Category: Spectacular Pools

When Warwickshire-based Buckingham Pools installed an infinity pool and wellness suite in the UK’s first net-zero retirement community in Caddington, Bedfordshire, they naturally turned to their tried and trusted supplier, Certikin, for the all-important pumps and filtration.

Buckingham Pools was commissioned to design and build a contemporary level-deck indoor swimming pool with an integrated spa and fully tiled steam room. At 16.8 x 6.7m, the pool features infinity overflow edges and an air pad, back and calf-massage massage jets.

The pool’s cutting edge plant room equipment includes a state-of-the-art filtration system and the highly reliable, quiet Euroswim booster pumps, ensuring optimal performance and water quality, and all supplied by Certikin.

Regardless of the aesthetic requirements of a pool, it is nothing without sparkling, clear water and that all comes down to the quality of the filtration. Buckingham Pools chose Certikin’s SLX Bobbin Wound GRP Filtration. The SLX range of filters are the workhorse of a commercial pool and with a wide range, covering sizes from 1.05m through to 3.00m, and options for laterals and nozzles with various pressure ranges and accessories, any pool can be catered for. The standard SLX lateral version comes at 2.5 bar rating with commercial laser cut 50mm laterals making them robust for the commercial environment and all backed up with a 10-year warranty.

Richard Troman, design lead at Buckingham Pools, specified the equipment because of its recognised quality and robustness. “Our technical specifications prioritise the integration of these components to ensure not only compliance with, but the surpassing of client expectations in terms of operational performance and water quality standards.

“As Certikin is the UK’s leading supplier of premium products, service, and customer support, we naturally turned to them. With a demanding and complicated design and build project, such as this, working with the trusted UK market leader is of utmost importance.”

t. 01926 852351 | w. buckinghampools.com

This stunning pool in Essex went through many design iterations before the customer settled on a lane pool complete with custom made fountains. Calling on the services of the Holland-on-Sea family run, SPS Swimming Pools & Spas, the owner is delighted that their execution of the brief has surpassed his expectations.

“We were originally approached by the owner’s landscape designer with a request to build a water feature with a separate pond at one end,” says Ashley Spencer of SPS Pools & Spas. “Following further discussions, the plan then progressed to the construction of a 25m x1.8m lane pool with three eye-catching water fountains, designed and custom made in-house using clear pipe, to be hidden from sight.

As the main house was also under construction, SPS worked alongside the owner’s builder to construct the pool shell.

“Whilst the customer was initially unsure of what he wanted the pool to achieve, and thus look like, he and the designer were adamant they wanted it to be in-keeping with its surroundings. White fittings were ruled out for being too stark and the pool needed to have a dark finish to blend into the landscape.”

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 chosen liner was Elegance from the Renolit Touch Range. It proved to be a job of two halves as heavy rain stopped play for a while.

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. It comes with a 15-year pro rata warranty, but the life expectancy can be double this in a well maintained pool.

“The choice of pool fittings can make or break the overall impression and Certikin’s Optimus range was perfect for ticking the request for the pool to blend in,” says Ashley. Suitable for both liner and concrete pools, the Optimus range complements darker pool finishes as it comes in an attractive metallic grey or black plastic. Products include skimmer extension throats, wall inlets and vacuum points.

“The pool is lined either side with Cypress trees and shrubs. The challenge for SPS was to provide effective filtration and flow to quickly remove any fauna debris. We installed an Aquaspeed 1hp circulation pump, plus a variable speed Aquaspeed pump to control the fountains. We connected a control wire and circuit so the speed can be controlled remotely. We also installed a 130W Blue Lagoon UV. It’s all highly reliable equipment that does exactly what it says on the tin and gives me the reassurance that the pool won’t be hit with problems.

“The customer didn’t request any form of heating as it was initially intended that the pool would be an ornamental focal point, one which the grandchildren could, on occasion, take a dip in. However, such is the lure of the garden’s new addition, the owner has now taken to swimming every morning and discovered that cold water swimming is a life-restoring revelation. He can’t wait for the water to get colder in the winter!

“Certikin is our choice of supplier because it offers an extensive range of high-quality equipment that over the years, we have come to know and trust. In addition, its staff demonstrate an impressive array of product knowledge. Having faith in contracted teams (such as the on-site lining team) to work on your project is incredibly important. Finally, if ever there is any problem, it’s addressed quickly and effectively.”

t. 01255 818381 | w. spspoolandspa.com

When Shrewsbury-based Salop Pool Services were called in to refurbish this tired old pool in Clun, South Shropshire, the race was on to get it completed in time for the owner’s special birthday celebrations.

The original inground concrete pool was leaking and coated in a dark green paint that over time had begun to flake and degrade. Space within the pool was not being used to its best advantage as part of it was portioned off by a wall.

Director of Salop Pool Services, Carly Rogers, takes up the story: “The pool was re-rendered and tiled using large format jungle green tiles with a mosaic tile band. The family are very into their fitness and asked us to extend the pool widthways to accommodate a flushed automatic safety cover (Coverstar) to make it 9.3m x 3.5m with a constant depth of 1.6m. The pool was re-shaped into how it looks today.

“With small children and pets in the family, safety was of utmost importance. There’s only one safety cover Salop Pools recommends, and that’s Certikin’s Coverstar.”

The Coverstar is a seamlessly integrated cover system – super-easy to operate and provides maximum safety (complies with French safety standard NFP90- 308) without compromising the pool’s appearance. The system features unparalleled strength. Supporting the weight of children, pets and even adults, it uses the exclusive Ultra Guard III vinyl composite, rather than the industry-standard vinyl, popular with other manufacturers.

The high level of UV resistance offered by Ultra Guard III considerably reduces the level of colour fading compared to standard vinyl, plus it has high resistance to chlorine, acid, ozone and other pool chemicals. Furthermore, instead of using sewn webbing (which often proves to be the weak area of the cover), Coverstar uses an exclusive patented process to heat seal the webbing, prolonging the cover’s life and improving the overall quality operation. Independent tests show this process is more than twice as strong as competitors’ webbing sewn to the cover. The heat-sealed webbing is also colour matched to the fabric to create a beautiful finish.

There are a variety of pit covers to choose from, including composite decking and heavy-duty pit trays in which stones can be laid, plus the Coverstar is supplied with a low-profile leading-edge bar, UK sourced power pack and UK sourced touch button key switch.

Salop Pools built a shelf on the pool’s internal walls for the safety cover and then ingeniously installed PU2 LED mini lights into the shelf for dramatic night-time effect.

Heating is supplied via a Calorex IPAC- 22 heat pump. The I-PAC/V-PAC inverter heat pump range is designed in the UK specifically for the UK climate, eco-friendly and carries an impressive 5 year on site parts and labour warranty.

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 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.

Other Certikin products featured on the pool include: 24” Vision top mount filter; Aquaspeed 1Hp pump; Plant Room Shield and salt chlorinator.

Carly says: “The pool took about six months to complete as the client made a lot of changes throughout the build, but we are delighted to say, we made the special birthday deadline. Certikin is our favoured supplier because its customer service is second to none. It’s a strong reputable company that supplies almost everything required in the pool industry.”

t.  01743 588484 | w. saloppoolservices.com

Tasked with constructing a new 20m by 8.5m swimming pool for the Astley Cooper School in Hertfordshire, the Buckingham Pools’ sales and design team turned to its trusty supplier, Certikin, to supply the filtration, heating, and chemical dosing.

Completed in May, pupils and staff have been putting this impressive pool through its paces and have already awarded it top marks for the performance.

“The pool’s shell construction proved challenging, coinciding with a really hot spell of weather and the team working in very humid conditions,” says Richard Sharman of Buckingham Pools. “Working under a scaffold crash deck obstructed the pool entirely and proved a very confining exercise. A solid static water test and first-fix pipework followed before the rendering and screed stage. Our construction and engineering team rose to the challenge, to ensure the deadline was met and they even managed to complete the tiling and plant room ahead of schedule.

“Equipment was selected on the basis of performance and longevity. Our design team conduct a comprehensive product investigation to ensure commercial standards are met whilst verifying the suitability for the scale and complexity of each pool build. As it’s the leading supplier of premium products, service, as well as customer support, we naturally turned to Certikin” says Rynoux Du Preez, the Sales Manager at Buckingham Pools. “With a demanding and complicated design and build project, such as this, working with the trusted UK market leader is of utmost importance.”

Regardless of the aesthetic requirements of a pool, it is nothing without sparkling, clear water and that all comes down to the quality of the filtration. Buckingham Pools chose Certikin’s SLX Bobbin Wound GRP Filtration. The SLX range of filters are the workhorse of a commercial pool and with a wide range, covering sizes from 1.05m through to 3.00m, and options for laterals and nozzles with various pressure ranges and accessories, any pool can be catered for. The standard SLX lateral version comes at 2.5 bar rating with commercial laser cut 50mm laterals making them robust for the commercial environment and all backed up with a 10-year warranty.

Certikin supplied a Euroswim Booster Pump – highly reliable for water circulation and filtering, it is also extremely silent. The Euroswim series is available in three versions.

Buckingham Pools also turned to Certikin for its chemical dosing in the shape of a complete FLOC or PAC dosing solution. FLOC, or Flocculant, is a liquid that is added into a pool improving the filter efficiency and, in turn, the water quality. FLOC works by bonding together small particles in the water making them much larger and easier to trap in the filtration system.

t. 01926 852351 | w. buckinghampools.com

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