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Spa Care Made Easy
Helpful tips on water balance, spa maintenance and accessories
By Pools & Spas Unlimited
Water Balance and Sanitizers
Having clean/sanitized water is important and understanding your role in maintaining water balance is essential. There are several factors to consider about your spa before establishing a water maintenance program. What is your water's mineral content? How often do you use the spa? How many people use the spa? What type of sanitizer is best for your local conditions? Pools & Spas Unlimited recommends that you have your water tested by a professional to help establish your personal guidelines.All spa water needs to be sanitized to prevent bacteria and algae from growing in the spa. There are several sanitizer programs to consider: Chlorine Granulars (Sodium Dichlor) and Brominating Concentrate (granular bromine) are recommended. For those that may have a low tolerance to chlorine or bromine, alternatives are available. They include an Ozone system that injects a high output of ozone into the spa water and Silver Ion Cartridges which introduces silver ions into the spa water to inhibit bacteria growth. All liquid non-chlorine programs such as Baqua Spa (Biquanide) and Pristine Blue are another alternative. Follow your spa manufactures suggested treatment or visit a professional spa dealer who can help you choose which sanitizer program is best for you.
In addition to maintaining a safe and effective sanitizer level, it is necessary to balance the water's Ph, Alkalinity and Calcium Hardness levels. Proper water balance will minimize scale buildup and corrosion of metals, extend the life of the spa and allow the sanitizer to work effectively. There are two types of at home testing methods recommended by Pools & Spas Unlimited: Reagent Test Kits provide a high level of accuracy. The reagents come in either liquid or tablet form. Test Strips are a convenient and accurate method used by many spa owners. Always read and follow the directions included with your Test Kit or Test Strips to ensure the accuracy of the test results.
The spa water should be tested at least once a week. Using the Reagent Kit or Test Strips check the balance of the water. Follow the directions on your kit if it is necessary to adjust the levels of your Ph, Alkalinity or Calcium. Wait at lest two hours after any chemical addition before retesting. If you are using a chlorine based sanitizer you will need to Shock (super chlorinate) the spa weekly with Sodium Dichclor or Monopersulfate (MPS) which is an oxidizing chemical used to prevent the buildup of contaminants.
Filter Cartridge System
Most spas are built with a cartridge filtering system. If the filter cartridge(s) are too dirty and become clogged, this will result in a reduced water flow. The spa filter cartridge(s) should be cleaned at least once a month. Remove the cartridge(s) from the filter compartment and soak or spray with a filter degreaser / filter cleaner. This will help to remove mineral and oil buildup. Then spray clean with a garden hose. You may also clean the cartridge(s) in the dishwasher using no soap and only if you have a non dry heat cycle on your dishwasher. Be sure to check package directions or follow the manufacturer instructions for details.Care of the Spa Shell and Exterior Cabinet
Spa shells are usually made of an acrylic or thermoplastic material. A soft rag or soft nylon scrubber should easily remove most dirt. Household chemicals may be too harmful to your spa's shell and you should use only Baking Soda or specialty chemical to wipe down the spa shell. Rinse the shell thoroughly to remove any cleaning agents before refilling. Always check the suggestions of your spa manufacturer for cleaning.There are different types of materials used for exterior spa cabinets. The most common are made of wood or a rigid polymer plastic. For cabinets made of wood, you should use a wood sealant to protect it from harsh weather and direct sun. Wood can warp and fade over time and may require additional repairs. Polymer cabinets require less maintenance and can be wiped down with mild soap and water. Both types of cabinets may be stained and you should check with the manufacturer for recommended stains and procedures. All spa cabinets should fit tightly to the shell and should have a high density foam insulation to ensure lower energy costs.
Spa Cover Care
The spa cover takes a lot of abuse from the burning sun to harsh winds, rain and snow. To help prolong the life of a vinyl cover you should clean the top side with a mild detergent or soap and water. Using a sponge or soft bristle brush, scrub the vinyl top in a circular motion. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose. The underside of cover should be rinsed with water only (no soap) and wipe clean with a dry rag.After cleaning, you should condition the cover with a specialty product such as Cover Cleaner. This process should be done twice a year.
Most spa covers have tie down straps to help hold the cover down during strong winds. Depending on your local conditions, prolonged high winds will pull at the cover straps and they could break loose. If winds are a problem for you, it is suggested to use additional "cover straps" made especially for spas or bungee cords can work as well.
Accessories to Enhance Your Spa Experience
You can find a variety of products that will compliment your spa and provide you with ease of operation. Here is a list of the most popular accessories:
*Spa Cover Lifts - There are several different
models available that attach to the spa and cover. The cover lifts will help to glide the cover on
and off and help to prevent daily wear and tear.
*Spa Vacs - Works great on picking up fine sand and dirt that may lay on the bottom of the spa. Spa Vacs require no electric, batteries or pumping.
*Handrails, Steps and Storage Compartments - For ease of entry into your spa there are a variety of attachable handrails and step combinations available. You will find both redwood and rigid polymer plastic steps with storage compartments sold in a selection of colors to match your spa cabinet.
*Gazebos - Complete your backyard oasis with a full or partial enclosure for your spa or hot tub. Specialty retailers offer redwood and vinyl gazebos in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. There are also free-standing privacy panels available. Gazebos provide you with maximum privacy and protection from outdoor elements.
*Spa Vacs - Works great on picking up fine sand and dirt that may lay on the bottom of the spa. Spa Vacs require no electric, batteries or pumping.
*Handrails, Steps and Storage Compartments - For ease of entry into your spa there are a variety of attachable handrails and step combinations available. You will find both redwood and rigid polymer plastic steps with storage compartments sold in a selection of colors to match your spa cabinet.
*Gazebos - Complete your backyard oasis with a full or partial enclosure for your spa or hot tub. Specialty retailers offer redwood and vinyl gazebos in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. There are also free-standing privacy panels available. Gazebos provide you with maximum privacy and protection from outdoor elements.
The list of accessories goes on and on. Look for items such as Booster Seats, Towel Trees, Spa Side Umbrellas, Benches and Bar Stools, Spa Pillows and a wide selection of Fragrances that add a touch of aromatherapy to your spa experience.