Category Archives: Hot Tubs and Saunas

Hot Tubs and Saunas, Pool Closing and Winterizing

Don’t Put Away Your Bathing Suit Yet

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Dips in the backyard swimming pool may be getting chillier by the day, but there’s no reason to stow away your bathing suit yet when you can still enjoy soaking in the luxurious warmth of a hot tub.  My preference is the portable variety.  Portable hot tubs and spas offer a number of advantages over more permanent hot tubs.  Here are just a few…

Two of the most significant advantages of portable hot tubs and spas are their size and easy set up. They are generally smaller than traditional spas and can fit into tighter spaces. There’s no need to clear a significant area in the yard or on the deck in order to house the structure. Because of their smaller size and clever construction, most set up in only a few minutes — some are inflatable and come equipped with their own inflating device, while others have insulated panels that connect together. Setting up and transporting portable spas is so easy that you can even take them along on vacations and even to the homes of friends and family.

One of my favorite advantages of the portable hot tub is also the most practical one.  Portable hot tubs and spas plug into a standard household outlet. Traditional varieties operate on hard wired, GFCI-protected 220-240 volt 50 amp circuits. These circuits need to be installed by a qualified electrician. Portable spas, on the other hand, have a GFCI built into the end of the cord, so they can plug directly into a standard 110-120 volt outlet.

Thanks to the humble portable hot tub, you can winterize your swimming pool without mourning the passage of another summer season.  Keep your bathing suit handy throughout the winter, and enjoy a bubbly soak whenever you wish.

Hot Tubs and Saunas, Pool and Spa Equipment, Pool and Spa Maintenance

Expert Help for Choosing the Perfect Filter Cartridge

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Filter Cartridge Diagram

Do you need to replace the filter cartridge in your pool or spa? Knowing which replacement model to choose can be confusing. Use the easy step by step guide below to make sure that you choose the correct option!

  1. Measure the outside diameter of the end cap. Be sure to use exact measurement (+ or – 1/32″).
  2. Measure the existing cartridge length. The length is calculated from end cap to end cap and should be exact (+ or – 1/16″). Be sure to exclude any handles or extensions from this measurement.
  3. Measure the top inside diameter. Again, be sure to use exact measurements (+ or – 1/32″).
  4. Do the same with the bottom inside diameter.
  5. Note the name and model of the filter that the cartridge came out of.
  6. Next, you will have to identify the correct top and bottom type. These are the types that you will see. Note the one that most closely matches your filter cartridge.

Open Top/Bottom
Open Top/Bottom w/Gasket
Closed Top

Closed Top
w/ String Handle
Castle Top
Molded Cone
Handle

Semi-Circular
Handle
Open Bottom
w/ Male Slip Fitting
Open Bottom
w/ ThreadedFitting

With all of the information that you have now gathered, you are ready to call or visit your pool supply source with the knowledge needed to make an informed purchase!

Hot Tubs and Saunas, Pool and Spa Maintenance, Pool and Spa Safety

Major Recall on Pool Drain Covers

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Anti-Vortex Pool Drain Cover
Yesterday, the Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a recall on pool drain safety covers that is expected to affect many pool owners and operators across the country. Up to one million pools and spas could be affected. “The recalled drain covers were incorrectly rated to handle the flow of water … which could pose a possible entrapment hazard,” stated the press release from the CPSC. In cases where retrofit or replacement drain covers are necessary, the manufacturer will be responsible for paying for parts and labor. Pools needing a replacement should be shut down until arrangements can be made to correct the faulty drain covers. Please see the list below to find out if your anti-entrapment drain covers are affected by this recall. If you do own one of these drain covers, please refer to the manufacturer’s website below or call the Drain Cover Recall Hotline at (866) 478-3521 (24 hrs. a day, 7 days a week).

Company: A&A
Website: www.aamfg.com
Dates Sold: Dec. 2008 – April 2011

Company: Aqua Star
Website: www.aquastarpoolproducts.com/draincoverrecall
Dates Sold: Dec. 2008 – April 2011

Company: Color Match
Website: www.poolfittings.com/drain_cover_recall.htm
Dates Sold: Dec. 2008 – April 2011

Company: Custom Molded Products
Website: www.c-m-p.com/draincoverrecall.htm
Dates Sold: Dec. 2008 – April 2011

Company: Hayward
Website: www.ahayward-pool.com/draincoverrecall
Dates Sold: Dec. 2008 – April 2011

Company: Pentair
Website: www.pentairpool.com/draincoverrecall
Dates Sold: Dec. 2008 – June 2009

Company: Rising Dragon
Website: www.risingdragononline.com/draincoverrecall
Dates Sold: Dec. 2008 – April 2011

Hot Tubs and Saunas, Pool and Spa Safety

Safety Tips for Hot Tubs and Spas

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Hot Tub and Spa Safety

Residential hot tub safety is not always given as high a priority as swimming pool safety, but just as many dangers exist in and around hot tubs and spas as there are around pools.  Here are a few safety tips recommended by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission that can keep everyone safe in the spa:

  • Hot Tub Cover — Always use a hot tub cover, and be sure to secure and lock it when the spa is not in use.  Remind children frequently to stay away from the hot tub unless they are accompanied by a responsible adult.
  • Drains and Drain Covers — Spas and hot tubs should have at least two drains which have compliant anti-entrapment drain covers.  Single-drain spas create a powerful suction that can entangle hair and entrap body parts, leading to injury and even death.  Check the hot tub’s drain covers several times throughout the year.  Replace damaged or missing drain covers immediately.
  • Pump Shut-Off — Know the location of the hot tub pump’s shut-off switch.  Turn off the pump immediately in any emergency situation.
  • Water Temperature — Keep the water temperature in your hot tub at or below 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Alcohol Consumption — Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages while in a hot tub or spa.

Make these few safety precautions a priority around the spa.  Doing so will keep everyone safe and ensure that hot tub time is relaxing and fun.

Hot Tubs and Saunas

The Amazing Health Benefits of Saunas

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Four Person Sauna
Saunas are often a major draw of sports clubs and gyms across the world. These high heat steam rooms have long been heralded for their ability to ease post-work out aches and pains, but did you know that they also offer many other health benefits? They are so numerous that you will long to enjoy the therapeutic benefits. You don’t have to join a gym to enjoy infrared saunas. In fact, you don’t even have to leave your own home! At-home saunas are more affordable than ever and the price will be small compared to the benefits you receive. Saunas have been proven to relieve the following symptoms:

  • Aches, Pains, and Tension
  • Asthma, Bronchitis, and Other Breathing Problems
  • Arthritis and Rheumatism
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Bruises and Burns
  • Sports Injuries
  • Common Cold and Influenza
  • Migraine Headaches

Saunas also use high heat to help your body release harmful toxins. Some studies have shown that releasing these toxins aides in relieving depression, digestive disorders, high cholesterol, acne, and even heart disease. You also burn up to 600 calories per thirty minute session while relaxing away stress making saunas a great weight loss tool. Home saunas make all of these benefits available to you anytime, day or night!