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4 Easy Techniques To Extend The Life Of Your Hot Tub
A hot tub can be a great addition to any home, but many people are unsure of what they can do to extend the lifespan of these devices. When a hot tub is not properly taken care of, some of the most expensive components could break down within just a few weeks of being installed. A damaged hot tub can also create unsafe sanitary conditions that will put your family’s health at risk. Here is a quick look at four tips that will help you keep your hot tub running smoothly for many years to come.
Balance Your Water
Imbalanced water is not only dangerous to your family, but it can also damage the electrical equipment and heating coils. If you are regularly using the hot tub, then you should test the water at least once a week to make sure that it is at the right pH level. These tests are carried out with simple kits that can be purchased at any hot tub or pool supply store. As a general rule, a hot tub’s pH level should stay between 7.2 to 7.8 with the chlorine levels between 1.5 and 3.0 parts per million. You should also be wary of calcium deposits on the hot tub’s walls or cover. When you add any chemicals to your hot tub, you must leave the cover off for at least 30 minutes to prevent peeling. Pay attention to anything odd, such as hot tub water odor, as that could be a sign something is off and needs your attention.
Regularly Change The Water
Hot tub owners need to change the water at least once every three months. Even if you keep a close eye on the pH levels, the warm water inside the hot tub is the perfect breeding ground for mold and other forms of bacteria. After draining the tub, you should carefully inspect the inside walls and nozzles for any signs of damage. You can also scrub the walls down with a mild vinegar-based cleaner and a soft washcloth. As soon as the hot tub is refilled, the pH levels must be tested once again. Your hot tub should be drained and refilled if you ever go on vacation or forget to treat the water for more than a few weeks.
Shower Before Using The Hot Tub
Showering before using your hot tub might sound like quite a bit of work, but this simple step will actually extend the lifespan of the pipes, cover, and filter. Over the course of a single day, many different chemicals and contaminants will cling to your skin and hair. When you get inside of the hot tub, the water will naturally wash those contaminants off. Perspiration, natural body oils, lotion, and beauty products can damage the hot tub’s walls and filter. If you are not interested in showering off completely before getting into the hot tub, you should at least consider rinsing your feet and legs with a hose. Any debris that you track into the hot tub could potentially clog the pipes and filter.
Caring For The Cover
Those who don’t take care of their hot tub covers might have to replace them as often as once every few months. Covers must withstand an incredible amount of wear and tear from the sun, high humidity levels, and harsh chemicals. Covering the hot tub with a collapsible tent during the summer months will extend its lifespan by quite a bit and prevent fading. You should also make sure that no one ever sits on the cover or places any heavy objects on it. Many hot tub supply stores sell vinyl conditioner that acts as a barrier between the plastic and harsh chemicals in the water.
A little bit of maintenance can prevent some of the most common hot tub problems including cracks, mold, clogged filters, and peeling vinyl. You will also have peace of mind knowing that your family is going to be safe and healthy whenever they get into the water.
