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Spas | Hot Tubs | Jacuzzi’s | Pools
How to Easily Clean Your Hot Tub Filter
In: Hot Tub Cleaning
12 Jul 2010
If you have a spa in your backyard or attached to your pool then you’ll know the importance of keeping it clean and it tip top condition. In fact most hot tub owners I know are obsessed with having the cleanest, clearest water around. This means that you’ll need to clean your hot tub filter on a regular basis, but what is the best method these days?
Not too long ago, the only real way to clean your spa filter was to use Muriatic acid which is not only highly corrosive but also the toxic fumes were linked to lung damage and even death. And while it was very effective at cleaning your filter, especially getting rid of the hard to clean calcium deposit buildups, because it was so dangerous it just wasn’t worth the risk.
Fortunately now your pool and spa supply store stocks a number of different products that are not only as effective at cleaning your Jacuzzi but are much safer as well.
So let’s look at some quick tips on how you can keep your filter clean so you can enjoy your crystal clear hot tub water.
Firstly it’s a good idea to have at least two filters. One that is already in the hot tub, and the other that you keep as a spare. When it comes time to change them, just pop the spare in and remove the original for cleaning.
While most places recommend changing the filter every one or two months, I’ve found the most effective method is changing it every two weeks. This keeps the spa pool water from getting dirty.
Use a commercial cleaner that you get from your pool and spa supply store and follow the directions as indicated. You may need to scrub using a nylon brush to get rid of hard calcium deposits although if you swap filters every two weeks that isn’t such an issue. Then rinse off to make sure there are no suds or detergents left and put it away to dry so that it can be swapped back in on your next clean.
Keeping your hot tub filter clean is the best way to ensure that you’ll enjoy clear fresh water and be enjoying your spa for many years to come.
For more ideas for cleaning your spa filter and other hot tub maintenance tips, browse this spa pool blog.
If you love the idea of having your own hot tub but don’t have the space or can’t afford a permanent fixture then have a portable inflatable hot tub might be just the thing. You can place it anywhere on a flat surface (although preferably outside unless you have a large waterproof place inside your home) that will hold its weight. Then you can come home and relax in the warm bubbles of an evening and relax in total bliss.
And since they are portable you can also take them on holiday or to a friend’s house if they are having a party so you can enjoy the water anywhere you like. And if you ever move house then it’s a very simple matter of emptying them and packing them up to take to your new home. In fact once deflated and folded up they fit easily into a small box.
Because they don’t need plumbing, just a garden hose to fill them up, you have many more options of where you can place them. Inside they work similar to regular hot tubs with water jets that massage and relax you.
You can add chemicals to the water of your inflatable hot tub to keep the water clean and clear although it is important to get the right ones. Check your local pool and spa supply shop to see what range they have available.
To inflate them all you need the automatic pump that they come with (or you can get them at your pool supply store) and turn it on and within a few minutes your new spa will be inflated.
Many doctors and therapists actually recommend relaxation in a hot tub or Jacuzzi as a way to relax and reduce stress. It’s proven that the water jets do massage any tight muscles and relieve tension leading to a healthier mind and body.
Of course the best thing about inflatable hot tubs is the price. You can get some models as low as $600 up to a few thousand which is a lot more economical than larger permanent models that run in to many thousands of dollars.
They are very durable and are unlikely to pop or tear with regular use, and they even have been known to survive treatment by the roughest kids and men in the family.
And what a great fun way to entertain family and friends by inviting them around for a dip on your new inflatable hot tub.
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- Tags: inflatable hot tubs, portable hot tubs
Cleaning Your Hot Tub With Muriatic Acid – Is It Still A Good Method?
In: Hot Tub Cleaning
22 Feb 2009
Many years ago, the only effective way to clean your hot tub or spa filter was with Muriatic acid however today it is becoming less popular as it can not only burn if it comes in contact with the skin, even breathing the fumes has been linked to lung damage and even death.
So with these frightening statistics, is it still safe to use Muriatic acid?
The truth is that because it is an acid it’s actually very effective at cleaning all the scum and grime on your filter and removing calcium deposits that have built up on it. It can even be used to clean the plaster on your spa. It shouldn’t however be used on the tiles or grout as it can etch into them causing damage.
It is normally used in a 50/50 combination of water and acid and applied with a nylon brush and scrub, rinsing well once you have finished.
But it is no longer recommended by most spa or hot tub professionals due to its corrosive and toxic vapors.
A much better (and safer) method is to buy specialty hot tub filter cleaners from your local pool supply store. These do just as good a job (although you may need to let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes before you hose it off) and are much better for your health.
If you have lots of calcium scale buildup and you are still tempted to get an acid then consider one of the newer acid products on the market such as Acid Magic. It is an excellent alternative to Muriatic acid and is just as effective at removing calcium deposits but is much safer. Most good pool and spa supply shops should stock it.
If you have lots of calcium scale and Muriatic acid is your only option or if you still insist on using Muriatic acid then make sure you hire a professional who is used to working with it rather than handle it yourself. Even with gloves and masks, many people have still been hurt by it.
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- Tags: calcium scale and muratic acid, muriatic acid
If you want to keep your hot tub water looking sparkling fresh then there are a few simple steps that you can do right now to help your spa water looking clean without adding more chemicals. These tips will not only be better for you and your spa, but won’t cost much.
Change your Hot Tub Filter regularly
This is key to keeping your water fresh and clean. You should always have 2 hot tub filters, one in the spa and the other ready to be put in when the other comes out to be cleaned. While many manufactures say that you can go up to 3 months before changing your filter, I recommend that you do it ever 2 weeks so your water stays fresh. By changing and cleaning your filters so often you can double your water life.
Have a shower before entering your Hot Tub
It makes sense that if you are clean then the water will stay clean but you would be surprised how many people just jump in the spa without any thought to what sweat and grime might be on their bodies.
If you’ve ever seen that grime mark around the bath after you get out you’ll know the type of dirt that is clogging up your hot tub filter. If you take a quick shower before getting in you’ll wash away most of your dead skill cells and dirt before you get into the hot tub.
Keep the bubbles at bay
Most people know to avoid using certain cleaners in their hot tubs, but don’t realize that by washing their swimwear in the laundry it can leave residue that isn’t properly rinsed out in most cases. The residue is mainly made up of the phosphates in the detergent and can then get into your hot tub and build up. Unfortunately algae love these phosphates and will get into your spa and breed. Too much algae and you’ll get slime – so it’s worth avoiding washing your swimwear in any detergents.
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- Tags: clean hot tub water
Cleaning Your Hot Tub Filter
In: Hot Tub Cleaning
13 Feb 2009
So it’s time to clean your hot tub filter. First you are going to need a few supplies if you don’t have them already. Most of these items can be found at your local pool or spa store.
Unfortunately your regular household cleaners are not going to do the job properly – sure they may clean your hot tub filter ok, but they won’t sanitize it properly which will make your hot tub unhygienic. Also household cleaners create lots of bubbles, and the last thing you need is your hot tub turning into a bubble bath!
So you’ll need to do one of the following methods instead:
Method #1: Spa Filter Cleaner
You’ll need a specialized spa filter cleaner which will help clean your filter really well. These degrease as well as sanitize and do a really good job. Either spray it on directly and then hose it off after about 10 – 15 minutes, or dilute the cleaner in water and soak your filter over night.
Once it is clean just give your filter a final rinse with the hose to get rid of any leftover cleaner and it should be good as new.
This method is probably the best for getting your filter really clean.
Method #2: Chlorine
Mix half and half chlorine with water and soak your filter’s overnight. The chlorine is great for sanitizing your filter, but it’ll still probably need a bit of a scrub to get it looking good again.
This method is a great inexpensive solution for those on a budget.
Method #3: Muriatic Acid
Muriatic/Muratic Acid or Hydrochloric Acid was commonly used a number of years ago but is becoming less popular as many people got severely burnt by it. Because it is an acid it is great for cleaning your hot tub filter but be careful as it is very dangerous and should be handled with care.
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- Tags: hot tub filter
Want to Buy a Hot Tub? What To Consider First
In: Hot Tub
9 Feb 2009
I certainly can understand you wanting to buy a hot tub. There is nothing more relaxing than to chill out in your hot tub of an evening. So this blog post will go over what you need to consider before you choose which hot tub you are going to purchase.
Where to put it
Location is very important. You want somewhere that is private but easily accessible. A sturdy deck or by an existing swimming pool are great places. Also make sure that there isn’t many tree’s around otherwise you’ll forever be scooping out leaves from your hot tub.
Because they can become very heavy with all that water you also need to make sure that the place you are putting it can handle the load.
Size
If it is just going to be you and your partner using in then you only need a small hot tub however if you entertain a lot then you’ll need something bigger. A good rule of thumb is to multiply 75 gallons (284 litres) of water per person.
Price
2 person spas often start at around $4,000 and bigger spa’s can reach up to $10,000 and more. You’ll need to take into account not only the cost of the hot tub but also running costs. If you are able to insulate your spa you’ll be able to save some money from the operating costs.
You many also need to pay for extra’s such as delivery and installation to get the tub to your home. And don’t forget the electrical and plumbing costs to get it set up.
Type
Acrylic, Fiberglass, Redwood? Obviously this can come down to personal preference but make sure you consider things like cleaning. Redwood, while beautiful, requires a lot of cleaning and upkeep whereas acrylic hot tubs are very easy to take care of but don’t have the same aesthetic appeal. You can even get small portable hot tubs made of vinyl for under $3,000.
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- Tags: buy hot tub