Hot Tub Maintenance in the Winter

Now that winter is well upon us, we must consider how to properly care for your hot tub during these colder months. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you have a well functioning spa.

Water Changing

Before it get too cold out, you should change your water. Water should be changed once every 90 days or so. Try to time it before winter really strikes. If it already into the winter months and you need to change the water, the best thing you can do is get yourself a submersible pump to drain the water much faster. When refilling, make sure you refill the spa right away so that any left over moisture won't freeze. And turn it on right away to get that water heated again!

Electrical

Check electrical connections. It is important to check indoors that the breaker is in good order, outside at the GFCI to ensure it is protected and well connected, as well at the electrical connection within your spa pack. Visually inspect the electrical to ensure all connections are secure, as well as all components are connected. If there are any disconnections or anything faulty you have noticed, contact the electrician who hooked up your spa, as well as your local dealer.

Hot Tub Cover

Checking your hot tub cover regularly is a good way to ensure your water remains clean, and you aren't spending a fortune on hydro to heat the tub incase your cover needs replacing. Covers that are ripped, torn, water logged, uneven, or not sealing right indicate it is time to get a new cover. Life of a cover ranges from 5-8 years. At Factory Hot Tubs we can order you a high grade hot tub cover with the colour of your choosing, and will be ready in approximately 2 weeks.

Chemicals & Supplies

Are you stocked up on chemicals? Make sure you have all the essentials to properly maintain your water. There is no difference in the maintenance and use of chemicals in the winter time versus summer time. Nothing worse than wanting to use your hot tub in the winter and remembering you are out of something! If you don't want to leave the house, simply order your supplies from our online store at www.factoryhottubs.info and we will deliver it right to your door!

Power Failure

In the event of a power failure, leave the breakers in their on position, keep the cover on securely, and leave the water in. DO NOT DRAIN YOUR HOT TUB. A good well insulated spa should give you up to 3-5 days worth of remaining heat until you should need to worry about freezing. Typically power failures only last a few hours, but sometimes they can last a few days. In the event your power is still off past 4 days you can use a generator to power a block heater which can be fit inside the cabinetry. Otherwise, you will need to drain the hot tub and winterize it. Contact your local hot tub dealer for information on how to winterize your hot tub.

Platinum Elite Spas

Artesian’s Platinum Elite spas have standard features such as the AquaSerene water feature, two serenity-enhancing pop-up fountains that provide a constantly available source of visual and auditory tranquility. So sit back and enjoy the serene sound of the falling water or nestle under and feel the warm water trickle down your neck and back. The addition of a beautiful LED lighting system to your spa illuminates the texture and detail of the spa’s interior, as well as bringing to life the spa cabinet. Our LED light systems can be set on one favorite color, or the colors can slowly blend into one another, creating an impressive light show. The spas are without a doubt visually stunning. 

With a Platinum Elite you turn your backyard into an everyday oasis. Add a stereo system to complete your total escape; you have a few options such as: Bluetooth, patio speakers, iPod docking stations, pop-up speakers, etc. The LCD panel is user-friendly and controls the stereo.

Platinum Elites are far more than just aesthetically satisfying. Behind the elegant surface lies the most powerful, sophisticated system ever developed for moving and directing the flow of water in a spa. The DirectFlow controls are what really set the Platinum Elite’s apart from the rest of the pack. The DirectFlow technology combines switchless motors and the superior plumbing system of the Platinum Elite line to move more water volume through more jets with greater power and less resistance than any  other spa in the industry. Combining the DirectFlow technology and our patented Helix Jet System the Platinum Elites delivers a truly unique, luxurious, and unmatchable therapeutic massage. To put it simply, there is no spa in the world that can outperform a Platinum Elite.

Not only do the Platinum Elites outperform the competition, but they are also much more ergonomically designed. Each seat helps maintain an even weight distribution and correct posture when enjoying the powerful massage therapy of the Helix Jets. The bench seats allow you to swivel to not only massage your back, but your sides and arms too. The entire spa is designed to minimize physical effort and discomfort. And if all of the above isn’t enough to totally convince you how amazing the Platinum Elite spas really are how about a smart phone app? The spa industries first smart phone app designed to allow you change your filter cycles, temperatures, and other functions.

Hydrotherapy Jets

Hydrotherapy is an age-old form of healing and stress relief, and a huge part of hot tubbing. Artesian Spas have a variety of different jets and jet configurations to deliver deep tissue muscle massages for various parts of the body. It is based on three simple principles: heat, buoyancy and water movement.

Heat dilates the blood vessels and increases circulation in the body. This helps enzymes and endorphins work more rapidly and efficiently on areas of the body, such as muscles and joints, that have been strained, injured or stressed. Heat also helps cells more easily get rid of metabolic waste, which is replaced by oxygen and the body’s natural nutrients.

Buoyancy is a simple physics issue. The body weighs 90 percent less when suspended in water. Specific gravity is reduced, and pressure on the spine, muscle groups, ligaments and joints is significantly eased.

Hydrotherapy is the delivery of moving water to various parts of the body, is the final and critical ingredient to this process. All body systems benefit from hydro-massage. Stress, injury and poor posture can all cause muscle spasms and pain. Specifically directed jets of water stimulate and relax trigger points, which are highly sensitive “nodules” in the spasming muscle. Massage has also been shown to improve flexibility, increase circulation, and provide restorative benefits.

The jets we put into our spas are all developed to have the best effect possible for the user. Here are a few of the jets you’ll find throughout Artesian Spas:

Helix Jets

Artesian Spas features a revolutionary breakthrough in hydrotherapy jetting that makes use of the timeless concept of the helix, a three-dimensional, double-spiral form. This patented jet, aptly named the Helix, has been designed to provide a truly remarkable hydro-massage exclusive to Artesian Spas. Engineered from the concept of the double helix, the jets use a right-directional spiral on the inside of the cylinder. This causes water to spiral out in a twisting manner, providing jet pulsation and massaging pressure.

The two largest Helix jets, named ProHelix, provide a high volume of water to massage large muscles in the body. The midsize Helix, called TheraHelix, is strategically placed in small groups in the spa to massage muscles such as calf, hamstring, deltoids, biceps, and triceps. The smallest Helix jet, the AccuHelix, is placed in large groupings to massage larger regions of the body, such as the entire back. As a complete system, four to five different sizes of Helix jets are featured in every Artesian Spa model

Footblaster Jets

Treat yourself to the ultimate foot massage with the revolutionary new Footblasters. This innovative design features either one or two powerful jets that relieve tightness and relax muscles, melting away tension and pain in a matter of minutes. One soothing moment enjoying the Footblasters and you will agree that it is superior to any other foot massage.
Note: Available only on select spas.

Neck Jets 

Treat yourself to the ultimate neck and shoulder massage with these revolutionary jets. This innovative design features four powerful jets that relieve tightness and relax muscles, melting away tension and pain in a matter of minutes. One soothing moment enjoying the Neck Jets and you will agree that it is superior to any other shoulder or neck massage.
Note: Available only on select spas.

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 on our website! www.factoryhottubs.ca

And be sure to check out our previous blogs, Twitter, and our Facebook page!

Specializing in: Hot Tubs, Therapy Spas, and Gazebos

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

  

Planning For Your Spa

Selecting a Location. In preparation for installing your new Artesian spa, you should ensure that your chosen location meets some minimum guidelines:

1. Place your spa on a surface that is large enough for the entire spa to fit. Consider the space needed to easily access equipment compartments and circuit breakers. Remember, all electronics must be kept dry.

2. The spa must be on a solid, level foundation. Recommended: 4 in cement slab that has cured for at least 72 hours. Your warranty will be voided if the spa is not properly installed. Structural damage due to an improper foundation is not covered under warranty.

3. To avoid potential water damage to the skirt and frame, your spa should be placed on a site where it will not be in the way of water sprinklers.

4. OUTDOOR SPAS: Consider building codes, electrical and plumbing codes, desired proximity to house, wind and sun exposure, location of trees (falling leaves, shade), dressing area, landscaping and lighting when selecting a location.

5. INDOOR SPAS: Floor surface must have traction to prevent slipping when wet. A floor drain is optimum. As room humidity will increase because of the spa, provide ample ventilation to prevent dry rot, mildew and mold. Use materials that will withstand humidity. There may be a need for cross-ventilation fans and/or dehumidifiers. The spa chemicals may corrode some household metals. Provide ample room if servicing should be needed. Strong foundational support is vital, particularly if a second-story site is selected.

6. Ensure the equipment compartment is in a location where it will not be damaged by water drainage. Cover the equipment compartment with a heavy screen if rodents are a problem. Damage due to rodents is not covered under warranty.

7. Have the spa deck installed by a knowledgeable contractor to ensure proper support.

8. If the spa is placed on the ground, even for a short period of time, it must be supported by stones that are at least 2 inches thick and 12 inches square. A solid foundation is recommended as soon possible.

 Electrical Requirements and Installation
The following information is provided for hooking up electrical supply to your new spa. A qualified, licensed, electrician must perform this work. Failure to follow these instructions will terminate all warranty coverage and can cause serious injury or death.

Your 60 Hz Artesian spa is preset at the factory to run on 240V with a 48 amp input. This feature gives you the most performance out of your spa. This will require a 240V, 60-amp GFCI If a 60-amp service is not available, your spa can be made to run with 32 or 40 amps input rating. Press the SELECT key on the spa control pack to change the input rating. Your export 50 Hz Artesian spa is preset out of factory to run 230V- 240V 3 wires 30 amp max input. This product must always be connected to residual current device (RCD) having a trip current of not more than 30 mA. Please remember your spa is a powerful piece of electrical equipment. It is extremely important that you have it properly installed to ensure safe use. This manual explains safety precautions, installation instructions, and operating and maintenance procedures.