Saturday, March 7, 2009

Relaxing In A Tub Even Though Your Budget Is Tight!


By Andy Go

So you want to relax in a hot tub but you're just can't afford it? What do you do? Having a tight budget doesn't necessarily equate to the fact that, you can no longer enjoy the soothing feeling offered by hot tubs because you can now make the most out of used hot tubs on the market.

Retailers and used hot tubs
Not having thousands of dollars will no longer hamper your desire to treat yourself with a nice soak in a hot tub, because you can now find a lot of retailers who are selling used hot tubs. In case the retailer that you dropped by wasn't selling used hot tubs, then you could probably ask him where to find one because he is among the best sources you can get.

If you are the shy-type in terms of asking information from a professional, then the best thing for you is to check the classified ads in your newspaper and see if there are other sources. However, the safest option that you can take in purchasing used hot tubs is to seek an 'expert opinion', or to find an expert who is well-informed regarding the model of hot tubs. So that you can be guided accordingly during the time that you are to purchase your used hot tub.

Evaluating the hot tub
It is indispensable that you fully inspect the tub first for flaws. Among the first things that you should check are the pumps, and the jets which could be checked by turning the tub on and off. In doing this you will save yourself from the possibility of buying rubbish which might not even last a week or two. It is also important that you check the tub for cracks or drips because it is the topmost problems of tubs.


Clean the used tub
As soon as you have purchased the tub, the next thing is to give your hot tub a good bath in order to give it a new look. Use disinfectant for to kill the bacterium that have resided in the tub and then you may also put in some chlorine and bromine. To finish off the cleaning you must use shock treatment in order to overcome the other impurities such as dirt, oils, perspirations and some soap films.

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Safety tips on using hot tubs


By Andy Go


Hot tubs are a wonderful addition to a home since they provide relaxation from the massage. Furthermore, it has wonderful health benefits for the user. However, just like any other swimming pool, a hot tub is a place where safety precautions should be exercised. Here are some safety tips when using your hot tub.


Maintain the tub clean

Any water-containing facility can be a breeding ground for bacteria such as Legionella bacteria and Pseudomonas bacteria. Legionella bacteria can cause a fatal disease called Legionnaires disease. Meanwhile, Pseudomonas can trigger skin rashes, pneumonia, and eye infections. That's why its essential for the hot tub to be clean all the time.


Make it a point to drain the tub and scrub the walls of the hot tub monthly or twice a month, depending on the use, to remove dirt and bacteria. This could be done with a bleach solution. The same goes with the filters and pumping systems, which should be cleaned regularly. Also scrub the surfaces and decks around the tub clean.


Also use the right level of disinfectants to guarantee clean water in the hot tub. Chlorine can be used, as it is the most common disinfectant used in hot tubs. Monitor the level of disinfectant since when the tub is often used, the disinfectant level goes low.


People who use the tub should shower before dipping in the hot tub. We are dirty from pollution, dust, and everything else caught in city life. Therefore, we are a source of bacteria. So a shower with soap to wash away the dirt would be good to decrease the level of bacteria in the tub.


Hot tub temperature and its disadvantages

Since these tubs operate on a high temperature, it could cause overheating which triggers dizziness, rashes, burns, heat-related diseases or even death. The temperature should never exceed 104ÝF or 40ÝC.


Pregnant women and children are also at risk when using hot tubs. As for pregnant women, they shouldn't stay more than 10 minutes in the water as it would be detrimental to their health. Lowering the temperature to 102ÝF or 39ÝC would be best when pregnant women are using the hot tub. Meanwhile, children are more prone to overheating and drowning. They should stay in the tub not more than five minutes. Parents should always supervise their children for them to stay out of harms way.


Also don't soak for a long time because heat would cause dizziness and when you are dizzy you could faint. Fainting would be fatal since it could trigger heart attack or even death.


Proper use of every household appliance would ensure your family's safety and yourself as well. Take these tips into consideration to make sure you are out of harms way.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Protecting Your Spa Cover


By Andy Go

The spa cover is an essential appliance to protect your hot tub from dust, debris, and even from your neighbor accidentally taking a dip. This is also measures to keep the water in the hot tub clean and ready to be used. However, even if its a protective cover, it still gets dirty and needs to be cleaned. Here are some tips in protecting your spa cover.


Clean your spa cover!

A clean cover will keep a clean tub. Get a garden hose and spray the water on the surface of the cover. Do so until the debris and the dirt come off. Get a soft brush and a large sponge to scrub on the spa cover. Do it with a mixture of dishwashing liquid and water. The vinyl top should be scrubbed in a circular motion and don't let it dry with the soap! Rinse it well with water. As for the underside of the cover, wash it with water and dry with a rag.


Never, let the soap get into your hot tub! It will be a lot of trouble if it happens since you have to get it out of the tub.


Remedies for unwanted dirt

Anything can get on your spa cover such as tree sap, paint, grease, or grime, especially when your hot tub is under a tree or in your backyard. Tree sap can be annoyingly hard to get off, but a little bit of lighter fluid will do the trick. Don't use too much because it will damage the vinyl cover. Right after the application of the fluid, apply your preferred spa cover conditioner or soap.


As for paint - sorry, but there's no way to get it off. Once it dries, it remains there forever. Yes, there are solvents used to remove paint, but its a different story once you apply it on the spa vinyl cover. Solvents used to remove paint can damage your vinyl cover permanently.


Damages, blisters and whatnot

Sometimes fading color, blisters, or puddles show up on your spa cover. When the bottom vinyl of the spa cover sags like blisters, it means the water chemistry of your tub water is off. Improper water chemistry may manifest on your spa cover by color change, its being easily ripped, or falling into the water. The best remedy for this is to replace your spa cover.


These are just some tips on how to protect your spa cover. Treat your spa cover with care to make it last for a long time. It saves money and it saves a heck of a lot of worry.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Make your hot tubs sparkle with clean


By Andy Go

Cleaning your hot tub is mandatory since your tub is a breeding ground for bacteria that could cause diseases. Legionella and Pseudomonas bacteria are some that lurk in a dirty hot tub. Legionella bacteria can cause a fatal disease called Legionnaires disease. Meanwhile, Pseudomonas can trigger skin rashes, pneumonia, and eye infections.

Get that laziness out of your system and clean your hot tub! Here are some guidelines and instructions on how to clean your hot tub.

Replace your water once a month

Have you ever seen a pool where the water was not replaced in a year? It could get dark and muddy from dirt. As for hot tub, you can get the same results when you let the water stay for a long time. So replace it once a month and no longer. Dirt and bacteria can stay in the water for a long time which could harm you and your family. Safe and clean water is always the best.

Scrub, scrub, and rinse!

After draining the water from the tub, don't just refill it with clean water! The real place for bacteria to lurk into is on the walls and the floor. Get your cleanser, whether a recommended cleanser for hot tubs or a bleach solution. Get your muscles going by scrubbing the walls to release the dirt. Also include the surfaces and the deck on scrubbing to maintain a clean tub once someone dips in.

After the scrubbing is done, rinse the walls and floor with water. Make sure no bleach solution remains since it could produce bubbles in the hot tub water or make the water muddy and unclear.

Puts disinfectan. Read: Chlorine

Chlorine is the most popular disinfectant used in hot tubs and in pools. They reduce the harmful effects of water for the users safety. It is recommended to put chlorine tablets in the tub once a week for it to be fully sanitized.

Clean the filters

The filters should be cleaned once every two weeks, especially when the hot tub is used regularly. The filter can be cleaned by using a garden hose and spraying the filter to remove unwanted dirt. You can also use commercial cleaning solutions after rinsing it with water. These filters should be replaced once a year.

Hot tubs are most enjoyable to dip in when they are in their cleanest state. You can soak without worry and let the troubles and all your problems slip away as you relax with the massage provided by your hot tub.

Monday, March 2, 2009

Improving Your Home Spa As An Investment


By Andy Go

If you were to scrutinize the design of a spa, you would notice that the basic element would be the pipes, which could be the source either water or steam. This is the same element that is absent in portable spas and tubs, because in these models you no longer need to have a permanent source of water. The only thing that would be indispensable is the source of electricity.


Spa piping and circulation system


Putting in place a spa or pool circulation arrangement involves not only filters, disinfection tools and pumps. All of those elements should be attached to a piping system. Ideally, states along with local codes demand that the materials to be used must be licensed to ANSI/NSF Standard 14 which covers the clean water products.


Piping certification procedure


The licensing procedure done for plastic piping materials has several common elements which are also employed in the certification of the spa and pool circulation apparatuses. The program includes the unexpected audit of the product resources, the launching of minimum quality control prerequisites and of course the yearly testing in order to confirm the sustained compliance of the product.


The actual process


Throughout the inspection of the production service, a NSF crew validates that every element of the product and the procedure that is employed for the creation of the product observe the requisites of the NSF and Standard certification principles.


The validation includes the evaluation of the particular preparation information on the substances that are used to create the by product. The auditor is also responsible in conducting a physical assessment of some products which are currently created and on the process of inventory. These materials would be tested in NSF laboratories.


Maintenance


The maintenance of your spa's piping system should be included in your ongoing cost budget. Together with the chemicals which you must determine the amount beforehand, where they should be bought and the estimate cost of the chemicals. Filters, electricity, water costs and the repair costs are also included together with the maintenance of the piping system.


Overall, it isn't appalling to invest on some features which will surely make the spa last longer and in the end assure you absolute relaxation. For if taken care of accordingly, home spas are a good investment which could help raise the cost of your home.

Friday, February 27, 2009

Tips In Selecting the Best Hot Tub


By Andy Go


Your own hot tub? Most people would love to have one, readily available to soak in after a hard day at work. Lucky are those who can afford to have one at home because a hot tub has both mental and physical therapeutic effects. The water pressure on different parts of the body improves blood circulation, soothes minor sore muscles, eases minor ordinary pains as well as discomforts from arthritis.


A hot tub is expensive, so anyone planning to have one installed at home should try to select the best hot tub. The best hot tub is one that fits your budget, the space available and the operating cost and is one that makes the user feel that he or she got what they paid for.


The following should be considered in selecting the best hot tub:


1. Budget

How much is available to spend for a new hot tub?


2. Location and the size of the hot tub

Check the needed space for the hot tub and the accompanying accessories and plumbing. Check also if after the installation there is enough space for the user to move around. Are the passageways big enough to bring the tub to the space where it will be installed?


3. Ventilation

Hot water will make it humid, so plan for exhaust fans unless you intend to install the hot tub outdoors.


4. Outdoor tub location

Is it convenient for the user? If the tub is to be installed on a deck, is it strong enough and safe?


5. Hot tub and accessories

- Water Jets which are of different types. Discuss with the supplier so you get what you really want.
- Safety rails for safe entry and exit from the tub.
- Storage cabinets for the chemicals and other items needed for the hot tub.
- Panel locking for safety
- Automatic shut off feature for cost saving.
- Remote Control to set the bath condition up to a certain distance from the tub.


6. Operating cost

This mostly concerns the cost of electricity. Know the difference in cost between an outdoor and indoor hot tub.


7. Test Drive

Even small electrical appliances are tested before they are sold, so ask the retailer for a test drive. An important feature to check is the actual effects of the jets you plan to choose.


If the hot tub functions as expected, is within the intended budget, and fits the place well, then it is the best hot tub.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

The Best Spa doesn't Necessarily have all the Fancy things!


By Andy Go


Relaxing need not be done in a single place like spa centers, because now you can purchase your own portable spa and relax in the comfort of your own home. If you think that everything ends the moment that you have decided to purchase your portable spa, then you are wrong because this is only the beginning of endless decision making and reasonable organization of several elements.


Basic things of spas


As you are faced with a number of attributes, arrangements, models and fixtures, it would seem quite formidable to study every single possibility and decide the best formation for your requirements.


You can start with your search as you browse over the net and familiarize yourself with the terms that you may encounter as you are choosing your portable spa. Of course, you must start with the characteristic of a portable spa which is best described as a home spa or tub that is pre-manufactured and usually rests on top of the ground.


The real characteristics and size of the spa differ extensively, because there are small tubs which weigh around a hundred pounds and can be raised with ease. While there are larger tubs which are more or less a thousand pounds and will require specific installation assistance and some electric wiring help.


Considering your needs


While searching for the perfect portable spa on the net you might stumble into several specifications that include, the number of persons which can be accommodated by the spa, the therapy benches and seats, and the jet system of the spa which involves the power circulation.


There are also offers which provide the users with electronic controls, the water cleansing arrangement, the filtration systems, the covers, some fountains and there are also some which contain a fixed stereo system.


Thinking about the costs


This factor should be among your utmost consideration when you intend to consider your spa as an investment. You have to know the initial set of costs and the ongoing costs to be able to know how much money to budget.


At this point you may be enlightened that there are many choices as you install a portable spa. You need to be reminded that the best spas aren't the ones which are filled with various fixtures but it is significant that you choose the most suitable spa for your preferences and wants.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Reduce the Cost of Spa Services by Installing a Spa at Home


By Andy Go

Like other service facilities, spas are classified according to the range of services they offer. A spa is a service establishment with a relaxing environment that offers services for the overall enhancement of the customer's well being. Spa services include body treatments, facials, massages, manicures and pedicures done in private rooms by trained or professional massage therapists and estheticians. The higher end spas are of course more expensive.

There are variations on how the term 'spa" came about. One is that it was derived from the Latin phrase "salus per aquae" or health by means of water. Another is that it came from Spas, a town in Belgium with mineral water springs. Spas were first found in places with hot springs and sources of mineral water. People came to get healing from being immersed in hot water. Now, without any regulation on the use of the word "spa", even small establishments offering massages identify themselves as spas.

Going to a real spa is expensive but with the availability of less costly spa equipment and products for the beauty rituals, it is now affordable to set up a home spa. A home spa costs less because the customer no longer pays for the overhead at commercial spas.

The initial cost in setting up a home spa is mainly the purchase of the following:

1. Lightweight hot tub or whirlpool spa and accessories
There are many models to choose from, there are even portable hot tubs but you can still experience the same hydrotherapy effect like at the expensive spas. You can also choose the desired seating capacity, from two to six people.

2. Beauty and spa products
There are less costly but effective brands available. You just have to research or ask around.

3. Preparation of the location or site for the home spa

After the home spa is installed, the operating costs will depend on the following variables: Frequency of use, electricity, water, maintenance chemicals ( testing of pH level, water cleanliness test ), fees for the masseuse, and consumable beauty products. Hire massage therapists working from home because they charge much lower fees than those at the commercial spas.

The environment in a home spa is of course not as luxurious as the commercial spas but the basic reason for going to the spa, the various treatments and massage, can be just as good in a home based spa. With a home spa, you save money and time which is a luxury to some. Isn't that worth the initial trouble of scouting for and installing a spa at home?

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Procedures for Hot Tub Installation


By Andy Go


Hot tubs are the current in fixture or equipment for bathing. While in the past, some people were satisfied with using tubs for bathing, now, modern homeowners are getting more sophisticated.


After a long and winding day of hard work, isn't it just perfect to clean yourself in hot or lukewarm water while lying comfortably in a tub. There are also specific hot tubs that facilitate massage-like effects because the running water facilitates for relaxing water movements.


If you are one of those people who aim to acquire and install a comfortable hot tub at home, the following procedures will be of great help. If you are installing a hot tub for your home perusal, it would be advantageous and appropriate if you abide by several recommended procedures.


1. Shop for the hot tub of your choice. Pay particular attention to the size and the overall capacity of the fixture. Also be specific about the necessary heating equipment that comes with the hot tub.


2. Check the voltage of electric supply requirement. Hot tubs can be operating in either 110 or 220 volts of electricity.


3. After purchasing the hot tub, bring it home or have it delivered for more convenience on your part.


4. Check the site where you want your hot tub installed. You can opt to place it outdoors in the backyard or on the patio or indoors in the bathroom or another unused closed room at home.


5. Make a wood plank that would serve as a support where the hot tub will be placed over. It isn't advisable to put the hot tub directly on top of the concrete floor or bare ground. Doing so might produce cracks at the bottom of the tub because water pressure won't be held sufficiently by the tub if it is placed on concrete that would exert more pressure. Bare ground is just too soft for the purpose.


6. Assemble the hot tub after putting it on top of a wooden plank. Usually, you just need to put the tub on top of the plank, then place the heating and other necessary and adjoining equipment at least a few meters away from the hot tub for security purposes.


7. Safely install the electric supply current. Make sure electric lines aren't faulty and won't directly touch the hot tub to avoid electrocution risks.


There you have it, your newly installed hot tub. Tempted to use it, fill the tub with water and turn on the heater until the desired water temperature is attained. You are now ready to splurge, clean and relax.

Monday, February 23, 2009

Points To Consider When Purchasing Spa Products


By Andy Go

Upon hearing the word spa, the first thing that probably comes into our minds would probably be an activity of pure relaxation and pampering. The idea of dropping in at a spa has extended and blasted over the preceding years that the total treatments accessible are centers for our hair, body and skin. Along with the booming of the spas came the explosion of spa skin care products.

Essence of the products

You will find spa skin care products inside or outside the spa grounds and has turned out to be an essential element in the entire spa experience. Actually, there are more alternatives accessible now than ever. Spa products allow your visit to a spa more enjoyable.

But you ought to be reminded that before you employ any of these spa products, it has been advised that you first consult your physician so as to avoid any complications in the future.

Innovations and treatments

Spa skin care product expansion made the most out of the recent innovations in dealing with the aesthetic dilemmas such as aging, acne and wrinkles. More often than not, these spa products give emphasis to the clinical study findings together with the research and technology that made the product possible.

The demand for spa products that manages or averts the damaging of our skin due to the harmful UV rays is increasing. In the event that you are one of those few people who need these certain products, then it is best that you first conduct some preliminary research regarding the clinical findings of the recommended solution for this particular incident before you shop for a spa product.

Where to find the spa products

You might be thinking where are these products available, well of course the name itself states where it can be found. However, there are some products that can be purchased on the net and sometimes in some of the spa product's retail outlets. If you are purchasing from the spa center itself then you can probably get a discount from the management. This is one of the promotional strategies of spa centers so that they attract more clients to buy directly from their spa centers.

In reality, purchasing spa products is rewarding provided that you conduct it accordingly. By asking some questions of the people who are familiar with the products and by conducting some research yourself you can be assured of getting the best results.

Saturday, February 21, 2009

Must-Have Accessories for Your Hot Tub


By Andy Go


Now that you have your new hot tub, just a few more accessories and your home spa equipment will be complete. Here is a list of hot tub accessories you might want to buy next time you pass by your home spa store:


A jet pump


A hot tub can become an inexpensive and relaxing home spa with a simple installation of a jet pump. A jet pump can suction the water and release it back to produce a softer therapeutic effect that improves relaxation. Although a heater will usually suffice for hot tubs, why miss out on the bubbly, tingly feeling only a jet pump can provide?


An ozonator


Other than the filtration system, the ozonator can help keep your water clear and clean for a long time, even with regular use. This hot tub accessory will minimize the need to replace your water too often.


Test kit


The test kit usually contains test strips used to determine the water's pH level. A test kit will ensure that you maintain your water's usability. You can check its pH level to see if the water is still fine for soaking. Maintaining a good acid-alkaline balance will also help preserve your heater coil and prevent it from getting corroded.


Floating thermometer


A thermometer will let you maintain the proper water temperature so you relax in your warm bath without worrying that water temperature might rise without your knowing it. High water temperature can cause hyperthermia which can lead to unconsciousness. With a water thermometer, you will be alerted about any unnecessary increase in temperature and ensure your safety.


Lighting


Add to the relaxing ambience by installing waterproof underwater lights to your hot tub. These lights can add to the peaceful, calming mood or enhance a lively hot tub party.


Thermometer


Since most hot tubs will have a built-in thermostat that will regulate water temperature, you might not think an accessory like a thermometer is necessary. However, you might want to use one just in case your thermostat breaks down. A floating thermometer can give you a good, accurate reading of the water temperature to ensure you are within safe, comfortable levels.


Entertainment


If you love sharing your hot tub with family and friends, why not splurge on entertainment gadgets especially designed for hot tubs? Try a mounted TV, DVD player, waterproof game cards or a floating spa radio to provide you with a more enjoyable hot tub experience. If you're entertaining, add useful hot tub accessories such as a floating bar and side trays so you can serve fruit and juices.

Friday, February 20, 2009

How to Select the Right Spa or Hot Tub


By Andy Go


So you've finally decided to get yourself a spas or hot tubs for your personal relaxation and comfort. You have read up on its benefits and what it can do for you and other members of your family. With such a purchase at hand, you will definitely need to find the right kind of spa or hot tub that you and other members of your family can use easily. How do you decide on a spa or hot tub for your home? What are the factors you should consider when purchasing one?


Its More than Just Relaxation


It can be a pretty daunting task to choose one from such a wide range of choices and the factors that come into play when choosing which one is best suited for you. One of the more important factors you might need to consider when thinking about buying a hot tub or a spa is what you will be using it for.


Sure, it is for relaxation and stress relief, but is it purely for that or is there another reason why you are purchasing one?


These hot tubs are often seen as a great way to build friendships and relationships since the relaxing atmosphere that it generates helps people let their guard down thereby enabling people tog get to know each other better because they are more comfortable and relaxed. If you are thinking of using your spa or hot tub for recreational or leisure purposes as well, then you will also need to factor that in to your reasons for buying one.


The Numbers Involved


Once you have established your general reasons for purchasing a hot tub or a spa, you will then need to consider the location of such a spa. This can be decided upon based on the reasons you have for purchasing one. If it is for personal use, you can have it installed inside your bathroom or outside your own personal living quarters on a personal patio or area that you can use for your alone time.


You can also use this kind of a setup for those times when you want to use the spa or hot tub with someone special. If you are, however, planning on having a spa or hot tub for recreational use that may include friends and family, it would then be advisable for you to have it installed outdoors, like in your backyard or on the back porch of your home. This consideration for the location of your spa or hot tub will also generate the question of the tub's size and seating capacity.


For the more recreational friends and family tub choice, you may opt to choose the bigger tubs that can seat at least four people comfortably in its depths. If it is meant for personal comfort and relaxation, you are then better off with one with two seats for your bathroom or personal area. There are also single seat spas and hot tubs you can find on the market, however, these kinds of tube leaves very little room for other uses you might need.


When Price Matters


After all these considerations, the next most important selection obstacle is the price. While this may be a little less of a concern for people who have a surplus amount of cash, there are people who do have tight budgets when it comes to this expense.


Finding the right kind of tub for your exact purpose and your budget can be one of the most taxing parts of the selection process yet this is where you can further narrow the list down. Doing a little comparison shopping among the tub manufacturers that have the kind of hot tub or spa you want can help you further narrow down your choices to the few that you will eventually consider buying.


After you have narrowed down the choices, you can then call these manufacturers and ask them about installation. Is it free, are there additional charges, how soon can you have it installed and when can you expect to be able to use it once its installed?


These are just some of the questions you will need to ask to finally determine which spa or hot tub will have the honor of giving you that relaxing and rejuvenating soak.


Thursday, February 19, 2009

How to Install Whirlpool Tub Units on Your Own


By Andy Go


Whirlpool tubs are more than just your typical tub where you soak away the dirt and grime of the day. Whirlpool tubs are essentially tubs that can help ease away stress in a bubbling action that gently massages your muscles and joints to help relieve stress and tiredness.


How to install whirlpool tub units in your home can be done by professionals who know all the necessary steps in doing it properly, however there are ways for you to try and do it yourself.


Find How to Install Whirlpool Tub Instructions on the Internet


While there are only a few of these that can actually help you when you want to learn how to install whirlpool tub units on your own, there are actually a few that can help. There are those that give you step by step instructions on installation, depending where you place your whirlpool bath, and a list of materials you may need when you install it.


With a step by step guide that tells you all the details that you can either print out on a sheet of paper or consult every now and then on your computer as you install your whirlpool tub, you can get yourself an installation fee free whirlpool tub.


Finding the right instructions to follow when you are trying to learn how to install whirlpool tub units on your own may be found on the usual DIY sites and build-it sites online. You can also find these instructions from certain whirlpool tub brands that have installation procedures ready for those who wish to do it on their own.


Testing Your Whirlpool after Installation


Aside from installation instructions, there are also testing instructions that need to be done to help ensure that the whirlpool is indeed installed properly. These tests may involve having to run the whirlpool, filling it and draining it.


These tests should be done before the tub is placed and after it has been put in its supposed location. It should also be tested after everything is in place and is ready for use. This is the right way to install whirlpool tub units, with multiple testing stages to ensure that everything is working accordingly through all the installation steps.


When you install a whirlpool tub, you will need to be a bit of a handyman in you. If you feel that you are somewhat lacking in certain handyman aspects, it would probably be more cost effective to have a professional handle it for you.

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Everything You Need To Know About Heaters


By Andy Go


It is so easy to maintain the spa in your home. You can have the same luxury as what you get in a five-star hotel as long as you know how to maintain them. We are talking about the modern spa made of fiberglass.


For a newbie owning a spa, there are so many important things to know. Take for example the kind of spa and hot tubs out there, which varies depending on the heater that you use, as well as the water that you use.


Here are some basic heating tips for your spa.


1. Use an econo-mode and turn the thermometer to whichever you deem comfortable so that you will be able to save energy. You can turn it up before you get in.


2. Use test strips in order to adjust the chemical levels of your spa and your bath tub. Compare these strips with the chart that comes in the container. Practice makes perfect and soon enough, you will notice that you can manage your spa by yourself. You don't need an expert to do the work for you.


3. Make sure that the cover is tight on your spa in order to prevent letting out the heat. The newer the cover, the better its insulation will be. This will also help you cut back on the energy bill.


4. You have to condition the spa or the hot tub at least once a month. This prolongs the life by protecting it from elements like the suns rays. It also prevents the vinyl from cracking and hardening.


5. Leave the heater of your hot tub on all the time. This equips the circulating pumps and it allows the circulation of the water to take place. It also prevents the water from building up. The algae are also filtered and it cleans the water.


6. Wipe the spa with polish in order to give it a protective coat. After cleaning the filer, make sure that all debris has been removed.


Gas-fueled heaters vs. Electric heaters


Now if you're thinking of getting new water heater for your spa, you might ask yourself whether you should get the gas-fueled heater or the electric heater. The natural gas seems to be more than half of the water heaters and electricity heats what is left behind. A minor percentage of heaters burn up the propane, kerosene or oil. Some use solar collectors or wood heat in order to heat the water.


The key is to check whether natural gas is there. If yes, then the water heater must be gas-fueled. Electricity heaters are only considered when natural gas isn't available, making it impossible for the water to run through the roof and conduct heat through the combustion emissions. Take note that gas is faster and cheaper in heating water. So propane, oil and kerosene aren't as convenient as gas.


If you have a water heater that is electric and you want to make the most out of the economy by using propane or natural gas, then check whether your electric heater is capable of extracting the existing heat in the water. You can do this by turning the heater on in the storage tank. You will see that there is a heating unit that is mounted through the wall. You do not need a bent. It is already connected to the tank and the water line. The gas is directly piped through the new heating system. The unit is then three times the capacity of an electric water heater.


If you are a proud owner of a spa or a hot tub, you should also know that there are two kinds of gas logs.


1. Liquid Propane is a gas that has more carbon compared to natural gas. It burns three times because it is thrice hotter than the latter. This is the very reason why LP Gas tanks must be placed outside the house.


2. Natural Gas is lighter than air and it dissipates once it has been released. It doesn't burn as fast when compared to the other gases. It is also cheaper. This must be piped to an appliance.