Cleaning and Maintaining Your Hot Tub

There are tons of different chemicals and types of chemical systems on the market today. The following guide is for spa owners who use a lithium-chloride or chlorine.

Cleaning Your Spa A How to Guide

1. Drain your spa water every 3 to 4 months, depending on use. If your spa has an ozonator, changing your spa water may only be necessary every 8 - 12 months.
2. Add 1 part vinegar to 2 parts of water and sponge clean your spa shell. Rinse with fresh water and dry spa with towels.
3. Don’t forget to remove your pillows and clean behind those too!
4. The filter should be cleaned every month or more frequently for high bather loads. Soak overnight in a degreaser, or filter cleaner, then rinse well before replacing in spa.
5. Refill spa with fresh water to the recommended level. The water line should be approximately half way up the top skimmer.
6. You may want to bleed air from the filter canister and pumps to ensure the pumps will be primed. Look for tiny plastic thumb screws on your filter and your pumps and unscrew briefly to let the air escape.
7. If you have a timer, set your spa to filter on low speed for a minimum of 2 hours for every twelve hour period.
8. Let the water reheat, Enjoy your tub!

Weekly maintenance

1. Test your water for Chlorine, pH and alkalinity.
2. Adjust pH to 7.2 – 7.8 using pH up or pH down
3. Adjust alkalinity to 100-120 using AlkaRise or AlkaDown.
4. Add 1 capful of granular chlorine or lithium. Repeat every couple days or more frequently if using often.
5. Shock your water 2-3 times a week to keep your water looking crystal clear. One purpose of this treatment is to break-down organic waste contaminants which cause odor and cloudy water.  After treatment, water quality and clarity is often completely restored.
6. Rinse off your filter with high pressure fresh water. Soak the filter in cartridge cleaner monthly or more frequently if you have lots of people using the spa.
7. Use a descaler product once a week to prevent any time of calcium build ups and to protect the life of your tub

Remember to always ask a pro if you need help with your hot tub!

Please never hesitate to call us and ask questions we will happily service anyone in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Vaughan, North York, Richmond Hill, Markham, Thornhill, Oshawa, Pickering, Whitby, Ajax, Barrie, New Market, Hamilton, Ancaster, Brantford, Aurora Bradford, Cambridge, Kitchener, Peterborough, Lindsay, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Orillia, Muskoka, Collingwood and all of Ontario.

Factory Hot Tubs is located at 1252 Speers Road Unit 9 Oakville Ontario. We're available to be reached at 416-619-5979 or through email at info@factoryhottubs.ca

Interested in owning a spa? Start your shopping at our website! www.factoryhottubs.ca

And be sure to check out our previous blogs, twitter, and facebook page!

Specializing in: hot tubs, therapy spas, and gazebos

  

Choosing the Right Hot Tub

Factory Hot Tubs carries a large variety of totally customizable hot tub and spa models to ensure that you will find the hot tub that best suits your lifestyle. In this blog we will discuss the many features and benefits to consider when purchasing a hot tub and the innovative technology that makes spas more reliable and easier to maintain. There are many factors to consider when deciding which outdoor spa is right for you, including:

• Number of people:

 It is very important to consider how many people will be using the hot tub at once. There are many different seating styles that can accommodate for up to eight people or for something more intimate a two seater.

• Number of jets:

The number of jets isn’t as important as what the jets can do for you. Specifically designed hydrotherapy jets can offer a true massage. Some manufacturers will try and fool the consumer and put hundreds of jets, but they are actually just blowing air and tend to itch and burn rather than offering therapy. Don’t be fooled by the aesthetics, consider a speaking to a spa specialist or wet test before purchasing to see what the jets actually feel like.

• Features in your spa:

Technology has allowed manufacturers to incorporate cool features in hot tubs these days such as waterfalls, stereos, TVs, lighting packages, and water purifiers. Before purchasing a tub consider what bells and whistles you would like to enjoy the benefits of with your tub.

• Will you be using your spa all year round?

Hot tubs are great because unlike a pool you can use it all year round. Hot tubs have built in sensors to detect when the water is dropping in temperature and the heater will kick in to keep the water from being able to drop too low. If you do not wish to use your hot tub during a specific season you can always close it down the season.

• Who are you purchasing from?

You should always purchase your spa from a mortar and brick location. Expo’s and traveling hot tub event are high pressure and not the ideal place to purchase a spa. Most expos and events are not all they are advertised to be always do your research and make sure you are purchasing from a reliable source. Ensure who you are purchasing from someone who is educated on their products and can always be contacted directly.

• How is this Spa Constructed?

Ask questions, and check under the hood. The quality of the construction and materials used will determine how long your spa will last, the actual long-term cost, and the maintenance involved in its upkeep. A well built cover will save you thousands of dollars in the long run. Avoid cabinets made of wood, which will quickly turn black and moldy.

We at Factory Hot Tubs take pride in offering the best customer service possible! It is not only our job but our passion to make the customer completely satisfied. So before you purchase a tub contact us and let us educate you to make the right decision.

Factory Hot Tubs sells to and services all of the following:

Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Vaughan, North York. Richmond Hill, Markham, Thornhill, Oshawa, Pickering, Whitby, Ajax, Barrie, New Market, Hamilton, Ancaster, Brantford, Aurora Bradford, Cambridge, Kitchener, Peterborough, Lindsay, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Orillia, Muskoka, Collingwood and the rest of Ontario

Hot Tub Do's and Don'ts

Regardless of age, weight, height, or gender just about anyone can enjoy the soothing waters of a hot tub. Relaxation and sheer happiness, the warm water and hydrotherapy jets will make you feel like you are 5 years younger in just a 30 minute soak. Hot tubs are a great place to laugh, smile and have fun, that being said hot tubs are not a toy. Generally hot tubs don’t come with a list of do’s and don’ts so Factory Hot Tubs thought we’d put one together and share a little bit of hot tub ethics.

DON’T:

Don’t drink too much in your hot tub. The warm water will dilate your blood vessels increasing the absorption of alcohol into the blood magnifying the effects of the alcohol. Basically, you get drunker faster in a hot tub, so if you’re going to drink in a tub be safe about it and drink slower than usual.

DO:

Maintain your water. Nobody wants to get into a hot tub that has smelly cloudy water in it. Most hot tubs these days have highly advanced filtration systems including ozonators, microfiber filters, and other automatic water cleaners. Hot tubs always require some minor care; check your water regularly to keep it clean. Having clean water will only make you and others want to use the tub more often.

DON’T:

Fall on your face; it’s embarrassing and not much fun.  If you’re relaxing in a hot tub for an extended period of time your muscles will loosen up and may not work as fast as you’re accustomed to.  If your body is in a deep state of tranquility take extra precaution operating motor vehicles.

DO:

Relax. The greatest benefit any hot tub can offer is the ability to offer unmatchable relaxation. Built up stress, headaches, lack of sleep will all dissolve in the swirling warm waters of your tub. Warm water has been helping release stress since the Roman Empire thousands of years ago, increased blood circulation and natural endorphins are released when soaking in warm water. So when the burdens of the day all seem to be resting on your shoulders hop in your tub and let the waters wash away your worries.

DON’T:

Dive. This is really a no brainer and doesn’t require much of an explanation but diving head first into 36” of water is not the best choice you’ll make. If you value your teeth, brain and neck don’t dive into a hot tub.  

DO:

Enjoy the view. Look up and gaze at the stars, relaxing in your hot tub and gazing at the stars sounds extremely relaxing, doesn’t it?

DON’T:

Over heat your water. Nobody told you to keep your water cold, after all it is a HOT tub, but there is a safe zone for humans to be in hot water. You should never let your water go over 104ºF; water past this temperature can induce drowsiness. Mixing water and drowsiness can only spell disaster, keeping your water about 97-98ºF is ideal.

DO:

Invite some of your friends/family to enjoy your tub with you! Owning a hot tub is going to make you the envy of the neighborhood, your friends and family. Hot tubs make for a great place to have conversations, and are always the centerpiece of an outdoor party!

DON’T:

Forget your towel. I mean it’s not the end of the world if you do, but common courtesy is to bring your own towel. It makes the host’s life a lot easier and maybe you’ll be invited back because face it doing the laundry is no one’s favorite activity, so seriously, bring your own towel.

DO:

Get Romantic. Couples around the world would agree that a hot tub can be the perfect end of a great night. Take your lover out for dinner, and a movie. Then bring him/her back to your place and end the night together in close quarters.

DON’T:

Let your pets in the tub. Another no brainer, first off it is dangerous for your pets as they are no where near accustomed to the temperatures humans are. Secondly it will affect the cleanliness of your water. Don’t be a moron, NO PETS ALLOWED.

By following these simple rules you will enjoy your tub to its maximum potential! Thanks for reading, hope you enjoyed it. If you have any questions feel free to find us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, or comment directly on the blog! Thanks again!

Happy Birthday Canada From Factory Hot Tubs

What is the first word that you think of when you think Canada?  Is it… Hockey, bacon, freedom, Steve Nash, diversity, maple syrup, Wayne Gretzky, opportunity? Whatever it is I am so thankful to have been born in this beautiful country, the land, the culture, the people and everything else that this country has to offer. Home to over 36 million Canada has one of the highest living standards in the world; it is abundant in resources, 99% literate, and offers free health care. The possibilities and the opportunities in this country are never ending. Over the years there have been so many great Canadians like: Jim Carrey, Alexander Graham Bell, Terry Fox, David Suzuki, Frederick Banting, Wayne Gretzky, Don Cherry and that’s just to name a few. We Canadians have helped shape the world; we invented the telephone, Insulin, the zipper, plexiglass, instant replay, poutine and more! We’re a proud group of people, willing to stick up for each other, and fight for what is right. For more than a century, Canadians have had their own Red Cross National Society dedicated to improving the situation of the most vulnerable people in Canada and around the world. We are the envy of dozens of nations. We've dodged the economic crisis that's rattled the U.S., and Europe, and according to Forbes, Canada is the best country in the world to do business and it's not because of the climate. Chalk it up to a lower corporate tax rate, excellent infrastructure and a well-educated populace. At this point you’re probably thinking wow, I am really lucky to live here. Sorry to brag, but it looks like Canada is the best place on earth. Happy 145^th Birthday Canada.

Oh, and of course we can't forget Factory Hot Tubs is PROUDLY CANADIAN

Top 10 Reasons To Own A Hot Tub

 Owning a hot tub can have many health benefits, and can actually prolong your life. One of the main reasons for these great health benefits is hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy has been around since the early Egyptian, and Roman empires. It is a form of physiotherapy, which involves the use of water for pain relief and treatment. So what are the top 10 reasons for owning a hot tub?

10. Pain Relief and Healing
Did you know that when you are feeling congested the hot steam rising off the water can help to open up nasal passages? Inhaling warm, moist air has been a remedy for upper respiratory problems for centuries. Also, the warm, swirling waters in a hot tub can aide recovery from minor injuries, aches and pains. Hydrotherapy can also be incorporated into a rehabilitation program after a more severe misfortune. Many people find that soaking in a hot tub relieves migraines, and pain from tension headaches. As your body relaxes, so do the muscles in your head.
9. Visual Appeal
Watch and listen as streams of water dance above your head, or a sheet of water cascades into the hot tub or over your shoulders. A spectacular variety of fountains help enhance the spa aesthetically and add an experience by adding a visual and auditory dimension. A patio or deck surrounding the hot tub offers generous opportunity to improve the look of your backyard oasis; patio furniture, gardens, fireplaces, additional water features are all great ways to enhance the look and feel of your .
8. Hydrotherapy and Massage
Better than a masseuse, hydrotherapy jets give the ultimate massage. Whether you are in the mood for a gentle touch or a more forceful massage most high end hot tubs offer adjustable flow jets allowing for the perfect massage for everyone. Tension always seems to settle in the neck and shoulder region, special jets surrounding the neck and shoulders provide pulsating, rhythmic relief allowing the built up tension to release itself from your body. Not only can you customize your massage, but some models allow you to swap jets of various sizes and water flow so your body never tires of the same massage.
7.  Entertainment
All those summertime hits and mellow tracks always lift spirits. Since many hot tubs are compatible with iPods and other portable media devices, you can create a playlist specifically for soaking. Whatever your taste in music, a state-of-the-art in-spa stereo system allows you to sing along with your favorite vocalists, surrounded with bubbling acoustics. Also try your crosswords, sudokus, cryptograms…whatever the puzzle; finishing one while surrounded by the peaceful waters of your hot tub makes the success all the more sweet.
6. Family Time and Get-Togethers
Hot tubs really do bring together the family. Flip open the cover, start the jets, and watch how everyone gets up from their computer, hangs up their cell phone and heads out for a soak. Whether it is a birthday bash, a barbeque after the big game, a family reunion or a holiday get-together, spending some time in a hot tub adds a unique twist to a traditional festivity. Also the hot tub is an ideal setting to share good news or to make an important family announcement.
5. Relaxation and Stress Relief
A hot tubs’ soothing water decreases stress levels and helps you unwind. Relaxation is usually at the top of the priority list for shoppers looking to purchase a hot tub. Owning a hot tub allows for you to take a mental break anytime of the day, the swirling warm water helps to wash away your troubles. You can use the hot tub as a form of emotional cleansing or to renew your spirit. When the hustle and bustle of your day becomes too much, head over to your hot tub for a bit of alone time and a soothing soak.
4. Convenience 
Today's self-contained hot tubs maintain a steady heat, always ready for you to step in and enjoy yourself. There is no more turning on the heater and waiting for warm water. No need to drive to a health club for a soothing soak when you have your own safe, clean hot tub in the back. And you’ll never have to grumble over anyone hogging your favorite seat.
3. Romantic Interludes
Create a romantic night to remember for you and your sweetheart. Hot tubs enjoy a long reputation for stirring sensual juices. Soaking sets the mood for love.
2. Health and Fitness
The warm water in a hot tub decreases muscle tension, which allows greater flexibility. You can stretch better in the water. Also some studies indicate that all things being equal, people who use a hot tub for 30 minutes a day lose more weight than others who don't soak while on the same eating and exercise regimen.
1. Turn Your Backyard into a Resort of Its Own
Purchasing a hot tub lets family and visitors know that you have stepped up a notch on the social scene. No longer do you have to travel to a fancy resort when you can create the ambiance of a vacation—right in your own backyard. Call it a staycation!

 

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