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No matter what hot tub you choose, you need to make sure
it is easy to service. The last thing you want to do is pull the
hot tub out of a deck and flip it on its side every time service
is required. Ask the salesperson to show you where
technicians can access vital systems (and keep these details
in mind when considering where to place the hot tub in your
backyard). When it comes to hot tub maintenance, there are two
primary factors you need to address - filtration and disinfection.
Filtration
In a hot tub, dirt can only do two things. It is either light enough
to float on the surface or heavy enough to drop to the bottom.
When assessing a hot tub’s filtration capabilities, but sure to ask
how long it takes to filter 100 per cent of the water.
Also check to ensure the skimmer is sufficient. Does it provide
enough filtration to remove debris and does it have a floating
door to skim the surface of the water? Also, does it come
equipped with a floor vacuum to clean the dirt off the bottom
of the hot tub? If not, you will have to purchase a separate
vacuum. Also ask the salesperson whether the hot tub has a
suction side filter or pressure side filter. The suction side filter
offers less expensive filtration, but is not as effective; it will only
filter 50 per cent of the hot tub water. Conversely, pressure side
filters are more expensive, but since 100 per cent of the water
passes through the filter, all of it can be cleaned.
Disinfection
To keep your hot tub safe and
pleasant to use, you will also
need to disinfect the water
regularly. Ideally, look for a hot
tub that has an in-line chemical
feeder as opposed to a floating
dispenser.
While floating dispensers
work well, they also need
to be removed every time
someone enters the hot tub.
If you choose to use an ozone
system, which is designed to
reduce your overall chemical
requirements, look for a model
that uses an injection system.
This technology reduces off
-gassing and increases the
ozone’s saturation and killing
power.
If you opt for a saltwater
bromine system (which uses
saltwater to generate chemicals
for disinfection), be prepared
for a bit of a learning curve.
Make sure your retailer truly
understands these unique
systems and embraces the
technology. Once you understand
the system, it will be
easy to use and should make
a for a very pleasant soaking
experience. |
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