Hot Tubs

 

Key Maintenance for Your Home Spa or Hot Tub
 
by Gabby Hyman
 
Regular maintenance of your home spa or hot tub not only can extend the operating life of the tub but protect you and your loved ones from reacting to chemicals, bacteria, algae, or improper pH levels. Keeping your hot tub in sound working condition is relatively easy, and can help you avoid the expense of replacing filters, jets, or other parts that have become clogged by hair, dirt, or contaminants. You'll relax all the more with the peace of mind knowing that your water is clean.
Routine care and cleaning of your filter, regular inspection of pump and heater, adjustment of the pH balance in the home spa, and maintaining water sanitation are basic chores and require less time than you imagine. Let's take them one-by-one:
 
Hot Tub pH Care
The pH of the water in your spa should range between 7.2 and 8.0 for optimal care. If the water has high pH, it can add scale and stain the tub; if the water pH is low (with more acidity) it can corrode vital parts as well as cause an itchy skin reaction. Spa dealers often provide test strips you can use, then adjust the water accordingly with chemicals.
 
Spa Filter Cleaning and Pump Maintenance
In addition to the in-spa filter, you may have a second, floating skimmer. Both should be examined and cleaned several times a week if you use the spa regularly. In heavy use, you might consider rotating floating filters every few weeks. Remove all debris from the skimmer as well as from the surface of the hot tub.
Hot tub heaters and pumps should be checked, too. Acid corrosion from poor pH may affect the coil. If you set your thermostat on high and the water remains cool, it may be time to call in a hot tub or spa dealer's service technician.
 
Keep Hot Tub Sanitation Regular
Sanitizers such as chlorine and bromine kill bacteria and algae. Check the levels and be sure to use the sanitizer recommended by the hot tub manufacturer or you may void the warranty. Sweeping the sides of the tub routinely circulates potential contaminants into the sanitizer, and can prevent stains.
That's it. Simple. Now enjoy the spa.
 
About the Author:
Gabby Hyman has created online strategies and written content for Fortune 500 companies including eToys, GoTo.com, Siebel Systems, Microsoft Encarta, Avaya, and Nissan UK.
 
Source(s):
Jerry Shearier     Critical Hot Tub Maintenance Tips     

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