Category Archives: Hot Tub

For some people, a soft tub is the ideal choice for a hot tub. One of the greatest advantages with the soft tub is its portability. While the materials are considered to be soft, they are extremely strong and some of the additional advantages, such as its ability to be able to be installed easily in a limited amount of space.

For those that are on the go, perhaps travelling between their main home and summer home, taking the soft tub with them should pose no problem. Some individuals that have a large balcony have soft tubs installed in because the weight allows them to do so.

Once it decided that the soft tub is the best choice for you, you are going to find that there are some great choices available to you. If you are a couple that is looking for just a high quality smaller version of a hot tub, a small two-seater soft tub is a great solution.

Aside from the size and portability, there are some other great reasons for choosing the soft tub. Most often, they are used in small areas.

Energy efficiency is important with any type of hot tub, including soft tubs. Although, soft tubs are lightweight and soft, you can count on it being weather resistant. It can take both the heat and the cold, as well as the warm sunshine or the rainy weather quite easily. Keeping the soft tub clean is never an issue as it has an automatic cleaning system built into it.

There is never any reason for any individual or family to have to do without the benefits of a hot tub as the soft tub is the perfect alternative.

When one develops a cold, along with it comes several unpleasant symptoms. There is the stuffed up nose, the runny eyes, and sometimes a fever and a cough. In addition to this, it’s not uncommon for people to become dehydrated while they’re fighting off their cold.

Those that have made use of a hot tub when suffering with a cold often find that they generally feel better. This is because the hot tub helps you relax to relieve the aches and pains that can come with a cold. What some researchers are suggesting is that the hot tub can actually even create a slight fever when someone is entering into a cold. They consider this as a good symptom as it helps to fight the cold virus much quicker. This low grade fever produced by a hot tub boosts the immune system, which helps to fight off the germs and viruses that can come with a cold.

Many types of colds and flu’s also come with general aches and pains where some people complain of being sore all over. The hot water from the hot tub helps to increase the blood circulation, which in turn provides nutrients to the muscles and allows them to relax.

One of the most frustrating complaints of a cold is the congestion that comes with it. Many people have difficulty breathing, eating or sleeping properly when they are suffering with a cold. Some find that when they enter the hot tub, the warm steam filled air that it releases helps to loosen up the nasal passage, improving breathing.

There is no doubt that a cold can hinder sleep but the hot tub can promote a more restful night of sleep.

The best way to get the most out of your hot tub in the cold and flu season is to use the hot tub as soon as you feel sick. At the very least, you are going to feel relaxed, warm and soothed, which is going to put you in a better frame of mind to be able to fight the cold that is oncoming.

Hydrotherapy has been provided by hot springs that were found in nature for a very long time. These are not nearly as readily available as they once were, and where they are located often means a great deal of travel to get to them. With the introduction of hot tubs, travel is no longer necessary. Any individual can enjoy the benefits of what hydrotherapy has to offer in the comfort of their own home.

While every hot tub owner has their list of favourites when it comes to the advantages that a hot tub has to offer, one of the major ones is its ability to act as a stress reliever. There’s just something about being able to soak in warm circulating water that seems to remove all the stress that one is feeling both mentally and emotionally. As the blood vessels respond to the heat, it can actually help with relaxation. Muscles that have become tight as a response to stress begin to relax almost immediately after being subjected to the warmth of the water. Most will report that they get immediate pain relief when entering the hot tub after a mere few moments.

There are some very common medical conditions that the hot tub provides exceptional treatment for. These include arthritis, diabetes, and back pain. When it comes to diabetes, there is a study done several years back that indicates that blood sugar levels are reduced in those who suffered from diabetes and utilized a hot tub for 30 minutes a day on a six day per week basis.

One of the most common complaints when it comes to medical ailments is chronic back pain. There have been studies to show that the hot tub is a great resource for helping to reduce the pain that is created with this ailment.

Added to this is that many report that they find that their sleep patterns are much better after making use of their hot tub. They find that they get a more peaceful and deeper sleep as well as a longer one. Finally, there is the quality family time that can be spent in the hot tub and it acts as a great social venue for entertaining.

While hot tubs are very popular in many parts of the world, probably one of the countries that has realized the most growth in hot tubs is the UK. Back a few years ago, it was estimated that one in every ten homes had a hot tub. While it certainly does add value to the home in a sense, it adds much more value to the overall well being of those that enjoy them. Although hot tubs could be found throughout the UK dating back to the 1970’s, it is this influx of popularity that has really caught the attention of many.

Part of the attraction comes from wanting to spend more time outdoors with friends and family. A lot of homeowners spend a great deal of money and time on their gardens and are beginning to discover that an additional way to enjoy this setting is by relaxing in a hot tub.

Others have determined that it is a much more economical form of entertainment. It provides a wonderful venue to entertain guests when they have come for an evening’s visit. Another great aspect about the hot tub is that it fits in with the busy lifestyle. For those that can’t find the time to relax during traditional hours, the hot tub is waiting for them 24/7.

The hot tub can really be used all year around and this is another attraction that draws new buyers to it. Then, of course, there are the many health benefits that can come with it.

For those that are very active or sports minded they find the hot tub is great to relax sore muscles before or after participating in sports. It is perfect that they can do this in the comfort of their home surroundings, which is a real time saver.

Many find that the motion and warm water works wonderfully to reduce general aches and pains that come as a result of daily activities.

While these are the physical benefits that can be enjoyed, there are also the mental benefits. The hot tub can be an excellent resource for relieving stress. Stress can also be the cause of some of the physical aches and pains. It provides a great atmosphere for Mom and Dad to just sit, soak and relax once the kids have been tucked into bed. There is no need to get a babysitter for a night out as the hot tub can provide all the fun and relaxation after a long day.

There is a ton of enjoyment that your hot tub can bring you. To enhance the pleasure that it can bring, you want to be sure that your hot tub lights are fully functional. There are some minor hot tub lighting problems that you could run into but most are easy to fix.

Faulty switch

If your hot tub is an older version, the problem could be with the air switch. Start by checking the switch itself. This lighting system works when a pulse of air is activated by pushing the switch. Check that you are able to move it up and down in a normal fashion. Also, look to see that the air hose is joined at both ends. Try blowing air through it gently to make sure it is passing through okay.

Blown fuse

Another common problem that can occur with your hot tub lighting is that the fuse has blown. This is normally a tube type fuse. Check to see if the glass on the tube has discolored or one of the wires connected to it is broken. If these signs exist, you may need to replace it.

Stuck Relay

Depending on the age and model of your hot tub, it may use a relay system to power the lights. When you push your light button, if you hear a small sound each time, your system probably uses a relay system. Sometimes, the relay can get slightly corroded or stuck. If this is the case, you will probably have to replace it or get a hot tub service representative to test it and change it if necessary.

Transformer Issues

Some hot tubs have a transformer system, which reduces the voltage as per safety requirements. If they have become corroded or the wires are shorting, the lighting system of your hot tub won’t work. You will probably want to rely on a hot tub repair service to correct this problem.

Burnt out Light Bulbs

This is probably the most common problem when it comes to hot tub lights. They do need replacing on occasion. How often will depend on how modern your hot tub is. What can happen is a couple of the LEDs fail and they cause the entire bulb to short out. The best solution is to replace the entire bulb, provided it’s not a speciality light, which could be more expensive to replace.

These are just a few of the common problems that can go wrong with your hot tub lighting. The majority of them are really minor and inexpensive to fix.

Originally, hot tubs had to be heated with the use of a heater that was fueled with gas. Today, you can use electric heating, as well as gas. The gas heaters have come a long way, so there are advantages and disadvantages to using either type of heater.

Gas heaters:

Depending on the type of gas heater you purchase, you can choose between propane or natural gas. If you live in an area where there is no natural gas service, you will be restricted to propane. Out of the two gases, propane is more expensive than natural gas. But, propane has a greater energy output. Setup costs are usually more expensive for gas heaters. The set up for gas heaters needs to be done by a qualified contractor. These types of heaters can also be used for both wooden spas and portable spas and they are installed outside of the heater cabinet. A spark ignition sparks the gas. Although the gas heater version is initially more expensive to set up, it is considered to have a lower operating cost especially if it is natural gas. Propane produces slightly more BTUs.

Another advantage of gas heaters is that it is faster at heating up the water compared to electric. This means when you are not using the hot tub, you can keep it at a lower temperature because it won’t take long to bring it up to the needed temperature when you are ready to use it. Esthetically, the gas heaters are not the better choice as they can’t be tucked away. They need to be in the open air where they can be exhausted properly.

Electric Heaters:

There are several different makes and models with most being comprised of a heating element inside a steel tube. The advantage of using this type of heater is its lower operating cost. This is provided your hot tub is well insulated and you make good use of a hot tub cover. It is also going to depend on the costs of electricity in your area. Installing the electrical heating is less expensive and easier for the hot tub owners. If repairs are needed, the electrical heaters are easier to repair and are usually less expensive compared to gas. The negative aspect of the electric heaters is that they take longer to heat the water.

It is all going to come down to the make and model that you choose for your hot tub and what heater it uses. You will need to determine the pros and cons of the heaters in comparison to all of the other benefits and features the hot tub you are considering offers.

When you buy your hot tub, you are going to find that it includes everything you need to have a wonderful hot tub experience. There are also a lot accessories that you can get for it to enhance your experience. Some are geared towards safety while others focus on entertainment.

Handles and Stair Rails

For added safety you want think about handles and stair rails. These are items that come in a variety of styles. Some are mounted to the side of the hot tubs while others are anchored to the ground near the stairs. Some of the models swing in and out creating extra security for getting in as well as out of the tub. There are some that have a light attached to them, which is perfect for those that love to use their hot tub at night.

Having a set of stairs to help you enter and exit your hot tub is another extra safety feature. If you are purchasing stairs, there are few things that they should include. You want them to be easy to assemble – some simply snap together. Focus on the height that you need for your particular hot tub. They should have a good weight to them, so they stay in place, yet not too heavy, so you have a problem moving them. Lastly, they should be non-slip.

Cleaning Accessories

One cleaning accessory that you may want to have available is a surface cleaning glove. This is a rubber glove that has a pad in the palm of it to help you scrub the exterior of your hot tub. For some quick and easy cleaning, there are some great vacuums on the market that are designed specifically for hot tubs. Also keep in mind that a great deal of cleaning can be eliminated with the use of a good quality hot tub cover.

Entertainment

Most people find that they are quite happy with all the entertainment that the hot tub has to offer, as well as the relaxation it provides. Some like to listen to music and others who enjoy their hot tub at night want some lighting. There are many different items that fall into the accessory category that meet these needs. There are even waterproof playing cards that can be used while relaxing in the hot tub.

When it comes to chemicals, they are really not classed as optional accessories but are must haves. Your hot tub provider will inform you as to what your hot tub requires. Also, your hot tub manual should outline the care, maintenance, and what chemicals are needed to keep your hot tub in prime condition.

For most people, the idea of having a beautiful spa or hot tub to relax in and enjoy is one that may not consider the care that should be performed to keep that spa or hot tub in good and safe working order.

The first step in the care of your hot tub or spa is done before you have the water is even added. You want to make absolutely certain that the spot you have chosen for your spa is the best place to have it installed in the first place. You have to take into account exactly where the water and electrical intakes are going to be placed as you may require a new deck, gazebo or some other structure to house the tub or spa.

You need to consider the seasons in your area as well, most people will want to enjoy their spa for all the seasons and the people who own one in an area that gets snow will tell you how wonderful it is to sit in a soothing hot tub, while the snow gently falls on a winter evening. However, running across the entire yard to go inside after soaking is the unpleasant part if you have chosen a location too far away from the house.

All of this initial planning is done in part by the company you have chosen to purchase your tub or spa from, so be sure to choose a company that is qualified and professional. After you have made all of the important choices, you want to consider the maintenance and upkeep that will keep your spa or tub in top working order. A knowledgeable spa company will present you with all the information you require to keep everything in top shape and will even provide you with a schedule of exactly what you require.

Be sure to follow all the information that has been given to you by the spa and hot tub company as this will allow you the full enjoyment of the hot tub or spa for many years to come.

Most of us absolutely love sitting in a hot tub to relax and feel the warm water and jets sooth our tired aches and pains. For many, the therapy they receive is more than just a pleasant distraction and actually provides real and important health benefits.

For people who have persistent problems with their backs from herniated discs to other degenerative back problems, the act of sitting in the hot tub is a way to improve mobility by allowing the soothingly warm water and therapeutic jets to loosen muscles and reduce inflammation, allowing them to do things they normally would be unable to do. There are many other conditions that are dramatically affected positively by the regular use of a hot tub.

A very common ailment in today’s fast paced and extremely busy age and one that is much more prevalent in this generation is the condition of insomnia. Many people today are forced to turn to sleeping aids to help them get the sleep they need to function at work and at home. Hot tubs have been proven to help with insomnia by releasing certain chemicals in the brain that are associated with restfulness and relaxation.

By making it a daily requirement of spending a short time in the hot tub prior to going to bed, you can obtain sleep faster and feel more rested overall, thereby increasing your productivity and overall feelings of wellbeing. For some of those that suffer from arthritis, the hot tub is considered an essential component of daily living. The therapeutic benefits of soaking in the spa for a period of time increases mobility, assists with flare ups and even the onset of symptoms. For these people the benefits cannot be overstated and the massive increase in quality of life is a fantastic benefit of owning or having access to a hot tub or spa.

There is also some evidence that diabetes sufferers obtain benefits from using a spa as well. The increase in circulation derived from time in the warm water is an excellent form of relief from the more complicated symptoms of this dreaded but manageable disease.

Another common ailment that is on the rise is stress and stress related illnesses. By spending some time on a daily basis in the water of your hot tub, you can significantly reduce the effects of stress on the body and the mind.The endorphins and chemicals released when using these devices can seriously minimize your stress, leaving you feeling more healthy and invigorated than ever before. Do your homework and find the right hot tub for you and you will reap the benefits from day one.