Hot Tub or Spa Installation–a Wise Investment
Installing a hot tub is not a purchase that a homeowner takes lightly. However, the benefits and economics of hot tub ownership make it an attractive option for many.
The indisputable health advantages of hydrotherapy have been understood since the fourth century, BCE. Since many people use hydrotherapy as an alternative form of treatment, medical intervention is not always needed for minor aches and pains. Better health means fewer doctor visits and pills, which, particularly in the case of minor chronic back and joint pain, translates to long term economic savings for the homeowner.
The ability to sit quietly and think, alone except for the soothing bubbles, is appealing to many people. But the majority of people enjoy the social aspects of having a hot tub as a place to congregate, discuss, and connect. Families say this aspect of hot tub ownership forges a unifying bond among their members, since it’s easier to resolve differences when everyone is relaxed.
People who have enjoyed a hot tub at a friend’s house, the gym, or on vacation tell us that they finally buy a hot tub because they get tired of having to go somewhere else to enjoy one. Waiting for an invitation, hoping the hot tub at the gym is working, and only having access to a hot tub on their vacation are no longer concerns. They say the gratification of instant access in the privacy of their own home is hugely satisfying.
Everyone has their own preference for hot tub ambiance, amenities and decor, whether it be Asian-inspired, garden theme, or minimalist. A hot tub offers the homeowner a opportunity to create their own unique oasis of respite by bringing together the style they love in their ultimate comfort setting.
Being able to choose the location of their hot tub is another factor that homeowners cite as a positive aspect of purchasing their own hot tub. Some families prefer to have their hot tub on a deck or patio. Others prefer a screened-in porch or gazebo. Regardless of the location, a private hot tub can be enjoyed year round.
One of the practical considerations of hot tub ownership include not having to fill the bathtub whenever a person wants a relaxing soak. A well-maintained hot tub only needs to be drained and refilled every three to six months. Various hot tub sizes mean a homeowner can choose the size that will fit either an individual or family.
By purchasing and maintaining their own hot tub, a person is assured of having not only the ability to choose the depth, length, and style, but also the strength and locations of the jets. Since they maintain the unit, their hot tub is cleaned to their own specifications, so an owner never has to be concerned about the hygiene standards of others. It’s the ultimate in control.
On a final note, a hot tub offers huge curb appeal to potential buyers if a homeowner ever decides to sell their house.
The health benefits of an Aquatic Exercise Spa
An aquatic exercise spa offers the benefits of aquatic exercise in a heated, flotational environment in which to swim against a created ‘current’ of water and bubbles. The reasons for considering an option like this are numerous.
Multiple studies show that those individuals who have health issues as the result of back problems or other injuries, benefit from the low-key, gentle nature of aquatic exercise, both in terms of pain relief and in the ability of the sufferer to create better muscle tone in spite of their condition.
Consistency
By engaging in whole body exercise which is both low-impact and pleasant, people who suffer from these issues are able to benefit partially because of the buoyancy of a spa provides. In addition, the water provides results in less pressure on the body and joints. People who might stop going to the gym because ‘it’s too hard’, or because they’re afraid of getting hurt have a means to both exercise and rejuvenate, which means they’re more likely to return to their exercise routine day after day instead of giving up.
Better range of motion
The combination of soothing heat and the flotational nature of a spa is such that it relieves the pressure of gravity on the body’s frame, which can offer the opportunity for better range of motion. Spa bubbles also massage the muscles, which means the body’s skeletal system and muscle mass both obtain relief during as well as after an exercise routine.
Better circulation and heart health
While the person exercises, the warm water from the spa permeates the user’s body and dilates the blood vessels, which increases circulation, a critical component cardiovascular health. Aquatic therapy also provides less strain on the heart, as it increases heart rate but lowers blood pressure.
Hot tub yoga
A new trend emerging involves engaging in yoga in a hot tub. Combining the two produces improvements in the abilities of everyone from athletes to senior citizens. Lactic acid, the chemical which produces soreness post-workout, is removed from the body by the warm water.
Walking, jogging, and weightlifting in the water
The benefits of water’s natural resistance offers a means of toning and strengthening the body in a natural way during walking and jogging. Since weightlifting in the water Weights can be added to the hands or ankles without the risk of joint pain Some models have SoftTread™ by SwimDek®, a non slip comfort floor system, which creates traction and safety for an aquatic exercise enthusiast.
Healthier lifestyle overall
Aside from the direct benefits of exercise and soothing, relaxing soaks, there are other benefits, including ‘reliefs not taken’. Aquatic exercise can create muscle tone and ease pain, which provides a healthy alternative to muscle relaxers or pain killers. Since the hot water releases endorphins, it negates the need for tranquilizers or sleeping pills and offers the untold benefits of getting enough quality sleep. Because it is easier to keep up a regular aquatic exercise routine, users remain healthier, have less risk of injury, and have better overall health.
Hot Tub Repairs
Hot tubs, like any other large appliance, will occasionally have a small repair issue which requires attention so it doesn’t become a larger, more expensive problem. The most important thing to remember for safety’s sake is not to examine any of the working parts while the electricity is on. Water and electricity work well together if an individual has the expertise to handle them safely, which means always shutting off the unit and the breaker box or GFCI.
Here are some of the more common issues spa owners encounter:
Leaks
In spite of the panic many people feel when they notice their spa leaking, it’s almost never the shell. There are several places that can spring leaks, including the pump, the light, the filter, and the plumbing (usually the fittings). By removing the cabinet panel, it’s sometimes possible to find the leak immediately, since much of the plumbing is there. If not, the leak may be one of the jets, which will mean the spa foam will have to be dug out from around them.
The Pump
The pump can have a number of issues. The pump is the big muscle of your hot tub, so it stands to reason that it should be kept in good working order.
If you hear an unpleasant noise, you may have a pump issue. The internal part of the pump is the impeller, which is what makes the water move. If the bearings go bad or it gets stuck, it will make a whirring or growling sound.
The external part is the motor. If the motor isn’t working, it might be that the breaker tripped. If the motor is running but the impeller isn’t, it’s usually caused by either a clog or a malfunctioning impeller.
GFCI or wiring
If your hot tub is not working at all, this can be caused by a pump problem or a wiring issue; make sure it’s getting power before you call for a repair. Check for a flipped breaker or GFCI, and look for wiring damage such as burned insulation or gnaw marks.
Corrosion
Low pH is acidic and will corrode metal parts such as those in the heater. High pH will lead to scale, which is hard on plastic and rubber components such as O-rings and gaskets. Since none of these issues are things the spa owner can see, the best and easiest way to keep these issues from occurring is to test and stabilize the water on a regular basis. This is particularly important in areas where the water has a naturally high or low pH and the spa has just been refilled.
Preventative measures
In addition to pH testing and control, other preventative measures can be used to keep repairs at bay. Having the hot tub cover on tightly when not in use is a good way to keep dirt, debris, and refuse out of the water. The unit should be cleaned with a good-quality jacuzzi soap and the filter cartridge should also be cleaned on a regular basis.
Since a spa is a home improvement and an investment, it’s worthwhile to keep it in good working order and problem free.
