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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Convert An Ordinary Bathtub Into A Whirlpool Bathtub

By Andy Go

The effect of hydrotherapy in easing various minor body pains is well known and accepted. Many people go to the trouble of regularly visiting spas because of the reinvigorated feeling after just a 10 minute session. In hydrotherapy, the buoyancy of the swirling water, the water temperature and the pressurized water from the jets combine to ease the tired muscles and body pains.

Making time to visit spas is an admirable health habit but there are people who for various reasons just don't have the time. Some good advice to get the benefits of a whirlpool spa is to convert the ordinary bath tub at home into a whirlpool bathtub. This would be very convenient for the users since there shall be no need to go out and visit a spa.

Before buying the needed parts and accessories to convert the ordinary bath tub into a whirlpool spa, make sure to check that there is no need to move the bath tub from its present spot. Take measurements to be sure that there will be enough space.

There are whirlpool jet systems for any bath tub, like fiberglass, acrylic, marble, even steel or cast iron.

A whirlpool bath tub has a motorized circulation system where air and water are sprayed through four to eight jets for an active massaging action. To convert the ordinary tub to a whirlpool bath tub, the appropriate capacity of a water pump and hydro jets must be added. The tools and parts needed to convert an ordinary bathtub into a whirlpool bath tub are available at many retailers and can be done by the bath tub owner.

Another accessory to be added is the water heater, to maintain the water temperature to be ready to use at any time needed. The warmth of the water is a major factor in the healing effects of the whirlpool.

There are accessory retailers who sells a complete set. An advantage is that there is less confusion since all the needed parts are picked out as part of a kit. A disadvantage is that the bath tub owner may pay for parts that they already have.

The conversion of an ordinary bathtub into a whirlpool spa is worth serious consideration since it is to the benefit of the owner to regularly avail of the healing effects of a whirlpool spa.

Calling in the Hot Tub Cavalry

By Andy Go

As much as most of us men pride ourselves on our ability to fix and maintain just about anything around the house, there are some things we draw the line at. At least if we're smart. Deep indoor plumbing is one type of nightmare that has scarred several Do It Yourself handymen for life - at least until the next beer.

Now, for those lucky, rich, and/or ingenious enough to have hot tubs installed in their houses, the plumbing nightmare multiplies threefold as a screw-up with a hot tub's piping can often lead to flooded basements and large bruises from the wife. To avoid these harsh penalties, smart men know their limits, and know when to call in the experts. Here is a brief guide to finding a good, reliable professional to handle your hot tub repair problems.

The Easiest Step
The first and easiest option (and also the safest) is if your hot tub was sold to you with either a warranty and/or a service clause. In either of these cases, the people who sold you the hot tub will have specialists on their staff who HAVE to fix the tub or replace it if it's faulty, depending on your coverage.

In the event that you just bought a kit and installed it yourself, or if the warranty has expired, you should move on to the next step. Don't settle for just calling the people you bought it from if the warranty has bit the dust; their staff might not be competent, or they might charge you an arm and a leg. Start shopping around for a cheap yet reliable repair man.

Okay, so What's Busted?
While calling a specialist is all well and good, first you have to know what's broken. If the water isn't coming in properly, this may be a result of clogged pipes or a problem with the water pump. If the damage is directly to the shell of the hot tub, this is fairly easy to spot. Leaks, on the other hand, aren't restricted to shell damage.

Check the places where the pipes connect to the tub to see if the problem lies there instead. If one type of water (hot or cold) isn't coming in properly, it's often a pipe problem, BUT may also be damage to your water heater itself or to the electric wiring of the heater or tub. Try to find the source of the problem before you ask someone to make a house call.

Who yah Gonna Call?
Once you find the problem, (or think you have!) there are four general hot tub specialists who can help you with your various problems. The most common one that most people call on is the plumber. If the problem is with your pipes, you definitely want a plumber to do the work for you.

On the other hand, another type of specialist to call is someone who remodels hot tub shells. Call this type of specialist if the damage is due to a leak in the actual shell of the tub. Repairing a ceramic tub shell is beyond either the skills or the equipment of most DIY handy men. If you've determined the damage is to the water pump or heater, the first instinct of most people is to call a plumber.

However, mechanics specializing in small motors and household appliances are better in this case. Not every plumber is trained to deal with a mechanical problem - their specialty is in pipe related problems.

Lastly, if the problem is electrical in nature like a busted power outlet that runs your water pump, call an electrician. While replacing wiring may seem simple, remember that you're also working with water here - the last thing you want to do is strip a cable and leave little parts exposed to all that wonderful water you're bathing in...

How can you be sure you're not getting ripped off?
You can't. it's a sad but true fact that when you call in a specialist they have control over the situation - they can easily claim any number of damages that need "fixing" and charge you for each separate repair job.

The only real way to keep yourself protected in this case is to rely on your own experiences as a Do It Yourself handyman. Keep close to the repair man as he goes over the problem, and ask frequent questions and clarifications as to the nature of the problem and how he's going to fix it.

If he starts giving you lip about needing to work "in peace", just assert the fact that YOU'RE the one paying his bill, so if you want to ask questions it's your right to do so. More importantly, if you show that you're on the ball and keeping an eye on him, he'll be less inclined to fabricate problems (assuming you get a dishonest one). Still, one of the best ways to make sure you get a decent repair man is to ask for recommendations from your friends and family; if several people can attest that a certain person's services are competent and prices are fair, go with it.

An Effective Technique to Clean Your Whirlpool Tub

By Andy Go

Modern bathrooms are equipped with the most comfortable and most reliable bathing amenities. Home owners almost always make sure that their bathrooms are as cozy as ever so that total relaxation will be facilitated as they clean their bodies.

In the past, bathrooms comprised of showers and tubs. Now, there are more equipment that are being added to make the bathing experience more worthwhile and effective. The whirlpool tub is one of those amenities.

Why do homeowners install whirlpool tubs into their bathrooms? The answer is simple. They want to get a complete cleaning and relaxing experience at the same time while they are bathing.

However, no matter how helpful and cozy the fixture is, it isn't exempt from getting dirty.

Here is a simple procedure that will facilitate an effective and convenient cleaning of the equipment:

1. Start with the whirlpool totally drained of any water. Turn off the jets to make sure no air induction is present.

2. Slowly fill the whirlpool tub with hot or lukewarm water. Make sure the water level reaches the top of the jets. As always, you shouldn't pump seats and jets without water because doing so would certainly damage that important part of the whirlpool tub. Warm water is better in cleansing smooth or even rough ceramic surfaces off with dirt.

3. When the whirlpool tub is almost filled with warm water, add about 4 ounces of any brand of household bleaching product. On top of that, add 2 full tablespoons of detergent powder to the warm water.

4. Operate the whirlpool and open the air control fully. Do so for 15 minutes. Doing so would help circulate the detergent solution so that the walls of the tub will be cleaned of any dirt and impurities.

5. Drain the warm water off. After that, refill the whirlpool tub this time with clean and cold tap water. Again, run or operate the jets for about 5 to 10 minutes additional.

6. After the above procedures, quickly drain the cold water. Notice the difference the action did to the surface of the ceramic whirlpool tub.

7. To complete the procedure, wipe dry the tubs surface with a clean and soft piece of cloth. Let it stand for a few hours before using again.

It is imperative to clean the whirlpool tub with the above procedure at least twice every month. That will definitely help prevent growth and accumulation of bacteria and other dirt across the surface of the whirlpool tub. There you have it. Now, you can use the whirlpool tub again anytime you like.

All About Optional Automation

By Andy Go

When you say optional automation the first thing that comes to mind is a Timer. A timer is a kind of clock that can control a process or an event. It ranges form being mechanical to digital, electromechanical to software. Almost everything comes with a timer from watches to cellular phones, from computers to television.

Mechanical timers use mechanisms applied in clocks like escapement and springs in order to pick up the pace when it comes to the speed. If it is inaccurate, these mechanisms are said to be cheap and it is better to use a timer that is able to resist this. An example is the mechanical egg timer.

The accurate mechanism of a timer resembles those small alarm clocks. The advantage of these timers is hat they don't need a battery or electricity. They can also be stored for a long time. The most common application of this kind of automation control are bombs and explosives.

The Two types of Electromechanical Timers

1. Thermal type

It has a metal finger that comes with various rates of expansion. The most common are the bronze and steel. The process involves the electric current flowing through and heating it. A side expands making the other side shorter. There is contact on the other end and it moves away from the switch contact. The most common application are the flashers that turn the signals in cars. It is also applied in Christmas lights.

2. Cam Timer

This kind uses a small motor that is synchronous and turns the cam through the switch contacts. This contraption, referred to as the AC motor, is always turned on and by alternating the current, it becomes an accurate rate. Power companies regulate these kinds of timers. This slow the motor to the desired speed and turns the cam on. The most popular application are those in dishwashers, driers and washing machines. This kind of timer comes with a friction clutch between the cam and the gear train. Therefore, the cam can be reset at any time.

Electromechanical timers are really popular because they are less expensive when compared to the mechanical switch conducts. They are also cheaper than those devices that have to be controlled by heaters, motors and power lights.

Before, mechanical timers were used in electric relays in order to guild controllers powered through electro-mechanical contraptions. These electromechanical timers reached a state that were very extensive and eventually were applied in weapons systems and aerospace. Thanks to these electromechanical timers that can be controlled and programmed, launching of sequence events, rockets and missiles were made possible.

What are Digital Timers?

Digital timers are more precise compared to mechanical timers. They have integrated circuits that come with digital logic which is inexpensive. Therefore, an electronic and digital timer is cheaper than electromechanical and mechanical timers.

It is cheaper because it only needs a single chip. It is like that of a watch. The technology conducted in these devices are simpler than those of electromechanical appliances. However, most timers have software to implement their functions. The modern timer controllers resort to logic that is programmable instead of a box that is filled with parts that are electromechanically but quite complicated for the layman. The logic behind this is that the digital timer is designed to be simple. Digital timers are also safer than the mechanical and electromechanical timers. An application of the digital timer is the gas timer.

Air Switches and Wireless Controls

Most spas have electronic timers. Usually, they are digital counters that are controlled by the software. Their count down reaches zero. The minute it does, then the heater goes off.

The popular timers for spas and hot tubs are the air switches which provides the remote control. All you need to do is to push the button that is connected to the mechanism. This is flexible enough to allow the user to operate the hot tubs pump and blow up to 75 feet. Also, these models are round the clock and has a multiple timer which turns from one to two speed pump.

Finally, there is the field control operations that is very perfect for irrigation and lighting. These are also perfect for hot tubs and spas. They are also used in green houses, parking lots, traffic control, mostly for outdoor use.

All About Hot Tub Water

By Andy Go

A majority of hot water tubs incur chemistry problems because of the improper diagnosis with test strips. Some people think that just by dipping them into the water, they will get an accurate prognosis of what's wrong with the water in the hot tub or spa.

There is some truth to that. You can actually troubleshoot hot tub or spa problems on your own. The important thing you should be aware of is how to diagnose these properly and the steps you must take in order to fix the water problem.

For future resources, here is a run through of the possible solutions to water chemistry problems in the hot tub or spa.

1. You should always make sure that the water in your hot tub is safe. You may get a lot of tips online claiming that the safest hot tub water is less stringent. Nonetheless, it is highly recommended that the water be reduced to a low point in order for your family and yourself to enjoy your hut tub safely.

2. Purchase the chemicals you will need for your hot tub from the best store. Get them in pristine condition. Just make sure that you read the details of each chemical before you actually put it in your hot tub.

3. You have to test the chlorine levels and make sure that they fall in the range of 3 to 5 mg for every liter. This is the required dosage for every hot tub. Test the pH levels and check whether they are between the range of 7.2 to 7.6. If it doesn't, then you have to toggle the hot tub pH content and meet these figures. If the water foams, then use the anti-foam. You can also go for the diluted form which comes in spray bottles. Spray them on the surface of the water.

4. You should put oxidizing agents like Calcium Hypochlorite or Non chlorine in your hot tub once every week. These clean the filter. You should also have spare filters which you use whenever you dry one. Notice that the fibers of the filter are bound together after you clean them.

Things to Remember if you have a Hot Tub :

1. Calcium Hardness

You have to get the right calcium level in the water. The calcium levels depend on the source of water, where you get your supply and where you live. Soft water has low calcium while hard water has higher calcium. Each time you refill the tub with water, you have to check the calcium level.

Ideally, the calcium level that is appropriate for a tub ranges between 100 up to 200 mg for every liter. If the calcium level for the tub is less than this, then it might result in damage or corrosion. If you find that the level of calcium is lower than the range mentioned, then use products such as the Hot Tub Hardness Plus in order to increase the calcium level up to the ideal.

If the level of your hot tub is way above than the ideal, then the results will be cloudy water. You can deposit the excess calcium on the heater element, tub shell, filter cartridge or in the pipe. You can also use the product No Scale in order to bring it to the calcium level you prefer.

2. Alkalinity

This depends on where you get your water. You should always check whether fresh water has been added. Ideally, Alkalinity for the hot tub ranges between 125 up to 500 mg per liter. If this stays in this range, then the water doesn't fluctuate. If it drops, then the water becomes corrosive and causes damage on the equipment. We therefore suggest you use the product pH plus in order to increase the alkaline level.

However, if the alkaline level is higher than the ideal, then the water is not that clear and scales slowly form. In order to reduce this, we recommend pH Minus.

3. pH Levels

It's important that you check the hot tub ph level on a regular basis. Use the Test Strips that you can buy over the counter at your local drug stores. Ideally, the pH range equates 7.4 up to 7.6. The alkaline protects the equipment and provides an ideal condition for the users because of its sanitizing effect.