Dishing the dirt: manufacturers discuss the latest trends, technology and issues affecting the market

Times are changing for the sanitizing equipment market. With the use of alternative sanitizers on the rise, marketplace demands now propel an evolution in equipment design.

With all this going on, what issues do sanitizer manufacturers see affecting their segment of the pool industry? Pool & Spa News asked representatives of some leading companies across the country to share their thoughts on a variety of topics surrounding sanitizing equipment.

The manufacturers reported that this industry segment is facing a number of unique challenges. Its consumers are savvier and more demanding, and they're driving manufacturers to new levels of creativity.

Sanitizing products of the future must be environmentally friendly and easy to use--even if the product itself is inherently complex, say manufacturers. They admit the demands are tough, but most look forward to the years to come.

The industry has been evolving to meet the demands of well-informed consumers. What does this mean for the sanitizing marketplace?

Gary Rochelle: We are in a unique time. I've been in the industry for 40 years, and I see things now that I haven't seen before. Homeowners' awareness of pathogenic diseases is Rochelle much more acute, for instance. People look for ways to make their pools more environmentally friendly. And I think people are looking for easier, safer pools, it's a different market, time and perspective.

Casey Loyd: The industry" is going in the right direction. I think automation is a big part of where it is going. Consumers want a systematic process. They don't want to think about it. They want it done for them. I think we have a more educated consumer in the buying market than we've ever had--there is absolutely no question about it. It's a challenge for manufacturers to make it easy for consumers to look at a product and understand the logic behind it.

Michael Moore: Simplicity rather than convenience is the driving force behind many consumer products. The time constraints of today's lifestyles demand it, and most people are willing to pay a premium for the benefit.

Ted Arunski: I agree. Customers nowadays want simplicity as well as complex options. They don't want a system only Einstein can operate. Automated equipment, such as saltwater chlorinators, is making life easy. With the touch of a button, people can raise or lower chlorine levels in their pools or spas. No trips to the store for chlorine, no fuss or mess. For a customer to spend $1,500 on a chlorinator is now the norm, not a luxury.

Mark Stephenson: Consumers are willing to pay more for simplicity, but it must provide a solution to all of their sanitizing needs. For instance, consumers do not want weekly regimens. They would like a solution that reacts to all bather loads and tells them that the water is safe and ready for use.

And the solution must use an EPA-registered sanitizer, be measurable, leave a stable, long-lasting residual, and sanitize and oxidize the pool and hot tub water.

Scott Newton: Customers want pool-care programs that don't require a lot of their time. They also want programs that maintain their brilliant, sparkling swimming pool water. They can have both in the form of pool-care programs that are more advanced, yet easier to use. Our experience shows us that when dealers find programs that meet these criteria, they'll keep their customers coming back for more.

Eric Kownacki: On that note, sanitizer manufacturers and their dealer networks have the challenge of giving continuous aftermarket service. Providing technical support with field-trained employees and service centers ensures the consumer is informed and educated in all aspects of maintaining a healthy, balanced pool. The product itself must be easy to install and remain reliable through scheduled service.

Direct availability of a variety of sanitizers--including traditional, chemical-based systems and environmentally friendly, salt-based systems--gives the consumer a choice, Additionally, if the sanitizing system is fully integrated with an automation system, the consumer only has to check with one interface to care for the pool.

What trends are making an impact on the sanitizing equipment marketplace?

Newton: I think consumers believe the environment is an issue and as a responsible manufacturer, that's always on the top of my mind. What we're hearing consumers say is that they want to know a little bit more about the products, what they'll be exposed to and what kind of environmental impact the products have.

Ken Castro: Alternative sanitizers have gained in popularity, in the past, ozone has been sold as a "stand-alone" solution for people who have real health concerns with chlorine. But even though ozone does a great job of sanitizing, a small amount of residual sanitizer is often needed because ozone dissipates quickly.

Charlie Furtney: I see sanitizers going for the more natural methods of production. It's apparent to me that there are a lot of people tired of swimming in chemical soup. There is so much information out them about chlorine carcinogens and byproducts. People are looking at much more healthy pool water--they want to swim in water as clean as the water they drink.