The Best Seasonal Care Tips for Outdoor Spas

outdoor spa

As outdoor spa enthusiasts, we understand the joys and complexities of maintaining a spa throughout the year. Each season brings its unique challenges and requirements, affecting how you should care for your outdoor sanctuary. Whether it’s the lively growth of spring, the hot sun of summer, the falling leaves of autumn, or the frosty days of winter, your outdoor spa requires special attention to remain in optimal condition.

In this article, we will delve into specific seasonal adjustments you need to consider to maintain your outdoor spa’s health and functionality. Our goal is to ensure your spa experience is relaxing and worry-free regardless of the month or weather conditions. From regular checks in spring to special winterizing procedures, we are committed to helping you understand and execute the best practices to keep your spa welcoming and enjoyable all year round.

Understanding the Effects of Each Season on Outdoor Spas

As we navigate through the different seasons, our approach to maintaining outdoor spas needs to adapt to the changing environmental conditions. Each season brings unique challenges and opportunities for spa upkeep. During the spring, we often contend with pollen and other natural debris, necessitating a thorough cleaning regimen to keep filters and surfaces clean. Summer heat can increase water evaporation and affect chemical balances, requiring diligent monitoring to keep the water clear and hygienic. 

As fall approaches, dropping temperatures and falling leaves can clog filters and lead to potential damage if not properly managed. Finally, winter poses the greatest challenge with freezing temperatures that can cause pipes and equipment to freeze and crack if the spa is not correctly winterized. Understanding these seasonal impacts helps us ensure that our spas remain a relaxing retreat throughout the year, no matter the weather outside.

Spring Cleaning Checklist for Your Outdoor Spa

Spring is a critical time for spa maintenance. After a winter of potential disuse, it’s important to establish a routine to ensure your spa is spring-ready and operational. Firstly, start with inspecting your spa cover. It’s essential to check for any damage, like cracks or tears that might have occurred during the winter. If water has seeped inside the cover, it can become very heavy and lose its insulative properties, which increases heating costs.

Next, drain and thoroughly clean the tub. Refill it with fresh water and add the necessary start-up chemicals to rebalance the water chemistry. This is also the perfect time to clean or replace the filters, as they play a crucial role in keeping the spa water clean. Additionally, test all the spa’s systems and jets to ensure they are working correctly—this can prevent surprises when you’re ready to relax. Lastly, update your maintenance schedule to include regular checks on the chemical balance and cleaning routines adjusted for increased usage in warmer months. This systematic approach not only extends the life of your spa but also enhances your soaking experience, making your spa a perfect getaway for relaxation.

Summer Spa Use and Maintenance Tips

Summer calls for frequent use of outdoor spas, and it’s crucial we keep them in optimal condition to handle the increased activity. During these warmer months, the sun’s UV rays can significantly affect water chemistry. We make it a priority to monitor and adjust the chlorine levels frequently, as sunlight tends to reduce the effectiveness of chlorine through a process called photodegradation. Additionally, implementing a routine shock treatment once a week can help manage the load of contaminants introduced by increased usage.

Furthermore, we’re always cautious about water levels during summer. Evaporation happens more quickly in the heat, and we ensure that the water level doesn’t fall below the required minimum to avoid damaging the pumps. We also advise using a lightweight spa cover during the day to minimize water loss while keeping the spa ready for use. This not only helps maintain the right water balance but also conserves energy by reducing the need for constant refilling and reheating.

Preparing Your Spa for Fall and Winter

As the leaves begin to change, preparing your spa for the cooler months of fall and winter is essential. This preparation is key to protecting your investment and ensuring that your spa remains a luxurious retreat even in the chillier seasons. We start by ensuring that all leaves and debris are cleared from the spa and its surroundings, as these can cause clogging and potential damage during the winter months.

One of our top recommendations is to check and possibly upgrade the insulation of your spa, especially if it’s exposed to extreme cold. Proper insulation not only helps to keep the heat in, thereby reducing heating costs but also protects the internal components from freezing temperatures. Additionally, we suggest a thorough inspection of the spa cover for any signs of wear or damage—this is crucial as the cover is the first line of defense against falling debris and snow. If necessary, consider replacing it with one that is sturdy and well-insulated. Lastly, if the spa won’t be used over the winter, we recommend a professional winterization service to prevent any freeze damage to the pipes and equipment.

Conclusion

Maintaining an outdoor spa throughout the changing seasons doesn’t need to be complex or overwhelming. By understanding the specific needs of each season and preparing accordingly, we ensure that our spas are always ready to provide a luxurious and relaxing experience. From the spring cleanups that rejuvenate your spa for the summer splashes, through to the careful winterization techniques that protect it through the frosty months, every step is crucial.

Are you ready to optimize your spa’s maintenance with quality supplies and expert guidance? Contact Cincinnati Pool & Patio today, and let us assist you in preparing your Cincinnati pools and spas for every season with our wide range of spa covers, chemicals, and maintenance tools. Let us help you make every spa session safe and spectacular year-round!

The Ultimate Guide to Hot Tub Maintenance: Tips for a Clean and Luxurious Soak

hot tub

There’s no better way to unwind after a long day than soaking in a luxurious and soothing hot tub. However, maintaining your hot tub and ensuring that it provides you with a clean, safe, and enjoyable experience takes regular upkeep. With a few simple tasks, you can keep your hot tub in peak condition and extend the life of your investment, allowing you to enjoy countless relaxing soaks.

As your trusted regional destination for backyard living essentials, we understand the importance of proper hot tub maintenance. We offer a wide range of products, such as hot tub chemicals, filters, and accessories, to help you maintain and enjoy your hot tub to the fullest. Our experienced team is dedicated to assisting you in creating and maintaining a stunning and inviting backyard retreat so that you can indulge in the life-enhancing benefits of a hot tub.

In this ultimate guide to hot tub maintenance, we will share essential tips and advice for keeping your hot tub in top shape, ensuring a clean and delightful soaking experience. We will cover key aspects of hot tub care, including water chemistry, filtration, cleaning, and seasonal maintenance. Whether you are a new hot tub owner or a seasoned user looking to improve your upkeep routine, this guide is here to help you navigate the world of hot tub maintenance with ease.

1. Keeping Your Hot Tub Water Fresh: Understand Water Chemistry

Balancing your hot tub water chemistry is crucial to ensuring a safe and comfortable soaking experience. The right chemical balance maintains clean and clear water while preventing damage to your hot tub equipment. Here are the essential aspects of hot tub water chemistry:

– Sanitization: Sanitizers, such as chlorine or bromine, keep your hot tub water free of contaminants and bacteria. Maintain the proper sanitizer levels to ensure a clean and hygienic soak. Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for the recommended concentration levels.

– pH Balance: The pH level measures the acidity or alkalinity of your hot tub water. Aim to maintain a pH level between 7.4 and 7.6. Regularly test your water to check the pH and make necessary adjustments using pH increasers or decreasers.

– Alkalinity: The alkalinity level measures the concentration of alkaline substances in the water. A proper alkalinity reduces fluctuations in pH levels and protects your hot tub equipment. Aim to keep the total alkalinity between 80 and 120 parts per million (ppm).

– Calcium Hardness: Your hot tub water’s calcium hardness should be balanced to prevent scaling or corrosion of the tub’s surfaces and equipment. Keep calcium hardness between 150 and 250 ppm.

2. The Importance of Hot Tub Filtration: Clean and Clear Water

Your hot tub filtration system plays a vital role in maintaining clean and clear water. Here’s how to keep your filtration system in top shape:

– Regularly Clean Your Filter: A dirty filter can cause cloudy water and decrease filtration efficiency. Rinse your filter with a hose every few weeks to remove debris. Replace the filter cartridge as recommended by the manufacturer, typically every one to two years.

– Run Your Hot Tub’s Circulation Pump: Run your hot tub’s circulation pump for at least 2 hours per day to ensure adequate filtration. Check your hot tub’s owner’s manual for specific guidelines on circulation.

– Skim the Surface: Use a skimmer net to remove leaves, insects, and other debris from the surface of your hot tub water, preventing clogged filters and dirty water.

3. Regular Hot Tub Cleaning: A Sparkling and Inviting Environment

Regular cleaning is an essential part of hot tub maintenance. Here are essential cleaning tasks to keep your hot tub looking and functioning at its best:

– Wipe Down the Hot Tub Shell: Regularly wipe down the hot tub shell to maintain cleanliness and prevent build-up. A non-abrasive cleaner formulated for hot tubs can be used for this purpose.

– Clean the Hot Tub Cover: Hot tub covers help retain heat and keep debris out of your tub, but they also require regular maintenance. Clean both sides of the cover periodically using a gentle cleanser formulated for vinyl.

– Drain and Refill Your Hot Tub: Over time, dissolved minerals and contaminants can build up in your hot tub water. Drain your hot tub every 3 to 4 months, depending on usage and water quality, and give it a thorough cleaning before refilling with fresh water.

4. Seasonal Maintenance: A Year-Round Enjoyment

Proper seasonal maintenance helps ensure that your hot tub remains enjoyable and efficient year-round:

– Winter Care: If you plan to use your hot tub during colder months, regularly check the water level to prevent the pump and pipes from freezing. Inspect your cover for damage or wear, and consider a cover with additional insulation for winter use.

– Spring Start-Up: Spring is an ideal time to drain, clean, and refill your hot tub. As temperatures rise, use a start-up kit to balance your water chemistry and prepare your hot tub for the season ahead.

– Summer Maintenance: During hot summer days, adjust your hot tub’s temperature to a comfortable level and use a solar blanket to retain heat and reduce evaporation. Monitor water chemistry closely when experiencing higher bather loads.

– Fall Preparation: As colder temperatures approach, give your hot tub a thorough cleaning and inspection. Check the cover for damage and replace it if necessary. Keep pool nets handy for skimming fallen leaves and debris.

Conclusion

Maintaining a clean, safe, and enjoyable hot tub requires routine care, attention to water chemistry, filter upkeep, and seasonal maintenance. By following the tips in this ultimate guide to hot tub maintenance, you can extend the life of your investment and provide countless hours of relaxation for yourself, your family, and your friends.

Are you eager to put these hot tub maintenance tips into practice and savor your next soak? Visit Cincinnati Pool & Patio today, and our friendly, experienced team will help you find the perfect maintenance products and accessories for your needs. Together, we’ll ensure that you can indulge in a luxurious and worry-free hot tub experience in your very own backyard paradise.

7 Ideas to Make Your Hot Tub the Best Place to Be This Winter

Enjoying a Hot Tub in Winter

January brings freezing temperatures, snow, and ice to the Cincinnati area. You may be thinking you’ll be stuck indoors for the next few months, wistfully looking outside waiting for warmer weather. Your pool is covered for the season, you’ve stored the patio furniture and umbrellas, and the grill is seldom used. But there’s one piece of patio entertainment that’s a staple of winter fun:

The hot tub.

With a little elbow grease and some ingenuity in design, your hot tub area could be the best winter entertainment in the neighborhood. Check out our list of the best ideas to turn your patio hot tub area into your winter paradise.

1. Add a Privacy Screen

When the last leaves fall from the trees and the colder weather sets in, your patio probably starts to feel a little exposed to the elements. Having a gazebo or pergola overhang can help shield you from the rain and wind. However, when you’re enjoying your hot tub, you’re going to want a little extra privacy from your neighbors. Try adding a privacy screen, wall, or curtain around your hot tub space to further keep the wind out and the warmth in.

There are a couple of options you have for privacy screens: you can attach them directly to the walls of the hot tub, hang curtains from a pergola, or even make them a part of the overall patio design. The options are endless, so pick the one that best fits your aesthetic and budget.

2. Make Your Towels Easily Accessible

There’s nothing worse than forgetting your towel when you’re done with a soak and having to sprint inside dripping wet. It’s even more unpleasant in the cold. Avoid the hassle and add a towel cabinet to your hot tub area so your towels are always within easy reach. Use a waterproof enclosure or keep the cabinet shielded from the elements so your towels are always fresh and dry.

3. Add a Heated Mat for Snow-Free Walkways

Snow may look pretty when it’s covering your patio, but it can make enjoying your hot tub a pain. Trying to shovel a pathway to your hot tub from your home takes time and effort for not a lot of reward. If there’s ice involved underneath the snow, there’s an even bigger chance of slipping and falling.

Try installing a heated mat along your walkway that can melt the snow instantly! These electric mats come in a variety of lengths, price points, and are non-slip. You’ll always have a secure, toasty place to walk to and from your hot tub.

4. Try a Hot Cocoa Bar!

What better way to heat up on a cold, snowy day than with a relaxing soak in a hot tub and by sipping on a hot beverage? Keep a sealed container of mugs and hot cocoa within easy reach of your hot tub, and bring out a kettle of hot water from your kitchen and bam! Instant hot cocoa, just add marshmallows.

5. Bring on the Outdoor Entertainment

If you have enough covered space on your patio, consider adding a wall-mounted TV or some wireless speakers to make your hot tub soaking experience even more magical. Catch the game from the comfort of your hot tub or relax with some spa tunes coming from your speakers. Just make sure to properly store the electronic equipment when it snows or take proper precautions to protect your devices from the elements.

6. Set the Mood with Lighting

Shorter winter days mean lots of potential hot tub time in the dark. Add a cozy glow to your hot tub experience with the appropriate mood lighting for the ultimate relaxation. You can add lanterns, string lights, or even candles around your patio for the peak of ambiance. Hang lights from your pergola or patio overhang or even just set a couple of tables around with some candles. Now  you have a cozy outdoor space that will turn your ordinary soak into a dreamy escape. Not sold on an open flame in the snow? Try out some flameless candles instead!

7. Don’t Forget About Proper Maintenance

While you’re focused on making your hot tub and patio space into the pinnacle of relaxation, it’s easy to forget your centerpiece needs some maintenance to stay in proper working order. Make sure to stay up to date on hot tub maintenance so your hot tub is ready for action when you are. Here are our top tips to keep your hot tub in peak shape during the winter:

  • Maintain the proper water temperature – Experts recommend anywhere between 97- and 104-degrees Fahrenheit for optimum hot tub soaking. Keep your hot tub set close to this range even when it’s not in use. This way the hot tub doesn’t take as long to heat up in the dead of winter.
  • Keep your water and filters clean – Stick to a regular cleaning schedule for both your water and the filters. Don’t let your routine slip just because there’s snow on the ground. You’ll want fresh water whenever you want a soak.
  • Prevent pipe freezes – Make sure your freeze protection system is turned on if you have one as part of your hot tub. Otherwise, you can set your hot tub timer to switch on every 15-20 minutes to keep hot water circulating through the pipes to prevent freezing.
  • Keep the water properly balanced – Stay up to date on chemical treatments for your water so you aren’t fighting a funky smell or algae when you want to take a soak.
  • Invest in a good cover – A thermal cover for your hot tub will keep the water toasty and clean when it’s not in use. It also will protect your hot tub from snow. Just remember to brush the snow off the cover before you try to open your hot tub!

Ready, Set, Relax

Whatever tips you decide to implement to make your patio and hot tub space your favorite destination this winter, Cincinnati Pool and Patio can help. Whether it’s finding the right hot tub chemicals or renovating your patio space this spring to use next winter, our experts can help you craft the perfect outdoor getaway in your own backyard.

How To Use Your Hot Tub During The Winter

hot tub

Use Your Hot Tub in Winter

A great way to escape the cold is to create a warm haven in your backyard. Your hot tub or spa are the perfect ways to stay warm in the winter.

Here are our tips for using your hot tub in the winter.

Invest in a Good Cover.

Make sure your cover is well-insulated and has a tight-fitting seal. A high-quality cover in good condition will help your hot tub maintain a constant high temperature, even when the weather is frightful.

Hot tub covers insulate much better when they’re locked. When locked, the straps pull down on the edges of the cover, forming a tight seal that keeps heat in. Without the straps being locked, the edges of the hot tub cover can lift slightly; allowing heat to escape.

Not only will this cost you money in extra heating costs, but a bad seal will also allow steam to escape. This means having to top up the water level more often and having to add more chemicals to balance the water.

Monitor the Water Level.

Check your water level frequently and add more as necessary. If the water level falls too low in cold weather, the components may freeze, which could damage your hot tub.

If the water level drops too low your pump and heater could shut down resulting in frozen water and possible damage to your hot tub.

For most hot tub owners, there are times in the year when you’re just too busy to use your hot tub. The problem comes when that lack of use becomes a lack of maintenance. There are a few reasons why you don’t want to neglect your hot tub, the biggest being all the time and effort required to fix a hot tub with water quality issues.

Even if you’re not using the hot tub, you should still try to get out at least once a week to check on it and add your maintenance chemicals. Doing this can save you a massive headache later and makes sure that your hot tub is ready to use when you’re ready to start using it again.

Keep the Water Clean.

Make sure you clean and maintain your water and filters according to your usual schedule. Simple problems can become more complicated to fix in subzero weather.

Change Your Water Early.

If your tub will be due for a scheduled water change during winter, it’s a good idea to shift it to earlier in the year.
Changing water while the outside temperatures are low can be particularly challenging, as there’s a risk of water freezing and damaging your spa.

Conventional wisdom says that you should change your hot tub water every 3-4 months. For some people, this means having to change your water in the dead of winter.

While having freshwater does make for a more enjoyable hot tub experience, changing your water in -20C weather is never a good idea. The risk of your pipes freezing greatly outweighs any benefits that changing the water has.

If you need to change the water, do so in small batches. Remove 6″-12″ of water at a time; refilling – and reheating – the water in between these partial drains. While this won’t get you the same results as completely draining and refilling the hot tub, it will get you by until the weather warms up.

Turn Down the Jets.

Use the jets to a lesser extent than you would in other seasons, and don’t forget to turn them off when not in use. The jets work by blowing air into the water, which can lower the temperature.

Be Smart About Soak Times.

The longer you stay in your spa, the higher your body temperature climbs. While it may be tempting to linger in the comforting warmth of your hot tub when the outside air is cold, try to limit your soak time to about twenty minutes. Moving from extreme heat to extreme cold can place dangerous stress on your body.

Have a Plan for Retreat.

Cold weather can be dangerous, particularly when you’re wet and wearing a bathing suit. After your soak, when you must leave the protective warmth of your spa and face the icy winter air, make sure to immediately shield yourself from the cold. Keep a bathrobe and shoes or sturdy slippers nearby, and get indoors as quickly as possible after leaving your hot tub.

Enhance Your Outdoor Sanctuary.

Use accessories to add warmth and comfort to your outdoor hot tub environment in the winter. Consider adding heating lamps, or a towel warmer, or maybe simply a weatherproof rug to protect bare feet from the frozen ground. Just make sure all electrical devices are either battery-operated or are placed far enough away from your hot tub to avoid any possible risk of electrocution from contact with water.

Closing Your Hot-Tub

If you won’t use it in winter, you can save money by closing it. However, you can’t just close the cover and forget about it. You need to take the time to properly drain and dry out your hot tub before it gets too cold. If you don’t, you could end up with an expensive repair in the spring.

Flush and Drain Your Hot Tub

First, you must flush your system and drain all the water from your hot tub. During the cold winter months, uncirculated water can freeze and cause damage to the pumps.

Air Blower

If your spa has an air blower, you need to take the time to drain it too. Shut off the heater and run the blower to push all the water from the system.

Remove the Filters

Closing your hot tub for the winter is a good time to pull out and clean the filters. If they are worn out, now is the perfect time to replace them. Clean and dry them and put them somewhere safe during the winter.

Loosen Fittings

After you have drained your hot tub, there could still be water in many of the plumbing fittings as well. Loosen these fittings and allow all the water to drain out of them. If you have a gas heater, shut it down and drain the water from any valves.

Blow Your Jets

You need to be sure there is no water in the jet system as well. Using a wet-dry vac, blow air through each jet to make sure all water has been blown from the system.

Final Clean Up

Mop up any water and make sure the inside is dry. Once it has been dried, give it a good cleaning before putting your cover on. Locking it for the winter will make opening the hot tub in the spring much easier.

Interested in learning more? Contact us here. 

5 Tips to Enjoy Your Backyard in Winter

backyard

Winter is here and no matter how much you are dreading the cold weather, there are always ways to continue to enjoy your backyard in winter.

For many homeowners, the backyard is a staple of summer living that may fade away once the snow starts to hit, but it doesn’t have to be that way.

Winter takes away the daylight, the warmth and replaces it with a whole lot of snow. The key to enjoying your backyard in winter is to make up for what Mother Nature took away while making the most of what she provided.

Here are 5 Tips to enjoy your backyard in winter

FIND A NEW SOURCE OF LIGHT

In winter, the days are short and daylight is very hard to come by. A practical way to address this issue is by going with a neutral holiday light set and using it all winter long. Permanent lighting in your backyard is a great option to add extra light.

FIND A NEW SOURCE OF WARMTH

With temperatures plummeting, you need heat to make your backyard more hospitable. There are a variety of options on the market that can address this concern. These options include purchasing patio heaters, having a fireplace installed or even getting a hot tub, which is more affordable now than ever before. These pieces are well complemented by other winter-friendly additions such as wooden furniture and gazebos. You can enjoy the still peace of nature while thawing out by an outdoor fireplace or a fire pit. Bring the blankets and the hot chocolate for a relaxing time with your family or friends.

ENJOY THE SNOW

When it snows, you often dread shoveling your driveway, cleaning off your car and dealing with other drivers on the road. Why not take a break from shoveling and go have some fun in your backyard? You can build a snowman, construct an igloo or snow fort and have a snowball fight.

Therefore, you might as well make the most of the winter by enjoying the one gift it provides that many people don’t actually mind, the snow. The opportunities for fun are limitless, whether you want to make snow angels, a snowman, or even have a snowball throwing contest (where you aim at targets, not at each other!).

One great thing you can do year-round on your patio is grilling. Don’t let the bitter cold and snow stand in your way from eating delicious steak, chicken, and burgers. Just remember to prepare and make sure that your grill has fresh dry charcoal or a fresh tank of gas.

RELY ON WINTER PLANTS

Spring is the season of blooming for most plants, but there is still some plant life out there that can survive and thrive in winter. So head over to your local nursery to learn more about cold-resistant and winter-blooming plants, shrubs and perennials that can add some much-needed vibrancy to your backyard this winter. Look out for Red Osier, a red winter shrub, and Purple Coneflower, a perennial, two options that will compliment any winter garden.

WARM UP WITH A HOT-TUB

Why leave the hot tub to the ski resorts, when you can have one in your own backyard? Your hot-tub can provide a warm relaxation station in your backyard. Be sure to wear a winter hat in the tub. A hat will actually help you regulate body temperature in the tub, and will protect your head from any winter air.

Have any questions about getting your backyard ready for winter? Then contact us here!

How To Prepare Your Spa For Cold Weather

Spa hot tub

Preparing Your Spa

Spa owners already know this: when summer ends, hot tub usage heats up. The weather gets cooler, kids start new sports activities, and in general, everyone spends more time at home. It’s a prime season for spas and hot tubs, so make sure yours is ready for action.

Consider these tips:

1. FILTER

Start of a new season is a good time to check the filters – replace them if needed for maximum operating efficiency.

Clean your filter regularly on the recommended manufacturer’s basis. Dirty filters are often the cause of bacteria build-up and other water issues, which can cause health problems in spa-users.

It’s good practice to clean your filters every time you drain and refill your spa. Not only because a clean filter promotes cleaner water and reduces cloudiness, but also because it increases the longevity of the filter itself. With regular cleaning, your filter should be replaced about once every 6 months. So, if you replaced your filter in the spring, it’s time for a new one.

2. OZONE GENERATOR

To maintain water quality, check the levels of pH, total alkalinity, hardness, and chlorine or bromine in your water before each use. Adjust as needed if you don’t use an ozone generator. An ozone generator is a water purifier that sprays ozone gas into the water – significantly reducing, but not totally eliminating, the need for chemicals.

3. SHELL, CABINET, AND COVER

Clean your cabinet, hot tub surface, and cover according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If snow is an issue in your area: A plastic tarp over the cover can prevent snow shovel damage.

Is your cover in good shape or is it time for a replacement? Your spa cover prevents leaves and dirt from getting into the water, and it keeps the heat inside to conserve energy.

Early fall is the perfect time to clean and treat your spa cover for the coming cold season!

To properly clean your cover:

Hose down the vinyl to loosen dirt and grime.
Apply the gentle non-abrasive oil-free cleaner on a rag or soft sponge.
Wipe off dirt and grime, regularly hosing off rag or sponge to prevent smearing.
After the cover is dry, apply alcohol and oil-free protectant.

4. CHANGE IT UP

Depending on the use of your spa, plan to change the water completely about every 60 to 90 days. Chemicals can’t protect you properly in water that is old and used often.

SPA SYSTEM FLUSHING

Flushing your spa plumbing system prior to draining will save you time in the long run by eliminating scum build-up in the pipes which often cause water balancing problems if left unchecked. We recommend Spa System Flush for its unsurpassed cleaning performance and economical price.

DRAINING

Always start your hot tub draining procedure by shutting off the heater and powering off the spa, then switching off the power service at the breaker panel or disconnect box for safety. Once the power is shut off to your tub, you can resume your normal training routine.

REFILLING

Before refilling your spa, take time to wipe down the shell with a rag and gentle non-foaming cleanser. This will remove the remaining contaminants and help you to start your hot tub with cleaner clearer water. If you have well water or live in an area with hard water, consider using a hose-end pre-filter to filter out excess minerals and other small particles before they enter the spa. A pre-filter can also prevent hard-to-remove waterline stains and scale build-up on the equipment.

Have any questions about spas? Contact us here! 

Hot Tub Safety: Things to Watch Out For

Hot Tub Cleaning

HOT TUB SAFETY

The comfort of a good soak in the hot tub can make the best of us throw caution to the wind. The reality is all bodies of water, even the ones as small as a spa, can be quite dangerous. If you own a hot tub or spa, you should practice hot tub safety.

Daunting as the task may seem, you can avoid accidents in your hot tub. Here are some tips for hot tub safety.

Spa check-ups

All machinery needs regular checkups to ensure things are in order and working smoothly. Your hot tub is no exception.

Set a weekly or monthly schedule, depending on the frequency of your use to make sure nothing is wrong. You should consult a professional to make sure the spa is in safe working conditions.

Installing a 24/7 pH monitor like pHin in your spa will let you know about chemical imbalances as soon as they occur. With the right pH, spa chemical balance, and regular cleaning, you can avoid harmful bacteria buildup in the hot tub.

Hot Tub Safety precautions

As the owner, it is your responsibility to educate everyone about safety measures.

Hot tub bathers are at serious risk for hot water-related injuries. It is crucial that the water temperature doesn’t exceed 104°F. It is also important to time your soaking period. The average soaking time is around 15-20 minutes and it shouldn’t be exceeded. Spending a prolonged amount of time can result in dizziness, fainting, and in extreme cases death.

Expecting Mothers

Pregnant women are at a higher risk of heat-related issues such as hyperthermia. Prolonged bathing times are to be especially avoided because excessive heat can harm the fetus. Soaking time should be no more than 10-15 minutes. If any discomfort is felt, pregnant women should get out of the tub immediately. The water temperature should be below 102°F.

Children

Children should not be allowed to enter the tub without adult supervision. Though, accidents can happen even when an adult is around.

Kids can get very excited at the opportunity to have a dip in the tub. Therefore, don’t let this excitement come in the way of precaution.

Beware of signs of overactivity like rosy cheeks. You might want to take your child out of the tub to let them cool down for a bit before entering the pool again.

Ensure that all bathers, especially kids, are hydrated. You can set a small snack bar of juices and fruits like watermelon for the kids so that they can enjoy the hot tub without dehydrating.

Some hazards to look out for

Hot tubs are a great way to enjoy an afternoon with your family. Though, a very common hazard is slipping inside the tub. Therefore, children and adults alike should not attempt to run in the hot tub. Accidents like spraining, bruising, and drowning can very easily occur.

Do not bring any sharp objects or toys in the hot tub. Small and sharp objects not only cause severe injuries to bathers, but they can also clog the spa’s jets and filters.

Handling electrical devices

We know you might be thinking it is absurd to even mention this because it’s common sense, but we’ll still say it: keep ALL corded electronic devices, naked wiring, and electrical appliances away from the spa.

It would also be a good idea to keep your mobile phones and gadgets away from the spa to avoid damaging them.

Spa cover

We cannot stress how important a spa cover is. It will help you keep out unwanted bathers, restrict kids from entering the tub without adult supervision, keep dirt and debris out of the pool water, and avoid contamination.

Apart from those benefits, a spa cover will also aid you in conserving electricity, thus reducing your bill greatly.

Don’t have a spa cover? Contact us today and we can walk you through our selection of hot-tub covers and hot tub safety accessories.

Hot Tub Care and Maintenance

hot tub care

Hot Tub Care and Maintenance

A hot tub is a great way to relax at home. But owning a hot tub is not all fun and games. Hot Tub Care and maintenance is a big responsibility if you don’t want your investment to go to waste.

Fortunately for you, caring for a hot tub isn’t a complicated task. Let’s get right into it!

Cleaning the filter

Depending on how often you use your hot tub, spa filters need to be cleaned every 5-6 weeks. You should replace the filter cartridge every year to maintain water quality.

To be able to clean the filter, you must be familiar with its parts. A spa filter has 3 main parts:

The media

The media is the main part of your filter. It’s responsible for filtering the water and is polyester. The complex weaving enables the media to capture most of the solid dirt and debris.

The internal structure

The core of a filter is what gives it resistance to the water flow. Many filters come with a dual-core to give the filter a longer life.

End caps

These are found at the pole ends of the filter cartridge and are used to attach the filter to the hot tub plumbing.

Now that you are acquainted with the filter parts, let’s move on to cleaning it. You can access the filter at different points, depending on where the manufacturer has placed the filter cavity. It could be accessed from inside the spa itself or found underneath the tub. If that’s the case, you would want to shut off the valve to prevent water from rushing out once the filter is accessed.

For a regular rinse, you can wash out the debris from the filter by positioning a jet of water over it (preferably a gardening hose) and let the stream of water do its magic.

For more infrequent cleanses, use a chemical filter cleaner. Spray the filter’s weaving with the chemical rinse and let it sit for a couple of minutes so that the chemical can work. Rinse the filter thoroughly so that all of the chemicals are washed out.

Many people use household cleaners to cleanse filters. Especially, do NOT use cleaners like dishwashing liquid or bleach. These can hurt your filter and throw off the balance of your hot-tub.

Hot Tub Care: Clean The Shell

You also need to be sure to clean your hot tub shell. Just having a nice and clean set of filters isn’t going to suffice.

The hot tub seats can start accumulating scum and grime, giving your spa a gross and unappealing feel. If you have the hot tub spa installed outdoors, this will happen more often as compared to indoors. Your shell needs to be cleaned about every three months.

Do NOT use household cleaners or start scrubbing the shell with abrasive cleaners like steel wool. Since you have already invested so much in the hot tub spa, it would be worthwhile to spend a couple of bucks on quality spa cleaners. A nonabrasive cleaner like an old rag or a soft sponge would be great if you really want to scrub the shell clean. In fact, specially designed mittens can be purchased to remove scum from bathtubs and hot tubs.

If you feel the hot tub care does not require scrubbing, you can vacuum it to remove solid debris difficult to sweep out. Most of all, small battery-powered vacuums are great for sucking out grit.

Lastly, if water drainage is not yet in order, you could attempt to remove floating debris with a skimmer net. It’s great for quick cleaning when you don’t have time to replace the water or perform a deep cleanse, though it is only a temporary solution and not a substitute for the cleaning methods described above.

Clean the spa cover

A spa cover is often neglected by hot-tub owners. A hot tub cover acts as a barrier between dirt and debris and the clean sparkling water in your tub. Therefore, it can also help you conserve energy by providing insulation and keeping heat in.

Covers help prevent accidents like accidentally falling into the tub or drowning. In fact, getting a cover with a lock is a good precaution to keep away unwanted visitors from taking a soak in the tub when you aren’t around.

Check out our spa covers!

First of all, you should remove your spa cover at least twice a week to air it out. If your cover is heavy or difficult to lift, use a spa cover lifter to remove it. Leave the cover lifted for a couple of hours so that all moisture evaporates and the cover cools down.

If your hot tub is outside, buy a spa cover cleaner. Use it to wipe off any debris and stains. To keep your spa cover looking brand new for as long as possible, chemicals like a cover conditioner are of great help. Therefore, they will maintain the luster of the cover for quite a long time.

If you need any help choosing the right chemicals or cover for your spa, don’t hesitate to contact Cincinnati Pool & Patio. We’re always here to help with your hot tub care.

Installing a Hot Tub: Everything You Need to Know

installing a hot-tub

Installing a Hot-Tub

Have you finally caved in and decided you need to be installing a hot tub for your home?

A hot tub is a great way to unwind after a long day of work, but this isn’t the only benefit of installing a hot tub in your home. Relaxation is the least of its merits. The therapeutic effects of a hot tub are vast, ranging from providing you physical relief through hydrotherapy to emotional and mental calmness.

So if you’re planning on installing a hot tub, smart decision! You won’t regret this investment.

Before you head out to shop for your hot tub, there are some things you need to think about. We’re going to discuss all of them in detail, in this article.

Know your tubs: hot tub vs. spa

The first thought that pops into mind is what type of tub to buy: a hot tub? A spa?

This train of thought is usually followed by the question, “What’s the difference between the two?”

It is true, the two share common uses. They’re all used for relaxation, massages, hydrotherapy, and entertainment. The warm, gurgling water provides a relaxing atmosphere to its users where they can let go of all the stress and worries.

The terms are used interchangeably quite often. So much so that people often mistake a spa and hot tub.

A hot tub is a small pool filled with heated water. A hot tub may or may not have jets installed for massaging bathers. Hot tubs can be equipped with features such as fancy lights, speakers, etc.

A spa on the other hand usually refers to a small pool made up of acrylic, concrete, etc that also has many accessories. The primary difference between a hot tub and spa is usually the construction material used. Hot tubs have been traditionally built from wood – though you may find hot tubs made from several other materials too – while spas are built using a variety of items such as acrylic, concrete, or fiberglass.

Approval to install a spa

The first thing you should do is find out if you are required to fulfill any legal formalities in your area before installing a hot tub. Laws vary from state to state so you might have to find out through the local municipal area.

Size

The next step is to determine the size of hot-tub you need How many family members do you have? What are you using the hot-tub for?
If you are buying it for medical purposes such as muscle and joint pain-alleviation, you probably will not have a lot of bathers in the tub at any one time. If you are buying it to relax, surrounded by your family, buy one big enough to accommodate your family.

Budget

For many people, the cost is the primary factor when buying a hot tub. Big or small, even the richest have a budget. Do the purchasing and installation costs fit in your budget? Can you afford the increased electricity bill?
When researching hot tubs many people stumble across hot tub DIYs. These are tempting and offer a cheap solution to buying one.

But…

DIYs for large projects like spas and hot tubs are not the best decision. There’s a reason why companies manufacture these units and provide installation help.

Don’t fall for the frugality trap and end up wasting money. Instead, you could check out the pool and spa warehouse for the perfect hot tub and get it installed at competitive prices. How’s that for saving money, eh?

Find the perfect location

The budget issue has been solved, now it’s time to move on to the next part: finding the right space for installation. There are a couple of options available to you. You could put it on your deck if there’s space or in the backyard over a concrete patio.

Before installing the unit on your deck, you must have it inspected by a professional to make sure it is sturdy enough to hold it.

For backyard installations, make sure you have a walkway leading up to the tub to avoid contaminating the water with dirt and debris.

Consult an electrician

You have the approval of installing a hot tub, you have enough space, the budget allows this investment, and we’re good to go, right? Not quite. There’s one last important step left. Have you consulted a licensed electrician yet?

Do you have a source of power near the designated place of the hot tub? Will the source be able to support powering the hot tub?

You can have all these questions answered by consulting licensed electrician instead of just winging it. Don’t forget to make sure he has a permit if you want the insurance company to pay for any troubles that arise.

Hot tub miscellaneous

You’re almost good to go. You just need to make sure of this final checklist before heading out hot tub shopping.

If you are installing a hot-tub indoors, is there sufficient ventilation? What about proper drainage?

If you have any questions about installing a hot tub, don’t hesitate in contacting us!

Why You Need A Spa In Your Backyard

spa in your backyard

Why You Need A Spa

Have you ever considered installing a spa for your home? A spa can be a fun and relaxing way for you to spend your time. There are many benefits to having a spa put in. Here are a few reasons why you should install a spa in your backyard this summer.

A Spa In Your Backyard is GREAT FOR SOCIALIZING

Looking for a fun new way to hang out and relax with a cold drink and a few friends? Spas are a great way to bring a social dimension to your pool time. They can also be a nice little bonus to any pool party.

SPAS CAN ADD VALUE TO YOUR HOME

When it comes time to sell your home, it’s nice to have a little added value to make it easier to sell. Spas can add to the desirability of your home and increase its value.

RELAX AFTER A SWIM

If you’ve been playing hard and spending a lot of time swimming around your pool, a spa can be a relaxing way to unwind and soothe your muscles after you’re done. Not to mention, sometimes you need a way to warm up after you get out of that cold pool!

If you’re looking for a way to spruce things up around your pool this summer, consider getting a spa installed. Cincinnati Pool & Patio have knowledgeable staff that can help you with all your spas needs. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to making your spa dreams a reality.