Spasa Victoria Consumer Guide

CONTENTS 2 A Word From Our CEO 2 Contents 3 SPASAVIC - The Industry Peak Body 4 Look for the SPASAVIC Member Logo 5 SPASAVIC FACT SHEETS 5 The Starting Point 6 Mandatory Barrier Inspections and Pool Safety 9 Legislation, Regulation and Contracts 11 Water Balance 12 Water Conservation 13 Sanitisers 14 Salt Chlorinators 15 Ozonators & Ionisers 16 Filters 17 Solar Heating 18 Gas Pool Heating 19 Electrical Pool Heating 20 Covers & Blankets 21 Cleaning Systems 22 Chemical Controllers 23 Spa Maintenance 24 Water Features 25 Pool Lighting 26 Maintenance 27 Outdoor Design & Landscaping A WORD FROM OUR CEO This publication was proudly written, edited, designed and printed in Victoria, Australia! Published by SPASAVIC • ABN 66 076 867 091 • www.spasavic.com.au ISO 14001 EMS Accredited, paper from responsible sources • Printed November 2020 Reproduction of the contents of this book is strictly forbidden unless approved in writing by the Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Victoria. The material contained in this publication has been compiled by the Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Victoria Ltd (SPASAVIC) for the benefit of its readers. SPASAVIC does not warrant or represent that the material is free from errors or omission, or that it is exhaustive. The material is provided without SPASAVIC assuming a duty of care to readers. SPASAVIC is not in the business of providing professional advice and gives no warranty, guarantee or representation about the accuracy, reliability or timeliness or otherwise, of the information contained in this publication. SPASAVIC disclaims, to the full extent permitted by law, all warranties, representations or endorsements, express or implied, with regard to the material including but not limited to, all implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. The material is made available on the understanding that SPASAVIC and its employees and agents shall have no liability (including but not limited to liability by reason of negligence) to readers for any loss, damage, cost or expense whether direct, indirect, consequential or special, incurred by, or arising by reason of, any person using or relying on the material and whether caused by reason of any error, omission or misrepresentation in the material or otherwise. Readers of this publication are responsible for making their own assessment of the material and should verify all relevant representations, statements and information with their own professional advisers. Congratulations on the purchase of your new pool or spa. Your swimming pool or spa will soon become an integral component of your family’s lifestyle, with an inordinate amount of pleasure and happiness - not to mention the value this significant purchase will add to your home. This publication is designed to ensure that you have up-to-date and impartial advice to make informed decisions. The Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Victoria (SPASAVIC) was founded in 1961 and is the peak body of the swimming pool and spa industry in Victoria. Its member base is made up of pool builders, manufacturers, suppliers, retailers and service agents. It champions the cause of ethics and standards within the industry and therefore maintains a rigorous member selection process. By promoting high standards, SPASAVIC is focused on driving consumer expectations across multiple levels such as contracts, purchasing, renovating or maintaining a pool or spa. This Consumer Guide is the start of that process. The following Fact Sheets cover a range of key options and features. Your SPASAVIC member will also be your point of contact for consultation and advice as each installation is unique. Your SPASAVIC member will be a valuable resource when embarking on a pool or spa purchase and allows you to purchase with confidence. With an array of technical and legal issues to navigate, such as contracts, permits, warranties, fencing laws, insurance, pumps, filters and chemicals, along with many others, the only way for consumers to ensure a stress-free purchase is to use a proven industry professional – a SPASAVIC member. We ensure that the highest standards of professionalism and compliance are maintained through the most up to date information relating to pool and spa laws along with specialist industry training. I strongly urge anyone about to embark on a swimming pool or spa purchase to be aware of un-registered builders or installers. You may be exposing yourself and your family to unforeseen liability and safety issues. The swimming pool and spa industry in Victoria contributes approximately $500 million to the economy whilst also employing approximately 10,000 people. From swimming pool and spa building to retailers and manufacturers, this growing lifestyle industry adds significantly to the vibrancy and growth of Victoria. Being well informed is a crucial step in the process of choosing a new pool or spa and I encourage you to take the time to review this important Consumer Guide. And please remember - always choose a SPASAVIC member for peace of mind! Chris Samartzis Chief Executive Officer SPASAVIC SPASAVIC’s Member Directory & Awards of Excellence Showcase magazine is available to download FREE online at www.spasavic.com.au 2020AWARDSOFEXCELLENCESHOWCASE &DIRECTORYOFMEMBERS www.spasavic.com.au SPASAVIC Partner 2 • SPASAVIC CONSUMER GUIDE