Filter Cartridge Maintenance 100

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Here is an article about how filter cartridges work and the important role they play in maintaining crystal clear and healthy water in your hot tub, swim spa or pool.

 

 

Silent but powerful features, your hot tub filters help ensure your hot tub’s overall performance and long life. They work in the background, trapping particles as water runs through the filter media and acting as the most important line of defense against dirty spa water.

 

HOW HOT TUB FILTERS WORK

Every hot tub has some type of filter, because even when your hot tub water looks clear, contaminants such as body oils, lotions, dirt, and other environmental debris are often present. The way filters work is fairly simple: Water passes through them, trapping unwanted particles in their folds.

Most hot tub filters today are designed as cartridges that can be easily removed, cleaned, and replaced. Each cartridge consists of a core structure—usually plastic—and a medium wrapped around the core that acts as the filter. Made of polyester or other materials, the medium is pleated; the many resulting folds greatly increase the surface area of the filter for better cleaning action. The more filter surface area, the cleaner your water will be.

The particles trapped by the filters remain until they’re cleaned out, so your role in maintaining the filter contributes greatly to its effectiveness. Neglecting regular filter maintenance and replacement could strain your hot tub pumps and heating system and cause dirt and grime to build up. Read on for recommended cleaning and replacement schedules.

A BETTER KIND OF HOT TUB FILTER

While polyester or “paper” filters have long been trusted and reliable options for hot tub sanitation, innovations in hot tub design have taken filter cartridges to new levels. 

With superior filters, your entire hot tub system will run more efficiently. You’ll enjoy:

  • Clearer water
  • Increased jet output and power
  • Less electricity useage
  • More reliable circulation and heating
  • Even easier cleaning and maintenance

Filters can be hosed down, sprayed with dealer-recommended cleaners, soaked in cleaning solutions, or put directly into the dishwasher. Just be sure to run the dishwasher without soap and with an unheated dry cycle. These advanced ceramic fiber filters hold up to regular rinsing better than paper filters do. When properly maintained, they’ll continue to provide crystal-clear spa water for four to six years of use.

 

Regular hot tub filter cleaning is easy.

WHY FILTER PLACEMENT MATTERS

Whenever the spa water is moving, your hot tub should be constantly cleaning. However, not all spa manufacturers deliver that level of dedication. Some hot tubs don’t include filters at every intake location; instead, they rely on just one or two filters to handle a disproportionate volume of water. The intakes without filters have suction fittings that pull water into the pump. That unfiltered water is then pushed back out through the jets.

 

 

 

Lakeland Unique Pools, Spas-N-More, 2326 E. Edgewood Dr.  If you’re unable to get to the shop and you’d like us to send you some, give us a call and we’ll happily help – 863-940-9826.  

 

Stay tuned for more guidance and tips from the pros!
The Unique Team – WE MAKE IT FUN TO STAY HOME!
 
-Shari Provan-Crofut

#WisdomWednesday – Hot Tub Covers Cont…

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The price tag on a high-quality hot tub cover might make you have second thoughts whether it’s really worth the investment. Guess what?!  It is.  If you like the one shown here, a Covana Oasis electric cover, here is a link to a few more on our website: https://lakelandhottubpoolandpatio.us/product/oasis-hot-tub-cover/

Keeping chemicals as well as heat in your hot tub while keeping out debris and preventing damage and prolonging the lifespan is your goal, then yes, a cover really is worth the cost. You need to choose the correct one for your spa and your requirements, and then care for it so it lasts. In the long run, the initial payout and maintenance you perform will actually end up saving you money.

Water, Heat & Chemical Loss

Evaporation is the concern of all spa owners. You know that some of your water ends up in the air, especially if the air where you live is very hot and dry. Your water level will drop, and the result is costing you money to top it off.  That is not the worst thing about evaporation.  Evaporation of your chemicals and heat from your hot tub will cause your sanitizer levels to be off and causing your spa to work harder to keep the water hot. You can fight evaporation of your water, chemicals and heat by putting a lid on your hot tub. A properly fitting cover, without any gaps, will keep everything where it is supposed to be… inside your spa.

Water in Debris Out

An obvious benefit to using a cover than keeping your water, heat and chemicals in, is keeping debris out. A cover will prevent all types and sizes of junk (bugs, sticks & leaves to name a few) from ending up in your hot tub. Indoor tubs can benefit from a cover as well to keep dust and pet hair out.  Wherever your hot tub is, a cover will also prevent other accidents such as your phone or radio falling into your tub.

Safety First

A cover serves as an actual physical barrier that will prevent children or animals making their way into the water unsupervised. Less drownings occur in spas than pools so they are sometimes taken as less of a threat than they are. Keep your cover on (and locked if you have small children) at all times when the tub is not in use or under supervision.  Don’t make that mistake.  ASTM International, one of the largest standards-developing organizations in the world, has established performance specifications for hot tub covers.  ASTM International-certified covers will help prevent tragic accidents. When you are buying a cover, make sure it has this rating.

Anatomy of the Hot Tub Cover

 

Covers have removable, marine grade vinyl shells, which open and close with zippers. Most covers consist of two sections attached by a hinge. Both sections contain a solid pieces of dense foam.

On outdoor covers, the foam will be thicker in the middle, then taper down to the edges to keep debris from accumulating and causing damage to the cover. A tapered cover is just another way to protect the cover from the elements.  The foam is wrapped in one or two protective layers of plastic. This is the vapor barrier, and its job is to keep the vapor from invading the foam.  High-quality covers have reinforced steel bars near the middle, but some also have bars spaced throughout the foam, making a sturdier cover. Covers usually include handles and tie-down straps.

Stay tuned for more information on this and other tips and tricks for your hot tub, swim spa and pool on future posts!

Happy Wednesday Everyone!

-Shari Provan-Crofut

#ThrowbackThursday – Jacuzzi

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THE HISTORY OF JACUZZI® HOT TUBS

Jacuzzi® is a household name around the world. Known for their exclusive and luxurious hot tubs, Jacuzzi® has set an industry standard for hot tubs that offer the latest in features and accessories, healing properties and advanced technology.

Being the most widely recognized name in whirlpool and hot tub hydrotherapy, it’s no surprise that Jacuzzi® has the most advanced and high performance hot tubs and products around the world.

How Jacuzzi® Began

Let’s go back to where it all began, in the early 1900’s.a

The hardworking Jacuzzi family immigrated to the United States from Europe to begin their lives as a family on American soil. The family turned their focus from aviation to water systems and pumps in California’s orange groves. In 1925, the Jacuzzi brothers made history in agriculture when they created the first submersible pump.

This technology was later beneficial on a more personal level for the Jacuzzi family. In the 1950’s, the youngest of the seven Jacuzzi brothers was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Overwhelmed with the physical pain this was having on their loved one and the emotional pain it was having on their family, the brothers decided to take matters into their own hands.

The brothers utilized the submersible pump to create the J-300. The portable pump that was placed underwater in a regular bath and resulted in pain-relieving hydrotherapeutic treatments for their brother.

Henceforth, a niche market was created and the Jacuzzi family once again made history.

You can continue reading the complete history of the Jacuzzi family and brand at: https://goo.gl/QG7u6z

You can visit the Jacuzzi page on our website to see a few of the many Jacuzzi options there are!  https://goo.gl/8mQBUV

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Example of Jacuzzi’s Throwback advertising compared to a more recent ad.

Many Thank Yous to the Jacuzzi brothers for bringing relief to so many in pain through creation of Hydrotherapy tubs and for the partial use of their history in creating this #ThrowbackThursday post!

-Shari Provan-Crofut

 

#WisdomWednesday – Hot Tub & Swim Spa Service

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#WisdomWednesday – Hot Tub & Swim Spa Service

Sales go up and down
Service stays forever

At Lakeland Unique Pools, Spas-N-More, we service all of the units we sell in-house, as well as others depending on the issue and model. When you call us, the same people you saw when you made your purchase are going to answer the phone and any questions you may have. When you bring in your water sample for FREE testing, you will see familiar and friendly faces. If the time comes when your product needs service, you call us to set up an appointment, which will usually be handled within 24 – 48 hours.  It is our service team that comes out and solves your problem. We are here for you. We are not going anywhere. Can a box store or an on line purchase claim any of these follow up services?  The answer is no.

If you do buy on line, at a parking lot event or in a box store, make sure to research the vendor for reviews of their tactics, follow up servicing, add ons that should come standard (cover, start up chemicals, etc.), customer feedback and complaints before you make any purchases.  It has been our experience that no service is available to you once you make your purchase.  In fact, they will just drop it off at your driveway and it is up to you to position it, fill it and add chemicals that you will likely also have to buy separately. If this happens, and you need some help, please give us a call and we will solve whatever issue you are having!

If you do your research on Lakeland Unique Pools, Spas-N-More, you will find we stand behind our products and services, with many complimentary reviews from satisfied customers.  Our packages come standard with the cover and start up chemicals.  We deliver it, position it where you want it (even if this means taking down the screens, if needed, to fit the tub into a screened room), fill it, add the start up chemicals that we provide you.  We instruct you on the use and maintenance of the hot tub or swim spa.  We provide a written schedule that should be followed weekly, monthly and every 3-6 months, depending on use.

We are here for you, so please don’t hesitate to give us a call.  We want you to enjoy your own oasis right out your back door. 863-940-9826

The Unique Team – WE MAKE IT FUN TO STAY HOME!

-Shari Provan-Crofut

#TipTuesday – Air Controllers

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#TipTuesday
To Air or Not To Air – That is the question! Did you know you should turn off or down your air controllers after you’ve finished using the hot tub or swim spa? These are the controls along the top that allow your jets to feel stronger or more gentle. There are two main reasons for doing this:

1. A chemical reaction is created and a gas is given off that will eat away at your acrylic as well as your cover. This is particularly the case when the water chemistry is off consisting of too high a chlorine level and too low a Ph level. It will create a white area above the water line over time – this is damage caused by the gas being trapped;

2. It impacts your temperature by constantly pumping cooler or cold air (depending where you live) through the jets into the warm water. So, in some cases, your heater is going to be running when there is no need. TURN THOSE JETS DOWN when you’re done and extend the life of your hot tub and cover!  Not to mention the energy savings you will notice by your heater not constantly trying to keep up to the set temperature.

Please stay tuned for future tips and tricks on maintaining and extending the life of your hot tub or swim spa as well as their covers!

Please bring in a water sample for FREE testing.  We’ll make sure your chlorine/bromine, Ph and alkalinity levels are all in line.  We will only recommend the products you need to return/keep your hot tub or swim spa with beautiful, crystal clear and healthy water!  Located at 2326 E. Edgewood Dr. in Lakeland.  863-940-9826 if you have any questions, we’ll try to answer them.

We look forward to helping you!

The Unique Team – WE MAKE IT FUN TO STAY HOME!
-Shari Provan-Crofut

Filter Cartridge Maintenance 101

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Proper Filter Cartridge Maintenance

 

We suggest using the Recommended Filter Cartridge Care Method shown below for proper maintenance of your filter cartridges.

 

Three Methods for Proper Maintenance of Filter Cartridges

1. Rinse Method

Take the filters out of your hot tub or pool and give them a THOROUGH rinse with water. You can rinse them with a garden hose with a needle head attachment or other high pressure attachment.  Be sure to rinse well in between the pleats to flush out any dirt, hair and other debris.  We recommend rinsing your filters at least once a week if you use your hot tub or pool quite a bit.  If you use them more often, rinse the filter cartridges appropriately.

2. Chemical Rinse Method

Purchase a bottle of filter cartridge cleaner from Lakeland Unique Pools, Spas -n- More. If you already have filter cartridge cleaner, and it doesn’t come in a spray bottle, use the recommended method to dilute the cleaner and put it in a clean spray bottle.  Generously spray down your filter cartridges and let them sit for at least 15 minutes. Then, rinse them down THOROUGHLY with clean water.

Note: Make sure you rinse them down very well. Filter cartridge cleaners can cause foam when you put the filter cartridges back in.

3. Chemical Soak Method

Using a filter cartridge cleaning chemical such as Muriatic acid (NOTE: do not use household products), dilute the chemical with water according to the directions or as instructed. Make sure you use enough water to completely submerge the filter cartridge.  If you have room, you can add more filter cartridges to the solution.  Let the filter cartridge(s) soak in the solution at least 24 hours.  The next day, be sure to rinse the filter cartridges THOROUGHLY with clean water. Again, you don’t want foamy water!  Wear any protective gear as instructed by the chemical manufacturer such as safety glasses and gloves.

 

Recommended Filter Cartridge Care Method

1. Rinse your filter cartridges with clean water every week or more depending on use. This will allow the filter cartridges to work more efficiently and last longer.

2. Chemical Rinse your filter cartridges using a standard filter cartridge cleaner every month. Soak the filters down with the cleaner and let them sit for at least 15 minutes.  Then rinse the filter THOROUGHLY.

3. Chemical soak your filter cartridges overnight every 3-6 months depending on use. Rinse them THOROUGHLY before replacing.

 

Bonus Tip
Some people will buy two sets of filter cartridges to alternate between cleanings. This is a good idea!

Do not clean your hot tub filters with:
• Laundry Detergent
• Car Wash
• Dish washing Soap
• Or any bubbly household soap for that matter

If you have any questions, please give us a call and we’ll be happy to help!  863-940-9826

The Unique Team – WE MAKE IT FUN TO STAY HOME!

-Shari Provan-Crofut

 

HOT TUB CURE FOR HANGOVER

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HOT TUB CURE FOR HANGOVER

We have all been there. After a great night out with friends partying and having a good time we wake up the next morning with a headache the size of Texas. Consuming alcohol during a night out on the town has become an American tradition, but consuming too much not only results in intoxicating effects while you are drinking, but could leave you with a nasty hangover the next morning as well.

Hot tub owners are in luck, though. Did you know that a soak in your hot tub is a great way to help relieve the symptoms of a hangover? The hot tub hangover cure, used in conjunction with other remedies can help you put a stop to that hangover so you can get on with your day.

What Causes a Hangover

First, before we can talk about the hot tub hangover cure and how to do it, it is important to understand the causes and symptoms of a hangover. A hangover is caused by drinking, as well all know. More specifically, it is caused by consuming too much alcohol so it builds up in your system before you body has a chance to filter and remove it.

Drinking too much alcohol also results in the following that can lead to hangover the next morning:

  • Frequent Urination leading to dehydration
  • Drop in blood sugar
  • Dilation of blood vessels
  • Stomach irritation
  • Immune system responses

These causes can all attribute to the pounding headache and other hangover symptoms that you must endure the next day.

Hangover Symptoms

Everyone knows that a hangover causes an extremely painful headache and this knowledge is so common that the term hangover has become associated with a bad headache after drinking. However, a hangover can actually cause a wide variety of symptoms including:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Sleepiness
  • Irritability
  • Moodiness
  • Anxiety
  • Body aches
  • Halitosis
  • Thirst
  • Vomiting

There are just a few of the possible symptoms you could experience when you are suffering from a hangover. The severity of these symptoms and which ones you experience are most often determined by the individual and how much alcohol they consumed.

Use Your Hot Tub To Cure Your Hangover

Now that you understand what a hangover is and why it is happening to you, it is time now to knock that hangover out so you can get on with your day free of that pesky headache.

1. Rehydrate

Remember that after a night of partying you are dehydrated. Before you do anything, grab a glass of Gatorade or any other sports drink that replaces electrolytes in your body. If you don’t have any sports drinks handy, pour yourself a large, cool glass of water instead. Avoid coffee or other sugar based drinks like sodas as they do nothing for dehydration. While you may think coffee is the best answer for your hang over, that cup of joe won’t help you one bit.

2. Avoid Pain Medication

Another common mistake many people suffering from hangovers often make, pain medication can actually have the opposite effect that you were hoping. Most of these medications act as a low grade blood thinner which will only work to amplify the effects of your hangover instead of helping relieve the pain symptoms.

3. Soak in your Hot Tub

After you have had your glass of water or a sports drink, get in your hot tub and be sure the temperature is set between 102-104° F. Stay in the warmth of the hot tub for 20 to 25 minutes and let your body relax in the warm, bubbling water. The heat of the hot tub will help improve the circulation in your body and help it remove the toxic alcohol left behind that is causing all the problems.

The Hot Tub Headache Relief Remedy

Got a headache? Turns out that soaking in a hot tub and drinking some coffee might be a great all-natural headache relief remedy that requires no pills.

The heat of a hot tub can dehydrate you as well. So you may want to go ahead and take another glass of water to the hot tub with you or maybe even another sports drink just to make sure your body stays hydrated while you soak.

4. Take a Cold Shower

While a cold shower may come as a shock to your body especially after you spent time in very warm water, the cool water will really kick start your circulation and raise your heart rate to quicken the removal of any toxins still present in your body.

5. Keep Drinking Water

After your dip in the hot tub and your cold shower, drink more water or Gatorade to maintain proper hydration. This will help flush the alcohol from your system so you feel better much faster.

Drinking and partying can be fun but remember to always do it safely. If you do experience a hangover the next day, don’t beat yourself up. Everyone has had a little too much every now and then. If you have a hot tub or have access to one, try this hot tub hangover cure to relieve your symptoms so you can feel better and get on with your day free from the discomfort of your hangover.

Happy Soaking!

Thank you to Swim University for this VERY helpful article.

-Shari Provan-Crofut

RESOLUTIONS FOR EVERY HOT TUB OR POOL OWNER

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RESOLUTIONS FOR EVERY HOT TUB OR POOL OWNER FOR 2018  

We know what you’re thinking… New Year’s resolutions are overrated. Why commit to 12-month goals when time has shown you that you’ll throw them out the window 30 days into the New Year anyway. Regardless of how you feel about New Year’s resolutions, there’s something to be said for the fresh start, and for whatever reason, most of us decide that January 1st is a good day to launch that start. As a pool or spa owner, you may need to make a fresh start in your approach to care, design or usage. We have some great ideas to explore and tips to try for 2018. Check it out and decide if your pool, your hot tub, or YOU could benefit from a resolution or two in the New Year.

CREATE A MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

If you want your hot tub or swimming pool to last, it’s important to take care of it. Depending on where your hot tub is located — inside a screened-in porch or outside under a canvas of tree branches — necessary maintenance tasks will vary.

However, the basics like periodically draining your hot tub, keeping the water balanced, and cleaning the spa or tub never change. If routine maintenance is something that’s difficult for you, let us first assure you that you’re not the only one. Perhaps you have a chaotic schedule, lack the know-how to maintain your pool, or simply forget to do it. Regardless of why maintenance routines slipped through the cracks in 2017, we have two ideas that might help you achieve your maintenance goals in 2018.

CALENDAR

Create a spa/pool maintenance calendar and keep it current. By assigning maintenance tasks to specific days, you’ll be more likely to accomplish them. It’s also helpful to have an at-a-glance view of what your maintenance schedule looks like for the month. You could even set monthly goals for your pool or spa. This can be really fun if you’re thinking outside the box. For example, in January, you want to choose three potential water features for your pool. Then, in February, you want to obtain a quote on your chosen water feature.

CHORE CHART

If maintenance tasks are not proactively assigned and distributed among the family, then all tasks will fall on the shoulders of one person — and chances are, that person will be you. Instead of stressing yourself out with pool maintenance you don’t have time to do, share the load. Create a chore chart that assigns each task to different people in your family. Make sure tasks are age appropriate and safe, though! Children should always be supervised when they’re near a swimming pool or spa, and chemical treatments and equipment checks should be left to an adult.

SHARE THE WATER

You may love the idea of throwing a hot tub party, or you may already be planning your pool parties for the summer. If you enjoy hosting, then do more of it in 2018! If you’re not a big party planner, that’s okay, too. You can have just as much fun with one or two friends who join you for a relaxing swim or soak. Either way, plan to share the joy of your hot tub or pool with others this coming year.

GIVE YOURSELF AT LEAST ONE UPGRADE

What’s the point of having a pool or spa if you’re not going to dress it up a bit? Like cars, pools and hot tubs have potential for all kinds of bells and whistles that increase their value as well as your enjoyment in using them. An upgrade doesn’t necessarily have to be a major expense. It may be something as minor as hanging patio lights, or it could be something major like designing and installing a new deck. There are endless options; the point is choosing one and doing it!

PURSUE ENERGY EFFICIENCY

A higher energy bill comes with the territory of having a hot tub or pool. (If you didn’t think about that before your installation, you’re no doubt thinking about it now). However, there are ways to improve energy efficiency. This coming year, take time to research energy-saving options and commit to making some improvements. While energy efficient upgrades require an upfront investment, the long term benefits will eventually save you a considerable amount of money.

TAKE TIME OUT FOR YOU

You knew this one was coming. We cannot not emphasize enough the importance of giving yourself a time and place to relax. While pools and hot tubs can be fun, social settings, they’re also ideal places to check out and unwind — something our bodies and brains seriously need! If you don’t find yourself kicking back in your pool or spa every now and then — thinking about nothing and doing nothing — then 2018 is the year to change that. Ultimately, it’s up to you if you want to commit to New Year’s resolutions for 2018.

However, if you need help accomplishing your pool and hot tub goals, let us know! The professionals at Lakeland Unique Pools, Spas & More can handle everything from hot tub & swim spa installations to equipment repairs and water analysis.

Thank you to Hot Springs Pools & Spas for the article.  Posted by Jim Riggs on Dec 15, 2017 8:00:00 AM

-Shari Provan-Crofut

#TipTuesday – Hot Tub Cover Care

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A well-made hot tub cover is an essential part of your hot tub. It quietly fulfills two simple yet important functions: It keeps in heat, and it keeps out anything that shouldn’t be in your water. By making sure your spa is securely covered whenever it’s not in use, you can help ensure your water is kept heated, free of contaminants, and ready for you at all times.

With a bit of care and consideration, a well-made hot tub cover can remain in peak condition for several years. Nothing lasts forever, though, and eventually your cover will likely need to be replaced. Here, we’ll show you how to take good care of your hot tub cover to extend its longevity and, once it has outlived its usefulness, how to find the perfect replacement.

HOW TO EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR HOT TUB COVER

Hot tub covers are designed to be durable and require relatively little maintenance. However, to keep your cover in prime condition for as long as possible, make sure you treat it well and follow a few good practices:

Follow a few tips to keep your hot tub cover in good shape.

  • Handle your cover gently. Your hot tub’s cover is made from an outer layer of water-resistant vinyl surrounding a reinforced foam core, which is wrapped in plastic or laminate to form a vapor barrier. If the cover is ripped, punctured, or otherwise damaged, water may permeate the vapor barrier and saturate the interior foam, which will limit your cover’s ability to do its job. So take care: Keep it away from sharp edges and rough surfaces, and never drag it across the ground.
  • Strongly consider adding a cover lifter to your spa.In addition to eliminating the need to struggle with a bulky, heavy cover, cover lifters also keep the cover safely raised and stored off of the ground while your spa is in use, thus keeping it clean and reducing the risk of damage.
  • Keep your cover clear. Your cover helps insulate your hot tub by creating a tight seal: Warm air can’t escape, and cooler air can’t enter. In inclement weather, don’t let snow or ice accumulate on top of your hot tub cover—the weight of the snow can cause it to bend and sag in the center, breaking the seal and letting heat seep out.
  • Your hot tub cover is not a piece of furniture. For safety reasons, never let children or pets climb on top of a covered hot tub. Even if your cover is resting on solid ground, though, it’s not a good idea to let anyone stand or sit on it; in a similar vein, avoid the temptation to use your covered tub as a makeshift table. Using your hot tub cover in ways in which it was not designed to be used can damage the vinyl or cause the foam interior to sag.
  • After adding chemicals to your water, leave your hot tub uncovered for half an hour to give them time to purify and freshen the water. Some chemicals commonly used in water care systems, including chlorine, need to interact with air in order to work properly. Covering up your hot tub immediately after treating your water can trap chemical vapors against the cover, which can damage it. Similarly, always monitor the pH balance of your water. A solution that’s either too acidic or too basic isn’t just ineffective at keeping your water clean—it also might weaken the materials in your hot tub cover.
  • Clean your hot tub cover occasionally with mild soap and water. Surface grime or mildew can easily transfer from your cover to your water—or can even cause lasting damage.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A REPLACEMENT HOT TUB COVER

Even if you take meticulous care of your hot tub cover, at some point it’ll probably need to be replaced. Take a close look at it: Does it lie flat over your spa, or does it sag in the center? Is the vinyl torn, punctured, or cracked? Has your cover grown noticeably heavier over time? That’s water weight: A heavier cover means spa water has permeated the vapor barrier protecting the foam core. Does your cover smell like must or mold? Mold and bacteria thrive in warm, damp environments, and while your hot tub’s water care system will eradicate any contaminants inside your spa, your cover could be vulnerable. A bad smell might indicate that mold is growing inside your cover’s foam core. If your hot tub cover is showing any of these signs of age or overuse, it’s time to replace it.

When you’re looking for a replacement hot tub cover, keep these tips in mind for the best results:

  • Look for durable manufacturing details, such as heavy-duty stitching and the use of marine-grade vinyl. As the name implies, “marine-grade” is a classification of products specifically designed or treated to withstand heavy use in water.
  • Fit is the key consideration. If your hot tub cover doesn’t fit over the top of your hot tub snugly enough to create a tight seal, it doesn’t matter how well-made that cover might be—heat will escape, and your hot tub cover won’t be able to do its job. A custom cover designed to fit your particular hot tub brand and model is by far your best choice.
  • In heavy winds, your hot tub cover could be blown away. Look for a replacement cover with sturdy, adjustable straps to keep your cover securely fastened to your hot tub, even when the weather turns wild.
  • Your hot tub dealer can help you find the best replacement cover.

     

  • If you have children, or if your backyard or patio where your hot tub is located may be accessed by children, you’ll want to make sure your cover has child safety locks, which prevent kids from entering your spa without your knowledge and supervision.

If you’re looking to save money, you may be tempted to order an inexpensive hot tub cover from an online retailer. While you might be able to snag a bargain, there are risks attached: If your cover is sent through the mail, it could be crushed, punctured, or otherwise damaged in transit, rendering it unusable. More importantly, though, you might end up compromising on two vital considerations in the pursuit of a deal: fit and quality. When you order online—particularly when you order from a site that doesn’t specialize in hot tubs—you run the risk of ending up with a poorly-made, ill-fitting cover that will do little to insulate or protect your spa. Instead of saving money, you could end up throwing your cash away.

When you need to replace your hot tub cover, the Team at Lakeland Unique Pools, Spas & More will be able to steer you in the right direction. They’re the established experts on your particular hot tub brand and model. If aesthetics are important to you, we will also be able to show you hot tub replacement covers in colors and styles that perfectly match your decor. While your hot tub cover won’t last forever, our guidance and knowledge will help ensure that finding a replacement isn’t a chore.  Come in to Lakeland Unique Pools, Spas & More at 2326 E. Edgewood Dr., or give us a call 863-940-9826.  We can assist you with every aspect of properly maintaining your hot tub and cover.  

-Shari Provan-Crofut

Jacuzzi’s Party for the Big Game Day

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HOW TO THROW A HOT TUB PARTY FOR THE BIG GAME

The Big Game is coming up, and that means parties are in the works. There’s no better way to celebrate football’s biggest day than with an afternoon split between cheering on touchdowns and relaxing in the comfort of your hot tub. Here, we’ve collected some ideas on how to incorporate your hot tub into the party:

PLAY GAMES
A football-themed game embraces the mood of the day and gives your guests a way to pass the time during commercials. Here are a few of our favorite games to get the party started:

  • Hot Potato: Arrange your guests in a rough circle in your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub. Toss a mini football in a clockwise direction while music plays. When the music stops, the person holding the hot potato at the time is eliminated and must leave the hot tub. The last person in the hot tub wins.
  • Fiki Football: Set up the Fiki Football goalpost on one end of the hot tub. Guests use their fingers to flick the triangle-shaped football across the hot tub and attempt to “score” over the goalposts. Allow each guest three passes; whoever wins gets a prize, such as a plush football or a drink.
  • Pass the Cup: Everyone gets an assortment of casino chips. The person holding the cup picks a play associated with the football game–for example, a touchdown or an offside call. The cup is passed around, and everyone adds a chip. When a touchdown or offside call occurs in the live game, the person holding the cup at the time is victorious. Once the party has moved indoors or is winding down, the winners receive money (for example, quarters) in equal amount to the number of casino chips in the cup when they were holding it.

Looking for more fun to keep the party going? Here are three other games you can play in your hot tub.

BRING IT OUTSIDE
Sometimes watching is the only entertainment you need. Enjoy the game and its commercials from the comfort of your hot tub. Even if you don’t have a television mounted outside, you can still bring one outdoors for this special occasion, or open the windows and doors of your house so you can hear the broadcast. Depending on your cable provider, you may also be able to stream the broadcast on a portable device like a tablet or smartphone propped up outside.

BE A GOOD HOST
Provide finger foods in individual servings so everyone is kept happy and fed without worrying about getting in and out of the hot tub and missing parts of the game. We suggest veggie sticks or chips in cups of dip, or fruit bowls in plastic containers. Before the party, craft some beverages and pour them into mason jars with lids so your guests can stay hydrated. Finally, stock up on guest towels in the colors of the teams playing in the Big Game. Keep them in a towel warmer to ensure your guests will be able to step from your hot tub into a warm, comfortable towel in no time.

The Big Game is an excellent time of year to host a party. Make the most of your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub and the natural excitement this event brings, and may your favorite team win.

Come in to Lakeland Unique Pools, Spas & More to see these phenomenal machines in person and in action.  We are your local Jacuzzi dealer located at 2326 E. Edgewood Dr. and are ready to get you set up for the Big Game by getting you into your own hot tub!  Check out the Jacuzzi line up on our page, here: https://lakelandhottubpoolandpatio.us/product-category/hot-tubs/jacuzzi/  or give us a call with any questions. 863-940-9826.

-Shari Provan-Crofut

Brands We Trust
 

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2326 E.Edgewood Dr. Lakeland, Fl.

Call Today!
863-940-9826

Hours of Operation:

Monday – Saturday
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

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Discover tips and tricks on maintaining your above ground pool, hot tub, spa or swim spa. Exclusive savings & updates on sales and discounts.

Brands We Trust

2024-brands-we-trust

Call Today! 863-940-9826
2326 E.Edgewood Dr. Lakeland, Fl.
Hours of Operation:
Monday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Newsletter Signup

Discover tips and tricks on maintaining your above ground pool, hot tub, spa or swim spa. Exclusive savings & updates on sales and discounts.