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Making Splash Pads & Spray Parks Safe

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Making Splash Pads & Spray Parks Safe

The importance of discussing the safety of splash pads and spray parks couldn’t come at a more important time. After the recent news of a child being killed by a rare brain-eating amoeba he caught a spray park, parents are concerned. Many want to know what is being done to make splash pads and spray parks safe for their kids. While this latest tragedy may be front page news, the concern has been ongoing for a while and seems to elevate with each reported death. Experts say better education is needed on both the proper maintenace of these structures and the guidelines those that use them must follow.

While contracting a fatal disease from an organism like Naegleria fowleri is still pretty uncommon, contracting water borne diseases is not. An outbreak of cryptosporidiosis occurred at Seneca Lake State Park in New York during the summer of 2005. Over 1,700 people may have been sickened, with 425 laboratory-confirmed cases and 1,374 probable cases reported. The water tanks that fed the 11,000 square foot spray pad were found to be contaminated with Cryptosporidium, a microscopic parasite that causes the diarrheal disease cryptosporidiosis. As a result, New York implemented emergency public health regulations to oversee the design and sanitation of similar water features throughout the state and many other satellite states began to institute similar measures.

Prior to that outbreak, in 1999 a diarrheal outbreak impacted 44 percent of visitors (an estimated 4,800 individuals) to a new spray park / water fountain at a coastal park. When health department inspectors performed their investigation of the spray park, they discovered that the water drained from the play area into an underground reservoir for recirculation. The issue was discovered to be the result of insufficient chlorination and a lack of a filtration system. The chlorine tab feeder had been empty for weeks, and the designers had omitted adding a backup sanitizing system.

Spray park regulation has been slow as agencies try to set guidelines. Photo Credit: Parrish Pools

Health Agencies Slow To Regulate

Because splash pad areas and interactive spray parks are still in their early stages, health agencies have not yet quite figured out clear rules for how water at these facilities ought to be treated. All spray parks and splash pads must be been constructed to ensure that contaminants can be cleansed and filtered out of the water.

Tom Parrish of Parrish Pools in Maryland is a commercial pool builder specializing in the construction of splash pads and spray parks. “We build them to the highest standards with redundant sanitation systems,” said Parrish, “unfortunately some of these older spray parks aren’t equipped with a secondary sanitizing system and those older parks should have their equipment checked often.”

Parrish also indicated that even the best automation systems and sanitizing systems do not negate parents of their own responsibility. “When using a splash pad or spray park, caregivers and children should both follow the safety rules” said Parrish, “it’s absolutely vital to reinforce that their children do as well. It’s incumbent upon adults to make sure that best practices are being followed, this includes all the standard rules like not peeing or defecating in the water, showering before entering the play area, proper disposal of swim diapers and things of that nature.”

Cryptosporidium is something to be mindful of when it comes to small children interacting with spray parks & splash pads.
Cryptosporidium is something to be mindful of when it comes to small children interacting with spray parks & splash pads.

Disease Control in Spray Parks & Splash Pads

The prevention of disease is an important problem that is bigger than the U.S. World wide cases of crypto have been increasing. Finland is a country reknowned for it’s healthcare system yet reported 571 cryptosporidiosis cases in 2020, almost 30 times as high as the figure in 2010. It’s a problem that can not only cost lives, but can cost businesses, builders, and operators millions. That same crypto outbreak we mentioned that occured in Seneca Lake prompted a class action lawsuit against the state for millions of dollars after cryptosporidium was discovered in the park’s holding tanks.

What is Cryptosporidium?

Crypto is a parasite that produces symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and weight loss. It spreads through feces in the water and takes about a week to be killed by chlorine. As a result, New York now requires the use of wading pools or an ultraviolet disinfection system, health permits for parks that use recycled water, signs warning patrons with diarrhea to stay away from the area, and animal fencing.

Dealing With the Trichlor Shortage Head On

Using Chlorine is No Guarantee

The use of chlorine to treat recirculated water does not guarantee that it is bacteria-free. A child can crouch over a nozzle, or a parent can change a diaper and rinse the infant in the spray, infecting the newborn with recreational water illness. The contaminated water enters the sewers, is filtered, and then delivered to holding tanks, where the free chlorine rapidly changes. Chlorine feeders and controls must be tested on a regular basis. RWI can occur if there is no chlorine or if a fecal accident occurs. If the water is recirculated, it must be treated and the functioning equipment must be monitored to ensure safe water conditions.

Using Ultraviolet Systems Against Microorganisms in The Pool

Ultraviolet systems are quite effective against microorganisms like crypto. Manufacturers also advocate adding an ozone system to an existing sanitation system as an upgrade. To avoid RWIs, many spray parks use nonrecirculated potable water that is routed to wastewater treatment or used to irrigate the area.

Every facilitiy should engage a top pool builder in the design and installation of the water treatment system, as well as its operation and maintenance. Backwashing filters and cleaning strainer baskets for filters, pumps, and feature pumps can help to ensure water quality. Ultimately, spray parks need to be properly maintained, sanitized, and supervised in order to ensure they are safe.

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Pool News coverage brought to you by Pool Magazine's own Marcus Packer. Marcus Packer is a 20 year pool industry veteran pool builder and pool service technician. In addition to being a swimming pool professional, Marcus has been a writer and long time contributor for Newsweek Magazine's home improvement section and more recently for Florida Travel + Life. Have a story idea or tip you'd like to share with Pool Magazine? Email [email protected] your story idea.

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Orenda (a HASA Company) and Skimmer to Revolutionize Pool Maintenance with New Partnership

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Skimmer - Orenda Partnership

Skimmer, America’s most widely-used pool service platform, has announced a strategic partnership with Orenda Technologies (a HASA Company), a trailblazer in water treatment solutions. This collaboration aims to enhance the user experience for pool professionals by integrating the Orenda Calculator™, with its Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) and dosage recommendation engine, into Skimmer’s software.

The inclusion of Orenda’s LSI calculator and dosage recommendation engine within Skimmer’s platform marks a significant milestone in pool service technology. The LSI serves as an impartial measurement of water balance, specifically gauging calcium carbonate saturation. By assessing whether the water is aggressive/corrosive, balanced, or scale-forming, the LSI plays a pivotal role in ensuring optimal water chemistry. 

This, combined with Skimmer’s easy-to-use, all-in-one software will give tens of thousands of pool pros access to water quality insights right in the Skimmer app. 

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“Partnering with Orenda and HASA aligns seamlessly with our commitment to providing pool professionals with cutting-edge tools,” says Jack Nelson, CEO of Skimmer. 

Integrating the Orenda Calculator™ into Skimmer empowers our customers to make informed decisions that directly impact water quality and customer satisfaction,” says Nelson.

“We are excited to integrate with partner software that helps pool professionals up their game, and that can expand upon the app we have built. Skimmer is a powerful tool that helps thousands of pros improve their business every day. This integration allows for us to help those same pool pros even further. With this partnership, Skimmer users will be able to save chemistry results and history, which is something our customers have asked of us for years.  This partnership makes that possible,” says Eric Knight, VP of Pro Marketing at HASA/Orenda. 

The integration is slated for launch in the coming months, promising a user-friendly experience that streamlines pool maintenance. This collaboration underscores both companies’ dedication to innovation and customer-centric solutions within the pool maintenance industry.

For more information on the Langelier Saturation Index and its impact on water chemistry, visit Orenda’s blog at https://blog.orendatech.com/langelier-saturation-index.

About Skimmer:

Skimmer is America’s most widely used pool service platform. The company is on a mission to modernize the pool and spa service and repair industry through easy-to-use software and best-in-class support. Over 25,000 pool service professionals servicing 500,000 pools in North America use Skimmer to get organized, get paid faster, and grow their businesses.

About Orenda:

Orenda (a HASA Company) is at the forefront of revolutionizing water treatment solutions for pools, emphasizing the importance of proper water chemistry and sustainability. Through its advanced technology and expertise, Orenda helps optimize pool water quality by empowering pool professionals with industry-leading products and educational resources.

About HASA:

HASA, Inc. is a leading producer and distributor of high-quality water treatment products used to sanitize and maintain water systems, including swimming pools, water tanks and containment vessels for recreational, industrial, and municipal end markets. Founded in 1964, the company operates out of facilities in California, Arizona, Washington, Nevada and Texas. Over its 60-year history, HASA has established a strong reputation for supplying superior products through excellent logistics and distribution capabilities. Additional information about HASA is available at www.hasa.com

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

Jes Ellacott

[email protected]

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Pleatco Announces 2023 Pool Tech Search Winners 

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Pleatco Announces 2023 Pool Tech Search Winners 

Pleatco, owned by Pentair, and longtime co-sponsors GENESIS / Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), along with AQUA Magazine, are proud to present the winners of the 2023 Pleatco Pool Tech Search. These outstanding achievers stood out in the pool and spa industry and were nominated and voted for by their peers. Please join us in congratulating the Pleatco Pool Tech Search winners. 

Cristina Forcione, Seychelles Pools & Spas - Lasalle, Quebec, Canada

Grand Finalist – Cristina Forcione, Seychelles Pools & Spas – Lasalle, Quebec, Canada 

“I am feeling immensely grateful and honored to receive recognition from Pleatco Pool Tech Search. I have put in a lot of sweat, tears, and effort to reach this milestone, and this recognition validates my unwavering belief in my abilities. It is a testament to my skills, knowledge, and expertise in the field, and I am truly humbled by this honor.” 

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Wes Kane, Pools Unlimited Incorporated - Elliot City, Maryland 

 Grand Finalist – Wes Kane, Pools Unlimited Incorporated – Elliot City, Maryland 

“I am feeling absolutely thrilled to have received recognition from the Pleatco Pool Tech Search. This is the first time that I have won an award or been a part of such a prestigious event, and I must say that it feels truly humbling and exhilarating at the same time. Being acknowledged for my work in this field is an incredible honor, and it gives me a renewed sense of purpose to continue striving for excellence in everything that I do.” 

Rob Stewart, ROBCO Water – Hammond, Ontario, Canada 

Lifetime Achievement Awards – Rob Stewart, ROBCO Water – Hammond, Ontario, Canada 

“It’s an honor and a feather in my cap, plus it’s nice to be a part of something bigger. Winning this gives me an opportunity to share my wealth of knowledge, the value of education and understanding water chemistry, as well as the importance of communicating with your customers.” 

Benjamin Gardea, Cody Pools – San Antonio, Texas 

Young Leader Award Winner – Benjamin Gardea, Cody Pools – San Antonio, Texas 

“It means so much. The ability to have a platform to bring education and awareness to my fellow pool pros is incredible. Watching my friends, family and coworkers support me in getting here also makes this award mean so much more.” 

Joe Puccio, Clean & Clear Pools – Houston, Texas 

Customer Service Award – Joe Puccio, Clean & Clear Pools – Houston, Texas 

“I think it’s pretty cool to receive this honor! It’s more than just about me. My customers voted to support me and my business. I’m also excited about the training that is offered. Everyone involved will have some bragging rights! It’s all about teamwork – it takes a team!” 

Branden Lewis, Lewis Pool Service – Centerville, Tenn

Advancing Technology Award – Branden Lewis, Lewis Pool Service – Centerville, Tenn. 

“I am thrilled to have received this honor! The grand prize is truly amazing – not only does it come with an unforgettable experience, but also with a set of classes that will equip me with the knowledge and skills necessary to take my company to the next level. Learning more is crucial to becoming a better entrepreneur.” 

HONORING THE WINNERS 

Winners will be honored at the 2024 Pool and Spa Show in Atlantic City, New Jersey. 

About Pleatco, LLC At Pleatco, we are committed to quality. As your trusted industry leader for filter and cleaning products, we make cleaner water filtration possible so every pool and spa owner can enjoy reliability and peace of mind. The combined strength of our exclusive Pleatco Advanced Point Bonded Filtration Fabrics, Free Flow Cores and Pure Pleat Technology delivers the high-performance filtration that service professionals and end-users have come to rely on. Ready to rule the pool with an industry leader in replacement filter elements? Choose wisely. Choose Pleatco. For more information, visit www.pleatco.com. 

About the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance 

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), a non-profit organization with more than 3,700 members from around the world, was established in 1956 to support, promote, and protect the common interests of the $36.5B pool, hot tub, and spa industry. PHTA provides education, advocacy, standards development, research, and market growth initiatives to increase our members’ professionalism, knowledge, and profitability. Additionally, PHTA promotes the use of pools by expanding swimming, water safety, and related research and outreach activities aimed at introducing more people to swimming, making swimming environments safer, and keeping pools open to serve communities. For more information, visit www.phta.org

About GENESIS GENESIS educates, certifies and connects pool and hot tub designers, builders and pool professionals throughout the world. Since 1998, GENESIS has taught thousands of students in best practices governing proper water vessel design, engineering, and construction. The vast GENESIS curriculum, coupled with adherence to standards, leads to excellence in education. GENESIS is a company of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. 

About AQUA Magazine 

Since 1976, AQUA Magazine has been the leading trade publication for pool and spa retailers, builders and service professionals. Each month, thousands of pool and hot tub pros turn to the online and print pages of AQUA for its valuable mix of news, trend and product coverage. For more information, visit www.aquamagazine.com.

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Raising Prices For Pool Service Is Never Easy

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Raising Prices For Pool Service Is Never Easy

In recent years, the cost of pool products has been steadily increasing, causing concerns for both pool professionals. This trend has been attributed to a variety of factors, including global supply chain disruptions, increased demand, and rising manufacturing costs.

The pool industry, like many others, has experienced rising prices due to various factors such as inflation and increasing interest rates. These economic influences have had a direct impact on the cost of materials, labor, and other expenses associated with pool construction, renovation, and the service and maintenance sector.

As a result of these increased costs, pool builders and service technicians are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain their profit margins. Many are being forced to raise their prices in order to keep up with the rising costs of materials and labor. This, in turn, is leading to higher prices for consumers who are looking to have a pool built or serviced.

The costs of everyday goods have gone up dramatically in the past few years. For those who have managed to maintain pricing structures, a cost increase may just be inevitable. In the wake of the pandemic, the average price of a new vehicle has surged to nearly $49,000, marking a significant increase of approximately $10,000 compared to pre-pandemic times. Between January and June of 2022, the cost of regular motor gasoline experienced a notable surge of 49%, while the price of diesel fuel witnessed a slightly higher increase, reaching 55% (Bureau of Transporation). Consequently, just keeping a pool service fleet on the road has become exorbitantly more expensive.

How To Approach Raising Prices

While raising prices is never an easy decision, it is often necessary in order to maintain the quality of service and products that customers expect. Pool builders and service technicians must balance the need to stay profitable with the need to provide affordable and accessible services to their clients.

As the cost of pool products continues to rise, pool companies are faced with the challenge of maintaining profitability while still providing quality service to their customers. This can be especially difficult for small businesses who rely heavily on customer loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals.

After notifying customers of a price increase, be prepared to address their concerns.
After notifying customers of a price increase, be prepared to address their concerns.

Treat Customers Like People

To address this issue, pool companies should approach rising prices with transparency and communication. It’s important to explain to customers why prices are increasing and how it will affect their pool maintenance and repair services. This includes discussing the specific pool products that have risen in cost and how that impacts the overall cost of pool maintenance.

Communication should also include offering alternative solutions to help customers manage costs. This could include providing a range of pool product options that vary in price, or offering discounts for pre-booking services or signing up for a maintenance package.

Ultimately, being upfront and honest with customers about rising prices is key to maintaining trust and loyalty. By providing education and alternatives, pool companies can help customers navigate the increasing costs while still delivering quality pool services.

The template letter below serves as a useful tool for pool companies to notify their customers about an upcoming price increase for their services. While price increases can be a sensitive topic for customers, the template provides a professional and clear explanation of why the change is necessary. It can be customized to reflect the specific needs and circumstances of each company, allowing them to communicate the information in a way that is both transparent and respectful of their customers’ needs. By using this template letter, pool companies can approach price increases in a thoughtful and effective way, maintaining the trust and loyalty of their customers.

Raising Prices Template Letter For Pool Companies

Dear Valued Customer,

We hope this letter finds you well. At [Company Name], we take pride in providing top-notch pool cleaning and maintenance services to our clients. We appreciate your trust in us and want to take a moment to address a recent change in the pool industry that has affected our pricing.

Over the past few years, we have seen a steady increase in the cost of pool cleaning products and equipment. Unfortunately, this trend is expected to continue, and we must adjust our prices to reflect these changes. We understand that price increases can be difficult to accept, and we want to assure you that we have taken great care to keep our rates as competitive as possible while still providing the quality service you deserve.

Our company remains committed to providing exceptional service and will continue to strive for excellence in all that we do. We appreciate your understanding and want to thank you for your continued business. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Thank you,

[Your Name] [Company Name]
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