Christina Mantoura, Author at The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company

Will Stain and Scale Inhibitors Benefit Your Hot Tub or Pool?

Posted on 4 June 2015 - 00:00 by Christina Mantoura

Once you have purchased your hot tub or pool, you want to enjoy it for many years to come. If you stay on top of the small amount of maintenance that is required, you should have no trouble with them, and they’ll provide you with many years of enjoyment.

There are a few chemicals that you will want to use to keep the water in pristine condition. All water is not the same and in some parts of England the water can be extremely hard. If you aren’t sure about this just look at your washing machine or shower head and see if you can detect any white flakes forming. If so, this means you have hard water and what you are seeing is a calcium build up.

This type of water is also going to affect the performance of your hot tub or pool if you don’t add some stain and scale inhibitor to it on occasion. If you don’t do this and the hot tub begins to build up calcium, it can affect the heater and pumps, and the water flow for your hot tub or pool.

To make sure that you stay on top of this and that your water is not containing too much calcium, you can test it. This is something you should do each time you top up the hot tub or pool. There are various testing kits available for this and there are different brands of stain and scale inhibitors.

You may be thinking that you should fill your hot tub or pool with soft water, so you won’t have to deal with this problem. This is not a solution either because too low of a calcium level can lead to corrosion, which is another big problem in itself.

Ideally, the right calcium level should be between 100-200mg/l. The testing kit you are using should provide you with a chart that shows you the various readings and what they mean. If the calcium level is high, you should use a stain and scale inhibitor. On the other hand, if it is low, you will need to add a calcium hardener.

One of the signs that the calcium levels may be too high is the water has a cloudy look to it. Testing is the surest way of knowing exactly what you are dealing with when it comes to calcium.

Surprising Your Loved One for Father’s Day with a Home Sauna

Posted on 3 June 2015 - 00:00 by Christina Mantoura

It can be difficult to know what to buy your husband or father for Father’s Day. They usually end up with a new shirt or something similar. If you really want to buy a gift that is significant, but one that can be used by other family members, consider a home sauna.

There are two primary reasons why you want to consider a sauna. One is that it is amazing for relaxation and the other is that it provides significant health benefits.

Many health advocates believe that a sauna is a powerful way to eliminate toxins in the body. The heat of the sauna causes one to perspire and this allows the release of these unwanted substances in our body. It isn’t something that happens with the use of the sauna once or twice. Some are saying it can take a couple of months of regular use to receive the full benefits. Another great benefit is that it is really great for the skin.

How it works is the heat of the sauna increases the heart rate, which causes you to perspire.

Many who use a sauna that suffer from sore muscles or arthritis pain say that a sauna works wonders for them in helping to reduce the pain. It is always recommended that individuals who suffer with any kind of health problem should check with their health care provider first to get permission to use a sauna.

When you go to buy your sauna, you are going to be faced with a few decisions to make. One of these will be whether you want to have it installed indoors or outdoors. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. If you decide to go with an outdoor sauna, you can choose one of the barrel type models that look fantastic. You can really build a terrific getaway right on your own property. Having it installed indoors means you don’t have to go outside to get to it. You are going to need some extra space to accommodate this.

No matter which style or model you choose not only is your loved one going to be enjoying his Fatherâ€™s day gift for many years to come, but you will get to benefit from it too.

Which is Better an Outdoor Sauna or an Indoor Sauna?

Posted on 29 May 2015 - 00:00 by Christina Mantoura

Most individuals that decide to buy a sauna do so because they have tried them and absolutely love the way they felt when using them. Others just go on what they have heard regarding how beneficial saunas are.

What many new sauna buyers don’t realize is that there are a lot of decisions that now need to be made for the new purchase. One of the biggest ones will be, should it be an outdoor or indoor sauna? One of the many great features about a sauna is that no matter which one you choose, they don’t take up much space.

If you are thinking about outdoors, you want to consider the installation. Your sauna is going to need to be connected to your electrical and water system. Also, if your indoor space is limited, choosing the outdoor option will allow you to go with a bigger sauna, which is terrific for when you have friends over.

Even if you do have extra space in the house, you want to make sure it’s in a private area. If you are thinking about having it installed right off the recreation room where the kids hang out, you aren’t going to get the privacy you may want.

A sauna has the ability to totally relax its users, and seems to melt away stress. You really don’t want to be distracted during your sauna time. This may be one of the extra benefits you will have if you go with an outdoor version.

You also have to consider if you want to go outside to use your sauna. It might be more convenient for you to have your sauna indoors. Indoor saunas are typically easier to install because access to the water and hydro may be easier.

When it comes down to which is better regarding selecting an indoor or outdoor sauna, both are equally great and it really is matter space limitations and personal preference. The great thing is that those who simply do not have any spare space in their homes, do not have to go without having a sauna. Even the outdoor saunas take up very little space, so they are perfect for small backyards.

Just be sure that if you make the decision to purchase the outdoor sauna that you buy from a reputable dealer who will ensure that you are getting the appropriate outdoor sauna that is well made.

Choosing the Right Theme to Fit in with Your Outdoor Sauna

Posted on 28 May 2015 - 00:00 by Christina Mantoura

The first thing you are going to want to decide regarding your outdoor sauna is where you want to put it. Of course, the primary reason for purchasing your sauna is for its many therapeutic benefits, but you’ll also be impressed with its appearance and how it can enhance your outdoor space, if placed outside. This may even encourage you to expand your outdoor space and turn it into the ideal retreat.

There are two ideal versions of an outdoor Sauna that can act as a great starting point for building an outdoor oasis. The first is the Eclipse Garden Sauna. The second is the Traditional Swedish Barrel Sauna. While there are many other makes and models of saunas that are ideal for outdoor use, these two just have such an amazing look about them and fit into almost any type of outdoor environment.

The Eclipse Garden Sauna has the barrel shape, which automatically draws peopleâ€™s attention. The interior is large and spacious, and you have a choice of exterior finish including wood, copper or metal.

Regarding your garden, you want to think about your garden theme. Are you thinking of going contemporary or ultra-modern? The theme and style of your home has to be taken into account, as the outdoor living space flows from the house to the outside.

At the same time, try to give some thought to the primary purpose of your outdoor sauna. Is this something that you have invested in mostly for your personal use? Is it going to become your “getaway” space? Or, do you do a lot of entertaining and have decided the sauna would be something you could enjoy with your friends?

If the sauna is primarily for personal use, you want to install it in the part of your yard that is going to afford you the most privacy. You probably won’t want it really close to the patio, but depending on the size of your yard, you still want easy access to it, especially during the winter months. If this is where your new sauna is going to be, you want to include it in the overall theme of the rest of your backyard decor.

If you are thinking about using it a lot for entertaining, you may want to build your outdoor living space so it begins right from the time you step out of the exterior house door. This space becomes like an extra room, which can be wonderfully decorated around any type of theme. Adding the outdoor sauna to this space just completes the ambience, and makes the perfect spot for the outdoor sauna.

How a Sauna Can Benefit Your Yoga Practice

Posted on 20 May 2015 - 00:00 by Christina Mantoura

A lot of people have learned to take advantage of all the benefits yoga can offer. Once started, people often realise the great mental and physical benefits of such a practice. Now, people are also realising that a sauna can benefit their yoga practice as well. Some yoga experts suggest some of the following yoga poses be used after a sauna session to amplify the gains.

You a will need to have a basic understanding of yoga in order to be able to follow through with the following exercises. Of course, it’s always best to consult your doctor before trying any new exercises.

Side Lateral Stretch

For this exercise, stand in mountain pose. As you raise your arms overhead, press your feet into the floor. Make sure you keep your shoulders lowered, relaxed, and flexed to the back. Gently stretch upwards right through to your fingertips and then arch over to one side. Be sure to keep your feet firmly on the ground. Hold this position while you take 2 to 5 breaths, depending on your comfort level. Now repeat for the other side. Do not do this exercise if you have any injury or discomfort in your hips, back, or shoulders.

Standing Back Bend

Standing firmly on the floor spread your feet to about hip-width apart, and keep them parallel. Put your hands on your lower back so your fingers are pointing downwards. Now interlock your fingers and let your arms travel down towards your calves. If you feel comfortable, you may choose to reach your arms overhead, or simply keep your hands against yourself for support. Hold for 3 to 5 breaths according to your comfort level.

Seated Spinal Twist

Sit firmly on the floor with your weight balanced evenly and your legs straight in front of you. Bend the right knee and bring the sole of your right foot over so it is flat on the floor resting against the left thigh. At the same time, place your right hand behind your back close to your right hip. With your left arm, reach towards the sky. You will feel your spine stretch. Next, bend your left elbow so it rests on the outside of your right knee. As you do this, gently twist your body to the right. Reverse and repeat.

With proper and regular sauna sessions followed by yoga, you are maximizing your opportunity to feel wonderful, healthy, and relaxed.

How Can an Outdoor Swim Spa Add Value to Your Home?

Posted on 20 May 2015 - 00:00 by Christina Mantoura

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An outdoor swim spa is a fantastic addition to the home for many reasons. One of these is that it can add a great deal of value to your home in case you ever choose to sell.

First, a lot more people are getting into healthy living. They want to get fit and stay that way, and that includes incorporating some type of exercise into their daily regime. The problem is time – not everyone can afford the extra time it takes to visit a gym on a regular basis. Having a swim spa right on their property is a big bonus, and this is one of the reasons swim spas are gaining in popularity. When individuals are now looking to buy a home and it has a swim spa ready and waiting for them, it can add real value to that particular home, and may actually be the decision maker.

Although swim spas are perfect for exercise, they also can serve a dual purpose as a hot tub. It is like a two-in-one unit. There are some who love the idea of being able to have both options. Again, this can entice potential buyers of your home.

It is very important that the agent who is selling your home has the proper perception of the swim spa. Often, when potential home buyers see a spa they may not be familiar with it, and they figure it’s going to cost money and time for its upkeep. The agent really should possess some knowledge about the swim spa’s features and benefits to ensure that they can mention these to potential buyers.

Swim spas need very little maintenance, and once people discover this, it makes them far more receptive to the idea of owning one.

What will really enhance the ability of your swim spa to attract home buyers is the atmosphere in which it sits. If you have taken some extra time to make the area around the unit attractive and inviting, it all of a sudden creates a welcoming outdoor living space. The new family will be attracted to the idea of spending quality time with loved ones in the beautiful atmosphere you’ve created.

It is highly important to ensure that the swim spa is kept in prime condition, even if it is not being used at the time. If it is off-season, then ensure the swim spa is properly covered. If not, even if you are not planning on using it because of your expected move, make sure it is pristine and inviting for newcomers so that they can get a look at the attractive outdoor space they could enjoy.

Taking Advantage of the Swim Spa for Your Fitness Regime

Posted on 13 May 2015 - 00:00 by Christina Mantoura

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At least a few times a year, many people take a shot at trying to get fit. Some will join a weight loss program which may or may not include an exercise regime. Others will go and invest in a substantial amount of exercise equipment. Others have learned the value that a swim spa provides as a versatile piece of equipment, and because of the many benefits that it can afford.

One great aspect of investing in a swim spa is that many people find they are more motivated to stick with their exercise program. This is because of the financial investment that they have made as well as the convenience of having access to it at home. Standard exercise equipment can also be difficult to adjust to, and a lot of people simply don’t enjoy this type of exercise, making it difficult and unlikely to stick with it for the long term.

Swim spas are extremely versatile, making them an attractive investment. It doesn’t matter whether you are totally new to exercise or you’ve been working out for a long time, you can immediately put your swim spa to good use. The swim spa is also an excellent resource for many different age groups. Each age group has the ability to utilize it to suit their needs.

For seniors who are often restricted with so many other forms of exercise, a swim spa can be perfect for them. They can begin with some very minor exercise techniques that can develop over a period of time. This allows them to adjust their intensity, and often prevents a lot of the potential injuries that can come with other forms of exercise.

For young people that are intent on building their athletic skills, the swim spa is a wonderful addition to be included in the overall workout program. Having the convenience of a water unit like this at home can be a big time saver, especially for people that are always on the go. It is also a wonderful resource to help heal muscles and stiffness that may have become overworked through sports, stress, or other exercise.

It won’t take long before you realise the physical and mental benefits that a swim spa provides. This in itself is a great incentive to keep up the good work of becoming physically fit and enjoying better health.

Getting Your Swim Spa Ready for Summer

Posted on 12 May 2015 - 00:00 by Christina Mantoura

After a long, cold winter and as soon as the nice weather arrives, the first thing on many swim spa owners’ minds is getting it ready for the many wonderful warm, sunny days ahead. The preparations will depend on how you prepared it for the winter.

You may find that your swim spa no longer possesses clear water, but is now a pool of greenish water with an accumulation of leaves and branches. If this is the case, simply follow the steps below to get your swim spa clean and inviting for the days ahead.

Your first step is to get all of the large debris out of the water. Make sure that your filtration system is well cleaned and put together properly, clean out all of the filtration baskets, and replace any filters as necessary. When you are cleaning your cartridge filters, make sure to remove the cartridge and flush it well with a hose. For other types of filters, you should follow the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning these properly.

You may have partially drained your swim spa for the winter months, or perhaps a substantial amount of the water has evaporated. What you want to do is bring it up to the proper water level. Also, test the composition of the water to find out what kind of chemical treatment it will require. There are kits that you can buy for this, and you may be able to take a sample of your water to your local pool supplier for a complete test. The key things to know are the water’s mineral content, pH, and chlorine levels. After testing your water, your pool supplier should be able to provide you with the proper chemicals.

There is some work behind both opening and closing a swim spa if you aren’t able to use it year round. You would probably find it most of beneficial to hire in the professionals to do this for you. These experts know exactly what it is going to take to get your swim spa up and running and fully optimized so you can make full use of your spa this summer.

Can You Use a Hot Tub During Pregnancy?

Posted on 6 May 2015 - 00:00 by Christina Mantoura

Many women who have become pregnant for the first time are unsure of what they are allowed to do when it comes to using a hot tub. Even women that have used one prior to their pregnancy are sometimes nervous about whether they should cease from using it during their entire pregnancy.

It’s important to remember that the hot tub can temporarily raise the normal body temperature. This is sometimes referred to as hyperthermia. Most medical experts do not like to see a raise in body temperature above 101Â° F in a woman who is pregnant. There have been some indications that there may be a higher chance of birth defects in babies of women whose body temperature was above normal during the first trimester of their pregnancy.

Many medical professionals suggest that the hot tub should be avoided during the pregnancy mostly because of the concern of the raised temperature. Hot tubs are designed to create a warmer water temperature which will naturally increase the body temperature. In general, it usually takes anywhere between 10 to 20 minutes of being in a hot tub to raise the body temperature to at least 102° F. The whole purpose of the hot tub is to provide benefits through this warm water.

The recommendation not to use the hot tub during pregnancy makes many women wonder what the difference is between a hot tub and a hot bath. The general answer is that in a bath, most of the upper a body is not immersed in the hot water, therefore the body temperature is not likely to rise as high. Plus, the bath water cools off quickly, where the hot tub maintains its temperature.

There are some women that simply do not want to give up the benefits they enjoy from their hot tub. While it is recommended that they do refrain from this, there are some extra steps that can be taken to reduce the potential risk of the increased temperature. Before attempting to use a hot tub while pregnant, it’s important to consult your doctor first.

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