Pool & Spa News articles from June 2005

Pool & Spa News archives from June 2005

Region 3 set to depart from APSP.(MAKING NEWS)
June 6, 2005... In a move that could have industrywide repercussions, Region 3 has notified the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals that it will "disassociate" from the national organization. Region 3 officials issued a statement to the press on May 3,...

National superstores launched.(MAKING NEWS)
June 6, 2005... Premier Leisure Living, LLC, a joint venture recently created by a west Coast pool builder and an East Coast retail store, has announced the national launch strategy for its chain of backyard superstores. Premier Pools and Spas Inc. and...

The old and the new.(REFLECTIONS)
June 6, 2005... History can be really dull. I remember a college class where the professor made us memorize the exact order of U.S. presidents elected during the Gilded Age (1875-1913) as well as their running mates. How boring! The class managed to suck the...

Retailer's dilemma.(LETTERS)(Letter to the Editor)
June 6, 2005... Not long ago, a customer walked into my retail store and said, "I can get the same black algaecide next door at the grocery store. I thought you said it was professional grade." I was shocked to discover that my distributor was selling the...

Lessons from the Donald: here are our five favorite business lessons from Donald Trump's hit show, 'The Apprentice.'.(MAKING NEWS)
June 6, 2005... When the last episode of "The Apprentice" (Season 3) aired May 19, Donald Trump gave finalist Kendra Todd what will probably be the biggest break of her career. However, choosing between "book smarts" Kendra and her competitor, "street...

Baker speaks out against suction entrapment.
June 6, 2005... Nancy Baker recently made an appearance on an NBC-TV news affiliate in Washington, D.C., decrying the government's lack of suction entrapment prevention measures. Baker lost her daughter, Graeme, at a pool party in 2002. The 7-year-old was...

Pentair is puttin' on the Ritz.
June 6, 2005... Pentair Water Pool and Spa, a Sanford, N.C.-based manufacturer, is once again offering its Partners Incentive Program. The program aims to reward dealers for their loyalty to the Pentair line of pool and spa equipment. This year, the program...

New IAF holds first board meeting.(MAKING NEWS)
June 6, 2005... The International Aquatics Foundation held its first Board of Directors meeting May 5, marking an important phase of the former National Spa & Pool Institute's reorganization. After NSPI emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in October 2004,...

Small-business owners sound worried.(MAKING NEWS)
June 6, 2005... Small-business optimism readings continued to slide in April, falling to 99.8. That's nearly three points lower than March's 102.5. The index peaked last November, but has been dropping ever since. Experts said the trend is typical of a...

Arctic Spas wins 'Business Oscars'.
June 6, 2005... Blue Falls Manufacturing, the Canadian maker of Arctic Spas, won two 2005 International Business Awards for individual achievement in April. CAD manager Pete Van't Hoff earned an award as Best Product Developer for his work on new spa models...

Jacuzzi dedicates new center in China.
June 6, 2005... Jacuzzi Brands Inc. has dedicated a new engineering and sourcing center in the city of Zhuhai, China, near Hong Kong. The April ceremony was attended by Jacuzzi President/COO Donald C. Devine, as well as Zhuhai Mayor Wang Shun Sheng. The new...

FSPA victorious in pool alarm debate.(MAKING NEWS)
June 6, 2005... There's more than one way to get a law passed. Just ask the Florida Swimming Pool Association. The ongoing debate here over hard-wired pool alarms vs. battery-operated models was finally settled last month. State legislators passed a bill...

New-home building surges.(MAKING NEWS)
June 6, 2005... Housing starts bounced back this April, surging up 11 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 2.04 million units. This rise comes after March's drop to 1.84 million units, which experts say were weather-related. "Following lackluster...

Patent battle stirring up LED industry.(MAKING NEWS)
June 6, 2005... Two LED lighting manufacturers are embroiled in a trademark battle that some believe could change the course of the LED industry. It has the trade so up in arms that several producers have formed an alliance to oppose one party. The issue...

Spatex 2006 rescheduled.
June 6, 2005... Organizers of Spatex 2006 have rescheduled the British pool, spa and sauna trade show. Originally slated for Feb. 12-14, 2006, the exhibition now will be held Feb. 5-7 at the Hilton Brighton Metropole Exhibition Centre in Brighton. For more...

Architect charged in Russian Waterpark tragedy.
June 6, 2005... Russian prosecutors have filed criminal charges against the architect who designed Moscow's Transvaal Waterpark, where 28 people died after its roof collapsed last year. Authorities believe the construction design and materials used are at...

CPSC updates entrapment guidelines.(MAKING NEWS)
June 6, 2005... The Consumer Product Safety Commission has updated its "Guidelines for Entrapment Hazards" to include more modern-day options for prevention. The newest version comes after approximately two years of research and writing. CPSC held two...

Leading economic index slips again.(MAKING NEWS)
June 6, 2005... The U.S. Leading Economic Indicators Index dropped again for the fourth consecutive month. As of April, it stands at 114.5, a 0.1 percent drop from March. Analysts attribute the decrease to consumer expectations, real money supply and the...

The long journey home: a new film by Yaron Zilberman chronicles the heroic struggles of a Jewish women's swim team under Nazism.(PEOPLE)
June 6, 2005... It was summer 1936 in Vienna, Austria. Adolph Hitler was in power and the Berlin Games were fast approaching. Many Viennese had gathered to watch the Olympic torch pass through their historic city on its way Germany. Crowds cheered as...

ISHOF announces new CEO.
June 6, 2005... The International Swimming Hall of Fame recently appointed Bruce Wigo as president/CEO of the Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based organization. The appointment is the first of many steps to restructure ISHOF after months of controversy, which forced...

Hydro Spa names Collins sales V.P.
June 6, 2005... Mark Collins was appointed vice president of sales at Hydro Spa Inc. in Clearwater, Fla. Collins will work on developing new business and be responsible for supervising the spa manufacturer's team of regional sales managers. He is a 26-year...

Spectrum aquatics hires Sutherland, white as managers.
June 6, 2005... Two people recently joined the team at Spectrum Aquatics in Missoula, Mont. Lee Sutherland was named engineering manager for the manufacturer of commercial aquatics products. Sutherland will be responsible for product management and programs...

Caudill earns APSP Eagle Award.
June 6, 2005... Dirk Caudill, president of Aqua-Flo, LLC, is the 2004 recipient of APSP's Eagle Award. It recognizes CaudiU for his "commitment and service to the advancement of the hot water industry" and for "embodying an overall spirit of pride and...

Arch honors employees.
June 6, 2005... Arch Chemicals Inc. awarded its first Inventor of the Year Award to Craig Waldron, a technical service applications specialist at the company's research center in Cheshire, Conn. Waldron was honored for his involvement in earning six patents...

Hayward recognizes Putscher.
June 6, 2005... Hayward Pool Products Inc. acknowledged veteran employee Paul Putscher for his 20 years of service to the company. A senior district sales manager, Putscher has worked to develop Hayward's market share and customer base in Texas since...

Mastering scale: scale is not just a device for drawing a map or measuring gravity's pull. It's a crucial part of design success.(DESIGN CORNER)
June 6, 2005... If you want to stop a veteran designer in his or her tracks, ask how to approach scale and proportion. There is no right answer. Appropriate scale changes with each concept, site, client and designer. While often used interchangeably, scale...

The demanding one: chlorine demand is the bane of a service technician's existence. Learn what causes it, and how you can head it off at the pass.(TECHNICALLY SPEAKING)
June 6, 2005... "Feed me!" was the chilling cry of It Seymour, a giant, flesh-hungry plant in the musical classic "Little Shop of Horrors." Some pools are just like this carnivorous creature. But instead of human flesh, they want more and more chlorine....

Stainless steel waterfalls.(NEW PRODUCTS)
June 6, 2005... by CustomCascade Features: company introduces these stainless steel waterfalls that are intended to add soothing sounds to a pool or backyard environment; products also are available in brass and copper, as well as ABS plastic; the plastic...

Safety turtle for pets.(NEW PRODUCTS)
June 6, 2005... by Terrapin Communications Features: this safety system consists of a base station and a small, color-coded sensor that attaches to the pet's collar, if pet falls or ventures into the water, an ear-piercing alarm is sounded from the base...

Hot raft floating hot tub.(NEW PRODUCTS)
June 6, 2005... by Innisport Products Features: floating hot tub is designed for fast, easy setup and storage; heated water continually flows into the unit through eight medium-pressure jets, giving the user a sensation similar to a traditional spa;...

Chlorine generator/water filter combination.(New Products)
June 6, 2005... by Intex Recreation Corp. Features: new Krystal Klear chlorine generator and 2,000-gpm filter pump combination (inset) is engineered for use with aboveground pools; chlorine system requires salt; incorporates a self-cleaning,...

Potted rock waterfalls.(New Products)
June 6, 2005... by Soothing Elements Features: custom-designed, handcrafted, rock waterfalls feature natural stone cemented on the inside walls of various terra cotta pottery forms; includes internal lights, self-contained submerged water-circulation...

Redesigned Web site.(New Products)
June 6, 2005... by Essentials Features: manufacturer's Web site features a dealer section with password protection, a wholesale and retail catalog, prices and a downloadable order form; home page features links to three four-color catalogs for spa owners;...

OmniPod.(New Products)
June 6, 2005... by Rain Drop Products Features: inground component is made to easily facilitate changeable waterpark features above and below the surface; engineered for the company's low-maintenance Spraygrounds and water playgrounds; installed flush...

T7 diving system.(New Products)
June 6, 2005... by Inter-Fab Features: company presents this 7-foot diving board with optional lighted waterfall system; can be installed on Type I and larger pools; manufactured with 100 percent composite materials; diving board utilizes a controlled...

Artificial rock waterfeatures.(New Products)
June 6, 2005... by Replications Unlimited Features: new manufacturing process uses the latest in casting technology to create realistic-looking waterfeatures, per maker; products are made to be lightweight for easy transportation; the high-density polymer...

Pool management system.(New Products)
June 6, 2005... by WRKS Electric Features: EZ WRKS MAC Series management system incorporates controls for heater, cleaner, lights and a filter timer; red alert light warns pool owner of any potential problems; control panel includes 100-hour backup...

Water treatment solutions.(New Products)
June 6, 2005... Features: company has redesigned its SeaKlear line of pool and spa water treatment solutions and added new products, including the SeaKlear natural clarifier, phosphate remover, chlorine-free shock and algae prevention and remover ...

Custom maintenance kit.(New Products)
June 6, 2005... by Swimline Corp. Features: Hydrotoo[s custom maintenance kits can be manufactured to special requirements; items available for inclusion: vacuum hose (all grades and sizes), telescoping poles, dispensers, inground vacuum heads,...

The old West: for nearly 90 years, Pulliam Aquatech Pools witnessed the evolution of the Texas pool industry. Here's a firsthand account of its highs and hardships.(STATE of TEXAS)
June 6, 2005... This article is the second in an ongoing series investigating the Texas pool industry, its opportunities and challenges. If you want to tease Barry Pulliam, tell him he's got chlorine in his veins. The CEO of Pulliam Aquatech Pools in Fort...

The golden oldies: as America's pools grow older, they present service technicians with a brand-new set of challenges.
June 6, 2005... Americans have been installing swimming pools since the start of the 20th century. They began building them in earnest after World War II. Many of the nation's pools are now aging--some gracefully, while others struggle to remain viable....

What's in your water? Our exclusive shows which chemicals are most popular with service technicians and why.(SURVEY: Chemicals)
June 6, 2005... Gas and chlorine prices continue to rise, but an overwhelming number of pool and spa service firms say the increases are offset by a boost in their overall revenues. In a recent survey on chemical use, conducted exclusively for Pool & Spa...

Automatic air bleeder.(Portable Spas)
June 6, 2005... by Acura Spa Systems Features: company introduces product that's engineered to automatically bleed air from the spas heater plumbing Contact: Acura Spa Systems Inc., Riverside, Calif. (951) 684-6667 Circle 440 on Postage-Free Card...

Max air spa blowers.(Portable Spas)
June 6, 2005... by Air Supply of the Future Features: air blowers are designed for quiet operation with new, high-performance motor, available in 1-, 1.5- and 2hp models Contact: Air Supply of the Future, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (800) 848-3077 ...

The Flo-Master XP series booster pumps.(Portable Spas)
June 6, 2005... by Aqua-Flo Features: XP2, XP2e and XP3 models are available; continuous rated horsepower of 1.5 through 4; one and two speeds; 48-or 56-frame motors; 2- or 2 1/2-inch inlets and outlets; 50 or 60 Hz Contact: Aqua-Flo, LLC, Chino,...

Spa fragrances.(Portable Spas)
June 6, 2005... by Adrienne Faith & Co Features: Fragrant Customs spa fragrances and mineral crystals are offered in an assortment of cases, as well as acrylic counter displays that hold 36 sample bottles; 12 fragrances are available; new Trio Giftsets...

Polar bear spa motors.(Portable Spas)
June 6, 2005... by A.O. Smith Electrical Products Co. Features: company introduces new line of motors designed for hot tubs; includes patent-pending electronic silent switch located at top of motor along with capacitor for better ventilation; class F...

Aromatherapy products.(Portable Spas)
June 6, 2005... by Arch Water Products Features: company's aromatherapy products include original "being" for the spa or bath, body mist for after-spa and candles in five blends; new body mist is a hydrating lotion that is sprayed directly on skin;...

Electronic spa controls.(Portable Spas)
June 6, 2005... by Aeware Features: water-resistant electronic controls for spas and hot tubs; accessories also are offered, including spa heaters and audio solutions designed to perform under high levels of humidity and temperature variations ...

E-Z SpaOM.(Portable Spas)
June 6, 2005... by APi Pure Water for Life Features: spa chemicals are for use with ozone, mineral purifiers or traditional sanitizers; a few ounces a week creates clear spa water, per maker Offerings: sample offerings; start-up kits; marketing aids...

Frontier ultra spa.(Portable Spas)
June 6, 2005... by Arctic Spas Features: company presents this portable spa that includes shuttle seats, a face-to-face lounger and a waterfall Contact: Arctic Spas, Thorsby, Alberta, Canada (877) 777-1577 Circle 432 on Postage-Free Card ...

WhiteWater XS 1068 spa.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Baja Spas Features: new portable spa seats six to seven people; includes 50 therapeutic jets; lounger with healing foot-and calf-muscle jets; multiple Turbostream frontal jets; the Kleen H2O System; sealed and pressurized 24-hour...

SpaMonitor.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Balboa Features: wireless control turns on spa lights, monitors freezing conditions and temperature, and has an alert function Contact: Balboa Instruments Inc., Tustin, Calif. (714) 384-0384 Circle 430 on Postage-Free Card ...

Spa water-care system.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by BaquaSpa Features: bromine- and chlorine-free spa water-care system uses a patented, three-part process with waterline control, oxidizer, and sanitizer with stain and scale control; product is EPA-registered, per maker Contact:...

578L spa.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Barefoot Spas Features: product is a two to three-person spa; LED lighting and an ozone generator come as standard features Offerings: in-the-field technical support; marketing consultations Contact: Barefoot Spas, Richmond, Va....

Multiple-spa delivery system.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by BCI Mfg. Features: SpaDolly multiple-spa delivery system aids in loading and unloading by using a linear motion system and a portable electric winch; works in conjunction with the original SpaDolly trailer Contact: BCI...

Model 538 spa.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Beachcomber Hot Tubs Features: spa incorporates 20 WaterPorts, up to 68 jets and an electronic management system; has a four- to five-person capacity Offerings: co-op advertising; free digital ad artwork; marketing support; online...

Aluminum safety covers for spas.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Be-Lite Features: aluminum spa covers are UL-classified to meet ASTM standards, per maker; seven designer colors; also offered are three sizes of spa lights from 2 to 5 inches with various plug-in lighting options; air blowers in two...

Spa essentials cover wipes.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by BioLab Features: wipes are designed to remove dirt and buildup from spa cover in an effort to restore its luster; 25 wipes per dispenser Contact: BioLab Inc., Lawrenceville, Ga. (800) 959-7946 Circle 424 on Postage-Free Card ...

Model 552C spa.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Bullfrog Spas Features: portable spa has a five-person seating capacity, with the following seat types: two buckets, two loungers and a recliner; full-foam insulation/PolyBase sealed bottom and EternaWood cabinet finishes come standard...

Step 'n stow spa steps.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Byron Originals Features: company offers these spa steps, which are designed to be maintenance-free and include lockable storage Contact: Byron Originals Inc., Ida Grove, Iowa (712) 364-3165 Circle 422 on Postage-Free Card ...

Duality spas.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Cal Spas Features: this series of spas is intended to offer convenience by plugging into standard household outlets with no special wiring required; eight models comprise the line, which features the GE Dually 110 pump Contact: Cal...

Portable spa.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Caldera Spas Features: company offers the Elation portable spa with surround-sound backlit waterfall, two jet pumps, 41 jets, circulation pump, CD ozone and EcoTech cabinet; seats six Contact: Caldera Spas, Vista, Calif. (800)...

Spa accessories.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by California Design Group Features: line of maintenance-free spa accessories includes storage steps, side bars, benches, garden furniture and planters in a wide range of colors to complement spa manufacturer's products Contact:...

FunScents.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Capo Industries Features: line of spa fragrances is designed to soothe and moisturize the skin; water-soluble, alcohol-free formulas do not affect the pH level or clog filters, per maker; new fragrances include Honey-Mango, Sea Spa,...

Portable spas.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Clearwater Spas Features: portable spas incorporate the Genesis salt sanitation system, ozone, advanced digital lighting (aka ADL), Endurawood cabinets and Dura Floor; ADL illuminates waterfalls (shown) and other spa components ...

The mirage spa.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Coast Spas Features: designed with g0 Trillium jets and powered by dual 7hp Monster Flow pumps; options include the Home Theater Series with 17-inch LCD, DVD/CD player and surround sound Contact: Coast Spas, Langley, British...

Spa bar and bar stools.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Confer Plastics Features: company offers a 74-inch resin spa bar and bar stools; all-resin construction is available in three two-tone color combinations: redwood/warm gray, taupe/warm gray and gray/ warm gray Contact: Confer...

Cover genie.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by The Cover Valet Features: company presents this spa cover lift that is intended to be long-lasting, simple to install and convenient for user Contact: The Cover Valet, Cerritos, Calif. (800) 730-7727 Circle 414 on Postage-Free...

Spa fountain.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Custom Molded Products Features: unidirectional spa fountain has a 100 percent adjustable spray nozzle; comes with four interchangeable nozzles; single, triple, cross and spray shower; can be illuminated with up to five single LEDs or...

Thermal covers.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Custom Spa Covers Features: four grades of spa covers from which to choose, including fiberglass-reinforced models (shown); 12 color choices; free-form and multiple-piece covers also are offered Offerings: samples; brochures;...

The spa swing.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by DLP Industries Features: product is designed to add a hammock to owner's spa; attaches to all portable and inground spas, per maker; adjustable for raising or lowering user below the water Contact: DLP Industries, Boise, Idaho (208)...

All season storage steps by essentials.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... Features: spa storage steps are available in two sizes and 12 colors; product is made from heavy-duty polymer construction and maintenance-free, per maker; microthin air cushion provides a no-slip feel Contact: Essentials, Cumming, Ga....

Spa pad.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by EZ Pads Features: prefabricated two-segment spa pad for placing under self-contained spas and hot tubs; designed to provide a solid, 3-inch-thick foundation; made of an all-weather polymer for various climate conditions; available in...

Covers.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Florida Spa Covers and Vinyl Specialties Features: 1- and 2-pound, lightweight, walk-on and custom spa covers; virgin foam cores; UV- and mildew-protected marine vinyl, per maker Offerings: fast turnaround on orders; volume...

Look! It's Bob!(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by GLB Pool & Spa Features: designed to absorb scum; constructed from material originally developed to clean up oil spills; product floats and can be reused; compatible with GLB and Rendezvous water-care products Offerings: online...

Forte spa.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Great Lakes Home & Resort Features: portable spa has fold-down drink holders, neck jets, molded head cushions and 24 jets; two new Aqua Rail waterfalls, which act as waterfeatures and handrails; a topside storage compartment keeps ice...

Rubadub tub.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Great Northern Engineering Features: hot tub is 44 inches deep and has adjustable seating and customized jet packages; standard and custom sizes are available Contact: Great Northern Engineering, Minneapolis (763) 566-3623 ...

Atlas spa.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Hawkeye Spas Features: portable spa has ergonomic seating for up to six adults and 47 jets Offerings: in-the-field technical support; marketing consultations Contact: Hawkeye Spas, Richmond, Va. (804) 231-7727 Circle 404 on...

Portable spas and hot tubs.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Honey Tubs Features: manufacturer offers hot tubs and portable spas with sound systems and remote controls Offerings: free delivery Contact: Honey Tubs Inc., Mohnton, Pa. (610) 856-6051 Circle 403 on Postage-Free Card ...

Replacement spa parts catalog.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Horizon Spa and Pool Parts Features: catalog features an array of replacement spa parts and accessories from various manufacturers; pool parts catalog also is available Contact: Horizon Spa and Pool Parts, Tucson, Ariz. (800)...

Spa check 3 in 1.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by Industrial Test Systems Features: company presents this three-in-one spa water-testing system that checks for bromine, total alkalinity and pH Contact: Industrial Test Systems, Rock Hill, S.C. (800) 861-9712 Circle 401 on...

Aromatherapy fragrances.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by inSPAration Features: 52 spa fragrances offered within three product lines; new 4-ounce tri-pack and blister pack with 12 inSPAration fragrance selections, Hydro Therapies, Wellness line, Spa Pearls spa and bath crystals, and...

ColorGlo portable spa light.(Portable Spas Marketplace)
June 6, 2005... by J&J Electronics Features: multicolor portable spa light is available in two models; fits most 12V AC wedge-based sockets; lasts more than 100,000 hours, per maker; 10 lighting modes, including two multicolor modes Contact: J&J...