certikin also supplied the complete filtration system – two SLX filters and three Hydrostar circulation pumps providing a turnover of less than three hours to optimise the usability. Alongside the pumps, Certikin has also supplied three inverters to make them variable speed. Easy to install and programme, these inverters offer a potential cost saving payback of less than six months.

The pool, measuring 12m x 6m, is meticulously finished with large-format, marble effect tiles. With the perfectly edged built-in step-entry, the interior finish completes an elegant look with the stylish surrounding décor and marble feature walls to contrast with the exposed walnut wood-effect floor tiles. The underwater lighting installations enhance the relaxing ambience to offer daylong activity, whether swimming or lounging.

t. 01926 852351 | w. buckinghampools.com

Sitting on an 80-acre campus in the Cheshire heartland of Macclesfield, King’s School is renowned nationally for its excellence in sport.  When the governors of King’s made the decision to upgrade their sports facilities with a new 25m x 13m (1-2m depth) swimming pool for training, competitions and galas, Warwickshire-based Buckingham Pools quickly rose to the surface as its builder of choice. In turn, Buckingham chose its tried and trusted supplier, Certikin International, to provide much of the pool’s equipment.

Taking some eight months to design and build, the six-lane indoor pool is the jewel in the crown for a school that has in recent years produced pupils that have represented their country or been national champions in 22 different sports.

Certikin supplied the complete filtration system – two SLX filters and three circulation pumps providing a turnover of less than three hours to optimise the usability. Alongside the pumps, Certikin provided three inverters to make them variable speed. Easy to install and programme, these inverters offer a potential cost saving payback of less than six months.

Finishing off the swimming pool are Certikin’s gleaming stainless steel Gibraltar Rails ladders which come with anti-slip treads as standard.

Buckingham Pools offered a comprehensive QA package alongside its robust Design & Build methodology to ensure longevity and long-term assurance. Taking full responsibility for building the shell with shotcrete methodology resulted in exacting tolerances required over and above traditional concrete construction methods to ensure the pool complies with all the necessary standards.

t. 01926 852351 | w. buckinghampools.com

Displaying the brilliant craftmanship of West Sussex-based Fowler Swimming Pools, the multi-million-pound Spa Garden at Wickwoods Country Club, Hotel & Spa near Brighton was one of last summer’s success stories with the finished project exceeding all expectations.

Set amongst 22 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland within the South Downs National Park, the beautiful Spa Garden is part of an investment by The Hunter Group to establish Wickwoods as the leading lifestyle venue and private members club in the south. Given the brief to create a year-round facility, a sheltered sun deck with a swimming pool, hydro pool, bio sauna and heated loggia, Fowlers took their inspiration from a Nordic Spa.

Delighted with the result, Lee Goossens, MD of The Hunter Group, declared: “As a high-end residential and commercial developer, the collaboration between ourselves, Fowler Swimming Pools and Certikin has produced an exceptional facility, adding value to the underlying asset value and enhancing the client experience. The eye-catching, newly added outdoor swimming pool and hydro pool mean that members of the popular country club can now enjoy the mature woodland setting.”

Winning the contract to build Wickwoods’ indoor pool, it was natural that the task of constructing the outdoor spa should fall to Fowler Swimming Pools. Work commenced in early March but quickly came to a grinding halt due to the government’s Covid 19 lockdown. As restrictions were gradually lifted, work started again with the hard-working Fowlers team taking advantage of the clement weather to complete the project in August.

Instructed to get the facility up and running to make the most of the remaining summer without any further delay, Fowler turned to Certikin to supply its market leading NIVEKO bespoke monopool. A 9m x 3.6m x 1.4m insulated deck level overflow pool in white, featuring corner steps and a small beach area, topped off with an automatic, remote controlled slatted solar cover was duly selected. The cover is hidden in an integral cave for great aesthetic appeal – below ground and out of sight.

A NIVEKO technical consultant was on hand on the day of delivery to oversee the smooth installation of the pool into the pre-prepared hole. This is all part of the Certikin service package – what more can you ask for?

Proudly lying alongside the pool is a bespoke deck level spa. The enticing fully tiled mosaic spa (5m x 3.5m x 0.9m) features stainless steel fittings, a combination of 70 various sized water jets including air to give its users a therapeutic, all over body massage. To add atmosphere, the spa is fitted with mini colour changing LED lights.

Fowler used Certikin for much of the pool and spa’s associated equipment including a Calorex Pro-Pac air source heat pump for pool water heating; glass filtration media, automatic dosing system and UV system to keep the water sparkling clean, with training provided by Fowler Swimming Pools to Wickwoods staff.

Fowler MD, Tom Holman says: “We have a long-standing relationship with Certikin. The product range is second to none and, when considering the Wickwoods project, it was a no brainer. From the NIVEKO pool and the bespoke deck level spa to the filtration and heating equipment, the Certikin service was exemplary.”

The spa garden was completed in time for some late summer sunshine and was warmly received by Wickwoods’ members as a fabulous additional facility.

Lee Goossens added: “Whilst many members were excited, it is fair to say the majority were sceptical about the club investing so heavily in an outdoor spa facility. Now, without exception, members have fallen in love with this sensational facility, particularly so at this current time. ‘Heaven on earth; a different world; my retreat and my favourite facility’ are amongst many flattering comments. Our biggest concern was what would happen when the weather turned, would it still be as popular? With winter around the corner late October brought some dismal wet and windy days. Regardless, I’m delighted to report that just as many members wrapped up in their club gowns and headed for Wickwoods’ Thermal Utopia!”

t. 01403 864373 | w. fowlerswimmingpools.co.uk

When homeowner, Mr Cullen, converted the family’s stunning swimming pool in a village near Fethiye, in southern Turkey, from sand filtration to the revolutionary OC-1 filtration media, there was no going back.

There are beautiful pools and then there are really beautiful pools and this infinity edge pool, nestled in a backdrop of lush gorges overlooking the Yedi Burun (Seven Capes) coastline, with the sparkling azure sea lapping sun-bleached golden beaches, falls very much into the second category. When it was built, the T-shaped pool was fitted with a sand filter but owner Mr Cullen was unsure about the water clarity and found the sand became “clogged”, possibly by pool chemicals and, in particular, flocculants. He decided it was time to take action and conducted some internet research to find a solution to the problem and eventually discovered Certikin’s OC-1,” explains Mr Cullen. “The technology that OC-1 uses made sense to me as it is not dissimilar in concept (though very different in size and role!) to that used in the sewage plant at our home in Kent.

“The installation was very straight forward and, of course, filling the filter with the OC-1 could not have been easier. I am delighted with how it has transformed the functioning of my pool – its efficiency and the results the OC-1 filtration media achieves are outstanding.”

Certikin’s Pools Division Sales Manager, Neil Muscat, says: “For new filter installations, an OC-1 filter is the obvious choice. There are a range of filters available that come supplied complete with the lightweight OC-1 media. The filters are specially designed to work in perfect harmony with OC-1 and complement the amazing advantages it can provide.”

Unlike traditional methods that use entrapment, OC-1 Filtration Media works through settlement which means that the debris settles within the cells of OC-1 throughout the entire bed rather than being trapped on top of the media. This British manufactured filtration media has some exceptional benefits – by  replacing commonly used media such as sand and glass with OC-1 it is possible to filter with a constant flow between backwashes. Also, due to the reduced head loss within the filter it is feasible to use a smaller or variable speed pump/inverter and still maintain the same flow/turnover rate whilst at the same time significantly reducing the running energy costs.

When the spotlight fell on the completion of the £25 million world-class Andersonstown Leisure Centre project in west Belfast last year, the focus was on its six-lane pool and its three huge water slides. Less glamorous, but nonetheless vital to its success, is the plant room – the workhorse which houses Certikin’s filtration and water treatment systems installed by Northern Ireland pool contractor, Oak Creative Water Engineering Ltd.

Ranking as the biggest project in Belfast City Council’s £105 million multi-centred Leisure Transformation Programme, the Andersonstown Leisure Centre is an impressive facility by anyone’s standards. Eighteen months in construction, the £25 million cutting edge project, was created for maximum family fun and, as such, includes a 25m six lane pool with 50 spectator seats; a teaching pool; a water confidence pool for small children and toddlers plus a splash pool.

The WOW factor is supplied via three high speed water slides. Visible on the exterior of the redeveloped site on the Andersonstown Road, the three jaw dropping features comprise The Abyss – a drop slide where riders enter a capsule and prepare to be plunged into a literal abyss, with the floor disappearing below their feet. The Torrent – a slalom slide where riders in singles or pairs twist and turn on inflatable rings and lastly, the hairraising Vortex – a body slide taking riders to the bottom via terrifying twists and turns at high speeds. If that’s not enough, there’s also an exhilarating indoor surf simulator for those who want to learn to surf before trying it for real in the sea. Heavily used, high energy facilities like this naturally demand a premium quality, dependable and super robust filtration system. The project’s contractor Heron Bros appointed Newtownabbey pool contractor, Oak who, as long-standing customers of Certikin, selected nine heavy-duty TLX mild steel filters to do the vital job of maintaining crystal clear sanitised water: two TLX 2100, two TLX 1800, two TLX 1400 and three TLX 2600 were duly installed.

Oak’s Linda Bell says: “We have always found Certikin totally reliable with a service back-up second to none. If we encounter any problems we know we can turn to Certikin to provide support and advice. That’s priceless peace of mind, especially when it comes to a high-profile, prestigious installation like Andersonstown.”

 

Oak also installed Certikin’s Accu-Tab calcium hypochlorite system which, says Linda: “We consider to be a perfect water treatment system for a sizeable installation like this. It is very safe for staff, reduces maintenance and is very reliable. The beauty of Accu-Tab is that it can cope with any bathing workload – from a small hospital hydrotherapy pool to a 50-metre Olympic pool.” To cope with the needs of the 25m pool and three learner pools, Oak installed an Accu-Tab 3075 Power Base chlorination unit. The system consists of a PVC base, 4ft by 2ft, with a 20-gallon polyethylene tank mounted on the base. The Accu-Tab dry tablet chlorinator, holding 25kg Accu-Tab tablets is mounted on the specially designed tank. The tank has built in level switches and is connected to a special Burkert solenoid valve, all of which is operated on 24 volts which is very safe. The system is wired to the chemical controller, which also controls a Lowara 240 volt, booster pump. All the electrical controls are wall mounted at eye level for ease of access and the whole system is corrosion resistant.

Linda adds: “Accu-Tab saves such a huge amount of staff time. The duty manager simply has to refill the chlorinator with the large 3-inch Accu-Tabs, which takes about 10 minutes a day – a very clean procedure. It eliminates all hazards, blockages are non-existent and it is very economical! With no corrosion on the system, no chlorine dust, no overflowing of chemicals, no bund, no mixing tanks and equipment, no injectors to block, no metering pumps to default, no hoses to block/burst or blow off, no danger of chemical splashes – using Accu-Tab really is a no brainer and the water quality is superb!”

GLL, the social enterprise that operates Better leisure facilities on behalf of Belfast City Council, say the centre is on a scale “never seen before in the city”. Gareth Kirk, GLL’s Regional Director for Belfast adds: “While these are challenging times, we are confident that the Covid safe measures we have in place will mean that everyone can have a safe and enjoyable visit.”

t. 028 9085 4167 | w. oak-pools.co.uk