Realistically, hot tubs can take a lot of effort to care for properly, even if they are worth it.  One of those questions that often comes up with recent buyers of hot tubs is how to get the water out of the bottom of the hot tub itself.  There’s always that little bit left over and you’re looking at how to get it out since you can’t exactly just tip it over and manually drain it, right?  Here are some tips!

Real tips for getting the water out of the bottom of your hot tub
    These are some of the “tried and tested” approaches for getting the bottom of your hot tub emptied without getting stressed or frustrated in the process:

• Get a manual spa vacuum: You can get electric and battery operated ones, too, but a manual option gives you great control over it.  By essentially creating a siphon, you’ll be able to manually suck the water up out of the spa bottom, even from those tiny little crevices that are otherwise impossible to reach.

• Try a turkey baster: We know, it sounds ridiculous, but it really does work!  Since it’s intended for those tiny spaces that are hard to reach, make that work for you by enjoying a smaller tool with dedicating suction.  It’ll be really helpful and you can even repurpose it for the kitchen if you want to!

• Dedicate a specific absorbent towel for the bottom of your spa: Okay, so we know you don’t like this thought, but it’s worth it.  For those last little parts that you just can’t get out, take an extremely absorbent towel and put it on a mop or broom handle (perhaps over a flat head attachment) and wipe it around.  You’ll want to make sure the towel is celan, of course, otherwise you'll literally smear dirt around.  It’s great for those last little details.

• Let nature take its course: If you still have a few spots that you can’t or don’t want to reach, let nature do it for you through evaporation.  It’ll be great when you’re looking at the idea of airing it out, too.  Whie this won’t work if you have a lot of water left in the bottom, it can help keep your tub water-free when you’ve exhausted all other options.

 One of the cool features about all of these is that they’re pretty much all low-tech.  No gadgets or gizmos needed here, just simple, straight-forward tools to do all of the heavy lifting!  You have to admit that sticking a towel to the end of a stick is kind of funny, right?

    Sure, it’d be nice if hot tubs were designed to pour out every single last drop from every little crevice of your tub, but that’s not likely.  When you need manual help for the dregs at the bottom, any and all of these options are going to keep the manual labour to the minimum while still giving you effective draining tips for your hot tub, even if it’s irregularly shaped.

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The first step to making sure that your hot tub is fixed is going to be determining where the leak is coming from.  Whether you’re dealing with a leak now or you’re just looking to be a prepared hot tub owner and familiarize yourself with the most common locations for a hot tub leak, you’re in the right spot -- see what we did there?  

• The pump: Realistically speaking, your hot tub pump is the most likely scenario for your leak.  There are so many spots that it can be leaking, really, including the seal shaft, the union fitting and even the volute.  These all wear with use and time, no matter how good your tub is.

• The water heater: The heater is also another common place mostly because the increase in temperature shifts the pressure, too, and over time, this can lead to weaknesses with the pressure switch, amongst other things.  This often requires total replacement, but sometimes it can be repaired if you hire the right person!

• Connection points: Whether it’s the jets, the lights, the pipes, or even just the actual connections, hot tub leaks also come from those connections.  WHy?  Because they’re all considered weak points.  Most of these weakened spots can be caught with proper maintenance.

Some points to remember with a leak
    If you do find yourself dealing with a leak and you’re trying to figure out which of these spots is the culprit, here are some tips to help you sort it out before you call in the professionals for a repair.

• Water travels: Water doesn’t leak straight down and stop.  It can permeate, roll and bead, meaning that you’ll have to trace the leak back to its key point.  Just because the water pools under one jet doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s that particular jet that is leaking.

• Find the level of your leak: The level of your leak is important.  Water pooled on the floor could be a low level leak, or it could be a higher up leak from the rim of your tub.  Again, water travels and it’s actually pretty mischievous about it!

• Use dye: If you are struggling and working hard to find the source, make it easier by using some sort of dye.  This will help you learn where the water is flowing from, and to, and can be one of the best tools to help you and your specialist know what needs to be addressed.

    Your hot tub deserves care and attention, especially when it comes to understanding where a leak comes from and how you can find it.  While a specialist is still needed to come in and repair it, knowing what to expect and how to source it is going to be very helpful to keeping the process as simple and straight-forward as possible.  While there is a bit of work that goes into it, leak detection can be one of the key points to getting your tub back up and running with as minimal a delay as possible.

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You’ve invested time and money into your hot tub, so you want to make sure that you are getting your absolute money’s worth, right?  It makes total sense and we are here to help you do just that.  The key is  to start with understanding just how long you can expect your hot tub to last, generally speaking, and then make it a little more personal by focusing on those specific factors that can impact its natural lifespan.

The general age estimation
    As vague as it will sound, a hot tub can last anywhere from 5-20 years.  This means that the lowest quality hot  tub should last you about 5 years, and top quality and high end ones can last you up to 20 years.  Here are the factors that go into determining just how they are going to last.

• The quality of the materials: The materials that are used for your hot tub is the starting point to keep in mind.  If you are going with cheap materials, they’ll break down faster and easier than those that are made from higher quality ones.  That’s why “high end” computers or appliances last longer than “low end” ones.
  

• The amount you use it: The amount of wear and tear you put on your tub is, of course, going to factor in.  Most will give you some sort of recommendation as far as proper and reasonable expectations.  Of course, the amount of sessions you have in it is entirely your own decision, but it’s important to keep use of frequency in mind!
  

• How often you maintain it: As with any high tech and substantial purchase, you will need to factor in details such as maintenance and tune ups.  These are often biannual or annual.  While there is a cost to it, these are crucial for keeping everything running smoothly for as long as possible and spotting problems while they are minor before they get major and, of course, more expensive.  This helps extend its lifespan!
  

Some reminders
    There are some details to keep in mind when you are looking at the scope of the lifespan and trying to sort out what the right choice is for your hot tub preferences!

• Do your research before you buy: When you have your top 5 models, do your research on all of them to see which ones have the best reviews and feedback directly relating to lifespan.  Those that have a short lifespan should be disregarded.  While nothing is guaranteed, of course, this can help you get a feel for what to expect.
  

• Be prepared to pay for proper upkeep: This is important for a reason.  The more you keep your hot tub in top form, the better care you take of it.  This means less repair and a longer lifespan.  If you can’t pay for the upkeep, you may want to consider waiting until you can.  It’s the top trick to making your hot tub last as long as possible no matter how high end it is!
  

    When you are looking to get the most out of your hot tub and its substantial investment, all of these things are going to factor in.  While it certainly seems appealing to go for the cheapest overall quality, you want to make sure that you are reasonable and level-minded when it comes to picking the model you choose, including those details above!

    With all of this kept fresh, we wish you and your hot tub many years of happiness together so that you can look back 15 years from now and know for sure that you made the right call on your hot tub’s maintenance.

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Hot tubs require some pretty serious care and protection in order to keep them running smoothly.  When they need to be repaired, you’ll want to be as careful as possible in hiring the right professionals to do the job properly.  After all, the wrong professional can actually make a problem worse than when they started, so this is something to think about seriously.  The bottom line is that not everyone can repair a hot tub.

Can plumbers fix hot tubs?
    One of the first things that most people think of when looking to have someone come take a look at their hot tub is a plumber.  After all, plumbers take care of water and hot tubs push water around, right?  Exactly, it’s a logical choice and one that many make.  Unfortunately it’s not always a great choice for the following reasons:

• Many plumbers don’t specialize in hot tubs: Plumbers do a lot of work with plumbing, sure, but hot tubs are a lot more than just pipes and pumps.  There’s a lot that goes into hot tubs that is outside the view and scope of a plumber.  Unless your plumber specializes in hot tubs, they often will be just as lost as you!
  

• Plumbing is only half the problem with hot tubs: As mentioned, there’s a lot going on in a hot tub, and it’s often going to be an issue beyond the plumbing work.  The most that even a great plumber can, often, is speculate on the problem and possibly replace your pump.  But, if the problem is something entirely, they won’t be able to help and often won’t take it on because of that.
  

Who is the right call for a hot tub repair
    Ideally, the right call to make is going to be the hot tub company who sold you your hot tub.  Quite a few of them outsource to dedicate hot tub specialists that will come in and take a look at your hot tub.  Since they work with that company, they’re bound to be knowledgeable on your specific hot tub, too, which is going to be a huge perk when it comes to assessing the repair needs and the expertise to actually repair them.
    If you’ve moved, or your hot tub company is not available for whatever reason, you’ll want to dedicate your energy looking at hot tub repair specialists.  These are professionals who deliberately dedicate their time to hot tub repairs and they’ll be the best experienced professionals to help you with your problem, however minor or major it may be.  There may be some jobs that require a plumber and/or an electrician, which is completely normal, but the right first call will certainly be a hot tub repair specialist.

    You’ve spent a lot of money on your hot tub, and when it breaks down, you want to make sure that you are hiring the right person to fix it properly and professionally.  While a plumber has many uses, and has a role to play in hot tub repair, they can only help with certain parts of hot tub repair.

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    Your hot tub matters to you, and it’s a key part of taking the edge off after a long week, or a hard day.  But what happens when it breaks down or simply isn’t working well?  How much are you going to have to pay in order to fix your hot tub properly?  Here are some general pointers to keep in mind that will help you get a handle on the price range that you can expect.

What’s the general range for hot tub repair
    If you’re looking for the quick answer, the general accepted range for the price of hot tub repair is going to between $100-$1, 000.  Obviously, that ranges quite a bit and you’re going to want to know what end of the range you’re in, right?  That’s totally to be expected, and we go into more detail below to help you out.  

How hot tub repair pricing works
    As with anything else, the piercing for hot tub repair is going to vary greatly based on what you need repaired.  Also, is there more than one thing one?  Or, if one thing needs be replaced or repaired, does something else need to be, too?  This all factors into what you need done.

• Weak jets and malfunctioning blowers: These two things tend to be the cheapest repairs.  Weak jets that need a tune up to revolve the water properly are going tobe about $75 plus labour.  If you only have one malfunctioning jet, that’s a great price.  But if you have 10 that need addressing...yeah, it adds up.  If your blower is malfunctioning and needs to be replaced, the price is about $90 starting.  Plus an electrician to connect it all.

• Pump repairs and heater problems: These are considered mid-high range as far as pricing in repairs for your hot tubs.  A pump that needs repairing can cost anywhere from $200-$500.  The price depends on your unit and its age, of course.  For heaters, the price will vary depending on how big it is, but the average cost for heater repairs is going to be $100-$300.

How to get a handle on the price
    Surprisingly, the best way to keep your hot tub repair prices as low as possible is to spend more money, regularly.  Specifically, by looking at regular maintenance and tune-ups for your hot tub.  These annual maintenance sessions may be a pain, but they can often help spot a problem before it becomes an expensive one, and it’ll help you save in the long-run.  A $100 problem is better to spot first than having to go with a $500+ problem 6 months later, right?

The other thing to remember, too, is that the simpler your hot tub is, the simpler it is to repair.  Access to parts, knowledge on the system, and complexity of the job will factor into the labour pricing and cost of the parts themselves.  If you are looking at investing in a new hot tub, or buying your very first one, you’ll want to be careful in choosing one that isn’t so specific that it’s going to be impossible to repair cheaply!

You shouldn't be surprised when you asks someone what kind of hot tub they have and to have them reply with "Beachcomber". Beachcomber Hot Tubs are high end tubs that is family owned and manufactured here in the greatest country of all - Canada eh! ? Theses luxurious tubs come out of Surrey, BC and they have been exceptionally handcrafted equipped with the first-class quality, supreme value, and unrivaled comfort. 

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Beachcomber ensures they have the highest quality and they do so by making sure over 50 precision and performance tests are conducted. They have dedicated their business to building the ultimate hot tub experience. Each tub before it goes out is inspected, checking for durability, strength, and smoothness of every contour. Although many companies have shifted towards automation and outsourcing, Beachcomber makes sure someone is present at all stages of the production. They have up to 11 service bays where they test all their hot tubs. Making sure every pump and management system can run at full power.

Their tubs are coated with the strongest, highly durable, and greatest quality material known as Glassloc. They apply 7-10 coats of this fiberglass, all hand rolled. After the coating process is done, they are inspected and hand sanded down. The tub is then cured for 16 hours guaranteeing that air is removed from the mixture because these hot tubs need to be able to withstand the weather elements. 

Under each Beachcomber Hot Tub is an I-Beam Seating Support. They offer firm, everlasting structural support. Under each seat there is also a vertical beam that offers additional strength and support. This system is very similar to ceilings and floors in homes. 

All Beachcomber hot tubs are equipped with a gorgeous, silky smooth, interior finish. They use a special composite plastic material that is designed to take on wear and tear head on for decades to come. 

At Beachcomber, every available seating option, contour, and location of jets are placed with the intention of human body in mind. They have deep seating which allows your body to be submerged fully. They have contours for your elbows to recess in which causes you to be fully lounged and relaxed. Head rests are placed so you can lean your head all the way back and relax while hydrotherapeutic jets massage along your spine and calf muscles relieving and muscle tightness and tension. Many people carry neck pain with them due to stress, bad posture, poor sleep, hunching over all the time, or intense upper body workouts but all that can go away with feature of the jets located right behind the neck. There are also foot jets to relieve any foot pain from walking around all day or standing on your feet for long periods of time. The awesome thing about these jets is that they are customizable to your hot tub. Yo have a sorted to small, medium, large, and extra large jets to choose from and have installed in your tub - ensuring no tub is the same. 

Hot Tub can consume a lot of energy while being used but you bet that Beachcomber does everything they can to minimize that energy consumption. They focus on retaining and preventing the loss of heat once the temperature rises. There is a reason why Beachcomber is known as one of the most energy-efficient hot tubs for all 4 seasons. The most energy efficient pumps and technology are used in all of their hot tubs. 

As you can see Beachcomber is an affordable top tier Hot Tub company but as all things they require the proper maintenance and care. If you need beachcomber hot tub repair calgary then be sure to give us a call!

In order to fully enjoy a hot tub with warm water there are a few key components that must be working together in order for you to have that therapeutic experience. It is very common that most people do not know how a hot tub operates but we recommend to get the gist of the basics. It will prove to be helpful in maintaining your hot tub as well as identifying any problems that may come. Keep reading as we will go over some important facts about hot tub pumps. 

Importance of Hot Tub Pump
Any hot tub is pretty much useless without the pump functioning properly. How a hot tub works is that water is being pulled through intakes and passes through a heater to warm up. After the water is heated the water gets pulled through jets which in turn allow people to enjoy the warm temperatures. Now without a hot tub pump, there is nothing to move the water which means no heat. In order for the water in hot tub to heat up, the pump much push the water through the heating element.

Hot Tub Plumbing Layout
Depending on the make and model of the hot tub, the plumbing layout can vary. Despite the different layouts they still carry some similarities. First is that the water is always pulled from minimum of two intake ports. One located near the top of the surface and the other located the near the bottom of the tub floor. Before the water is pulled to the pump it passes through the filter. When the water is inside the pump, it passes the heater then out to a junction. From there the water can flow through all the various jets located on the walls or the floor of the tub. 

How to Fix a Noisy Hot Tub Pump
The pump has a very simple design much like water pumps that are found in cars, pools, and wells. If you are hearing a loud buzzing or grinding noise from your hot tub then chances this is your motor. When you hear this awful sound it is a good indicator that your tub will be in need of a hot tub technician and out of service. We will walk you through some basic steps on how to fix it. Keep reading along.
Tripped BreakerA breaker tripping is most commonly caused by a bad heater or a bad pump. So we are going to do a process of elimination. Try disconnecting the heater first then flip the brake. If the breaker is still tripping out then disconnect the pump and try again. If you notice the breaker isn't tripping while the pump is disconnected then congratulations you have just found the problem - a faulty pump. If you notice that your breaker trips and there is no humming noise from your pump then that could mean that you just have a bad fuse. Use a multi-meter to test your fuses. After you check all the fuses and they are reading good then the next step is to check the voltage located on the back of the motor. If you are reading the correct voltage on the multi-meter but the motor isn't running then you have a bad motor. 

Buzzing or Humming Pump
When you have a constant buzzing or humming then that means your hot tub pump is seized. Signs of a seized pump are:

• tub is  no longer heating
• there is a code being displayed such as OH, DR, FLO, or DRY
• tub is not circulating 

Pumps generally seize from bearings getting worn out or trapped debris or objects inside. The solution to a seized pump is to replace it with a new one. Some companies will offer to rebuild your pump but that may prove to be even more expensive than replacing it while under warranty.

How Long Do Hot Tub Pumps Last?
The average life span of a hot tub pump is usually 4-10 years. They can last longer if the quality of the pump is good and when the chemistry of the water is well taken care of. Low pH, alkalinity or too much bromine and chlorine can all shorten the lifespan of your pump. That is why it is very important to test your water weekly. 

If you are experiencing any problems with your hot pump not working or hot tub pump making weird noise then give us a call today!



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​So you’re getting a hot tub? With your weekend plans all set, all you have to do is to install the equipment and soak in the relaxing warm water. But contrary to what you think, putting up a hot tub on your deck entails some hazards. To help you with hot tub deck designs plans, we discussed some of the do’s and don’ts to ensure that you will enjoy your tub to the fullest.

When it comes to a modern hot tub design, location is the most important thing you have to think about. It’s better if you will place the tub as closest to your home as possible. This way, you wouldn’t have to deal with additional wiring.

Also, during the cold season, you’d want your hot tub to be a hop away from your door. It will also save you from shoveling snow just to enjoy a hot dip. Remember that a hot tub installed far away from your doorstep is rarely used. 

​Aside from that, make sure that your hot tub will not obstruct any entryway. A spot with a good view of your yard is also a good choice.

Hot tubs don’t come cheap, but it doesn’t mean you’re going to skimp on the installation material. Your deck should be strong enough to handle the weight of the tub as well as the people who will use it.
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Aside from weight capacity, you have to factor in the moisture. Your deck surface will be soaked, so make sure that the materials you’ll use aren’t prone to rot and decay. Also, opt for treated wood so it wouldn’t become a harborage of pests. Western Red Cedar is the best choice since it looks beautiful and resists most wood-boring insects.

Hot tubs can be recessed halfway under your deck. This may seem like a cool option, but you should think thrice before doing so.

A sunken hot tub deck design is challenging to repair. You would have to pull it up when damages occur for proper inspection and repair. Also, this is costly, not to mention a big hassle for you.

​Aside from that, you should always make room for tech support. If you are to recess the tub, make sure that the side panels of the deck are removable for easy access. Also, you wouldn’t want to make it easy for a toddler to get into the tub when no one is watching.

​Lastly, never forget about your neighbors. When designing your deck for a hot tub, don’t forget to place a pergola or a screen to keep your privacy. You can also use this installation to add aesthetics to your deck.

​Designing your deck for a hot tub should always be based on functionality and quality. It would be best if you consider some aspects so you will enjoy your tub safely and for a long time.

In-ground spas look like typical swimming pools. In fact, about half of all in-ground swimming pools nowadays have an integrated spa system. There are benches around it, so the spa is usually circular in shape.

​The benefit of in-ground spas is it has more open seating slots. It doesn’t require a cover, which is a big saver than portable tubs. Also, if the in-ground spa was installed beside a pool, a spillover effect can be done to heat the nearby pool.

Lastly, in-ground spas are visually appealing and highly aesthetic. It can complement a beautiful landscape really well, especially for those with a large space.

On the other hand, in-ground spas have some downsides. First of all, it’s much expensive than portable hot tubs. And since it’s larger, it has very minimal jet therapy, which can be a deal-breaker for those who are getting a tub just for this sole purpose.
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Maintenance and operation of this spa are also costly every month. And when damages occur, you have to prepare your pocket for more expenses.

On the other hand, portable hot tubs are convenient since it has a lower upfront cost. Also, you can use it even if you don’t have ample space for an in-ground spa. And if damages occur, portable hot tubs are much cheaper and easier to repair.

Moreover, there are more jet options in this piece of equipment. It’s also energy-efficient and can be controlled using a mobile device.

Portable hot tubs are also intimate options and one of the favorites during parties. It’s always hot and ready, so everyone can enjoy consistent temperature and clean water.

​With the best above ground hot tub, you can also integrate sound systems into a portable tub for a more immersive and relaxing experience.

Still, portable hot tubs aren’t one without some disadvantages. First of all, it requires a cover, which has to be replaced every 3 to 5 years. Also, if you decide to install the tub recessed into your deck, it would be challenging to repair.
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Portable hot tubs are also smaller and will last shorter than an in-ground spa, depending on the frequency of use.

​The answer to inground hot tub vs above ground depends on your needs and preferences. Just make sure that you weigh the pros and cons well so your money will not go to waste. Whatever your choice is, it would surely help you relax.

​Hot tubs are excellent equipment for relaxation. You can also integrate it into your regular routines as part of a healthy lifestyle. Soaking your sore body in a hot tub will help ease stress and pains. It’s a very useful piece of equipment that you can enjoy with your family. With the undeniable health benefits of a hot tub at home, it’s easy to make it complement your healthy lifestyle.

If you are finding it hard to sleep, soaking for a few minutes in your hot tub will help a lot. The warm water will help wind down your mind and energy. It’s beneficial, especially on chilly days.

​Many people use their hot tub as a pre-bedtime ritual. The only thing you can do inside a hot tub is to relax and let your tensioned body loosen up. This slow and mellow transition will help you fall asleep in just a few minutes.

After a hot tub, you can also drink hot milk or tea to relax your body further. This is surely a great way to combat insomnia. 

Do you want to relax healthily? If so, take a dip in your hot tub. It’s a great motivation to quit your vices so you will have a healthier life. Benefits of hot tub therapy will also help you jumpstart your day if you feel a little groggy and lazy.
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And if you have a massive hangover, soaking in a hot tub will help you shake the feeling away. You can also add a small amount of peppermint oil on the tub to reduce your headache.

There are also many hot tub benefits after the workout. After a tiring session at the gym, you can take a dip to start your recovery. It’s a great way to ease sore muscles and joints.

​You can also use your hot tub as a pre-exercise routine to prepare your body for the strenuous training. The jets will give your body a massage, which is an excellent addition to your warm-ups. You simply have to tweak the placements of the hydro jets to target your muscles well.

After every dip, you will come out more relaxed and less sore.

​One of the main benefits of hot tubs is it boosts the circulation in your body. This is the reason why it’s effective in alleviating muscle and joint pain. For those with edema, soaking in a hot tub is a great way to flush out the trapped fluids.
This benefit will complement your overall wellness. It’s also a great way to help reduce the pain due to arthritis, tendonitis, and other similar conditions.

Hot tubs offer a lot of health benefits. It helps reduce body pain by boosting blood circulation. It’s a safe and convenient way to relax and beat your stress. Paired with a healthy diet and lifestyle, hot tubs will be your go-to spot every night.

We all know that hot tubs help a lot in relaxing and healing our bodies. But the question is this: when should I use it, before or after a workout? You can actually dip in a hot tub both before and after a workout. The hot water will warm up your muscles while the hot tub benefits after workout will help your body heal from the strenuous training.
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The key here is knowing how to use the tub and how to perform your exercises properly. This way, your body won’t be overused.

Before you head to the gym or perform your home workout, you can take a 15-minute dip in your hot tub. It will increase the blood flow in your body to make your muscles are more relaxed and stretchy. This will help reduce the risk of injuries while making it easy for you to perform your routines.

Aside from that, the warm temperature complements your warm-up drills. This is very useful during winter when your joints and muscles are all tight due to the temperature.  Still, hot tubs are not a substitute for proper stretching. It’s only a complementary treat that you can enjoy before your exercise.
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You should always stay hydrated when using a hot tub before exercise. This will keep you in shape as you work out.

After your workout drill, you can also take a dip in the hot tub. However, you should let your muscles and heart rate cool down first before you do so. For your safety, it’s best to let your body recover for at least 36 hours before taking a hot tub dip.
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This way, your body will not be overused by the high temperatures of workout you’ve done on the same day. A hot tub session will help ease your sore muscles by boosting the circulation in your body. A hot tub or sauna after workout is an excellent complementary treatment to help your body recover. Nothing beats relaxing on warm water after flexing your muscles on a tough workout.

As much as hot tubs are safe, you should keep in mind some tips when using it as a pre and post-workout ritual. First of all, you must stay hydrated. Dipping into the warm water will increase your perspiration, which means you’re losing fluids in your body even before you work out.
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Aside from that, never dive into the hot tub right after your workout ended. Let your body cool down for several hours first to prevent any adverse effects. If it’s a hard workout, you must wait for at least a day or more before taking a dip.

​Hot tubs help condition your body before working out while it also aids your muscle recovery afterwards. As long as you know how to use the equipment, you will enjoy its benefits. Remember to stay hydrated and to perform necessary stretches to have a safe and rewarding workout drill.

​Your hot tub's cover serves as a shield against outdoor elements. Over time, it will sustain damages that will require a replacement. But the question is this: how long do spa covers last and when should I change it? Below, we listed some tell-tale signs to help you decide if it's time to get a new one. Take note that the frequency of use, installation area, type of tub, and other factors will affect the lifespan of a spa cover. The key here is regular inspection and repairing minor problems as it arises.

Regardless of the types of hot tub covers, one of the guaranteed signs that it needs replacement is physical damage. Large cracks, stitching coming off the material, fading color, and tears are signs of regular wear. You should consider changing your spa cover at this point. If not, your hot tub will fail to receive ample protection against outdoor elements. Wear and tear will damage your hot tub, which causes more expensive repairs.

​Waterlogging is also a sign that your spa cover is no longer efficient in protecting your tub. This happens when the vapor barriers are already dysfunctional that it lets water get into the foam layer. And as the foam absorbs moisture, molds, mildew, and bacterial growth will ensue. This is very dangerous for your health, especially those with respiratory problems. Once your spa covers absorb water, it would be difficult to reverse the damage.

Does your spa cover feel way heavier than its original weight? It may have absorbed large amounts of water and dirt already. At this point, the cover will start to cup as the heavy load pulls the material down. The corners of the cover will lift away from its shell, which will result in further damages.
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Take note that you should replace a cupped spa cover because it will likely break the tub's edge seal. When this happens, steam will escape, and your tub will have less heat while in use. 

​Sagging is a sign of waterlogging and extreme wear and tear. If the cover is installed correctly but still sags, you should consider having a replacement. Water might be causing some spots of the cover to become lopsided. Also, the uneven surface may take its toll on the seal of the hot tub's edge.

Lastly, if there's a foul smell coming off the material, you should consider buying a spa cover for replacement. This means that bacteria, molds, mildew, and other organisms have overtaken the spa cover. Such smell will only become worse, so don't dismiss it as a mere case of off-gassing.

Trapped water will start to form a bad smell, which will also compromise the cleanliness of your hot tub. When that happens, your filter will waste away faster, and your hot tub will become less appealing to use.

​One of the most important components of hot tubs is its filters. The best hot tub filter system will keep the water clean even if multiple people are using it at a time. Like most filters, it works by trapping dirt so it will not recirculate on the water. Still, hot tub filters aren’t made equal. The following are some of the things you need to know:

Hot tub filters come in a variety of filter system types. Each type has a different configuration which filters out contaminants in different processes. There are two main types of filter systems:

Pressure type - In this system, the filter cartridge is much smaller and not usually found in most modern tubs. This system is much durable against pressure and does not require frequent maintenance.

Suction type - This filtration system is the most common type you’ll see on modern tubs. It’s mounted on the top of the tub so users will enjoy easy access. The trade-off here is that you have to perform regular maintenance to keep the filters functional.

The filtration cycle of a hot tub refers to the amount of water that passes through its filters within a specific time. Usually, this is measured by minutes. The higher the filtration cycle is, the more efficient the cleaning process will be. Modern hot tub filtration systems can filter twice the amount of water than old models. 

A circulation pump is a secondary pump which is responsible for running small amounts of water to the filtration system. This is separate from the jet pump and main pump. Circulation pumps continue to run even if you turn the tub off. It keeps the water clean all day long instead of just letting the water stand. This pump is essential, especially if you can’t use your hot tub for several days.

Control systems are the portion you navigate to change the settings of the filtration system. It usually has panel anywhere on the tub so you can easily access the features of the equipment in a few clicks and press of a button. During heavier baths, you may need to increase the filtration cycle of the hot tub.
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With the control system, you can change the filtration cycle of the filters as well as turn the jets off. If your tub has a pH level control, the control system will also let you change the settings for that.

Most hot tub filters last for years. Still, you will need to replace the filter material to prevent the dirt from recirculating. If your tub has a paper filter, it should be replaced every 2 to 3 years, depending on its frequency.

Meanwhile, a more modern TRI-X Ceramic Filter can last for up to 6 years before it requires replacements.

Even if you are not replacing your filters, inspecting the filtration system from time to time is advisable.

Hot tubs are complicated pieces of equipment. If something goes wrong, it can be challenging to go through an entire hot tub maintenance checklist. But thanks to the new technologies nowadays, maintaining and repairing a hot tub just got easier. Your tub can sustain stains, cracks, scratches, leaks, electronic failure, and other problems. In this case, you need the help of professionals for a long-lasting and guaranteed fix.
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The fun and relaxation don’t have to stop just because of hot tub problems. You can now manage it easier and with fewer headaches with the following technologies:

Checking the temperature and setting of your hot tub just got easier. Many modern hot tubs are now equipped with a wireless connection and mobile app where you can control it. It also allows the dealer to check for problems in the tub if the owner calls back.
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In just a few clicks, you can run some troubleshooting steps in your hot tub. There’s no need to get off the water and do it manually. 

pH balancing is an important aspect, especially for those with very sensitive skin. It could be a little complicated and technical, but with a pH system installed in your hot tub, you can set it right away.

​Such a pH balancer device provides instant measurements on your hot tub water. If the pH level is off, the device will normalize it for you in just a few seconds. This way, you will be soaking in a fresh hot tub without the need to pour any chemicals into the water.

Hot tubs, like swimming pools, can get really dirty. Instead of manually scrubbing and changing the water, you can try a sanitization device that takes out the extra salt, dirt, and other particles in your hot tub. The system itself will generate chlorine using the small amount of salt on the tub.

Through this, the water will be cleansed so you can hop into a fresh and relaxing hot tub anytime you wish. This device allows you to maintain the hot tub water easily and with less waste. 

Hot tub filters are very important components of this piece of equipment. It ensures that the water remains clean by filtering out particles. Instead of using typical paper hot tub filters, you can get a modern option like a ceramic cartridge.

With this filter, the water passes through the device twice within a minute. This means that the water is cleaner even if multiple individuals are using the hot tub at the same time.
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Ceramic cartridge filters can last for up to six years of regular use. The best part here is that it’s easy to clean on the dishwasher. You no longer have to call for hot tub maintenance service all the time.

​Full-sized and inflatable hot tub maintenance is a serious business. Still, you can use new technologies that will make the task easier and faster to accomplish.

• Rotary bit
• Drill
• Acrylic repair kit
• Sandpaper
• Towel
• Hot tub cleaner
• Procedure on repairing hot tub

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​Once you have these supplies, you can now move on to the steps. Here’s what you can do:

Before you do anything, make sure that the hot tub is thoroughly drained, dry, and unplugged. You can use a towel to remove the remaining moisture. You can also take this opportunity to clean your hot tub thoroughly.
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Next, get the acrylic repair kit and follow the instructions on the packaging. Small scratches will not consume the entire kit. If there are large cracks, you have to drill it first until you create a ‘V-shape’ slope. After that, fill it with the acrylic solution.

Once you have applied the patch, let it dry thoroughly. Some kits need to be dried overnight or for a few days for the hot tub crack repair to be effective.
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After the patch material has dried, it’s time to sand the rough bumps and edges. This will make the repair look natural without the abrasive surface. You can also use a buffer for a shiny finish so the repairs will not look obvious.

​Once done, clean up the area and make sure that no dust remains. If there are still cracks on your tub, just repeat the hot tub blister repair process until everything is smooth. For scratches, there’s no need to drill. Just clean the area first and then apply the patch material.

After the repairs, fill the hot tub so you can check for leaks. After that, drain the tub and check the repairs you’ve done. Make sure that the patch material is fully dried, or it will only melt in hot water once you fill the tub.

If you are not a handyman, you can call for a hot tub repair service instead. They have the right materials and skills to fix just about any hot tub problem. A hot tub repair service will repair it for you, from shallow scratches, cracks, and leaks.

Here at Calgary Hot Tub Repair & Service, we provide a full range of hot tub repair solutions. Regardless of your hot tub size, technology, and make, we can fix it for you. Call us and we will give you an instant, zero-obligation free quote.

Want to leave your spa in the winter? If yes, then check this step by step instructions we have prepared on how you can winterize your tub. Winterizing your hot tub is important as it makes it last longer and it will give better performance. To winterize your tub, simply follow these steps we have provided below. 

1. Turn off the power - To keep your hot tub from freezing during winter, turn off its power. Ensure that there is no power getting to your hot tub.

 

1. Drain the water - After completely turning off the power, go drain your tub's water using a sump pump or drain plug. If you plan on using a sump pump, do not forget to remove the drain plug on your hot tub. If you want to drain the water fast, use a sump pump instead of drain plug because it drains water faster.

 

1. Drain the air blower - Check if your hot tub has an air blower and drain the remaining water out of it. To drain it, turn off the heater to prevent it from being damaged when you turn the electric back on your hot tub. Then, put the cover back on tub and turn on the power to run the air blower.Just let it run for 30 seconds. After doing this, shut the power off to your tub. If your tub is not hard-wired, unplugging it would be better. 

 

1. Remove the filters - Remove your tub's filter inside its filter well and clean it with filter cartridge cleaner before storing it away. Do a 24-hour chemical soak to clean away the dirt from the filters. Make sure that the filter has no water in it. Use a shop vac to drain all the water out of it.

 

1. Unscrew the fittings to allow drainage - Look and unscrew the fittings which are usually located on either side of the heater or either side of the pump. Leave all the fittings unscrewed to drain all the water. Also, don't forget to remove any drain plug to completely drain the water from the pipe.

 

1. Blow out the pipes - Drain the water from the jet piping by using a shop-vac. A shop-vac is an air compressor. Go and use it to blow each jet to remove most of the water out of it.

 

1. Remove the rest of the water - Ensure your tub is completely dry. To make this happen, you can use a shop-vac, sump pump, or a sponge. 

 

1. Clean the shell and the cover - After doing the following steps above, you can now put back the cover of your hot tub.

 

1. Secure the cover - After putting the cover, you can secure it by using straps to protect it so the wind will not flip it up. 

Leaving your hot tub unused? Just simply follow these steps to completely winterize your tub. If you are having a hard time winterizing your tub, you can try calling for professional hot tub services to get your hot tub winterized correctly and properly. 

Is your hot tub leaking? Don't worry we will help you out fix your leaking hot tub. We will teach you some basic troubleshooting and repairing so stop worrying about the hot tub repair costs. 

How to Repair a Hot Tub

Before we start repairing, locate first the source of the leak. Here are the things you have check:

1. The Pump - One of the most common causes of hot tub leak is the pump. So better check and inspect if there's a leaking water under the pump. If you find a leak, you can replace the pump or the pump seal.

 

1. Union Fittings - If the pump is not the source of the leak, go and check your hot tub's union fittings. It is located around the pump and the heater. Union fittings can become unfastened easily which may cause leak. Check it if it is loose and tighten it with your hands. Avoid using pipe wrench when tightening union fittings.

 

1. The Heater - Check the heater, its pressure switch, and its other components. If you find a leaking on these parts, replace it immediately to fix your hot tub leaks.

 

1. Valves - Aside from the pump, one of the common causes of hot tub leaks are valves. Go check it and see if it is what causing the leak and fix and replace it right away.

 

1. Connections - Next step is to check your hot tub's connections, pipes, and jets. Inspect the connection and see if it needs to be tightened or sealed. Then, inspect the jets if it is leaking. If they are leaking this means that the gasket inside it needs to be replaced. Lastly, check the pipes for cracks and holes and fix it immediately. 

 

1. The Shell - Check your hot tub for some shell leak and fix it right away using a Plast-Aid, a hot tub leak sealer. Shell leaks usually happen due to jet problems or problem with other attaching components.

If you can't locate the source of the leak and the problem still persists, you can try using a different method such as using a dark-colored dye. You can try using a food coloring and see where it will leak. But if you still can't fix it on your own, you can try calling a professional plumber or hot tub services Calgary. If you are looking for one, just feel free to give us a ring and we will be more than happy to serve you. We are available 24/7, so don’t hesitate to call us any day and anytime you want. You can guarantee that we will provide you with high quality and fast service. After all, we are known as the best hot tub service throughout the area. You don't have to worry because our services are guaranteed affordable. If you want, we can give you a free quote and estimate over the phone. So, what are you waiting for? Hurry and call us now and get your hot tub leaks fixed immediately. 

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