Maintenance
3 Things You Can Do to Keep Your Hot Tub Safe
One of the top priorities for anyone with a hot tub in their backyard is safety. Are you taking the proper precautions to ensure your family and friends are safe in and around your hot tub? Here are 3 important things you need to know to be sure you are.
Install a Safety System
Installing a hot tub safety system is one of the strongest lines of defense you can take to protect children and animals from falling into your hot tub while unattended. A few of these systems include gates and covers.
Gates
If you decide a hot tub enclosure is the best option for your family, consider one much like the fences and gates installed to keep children away from pools. Choose a fence no shorter than four feet tall and with proper spacing between slats to ensure no one can slip between the openings and gain access to the hot tub area.
Covers and Alarms
Hot tub covers are recommended to protect your hot tub from the elements and keep it clean, but serve a dual purpose of keeping small children and pets out also. Choose a cover that securely locks into place to prevent the cover from being moved when latched. Alarms are also available that trigger when surface waves, immersion, or subsurface movements are detected.
Maintain Safe Water Temperatures
A hot tub is only enjoyable when the water temperature is kept at a comfortable level. Anything higher than 104 degrees F is considered dangerous for adults, and anything above 98 degrees F is unsafe for children. Even though most hot tubs are unable to maintain a temperature above 104 degrees F, it’s wise to always check the thermometer before entering the water.
While pregnant women should probably avoid soaking in the hot tub altogether, it’s recommended that they spend no more than 10 minutes in the water if they do go in, and that the water temperature should be no higher than 102 degrees F.
When to Avoid the Hot Tub
Children under the age of 5 shouldn’t enter a hot tub, and kids under 10 should be limited in the amount of time they spend soaking in the hot water. In general, it’s wise to make sure children take frequent breaks from the hot tub water and rehydrate to avoid overheating and becoming dehydrated.
People with some medical conditions or taking certain medications should also avoid the hot tub. If you have circulatory problems, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or are on medications that make you sleepy, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor prior to taking a soak in the hot tub.
Take the Proper Precautions
Prior to purchasing your hot tub, consider the safety precautions you’d like to take, and purchase the necessary hot tub accessories to keep your family and friends safe.
Chemicals, Health, Maintenance
Quick & Easy Steps to a Clean Hot Tub
Sitting in your hot tub is a great way to unwind, relax, and enjoy being outside all year long. It’s well known that hydrotherapy can ease muscle pain, improve circulation (which helps to reduce joint pain), lowers stress, and can aid in a better night’s sleep.
With all these amazing benefits, you may wonder about the catch. Well, there doesn’t have to be a catch! As long as your water, equipment, and filters are cleaned and maintained regularly, your hot tub will always be ready for you to take a dip.
Cleaning and maintaining your hot tub is simple and doesn’t require much time. Just follow this timeline and you’ll be able to use your hot tub through all four seasons for many years to come.
Every 3-5 Days
With regular water maintenance, your chemical levels will remain in the proper ranges and you’ll never have issues with dirty or unsanitary water conditions.
- Check your water with a test kit to determine if it is soft or hard water and to check for high levels of alkalinity, pH, chloramines, or metals and minerals.
- Using a spa pre-filter, fill your hot tub.
- Make small chemical adjustments to reach the proper ranges.
- Add a large dose of sanitizer once a week to “shock” the water.
- Use a skimmer net to remove any floating debris.
- Keep a log with test results and notes on adjustment.
To extend the life of your spa cover:
- Remove the cover for a few hours weekly so it can breathe.
- Rinse it off with a garden hose.
- Dry with a clean cloth.
Every 1-2 Months
Add water to your spa as needed to keep it full. The water level should be in the middle of the skimmer intake or slightly higher.
Cleaning your spa filter on a regular basis is required to lengthen the life of your hot tub.
- Use a high-pressure garden hose to spray the fabric filtration material clean, working from top to bottom.
- If your cartridge has collected body lotions or oils, soak it in warm water with a filter cleaner.
Spa cover maintenance:
- Hose off and then clean it using a spa cover cleaner to remove oil, dirt, tree sap, and pollen.
- Apply a vinyl conditioner to the outside of your cover to keep it soft, strong, and looking new.
Every 2-4 Months
A full draining and cleaning of your hot tub needs to take place to keep bacteria in check.
- Drain the hot tub completely.
- Vacuum the bottom of the spa.
- Clean the inside shell completely using a spa cleaner. DO NOT use household cleaners or soaps.
- Refill your spa at the filters.
- Follow your manufacturer’s instructions for sanitizing new water.
Every 1-2 Years
- Replace the spa filter once a year or more often if it is cracked, frayed, or still looks dirty after cleaning.
If you ever have questions about the cleaning or maintaining of your hot tub, check your owner’s manual or give us a call today. We are here to answer your questions and ensure your hot tub is providing you with the best hydrotherapy experience.
Hot Tub Shopping, Maintenance, Ownership, Reviews
Shopping for and Buying your Hot Tub
Shopping for a hot tub can be overwhelming. You have made the decision, and possibly your creaking neck and stress levels remind you multiple times daily that it’s time for hydrotherapy. We have shopped the hot tub market in Oklahoma City, and in fact, prior to opening the authorized dealership of Bullfrog Spas almost bought a different brand (AHHHHH gasp! Say it isn’t so!?!?- guess what, it is!)
There are a few things people voice concerns about, and we want to discuss those in this blog.
Electrical requirements
Get a licensed electrician to come and give you a no-cost estimate. You may have premature sticker shock and fear something that truly is not near the cost you envision.
It is also recommended for the sake of your family’s safety, and we consider furry members as family members, too, that you have your electrical wiring checked. Winter storms, ages of homes, changes in your neighborhood are among things that can all have an effect on your electricity.
Getting the environment ready
There are economical ways to use pavers, decking materials and incorporate a beautiful hot tub into the space that fits best for your family. If budgeting calls for creating something that is not your dream keep this in mind- once you are in your Bullfrog Spa truly enjoying me time, or connecting with loved ones, and experiencing a more happy, healthy life you will not notice what sits under the tub. After all, our goal is to keep you safe and have your hot tub in a stable location. Here are some tips for preparation as well as a link to some of our Pinterest ideas. There are also images of all models of our spas online, installed, in various environments.
Research
Do your research! Read online reviews, talk to friends and family and visit with your sales person. It’s okay to ask questions-we believe the most stupid question is the one left unasked. Consider the time you were buying an auto or your first home. A Bullfrog Spa will be with you many years, and even if you plan to move locations this hot tub will most likely go with you. Warranty information and truly trusting your sales person and the company is vital. Our team will educate you and review all of these prior to any sale.
Usage
Considering how many people and truly what you will need your hot tub to do for you are the best starting points in selecting the proper hot tub. It’s important to see how the hot tub fits, and we encourage you and any primary users to come into our showroom with your socks for the shopping experience (unless, of course, it’s a surprise). Seeing how your/their body fits and checking lounger lengths are great gauges to choose the right size. If you prefer more seats or a lounger in your Bullfrog Spa this exercise will steer you into the perfect hot tub fit.
Finances
Owning a hot tub and maintaining it is feasible and economical. We will consult with you on chemicals, how to maintain and treat your hot tub and the water, review cycles and listen to your needs and wants. This customer care will continue after we deliver and install your spa. We do offer financing and have periodic promotions which offset the costs of the tub and sometimes include accessories. Tax returns, bonus or commission checks, selling a luxury item you currently own that you/your family use(s) infrequently are all ways to find money for your Bullfrog Spa.
Our goal at Bullfrog Spas of Oklahoma City is to find you the best fit-financially and personally. We listen, recognize the importance of this investment, and we will maintain the level of service you receive when you shop with us. Our expertise and care for your enjoyment of your hot tub will last as long as you do. The corporate support and warranty programs on our hot tubs are impeccable.
So what are you waiting for?!? Let’s get your spa design configured and discuss getting you into your own backyard retreat- happy, healthy, irreplaceable moments await you!
Maintenance, Ownership
Spa Safety
Hot Tubs are fun, therapeutic and provide lots of benefits in all facets of life. While your private retreat or much needed time to connect with loved ones is priceless, there are some safety tips we recommend following for you and your family to safely enjoy your spa.
Proper Ventilation Indoor spas should be ventilated naturally or mechanically (i.e., an exhaust fan). If you begin to experience a sore throat or sensitivity improve the ventilation of your area (open windows, install exhaust fan, etc.)
Temperature — Keep your spa water less than 104°F.
Medical Conditions — Consult your physician before using a spa. Persons with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions need to take extra measures for their hot tub therapy.
Shower First — To reduce the likelihood of contaminating spa water and to minimize health risks, always shower with soap and water prior to use.
Infection Spreading – Anyone with open sores or any type of infection should not use the spa. Hot water spreads infection, especially if sanitizer levels are not properly maintained.
Child Safety — Children should not be permitted to use the spa without adult supervision.
Pregnancy — Please consult your physician before using a spa.
Long Hair – It is suggested to tie long hair back to keep it away from the filter intake and drain. Here are some hair style ideas.
Electrical Appliances — Avoid electrical devices while using a spa.
Severe Weather – Keep apprised of severe weather conditions and avoid spa usage during electrical storms, tornadoes, etc. You can keep tabs of updates and weather conditions or download an app of a local news channel.
If you need more information on your hot tub and safety conditions you may call us at (405)605-5330.
Chemicals, Maintenance
SilkBalance 101
Bullfrog Spas of Oklahoma City is the Authorized
SilkBalance Dealer for the State of Oklahoma.
#1 What is SilkBalance?
It is laboratory-formulated and is a blend of buffering and sequestering agents to balance spa water. In addition, SilkBalance’s other additives act to preserve water in a fresh state and protect the hot tub’s components like heaters and pumps.
#2 How does SilkBalance work??
SilkBalance eliminates bacteria’s food sources from the water, preventing its ability live and multiply. By reducing the surface tension of the water SilkBalance creates a very difficult environment for bacteria to form the protective slime around themselves called Biofilm. (Biofilm protects a bacterial colony so it can grow). When you use SilkBalance you will notice little or no bacterial content in the water.
#3 Will SilkBalance sanitize the water in my hot tub?
No, however it does contain additives which act as passive biostat agents. These additives keep the product resh and safe for use.
#4 Do I still need to use a sanitizer in my hot tub?
Yes, after bathing the body wastes left in the water, i.e., sweat, skin, hair, body lotions, dust, etc. act as food for bacteria. SilkBalance does not eliminate these. If you do not have ozone purification we recommend the use of a weekly dose of chlorine granules as a safety measure.
#5 What are the benefits of SilkBalance?
It eliminates on average 15 minutes weekly you would usually spend measuring, adding and testing various products. This totals to 13 hours over a year. The peace of mind from knowing your hot tub water is always perfectly balanced is enormous. It eliminates you having to buy and think about all of the products, and it is extremely simple to use.
Another major benefit is it ends bad or chemical odors in the water or that are left on the skin. By not requiring the high maintenance of a chlorine level in the water, the good bacteria on the skin is not affected and there is no dry, itchy feeling after leaving the spa. SilkBalance is proven safe for those who suffer from psoriasis. This benefit alone has enabled thousands of hot tub owners to use their spas again.
#6 Is SilkBalance safe?
SilkBalance meets all U.S. standards for safety and reliability. This product has been tested by dermatologists for skin safety as well. It’s safe for the environment, because it’s made of natural ingredients. The water is even safe for pets to drink AND for watering your flower beds.
#7 Is SilkBalance expensive to use?
It costs less than the time and frustration you would ordinarily face in hot tub chemical systems. You or a loved one can now use your hot tub because of skin irritation.
If you want seek the best water experience with no after effects like dry skin or chemical smells this product will serve you well. If you like the convenience and want an all natural and safe product for your body to bathe in look no more.
#8 Don’t just take our word for it. SilkBalance stands behind its product.
If the product doesn’t work to keep your water clean, clear and smelling good, if you don’t appreciate time saving and lack of frustration, and, if your skin doesn’t feel soft and smooth without itching or flaking after using your hot tub, return it for a FULL REFUND.
What have you got to lose?
Stop soaking in several chemicals. Make the switch to SilkBalance today!
Efficiency, Engineering, JetPak Therapy, Maintenance
Hot Tubs- Misconceptions and Reality
I hear the stigmas and underlying tones of bad tastes in mouths from “the old days” of hot tubs and the difficulty with spa maintenance. The game has changed-drastically. What once was testing chemicals, draining and refilling, having a nasty film around the top edge of the water, and working at enjoying the spa more than the actual time enjoying a hot tub experience can now be part of the past. This week’s Hot Tub Blog features correcting the misconceptions associated with hot tub ownership while presenting a new reality.
I’ve heard it’s a lot of time to maintain a hot tub. MISCONCEPTION
Reality: The right pH balance, alkalinity and the consistent maintenance of optimal water results in a perfect setting that truly requires minimal work. Here at Bullfrog Spas of OKC when you purchase a Bullfrog spa, or if you consult with us about your existing hot tub we will coach you on finding this balance. Your water’s condition, hard or soft, source as a well or city water, frequency of usage are some of the factors that can impact your chemical treatment and maintenance system.
Hot tubs leak and breakdown-lots! MISCONCEPTION
Reality: Bullfrog Spas are truly engineered perfectly. With up to 90% less plumbing and a pipeless water-air mainfold, a Bullfrog Spa truly creates the best balance for functionality, therapy, and to operate in a quality-oriented, efficient system. Our patented system and structure attests to being a spa engineered like no other. The JetPak Therapy System has a simplified water connection bulkhead, fewer connection points and reduced line friction-efficiency. Efficient water delivery means there is no confusing, problem-causing diverter valves.
Hot Tubs need staining and often deteriorate over time. MISCONCEPTION
Reality: A Bullfrog Spa has Enduraframe, which is 100% wood-free construction. There is a Lifetime Warranty on EnduraFrame. It won’t rot, deteriorate, twist or warp. This is a reliable and solid ABS spa base, which is engineered for harsh outdoor conditions. Another great thing is this foundation is rodent resistant.
It’s time to enjoy a worry-free spirit about maintaining your hot tub and truly focus on your fun, health and wellness! Bullfrog Spas…..Engineering Perfected. A test soak or consultation is a phone call away: 405-605-5330.