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 News
 International Pool & Spa Expo News
Expo Draws Mixed Reviews
Trade Groups Merge
Consumer Pool/Spa Magazine Honored
N.J. Pool Firm Assists in Anthrax Clean-Up
Florida City Drops Pool Size Ordinance
Features
Heating Up
Winter is a prime time for hot tub usage, but not hot tub sales. Here are 10 things you can do to heat up your winter hot tub sales.
Winter Wonderland
Seeing spas in snowy settings may inspire your customers at this time of year.
Sub-Prime Is Not Sub-Par
Conseco Finance's move into the "riskier" consumer lending business — as evidenced by the sub-prime loan program it launched in mid-2001 — may not be a bad move, sources say.
Still Looking and Lacking
This chart details the hiring plans of selected industries through March 2002.
NSPI Council Focuses on Recruitment
National Spa & Pool Institute's Retailers Council aims to attract new members.
Close Up on Covers
Pool and spa cover manufacturers discuss the benefits of cover ownership — and what is needed to further consumer education on this product.
Cover Resource List
Use this handy resource guide to help you navigate through the buying process.
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Commercial Building Up in 2001
NESPA Honors Design Award Winners
Blue-White Opens New Facility
Colorado Court Reviews Doctor-Prescribed Hot Tub Ruling
Features
Work in Progress
With some projects, getting it just right requires designing throughout construction.
Going Underground
This Lousville, Ky., pool builder learned a few new tricks while building an underground vault on his latest project.
Lessons Learned
A Rhode Island retailer shares five key points to keep in mind while building a new store.
Where the Profits Are
Penguin Pools found financial success by trying something new: cutting costs and watching the books. (This article originally appeared in the Nov. 8, 2000 issue of Pool & Spa News. We follow up on their success in the Dec. 5, 2001 issue of the magazine.)
Markets for New-Home Sales
Check out our listing of the best and worst markets for new-home sales during the third quarter.
Scattered Flames
Revelers at this aquascape find fire everywhere.
Crescent With Fire
This crescent-shaped pool captures the reflection of firelight.
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International Pool & Spa Expo News
Florida Builder Study Shows War's Impact
Record Turnout for NSPI-Florida's Aquatic Event
NSGA Rates States' Sports Participation
Saratoga Spas Expands Warehouse Facilities
3M, Emerson Electric Plan Layoffs
Roman Fountains Opens New Headquarters
AquaChek Dealer Training Course Update
Features
What Makes Customers Tick
Find out how different personality types approach buying a pool or spa and how to win over even the most reluctant buyer.
Emotional Rescue
Purchasing a backyard aquascape is an emotional time for consumers. Here's how to generate excitement, calm fears and close the deal.
They've Got Personality
Gaining your clients' trust requires keying into the needs of their specific personalities.
Speaking Silently
Reading and understanding body language is the key to success for any salesperson.
Building Trust
Getting the client on board sometimes requires overcoming our industry's own reputation.
Talking Shop
How to make sure that your store — from its layout to its colors — says all the right things, and makes customers feel comfortable.
Selling Service
Finding potential customers for your pool service company involves knowing who and where they are, recruiting them, and then proving that their search for the best technician is over.
Generational Profiles
Bridging the gap: Baby Boomers, Generation X and Millennials.
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Education is NSPI's Goal at Phoenix Expo
General Contractors Building Pools Now
Special Report: Sept. 11 Tragedy
ISHOF to Leave Fort Lauderdale
Capo Industries Receives ISO Status
Jacuzzi Hosts Golf Benefit
NSPI to Sponsor an Online Forum
Aussie Swimmers Must Sign Disclaimer to Swim in U.S.
Dear Abby Chimes in on Spa Soaking
Fraternity Soaks for a Good Cause
Features
Power Play
Showing customers how to save on their energy bills can help you keep accounts, and profit from selling and installing aftermarket products.
Playing It Safe
Workplace safety saves time and money — lots of money. But there's more to it than following OSHA regulations. (This article is Part 1 of a two-part series. The second article is appearing in the Nov. 1, 2001 printed issue of Pool & Spa News.)
Safety Resource Guide
For more information on construction safety, check out these resources.
Making It To Market
Traveling the long road from new product concept to final deal completion. (This article is Part 1 of a two-part series. The second article is appearing in the Nov. 1, 2001 printed issue of Pool & Spa News.)
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Tough 3rd Quarter for Industry Firms
A Rocky Stock Market Ride
Trevi Pools Restructures
NESPA Aids Disaster Relief Fund
Emerson Donates $1 Million to Red Cross
Super Vision Begins Direct Marketing Campaign
Pool Excavations Unearth Toxic Waste
Features
Playing With Fire
Combining fire and water creates spectacular aquascapes.
Scattered Flames
The designer of this Chandler, Ariz., aquascape wanted revelers to find fire everywhere.
Burn, Baby Burn
A key decision when designing fire elements around water is which fuel to use.
Letter of the Law
These resources may come in handy when you bring a new product to market.
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$12.5 Million Judgment Against Poolmaker
Illinois Passes Spa Entrapment Provision
NSPI Builders Start Institute, Firm Up Education Program
SmartPool Aligns With Maytronics
Drought Eases in Florida
BioGuard to Hold Dealer Mart
SPWTP Conference Heads to Reno
Pool Water Aids Calif. Firefighters
U.K. Pool Acid Accident Injures 48
Features
Playing It Safe
Workplace safety saves time and money — lost of it. But there's more to a safe workplace than following OSHA regulations.
Not Just One of the Guys
Our "Management Matters" column discusses how to avoid legal problems when bringing women on board.
When Your Pool Runneth Over
In our "Competitive Edge" column, Lew Akins explains that to fix large water loss in a vanishing-edge pool, check the catch pool's water level.
Safety Always
Pool and spa professionals — many of whom consider cell phones a business necessity — must use caution when driving and calling.
Open Lines of Communication
Use this resource list when evaluating cellular phone service providers.
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Dip in Spa Sales Spurs Concerns
Cryptosporidiosis Outbreak in Illinois
Spas Fail to Qualify at Olympic Village
P.K. Data to Publish Pool Stats
NSPI to Review Aboveground Standards
Solar Energy Program Powers Up
NESPA Affiliation Approved
Features
Testing the Waters
The rocky economy tests the selling power of circulation systems, but growing interest in safety-related products could keep the market strong.
Circulation Basics
Circulation systems are key to sculpting the aquascape of your client's dreams. To avoid problems, a few circulation basics must be respected.
All Systems Go
Today's complex pools and spas demand smart circulation systems. Here's an in-depth look at two circulation systems — and the thinking behind them.
A Solid Foundation
A California-based pool and spa designer walks you through a basic hydraulic system.
Getting With the Flow
Poor circulation patterns can be caused by anything from improper component placement to major design flaws. Here are several tests techs can perform to find the root of the problem.
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Industry Study to be Launched
Zodiac Features New Logo
Anthony & Sylvan Opens Florida Retail Store
Eclipse3 Tested at N.J. Six Flags
Canadian General Tower Receives ISO Certification
NSPI 2002 National Officers Nominated
Features
Still Building?
Builders in Western states and Florida report continued strong business despite a weakened economy. But builders in other parts of the country report a slowdown.
Surviving (and Thriving) During an Economic Downturn
How industry professionals can turn adversity into opportunity.
Four Ways to Survive the Slump
Pool and spa companies have found creative ways to remain viable during economic uncertainty.
Getting in Hot Water
As hard as it can be to keep pool water free of pathogens, it can be even harder in hot tubs.
The Unusual Suspects
Pool water isn't the only place pathogens can gain a foothold. Illness can also be passed on through contact with contaminated surfaces and structures in and around the pool.
On the Move
Fiberglass pools have kept Ray Lussier, owner of Advantage Pools in Lake City, Fla., on the go since the early '90s.
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Cergol Appointed to Head NSPI
A New Direction for NSPI
Iowa City Orders Water Rationing
Watkins Reaches Production Milestone
General Pool & Spa Supply Expands
Former Pool Builder to Serve Jail Time
Garrett Liners Offers New Web Site
CDC Campaign Aims for Disease-Free Waters
Features
Role Call
Chemical manufacturers say staying profitable during uncertain economic times means becoming a jack-of-all-trades.
Safety Considerations
Although aesthetics and structure are key concerns for total-perimeter vanishing-edge pools, there is another: safety.
The Great Water Level Debate
Should you lower the water level before closing a pool for the season.
Closing Aboveground Pools
Service techs employ a few trusted techniques when closing aboveground pools.
Coming Up With An Idea
Choosing ideas for an in-store promotion can be quite rewarding — if you're willing to have fun with it.
Taking Cues from Outside the Industry
Sometimes the best place to look for promotional ideas is outside the industry.
Getting Referrals
Your loyal customers may be your best sales tool.
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Hanley-Wood Acquires Pool & Spa News and Aquatics International
Galvin Steps Down as NSPI CEO
Calif. Suction Entrapment Bill Tabled
Gecko Appeal Denied
BioLab Acquires France's Atofina
First Pool Apprenticeship Class Graduates
Beachcomber Appoints New COO
Features
Idea Book
The spectacular pools, spas and waterfeatures featured in our Idea Book are sure to inspire industry professionals and their customers alike.
Aboveground Pools
Aquascapes
Concrete Pools
Package Pools
Spas
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Mid-America Show Cancelled for 2002
Acu-Trol Offers Advanced Training in August
Harper Wyman Co. Leaves Distribution Business
Haberkorn to Focus on Region 10 Show
NESPA/NSPI Region 1 Bestows Scholarships
Genesis 3 to Hold its First NSPI-Sponsored School
AquaChek Offers Online Training Program
Features
Ad Life to Your Sales
Television advertising gives pool and spa businesses direct access to consumers — at a price that's more reasonable than you might think.
Seven Reasons TV Sells
According to experts, advertisers depend on television to grow their businesses for these seven reasons.
A TV Success Story
River City Pools & Plastering had tried other advertising avenues, but none worked as effectively as its TV promotions.
Working It Out
Profiles of two retailers who went above and beyond the call of duty to build relationships — and make sales.
Something to Celebrate
A holiday mishap endeared Aurora, Colo.-based Spa Brokers to its customers.
Sweating the Details
An unusual follow-up strategy proved successful for Mountain Hot Tub in Bozeman, Mont.
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Region 4 Drownings Spark Push for New Ordinance
Keep America Beautiful Honors Advantis
Gatsby Spas Expanding Production
CDC, NSPI Debut Web Site
Pool Doctor Building New Headquarters
NSPI Ad Campaign Targets Stressed Consumers
Features
Location, Location ...
Even as the nation's economy slows, pool and spa professionals in affluent regions say local economics are keeping them as busy as ever.
What a Slower Economy May Bring
With the economy cooling, experts say these are just a few of the issues pool and spa professionals should expect to encounter in the coming months.
Top Workplace Forecasts for 2001
Forecasters predict that the workplace will experience these seven key changes in 2001 due to a weakening economy.
Going Uptown
Working with a professional design team allowed this Seattle-based pool and spa firm to capture a "Gucci market" with its new location.
Mission: Controls I
Many service companies avoid spa repairs because of the complexity of spa controls. Learning the basics of these controls is the first step toward hot tub competency. (This article is Part I of a two-part series. The second article appears in the June 6, 2001 issue of Pool & Spa News.)
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NSPI Campaign to Combat Energy Fears
Two Central Calif. Pool Builders Facing Legal Action
Nevada Bill Passes State Senate
Shasta Pools Receives Leadership Award
Textron Financial Debuts Industry-Specific Approach
Genesis 3 Sets Awards Deadline
Watkins Mfg. Hosts Top Gun Reunion
Northwest NSPI Chapter Honors Founders
In Memoriam — Joe Lukins; Bob Clark; Ken Saffer
Features
Taking Cover
With tidy profits and growing popularity, pool and spa covers are sheltering the bottom line for dealers and installers.
Five Things You Should Know About Covers
Use this consumer handout to show your customers the benefits of pool covers — from conserving water to saving on energy costs.
Department of Energy Online
Check out this link to the Department of Energy's Web site, which contains information on how to reduce the energy costs associated with swimming pool use.
Put a Lid on It
How do consumers view the spa cover shopping experience? Learn firsthand from this customer.
Working with High-End Customers
What pool builders and designers do to treat their high-end customers like VIPs.
Achieving Clarity
A detailed look at the filtration system of a demanding koi pond.
Special Spa Section
Thriving in the Niches
Small, regional spa manufacturers have found ways to stay competitive in a big market.
Spa Product Guide
Check out the products offered by some of the industry's leading spa manufacturers.
2001 Service Tech Handbook
Chlorine Generators: A Matter of Chemistry
A primer on how water chemistry affects this product's efficiency and performance.
Eight Misconceptions About Pool & Spa Care
Use this consumer handout to counter some of this misunderstandings your customers may have about their pools and spas.
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Boston News Story Stirs Letter Campaign
Watkins Hosts Dealer Trip to Hawaii
Water Treatment Seminar Set for June
Master Pools Holds Education Event
Swimline Receives Liner Patent
Caldera Unites with Stress-Fighting Group
Marquis Debuts New Consumer Ad
Features
Predicting Success
Despite uncertainties in the weather and economy — and the growth of SCP — independent distributors see a strong season ahead.
Distributor Round-Up
Independent distributors share their insight on the state of the market — and how they plan to thrive and survive amid some large-scale competition.
Caring for Your Pool
Pool professionals can use this consumer hand-out to give their customers a primer on basic water balance and maintenance.
Chemistry Clinic Online
How cyanuric acid plays a role in water chemistry — and the best ways to test for it.
Jazzing Up Spa Packs
Electronic spa controls require some high-tech troubleshooting skills — and today's service techs are up to the challenge.
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Spa Industry Seeks Damage Control
Proposed Nevada Bill Targets Pool Builders
Coast Spas Receives OEM Award
Sta-Rite Training Course Attracts 220
Avecia Opens R&D Center
B-K Lighting Relocates
Pure & Clear Changes Name, Moves
Suntrek Opens New Distribution Facility
Industry Firms Offer Dealer Sales Aids
Features
One Stop Selling
Pool builders and sales professionals offer candid advice on setting yourself apart from the competition and closing more deals.
The Importance of Saying No
Find out why turning down some prospects can give you the kind of business you really want (reprinted from Pool & Spa News' AquaScapes).
Patching Things Up
If you're going to service vinyl-liner pools, you'll need to be prepared to fix the liner itself. Here are some handy tips.
Handling with Care
As landscape architect Michael Cartwright discovered, working with museum-quality artwork isn't the same as dealing with typical garden art.
Works of Art
Statuary, such as the bronze masterpieces shown in this pictorial, provides an artistic touch to any backyard.
Model Makers
Designers choose diverse materials when making their three-dimensional presentation pieces.
Top 25 Products of 2001
View the 25 new products — originally featured in the New Product Supplement— that generated the most interest from our readers.
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SCP Ends Deal with Ace Hardware
Drownings Linked to Turbid Water
NSPI Pays Meneely Judgment Amount
Two Service-Related Bills Defeated
Florida Water-Use Restrictions Modified
Region 3 Announces Award Winners
Gecko Electronics Features New Web Site
Features
Opening For Business
Opening a pool after a long winter's hibernation is essential to many service techs' livelihood. Here's how to do it correctly — and profitably.
Commercial Potential
While similar to their residential counterparts, commercial pool openings require much more attention from a legal standpoint. Here's what service techs need to know.
Family Business Resources
A listing of books that will guide you through the challenges unique to family-owned businesses.
Chemical Retailing Made Easy
Safe and savvy retailers share tips on ordering, displaying and selling chemicals (reprinted from Pool & Spa News' Chemical Management issue).
Commentary: Moving Forward
Roger Galvin, National Spa & Pool Institute's CEO, shares insight into the strategy behind the organization's partnership with Hanley-Wood — and explores where NSPI is heading in the future.
Commentary: Objects Are Larger Than They Appear
How are you prepared for the future? Is your business positioned properly? Do you have the right skills to thrive in the next 10 years? Vance Gillette poses these questions and more as he predicts where the industry and the economy is headed in the next decade.
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Calif. Bill Sets Up Anti-Entrapment Law
National Aquatic Coalition to Hold Summit
Polyair Strike Resolved
In Memoriam: Robert A. Ellington
BBA Nonwovens Acquires Snow Filtration Co.
NSPI to Offer Standards at Reduced Rate
Builders Education Committee Considers International Group
Aqua Leader Launches New Web Site
Features
Toying With Sales
Retailers are finding that backyard toys offer a profitable sales mix — and a way to compete against mass merchandisers.
Vanishing Acts
Water doesn't lie, especially when it comes to vanishing-edges. This pictorial of vanishing-edge pools illustrates the beauty of projects done right.
Out with the Old
Putting a new coat of paint on a pool that’s already been painted isn’t as simple as applying the new color.
A Matter of Style
Architect Helena Arahuete shares how her design philosophy can transcend style.
NSPI Region 3 Update
NSPI Region 3 announces its award winners at its conference and exposition.
Builder's Handbook 2001
Piling On Options
How to support aquascapes in touchy soil.
An All-Around Spectacle
Learn about innovative total-perimeter, vanishing-edge pools.
Reining in Expectations
How to prepare customers for the realities of a vanishing-edge pool.
How Water Moves Through a Pool System
A basic primer on pool hydraulics.
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NSPI Expo Sold to Hanley-Wood
Cantar Acquires Eskott Removable Fencing
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