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Hot Tub Overview
Hot Tub Overview and Maintenance (Cont'd)
By Julie-Ann
Amos
Pumps, Heaters and Controls
Though not as flashy and visible as the shell, cabinetry, seating and jets,
the pumps, heaters and controls are vital components of your in-ground or
portable home spa.
Choose a pump, or combination of pumps, that has the power and water-moving
capacity to suit the size of your spa as well as the type of jets. High
action jets typically require a more robust pump, while standard jets can
usually get by with a smaller pump. In most cases, though, a multi-pump
system is preferable to a single pump system for the most efficient and
effective water movement.
The hot tub heater is an essential component that must be sized correctly for the
water capacity of your spa. If your heater is too small or underpowered, you
will have constant struggles heating your spa water and the heater will be
forced to work extra hard. A high quality heater, coupled with good
insulation, will go a long way toward efficiently heating the water in your
spa and keeping the temperature up where you want it.
Traditionally, hot tubs and home spas used pneumatic controls to run pumps,
heaters and the like. Electronic controls have gained some in popularity,
but they have a spotty record of reliability and until the last few years
have not been a popular choice. Technology improvements have made them much
better, though, so don’t automatically dismiss electronic controls when
shopping for your home spa.
Filtration and Water Purification
The filtration and water purification systems in your hot tub will have a
direct bearing on the time and effort you will spend balancing and
maintaining the spa water. Small capacity filtration systems and bare-bones
purification systems may cost less up front when you buy a hot tub, but they
will usually end up costing you more in chemicals, filter replacement, and
time. It is far better to invest in systems that are more robust and save
yourself the extra money and time over the long term.
Hot Tub Amenities
There is a nearly endless array of hot
tub accessories from which
to choose. Some of the most common include:
- Fountains and jets
- CD/stereos
- Multi-colored and multi-functional lighting
- Aromatherapy
- Dual controls
- Padded headrests and armrests
- Drink and cup holders
- Remote control and remote checking of temperature,
water condition and pump status
- Shell colors and/or textures
- Power-assisted cover lifters
In addition to these extra amenities, spa dealers also
promote and sell various decorative elements like matching steps, planters,
bars and stools, hot tub gazebos, tables and chairs, etc. The choice of whether or
not to invest in these extras is based solely on your personal preferences
as well as your budget.
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Overview and Maintenance (Part 1)
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