Top Tips for Keeping Your Hot Tub Clean

If you are thinking of investing in a hot tub for your home or business premises, you may or may not be aware that it is important to maintain a good cleaning and maintenance schedule so that your new equipment remains hygienic. This involves taking a number of steps on a regular basis to ensure the cleanliness of the hot tub and therefore the enjoyment of its users. There are several key actions that need to be taken, notably changing the water of your tub regularly, ensuring a healthy balance of chemicals in your water, and cleaning various components of your tub. Here are a few guidelines to follow with these aims in mind. If you have just bought a hot tub or are thinking of buying one, you will first need to buy a hot tub chemical starter kit to ensure that the water is kept clean over extended periods of time. The role of these chemicals is to sanitise your water, stopping bacteria and germs from proliferating in the tub. There are several different sanitizers available, depending on what is available in your local area or what you can find online. These include: chlorine, bromine, biguanide and mineral sanitizers. Each one is suited to particular environments, so it is very important that you read up on the properties of each one before you purchase. A hot tub chemical starter kit will generally include one or more of these sanitizers, so make sure that you ask the retailer of the product which is best for your particular model of tub. Bromine, for example, works exceptionally well in the higher water temperatures of hot tubs, yet biguanide is less likely to produce unpleasant odors than the former product. Another essential part of maintaining healthy and hygienic water in your hot tub is making sure that there is the right pH in the water for transforming your ordinary tap water into spa water. This makes for a more pleasurable and therapeutic experience, and also help keeps your tub clean and avoids corrosion. After testing the water for its pH level using specially designed test strips, you will then be able to tell if your water acidity or alkalinity needs balancing out with chemical products. Both the chemicals and the test strips are often available as part of a hot tub chemical starter kit. Adding chemicals to water is only one of the things that you can do, however, to keep your hot tub clean and working well. It is also essential to change the water regularly to remove all the dirt that will accumulate in the water regardless of how much sanitizer is present. Experts recommend that your water changes should take place every three or four months, depending on how frequently you use your tub. Infrequent users may not have to do this changing of the water more than a couple of times per year, however, so there is some leeway here. The important thing to remember is to make sure that you correctly add the right pH balancing chemicals and sanitizers to your hot tub after you have changed the water. This does not have to be costly, as you can often buy chemical kits for very reasonable prices so that you can easily ensure the quality of the water in your pool or tub. Lastly, make sure that certain components of your tub are kept clean as much as possible. These include cleaning the inside of the hot tub itself, cleaning the filter and cleaning the hot tub cover so that the water in your tub is much less likely to become contaminated. For those cleaning their tubs, specialist spa cleaning products can be bought that are safe to use alongside all the other chemicals that you have purchased to treat your water. It is also possible to invest in certain products such as lime scale prevention products, and these can add to the many layers of defence you have against a dirty hot tub. Pool & Hot Tub Supplies is a UK based online store stocking everything that you could possibly need to keep your pool or tub looking good and operating at its best. The expansive range of products in store includes: swimming pool chemicals, swimming pool supplies, hot tub chemicals, inflatables, games, pool repair equipment, water testing tools and much, much more. They guarantees consistently low prices and excellent customer service, with its team of pool industry experts on hand to offer professional advice to each and every customer. They also provides nationwide delivery, free delivery on orders over £60, no minimum order and amazing clearance deals every month Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9267348

Make Sure You're Covered When It Comes To Pool Covers & Safety

If you've ever spent hours scooping leaves, dead insects, and other debris out of your swimming pool, chances are you've already taken a look at the various pool covers available on the market. These accessories offer a whole host of benefits to homeowners, from saving you on cleanup time to conserving energy by reducing the amount of evaporation. You can even purchase solar covers, which use the light from the sun to keep the water warm all year round. However, coverings can present risks, particularly to animals and small children. In order to keep yourself and your family safe, follow these three handy tips. 1. Look For The Label The safety label, that is! Few are aware that the American Society for Testing and Materials established specific guidelines for pool covers in 1991. The standards, which were updated in 2010, created a list of requirements for a manufacturer to receive the ASTM stamp of approval. Chief among these is that the product must have been produced with the intent to reduce the risk of drowning by passing tests for weight support, perimeter deflection, and surface drainage. Items that meet these standards must be able to hold a weight of at least 485 pounds-which definitely makes them sturdy enough to support a child or pet. 2. Shop Safety, Not Solid When shopping for pool covers, people are often confused by the term "solid." On the surface, no pun intended, it would appear that this kind of set-up would provide the best protection from both mess and mishap. After all, solid means sturdy, right? Unfortunately, wrong. Though these items do a great job of keeping your water clean and clear, they're usually not well anchored and can't hold very much weight before collapsing in on themselves. Safety covers, on the other hand, are engineered to support heavy loads-some can withstand up to 4,000 pounds (just check out Google: images abound of cars and even elephants suspended over the family watering hole). These products, usually constructed from mesh panels, are affixed to the brick or concrete surrounding the pool, which ensures they retain their tension and don't come loose if someone steps out onto them. 3. Gates Are Great This might seem like obvious advice, but even the highest quality pool covers work best when teamed with a good primary protection system, such as a fence with a lockable gate. The laws regarding barriers around residential swimming areas vary by region, but in many states, providing an adequate boundary around your pool isn't just a good idea-it's the law. So if you're thinking about installing a hot tub, or want to go for a splash in your private pond, spend a little time researching the regulations in your local area. Keeping cool during the summer (or warm in the winter, if you've got a self-heating option) is an awesome luxury, but it shouldn't come at the expense of your family's health and security. Shop around, and remember: safety first! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9273915

Safety Tips for Using Hot Tubs

Hot tubs provide enjoyable relaxation for people who use them. Kicking back in the water can be enjoyable, but safety is an important consideration. Some people are especially vulnerable to illness from the heat, depending on their age and any other health issues present. Guidelines Anyone using hot tubs must follow basic rules of use to ensure the safety of everyone. Failure to follow these guidelines could lead to contamination. - Take a shower prior to entering the unit. - Do not venture into the unit during times of gastrointestinal illness. - Never allow the water to enter the mouth, and do not swallow it. - Watch alcohol consumption while using a hot tub. The combination of alcohol use and the hot water can lead to excessive dehydration. If this occurs, a person might become lightheaded, dizzy, or nauseous. Both alcohol and the hot water also prime the body for heat exhaustion because they expand blood vessels. Any of these situations could cause someone to lose consciousness and slip beneath the surface of the unit. - Follow posted guidelines about time limits and the number of users allowed at one time. - Do not allow children under five to use the tub. Children who are old enough to venture in should stay in the tub for five-minute intervals. Full immersion could be dangerous for children. Some facilities provide special seats for children to use that only allows immersion to the waist. Check out the Facility - While using hot tubs, observe the surroundings to ensure that everything is in order. You should not smell strong odors. In fact, a well-maintained tub should not emit any odors at all. If you smell strong chlorination smells, this indicates potential maintenance issues. - Touch the sides of the unit. The tiles should feel smooth, never slippery or sticky. - Check the unit temperature. It should never be higher than 104 degrees Fahrenheit. - Listen to ensure that you hear the filtration and pump systems running. Speak with the Management - Find out if staff checks pH and chlorine levels at least two times each day. Optimally, these checks will occur during times of heavy usage. - Find out the most recent health inspector grade of the facility. - Find out about the owner's and staff's understanding of recreational water illness. Understanding of this illness is essential for preventing it. A Word about Recreational Water Illness Recreational water illnesses occur from germs present in contaminated water. People might swallow or inhale these germs in hot tubs, swimming pools, lakes, rivers, and oceans. It's also possible to develop RWIs from chemicals that evaporate into the air. The symptoms of RWIs include gastrointestinal upset and infections of the skin and ears. Respiratory infections can also occur. The most common type of RWI involves diarrhea. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9276954

Must-Have Pool Supplies for First-Time Owners

Here's an overview of the basic pool supplies needed to maintain a clean, safe, and fun backyard swimming hole! Filters A filter system is one of the most important pool supplies. A pump and drain(s) keep the water cycling while debris is caught in a net-like filter. In most areas of the country, filter standards are legally regulated. Cleaners and Vacuums Many underwater vacuums look like household vacuums. Nets are useful for manually skimming leaves and bugs off the water's surface. Other, higher-tech pool supplies for fighting grime include pressure cleaners (connected to the filter system), suction cleaners (like a vacuum without the pole), and automated robot cleaners (self-contained Roomba-like gadgets.) Disinfecting Chemicals To ward off harmful bacteria, disinfectants must be regularly introduced. The most popular option is chlorine. To counteract its acidity and ensure that the pH levels of the water aren't harmful or irritating to swimmers (and also ensure that they do not corrode or damage the walls or floor) other chemicals are needed and must be added in the correct balance. Test Kits These at-home kits test pH, total alkalinity, chlorine, cyanuric acid, and calcium hardness levels (and sometimes others depending on the particular pool), and they let owners see how much of each chemical they should be adding. The most common test kits are paper strips that turn different colors according to the levels of the different chemicals. Liquid kits and digital testers are other options. Salt Generators Salt water pools are becoming more and more popular in private residences as well as public institutions. They still require some chlorine but not nearly as much as in "fresh" water ones. The generator works to extract chlorine from salt, making your purchases more efficient. Salt water hasn't been shown to harm swimmers, but, as with traditional options, make sure you are testing and regulating chemicals and salinity. Covers Unfortunately, it isn't summer all year long in most areas of the US. Covers are one of the most basic labor-saving pool supplies. They're essential for protecting pools during the winter months. However, heat pumps and gas heaters can go a long way toward extending the season and keeping swimmers comfortable longer. Ladders, Slides, Steps, and Diving Boards Means of getting in and out should always be safe and can also be pretty fun. Decide which combination of ladders and steps works for you, and consider getting a diving board or slide installed by a professional as well! LED Lights If you're swimming at night, LED lights are essential for safety and comfort. These are waterproof and installed in various places under the water's surface. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9285721

Simple Pool Maintenance Tips And Techniques

The decision to install a pool can provide many years of joy providing aesthetic appeal and increased property resale value. To keep the water sparkling blue and clear requires regular maintenance performed on a weekly basis. The proper steps can assist in improving the longevity of structures and prevent costly repairs or restoration work over time. Managing pools includes keeping the water balanced. While maintenance may pose as a complicated process to the average homeowner, learning the appropriate techniques and correct use of products can minimize discomfort while swimming and retain its beautiful condition. Cleaning on a regular basis will prevent the formation of algae and corrosion that can have devastating results on structures. Balancing water is imperative as it maintains safe swimming conditions preventing adverse reactions and general degradation. The pH must be kept at the correct levels at all times to manage sanitizes and ensure that filtration continues to function optimally. All types of pools must remain balanced to keep systems operational and eliminate the accumulation of bacteria and algae. Water that is too acidic or basic will cause irritation of the skin and eyes making for uncomfortable swimming conditions. Acidity or low alkaline levels can cause corrosion affecting the quality of the lining, filters and the operation of the pump. The proper pH can prevent complications and the expense of having to repair damaged areas or replace costly equipment. The pH levels must read an average of 7.5 while the alkalinity must be tested at 100 ppm that indicates safe water parameters. Bacteria and fungal growth proliferate in pools with a low or a high pH increasing the risk for green coloration and poor swimming conditions. It is important that the appropriate steps are taken to maintain the safe condition of structures that is affordable and efficient. Test the calcium levels within the water. An excess of this element can cause changes in the condition of the surrounding structure. A cloudy appearance and the formation of stains are clear signs that there is too much calcium present. To extend the use of chlorine and save on usage costs, add stabilizer to the water to keep the chemical active for a longer period. The correct maintenance measures will keep pools looking beautiful and provide ideal swimming parameters. Regardless of pool design or size, the application of product and testing for the proper pH range can prevent the formation of corrosion, algae and contaminants. Managing the quality of water ensures crystal clear and sparkling conditions. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9318605

Understanding Concrete Pool Lining Options

Every swimming pool must have a liner, whether it is a vinyl liner, concrete liner, or a fiberglass one. Concrete pools are one of the most dependable types of pools and are usually in the ground. They provide the most options when it comes to pool liners. Tile Liners Tile can include numerous colours and can also be used to create simplistic images along the pool floor and walls. They come in various materials, such as fiberglass and ceramic. They take a long time to install, but the beauty they provide is well worth the time and/or effort. Concrete Liners Painted concrete surfaces present an opportunity for good creativity. They allow the pool to have fancy, appealing shapes or various forms because the floor and walls can be painted, no matter what shape the pool is. In other words, it is a flexible pool liner so to speak, even though it is just painted concrete. In addition, paint can be used to create works of art on the walls and floor for that extra touch of both luxury and style. The paint that is used on concrete pool linings is usually either a rubberized paint or an epoxy one. Vinyl Pool Liners Even though vinyl pool liners are typically used for above-ground pools, they have also evolved into being used as concrete pool liners. They are especially beneficial for concrete walls and floors that have been chipped, cracked, or weathered. They come in many designs, colours, and styles so you can find one that suits your needs. Pebble and Aggregate Liners For those that worry about slippery surfaces, pebble pool liners are the perfect solution. They provide a slightly rough surface that does not hurt the feet due to their design. The aggregate materials used in combination with the stones only protrude a little bit from the surface. This type of liner adds natural beauty that is enhanced with sunshine. Depending on the design and materials used, the sun can make the pool surface sparkle. For aggregate liners without stones and pebbles, the surfaces are flat. They usually include chips and particles that create a speckled design. The materials are usually mixed in with concrete to form the liner that goes over the existing concrete liner. There are many colour options for these as well and you can choose the speckling design you like. Some even include things like seashell pieces or other beautiful accents. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9283247

Tips To Choose The Right Pool Shape

Swimming pools are part of most homes offering relaxation near the water and serving as a beautiful modern feature. When deciding on pool installation, the most common question includes the selection of the shape or style of structure that will best suit the property. Whether pools are located indoors or outdoors, the choice should be determined by functionality, affordability, and aesthetic value. There are endless possibilities when choosing pool shapes from a basic rectangle or kidney to lavish structures that include waterfall features. The conventional styles with smaller dimensions are most popular offering a basic pool to unwind and cool off. Designs are not limited to squares or rectangles, but can include large circles or rounded edges. Shapes and sizes of pools are determined by the amount of space available on the property. The area selected for installation will influence the style of the feature that will best work in terms of practicality and ease of maintenance. Do not make a rushed decision, but carefully consider size as it is expensive and complex to have to fill or remove pools at a later stage. Create a budget for the addition and consider the options available that are valuable and cost effective. Contacting a professional contractor in the installation of pools will include an estimate of the materials and labor involved. The smaller sizes are less expensive than a large and complex design and require a fair comparison that will prove most suitable for a budget. Swimming pools can be constructed for training and athletic purposes or a simple feature to lounge in during the warmer temperatures. Determine its use before proceeding with a particular style because it looks good in a catalog or the backyard of a neighbor. The feasibility of pools will have to be assessed as a lack of regular usage may call for less expensive alternatives. Pools must prove functional and fit within the environment, but it must deliver appeal and provide an outstanding feature for the property. Modern landscaping solutions discussed with the professional guidance of a contractor will deliver the best outcome. Ensure that the selected size and style are compatible with the surrounds for a valuable result. Swimming pool design must include research into the options available along with costs and practicality. The larger size and more complex styles will be more expensive than basic shapes and smaller structures. Consulting with a knowledgeable and experienced contractor can assist in making a feasible decision that will bring many years of joy to the home. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9319112

Factors That You Need To Consider For Buying Swimming Pool Party Items!

Nowadays so many different things have come up that can be used to make one's pool party exciting and happening. But before you go ahead and check out the different products, don't forget to consider certain vital points mentioned below: Toxic free material: The water trampoline or inflatable pool that you are planning to buy should be toxic free. It means that the material used should be such that one will not choke to death or will experience breathing problems while using them. What happens is that poor quality materials used are high on toxic and as such when one breathes into them they experience a breathing problem. So always insist on products that are toxic free. After all you don't wish to opt for products that can act as health hazards. So it is vital that you are careful from the beginning. Long lasting and durable: When you are investing in a water walking ball and the other products you want them to be long lasting and durable. After all you must have plans to use them next year as well. So make sure that the products are high on quality, are scratch proof, will not develop scratches and will last for several years to come. And always opt for inflatable products so that once the need is over you can take out the air, fold them and store it away for the next use. This way you also contribute to the longevity of the product. Different shapes and sizes: All the products mentioned come in different shapes and sizes. It is best if you opt for a bigger one so that more people can fit in. If you buy a small size then you will end up buying similar sized products in several numbers which will not be the case in case of a big sized one. The inflatable pool comes in interesting shapes. You can opt for round ones or rectangle and even diamond shaped ones. Cost: These products are generally a bit costly compared to the regular stuff. So be prepared to shell out the money. An interesting way to save money is to browse through several sites and compare the rates. Find out which store is charging less. If the product is of good quality and customer review is good then you can easily buy the low priced items. There is no harm in it. So you see that it is extremely vital to consider the above mentioned points if you wish to buy the right items. So what are you waiting for? If you have weekend party coming up then start browsing immediately. Once you place the order, the store will take minimum 7 days to deliver the product. The sooner you place the order, the sooner you will receive it. Opt for only those items that you need as part of your party. Don't get tempted by the wide collection. Otherwise you will end up buying products that you hardly need. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9278529

Eco Friendly Pool Design Ideas

Eco pools have become a popular lifestyle trend. These natural pools not only benefit your own health, but that of the eco system as well as your finances since it's the most cost-effective method and it immediately increases your property value. Take a look at these beautiful natural pool designs: We live in a time of an over populated earth, the African continent being the one with the largest growth rate in the world. Earth's natural resources and habitats are slowly being suffocated and therefore people are trying to live a more holistic or 'greener' lifestyle to try to save what we have left as well as improving the quality of their health, naturally. Eco swimming pools have thus become one of the most effective methods that people are using to restore the natural balance and also to decrease their exposure to harmful chemicals, such as chlorine, found in modern-day swimming pools. As a home owner, when you think 'swimming pool', what is the first concern that pops up in your head? The cost to build it? The cost to maintain it? Finding the time to clean it? The fact that you can't use it during winter? Or maybe it's health concerns. These factors are some of the reasons why more people are building eco-friendly, self-sustaining, solar heated natural swimming pools. How it works: Your pool is separated into two areas, one for swimming and another for regeneration where various water plants are used to ensure high quality hygienic water. Water pumps and special plant filters as well as other micro-organisms are additionally added to ensure the water quality standards are met. These water plants do all the work for you. No need to clean the pool or to put in any chemicals, as these plants not only absorb the carbon dioxide and then release oxygen into the water, but they are nature's best water purifiers. Which type of plants to use in a natural pool? Grass-type shoreline & submerged plants Both of these are excellent water purifiers as they remove excess nutrients from water as well as bacteria and algae. Submerged plants oxygenate the water and therefore improve the water quality. Floating surface plants Water lilies absorb nutrients to purify the water. When you use surface plants, try to maintain a surface coverage of no more than two-thirds, limiting the amount of UV light required for algae to grow. Here are some examples of useful plants: Cape Blue Water Lily Reed Bur-Reed Iris Club-Rush Sedges Water Soldier Water Poppy Sweet Flag Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9325376

How To Maintain Your Home Solar Pool Heating System

A solar pool heating system heats your home's swimming pool using the sun's free energy. A solar heater is an essential addition to your home if you hail from an area that gets even a bit chilly during the winter months. These products will keep the temperature of the pool water comfortable throughout the year and ensure that you get the most out of your solar pool. Made of the controller, pump, filter and PVC pipes, solar pool heating systems are durable and require very little maintenance. However, if there is a breakdown, here are some maintenance tips to ensure optimum performance. Try a Few Easy Fixes before Calling a Technician If your pool heater stops functioning, you may want to check the system yourself before calling a technician. What should you do if the device is not lighting at all? Start by examining the switch and the gas valve. If both of these components are in an up and running condition, check whether the supply valves are open. Closed filter or plumbing valves may result in the malfunctioning of your pool heater. It is also important to inspect the filter. If you find that the filter has collected debris or dirt, clean the filter immediately. Clearing the debris will ignite your pool heater. Perform all inspections carefully to avoid damage to your solar heater or to yourself. Best Practices to Maintain Your Pool Heater Do you want your solar heater to function throughout the year? If you are going on a long vacation or during the sultry summer months, make sure you switch the heater off to make it last longer. During vacations or summer time, use a pool cover or solar blanket to trap the energy from the sun into your home swimming pool, to heat the water in a simple and cost-effective manner. It is also important not to turn the device to its maximum setting. It exerts too much pressure on your pool heater. Most homeowners make the mistake of turning it to its maximum setting to heat the pool water faster. However, the rate of heating is the same whether the device is at a normal or maximum setting. Smart Ways to Operate the System for Better Results Besides periodic maintenance, there are some smart ways to handle your pool heaters. They are: Install your pool heating panels away from strong wind Put the collector panel in a place where it gets maximum exposure to the sun, especially when the pool pump is working. If the solar collector panel is installed on your rooftop, try to lessen the resistance to water flow Operate your swimming pool pump when the sun shines bright and clear. This will give you best results. Using it longer will generate more heat in the pool. If you are using more than one solar collector panel, connect all of them in a parallel line. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9286123

Dos and Don'ts to Consider When Landscaping Around Your Pool

A sophisticated pool design, elegant tiles and decking and a multitude of fascinating water features together can sure lighten up your exterior space. However, a well-maintained landscape is what completes any swimming pool area and is the perfect complement to your home. Not only does landscaping instantly transform an outdoor area but it can turn any run-of-the-mill pool into the most vibrant feature of your home. But, it's not as easy to pull off a landscaping project as it seems. To help you take a well-planned approach to landscaping your pool and reap the best, we have gathered a few do and don't tips you must take into account. Do have a plan As we said above, landscaping a pool is much more than placing a few plants hither and thither. Before you start off, spend some time in your yard and around pool and see what's all needed and what can be afforded within your budget. From the kind of fencing to install, plants to grow to your existing pool design and structure, consider everything that can affect the aesthetics of your pool area. Do add privacy You don't want your neighbours to peek out when you're spending quality time with your family and friends around the pool. Be thoughtful about the plants you choose and place them strategically along the fence or intended spots. Evergreen trees and shrubs make for a great choice when you want to add some privacy in the pool area. Do focus on lighting A beautifully created pool landscape would be the one that is visually appealing all the times. While you're adding select plants and trees to maintain privacy in the day, ensure the pool is equally intriguing and functional at night. Create a warm, inviting ambience with colourful LED lights and use big landscape lights to highlight focal points. Don't go for grass Just because they're green and you think they would look and feel lively in your pool landscape just doesn't mean they would. Growing grass in your pool landscape means a lot of work and maintenance. Also, the grass you grow in the landscape may find its way inside the pool making it grimy, visually unpleasant and unfeasible to use. Alternatively, you can use rocks and stones that not only look great but they are also easy to maintain. Don't avoid relaxation areas Go beyond plants, trees and lighting and take your landscape design to a different level by adding an architectural detail to your pool landscape. Create a patio, deck space or a spot for lounging, exercising and just sitting and relaxing and your pool landscape will be more functional and interesting. Landscaping a pool needs proper planning and strategic execution. If you aren't taking the DIY approach, consider hiring a certified professional contractor for your landscaping project. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9318584