As a pool owner, discovering a leak can be frustrating, especially when it’s unclear how to fix it. When left untreated, pool leaks can lead to considerable water loss, pool equipment damage, and even foundation erosion. That’s why it’s essential to get to the root of the problem and fix it promptly. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to identify the cause of a pool leak and how to fix it safely and efficiently.
Signs of a Pool Leak
Before we dive into the repair process, it’s essential to recognize signs of a potential leak. Several telltale signs can indicate that you have a pool leak, including:
– A sudden decrease in water level
– Your water bill is unusually high
– Standing water around your pool
– Cracks in your pool’s foundation
– Wet soil and water puddles around your pool
Once you’ve identified any of these symptoms, it’s critical to locate and address the source of the problem to prevent damage from worsening.
Locate the Leak
The first step in fixing a pool leak is locating it. Often with a pool leak, water loss might not tell you the exact pinpointed location of the leak. Therefore, you have to carry out a process of elimination. The area around and near the pool is typically the location of the leak. The most common areas include ladders, plumbing, light fixtures, pool equipment, and the pool surface itself. Periodic examiners can help in quickly identifying and fixing any leaks.
Pool Leak Detection
One way to identify the exact location of the leak is to complete a pool leak detection test. It’s best to leave this to professional pool technicians as it goes beyond just placing food coloring in the water. A full diagnostic test will identify if a leak is in your pool tile, pool skimmer, shell, or other areas. Once identified, it is best to fix the problem immediately.
Repair Options
Knowing the cause of your pool leak allows you to decide how to repair it. Here are some of the most common pool leak repair options available today:
Plumbing Issues: Poorly designed or installed plumbing can cause water leaks, and in some cases, the only solution is to replace the plumbing altogether. However, this is not an easy fix. It is better to work with professional pool repair technicians like Ajax Pool & Spa to ensure your plumbing maintenance is done correctly to prevent this problem.
Pool Shell Cracks: A specialized repair process is required if the leak is due to a crack or a hole in your pool shell. A popular process to fix this is called Marcite, a layer of troweled-on cement that acts as a waterproofing agent.
Pool Liner Tear: Tear in a vinyl liner usually requires a replacement patch on the clean surface area near the rip.
Pool Pump Seal: A pool pump seal leak can occur due to faulty seal installation or the O-ring becoming worn. Replacing this seal is typically inexpensive if it’s done at the same time as regular maintenance.
Sealant: YouTube videos and DIY instructions suggest using a sealant for your pool leak. Sealing small cracks with sealant can work but often masks a bigger problem. Sealing more significant issues with sealant is only a temporary solution, rendering it a non-long-lasting repair option.
Reach Out to the Pool Experts
If you’ve detected a pool leak and are unsure what to do next, Ajax Pool & Spa is always here to help. Our team of pool repair experts is available to help diagnose and fix any pool leaks you may encounter. We provide high-quality pool repair services, ensuring that your pool remains pristine and functional for years to come. Don’t let a leak ruin your summer. Call Ajax Pool & Spa today!
When building a swimming pool in your backyard, you’re not just creating a place where you can relax and unwind with your family and friends. You’re also investing in an asset that requires regular pool maintenance to ensure it remains in excellent condition. Pool service is an essential aspect of owning an inground or above-ground pool, providing several benefits that enhance your swimming pool experience and prolong the lifespan of your pool. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of regular pool maintenance for your pool, your wallet, and your enjoyment.
Cleaner Pool Water
One of the main benefits of pool service is keeping the water in your pool clean and clear throughout the year. Regular pool maintenance, like skimming debris from the water’s surface, vacuuming dirt and leaves from the bottom of the pool, and cleaning the pool filter, will help keep your pool water crystal clear. A well-maintained pool is free of contaminants that could make swimmers sick or cause an imbalance in the pool’s chemistry.
Moreover, regular pool service regulates the chemistry of your pool water. For instance, the pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels must be maintained regularly. If these chemicals are unbalanced, your pool water can turn green, cloudy, or worse, provide a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Pool maintenance experts understand the proper amounts of chemicals needed for your pool type and size, so leave this essential aspect of pool maintenance to the professionals.
Prolong Pool Lifespan
Regular pool maintenance does more than keep the water clean and healthy. It also helps prolong the lifespan of your swimming pool. Your pool’s filter, pumps, and heating system can all experience damage or wear and tear if improperly maintained or not serviced regularly. These issues can lead to expensive repairs or replacements. Routine maintenance can detect issues early on and help alleviate total replacement costs. In addition, pool service professionals can provide useful insight into keeping your pool lasting longer and avoiding breakdowns.
Save Money
If you neglect pool maintenance, you could expose yourself to many costly scenarios. A dirty pool or unbalanced chemicals can cause your pool to require expensive cleaning and general maintenance costs. This only gets worse if your pool experiences damage or issues due to poor maintenance. Moreover, paying for pool cleaning supplies and equipment can add up over time. Proper maintenance can prevent these costs from adding up and save you money in the long run.
Prevent Serious Issues
A well-maintained pool can anticipate more severe issues, such as leaks and cracks, before they occur. Small cracks in the foundation of a pool, for example, might go unnoticed until it becomes a more significant issue. Pool contractors understand what to look for in these instances, and many will include it in your regular maintenance agreement. If you have a pool service team checking your pool frequently, they can catch minor flaws before they lead to considerable damage.
Peace of Mind
A well-maintained pool is an asset that adds value to your home and provides endless summer fun. More than that, a beautiful pool that is easy to maintain can provide peace of mind. With a regular pool service plan, your pool remains in top condition throughout the year. It’s one less thing to worry about when you have family and friends visiting.
Consult the Experts
Getting the right pool service team can significantly reduce the stress of pool maintenance. At Ajax Pool & Spa, we have the expertise and experience to keep your pool in top condition all year. As one of the leading pool service providers, we provide professional, high-quality pool maintenance and repair services to homeowners throughout Southern California.
Our team at Ajax Pool & Spa will provide the best service possible to provide you with that assurance. It’s time to invest in your pool’s lifesaver, and we are here to provide you with the expertise you require. Give us a call today to get started on your journey toward pristine pool service!
Hot tubs have grown in popularity, providing a luxurious and relaxing experience in the comfort of your backyard. While hot tubs offer many benefits, one must consider the potential drawbacks and cons of owning one. From high installation and maintenance costs to health and safety risks, making an informed decision before investing in a hot tub is essential. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), hundreds die yearly from hot tub-related accidents. Therefore, it’s vital to ensure that you are safe and free of defects before using it.
This article will explore the cons of owning a hot tub, ensuring you make an informed decision.
High Initial Installation and Maintenance Costs
Hot tub installation costs and maintenance are significant cons of owning a hot tub. The expenses associated with the installation can be considerable, depending on the size and complexity of the unit. Factors such as plumbing, electrical work, and structural modifications to accommodate the hot tub can contribute to the installation costs.
Luxury or customized hot tubs may incur even higher expenses. It’s crucial to consider your budget and financial readiness carefully before committing. Additionally, ongoing maintenance costs should be taken into account. Hot tubs require regular maintenance, including water testing, adding chemicals, and cleaning filters, which can incur additional expenses. Understanding and planning for these costs are essential to ensure that owning a hot tub aligns with your financial capabilities.
Ongoing Maintenance and Operational Costs
Apart from the initial installation expenses, hot tub owners must consider long-term maintenance and operational costs. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the hot tub clean, safe, and fully functional. This includes water treatment, cleaning filters, balancing chemicals, repair, and periodic inspections. These tasks require time, effort, and sometimes professional assistance, adding to the overall cost of ownership, thus causing setbacks for homeowners wishing to own hot tubs.
Energy Consumption
Energy consumption is a significant consideration when owning a hot tub. Hot tubs require energy to heat the water, operate the jets and pumps, and maintain proper filtration and circulation. Factors such as heating the water to the desired temperature, using jets and pumps, and the circulation for filtration all contribute to the overall energy consumption.
It requires a significant amount of electricity to operate. This continuous energy usage can result in higher utility bills, particularly if you use the hot tub frequently or during colder months. Understanding the potential energy costs is crucial for budgeting and making informed decisions to reduce environmental impact while still enjoying the benefits of a hot tub.
Increased Water Usage
Hot tubs require significant amounts of water, which can be a concern in areas with water scarcity or high water bills. Filling, draining, and refilling can result in a substantial increase in water consumption. While hot tubs can be equipped with water-saving features, such as covers and efficient filtration systems, it’s important to consider the impact on water resources and costs before deciding.
Limited Usage and Seasonal Considerations
Another con to consider is the limited usage of hot tubs, particularly for second homeowners and residents. Hot tubs are typically used more frequently during colder months or in climates that support year-round outdoor activities.
If you live in an area with warm weather or if your second home is in a location where you only visit occasionally, the utilization of it may be limited. In such cases, the investment may not provide the expected return regarding usage and enjoyment. It’s simply a waste of time, space, and finance by the owner.
Potential Health and Safety Risks
Owning a hot tub comes with potential health and safety risks that should be noticed. Some possible health and safety risks that should be taken into consideration when owning a hot tub include:
Skin irritation: Hot tubs require regular maintenance to ensure the water is safe. If the water is not treated correctly, it can cause skin irritation or rashes.
Infection risk: Bacteria can thrive in hot and moist environments. If the hot tub is not cleaned correctly, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to infections.
Dehydration: The high temperature can cause dehydration, especially if you stay in the water for too long. Keep hydrated by taking enough water before and after using the hot tub.
Overheating: Too much time can cause overheating, leading to dizziness, nausea, and even fainting. Limiting your time to avoid these symptoms is essential.
Electrical hazards: Hot tubs require electrical wiring, which can be dangerous if improperly installed. It is crucial to have a licensed electrician in installation to avoid any electrical hazards.
Slip and fall accidents: Hot tubs can be slippery, primarily if the water is not maintained correctly. This can increase the risk of slip and fall accidents, which can cause serious injuries. In 2015 alone, the CPSC reported 6,412 hot tub slips and falls, resulting in injury.
While it offers numerous benefits, it’s crucial to consider the cons before purchasing. High installation and maintenance costs, ongoing operational expenses, energy consumption, and limited usage are important factors.
Work With Experts to maintain Your Hot Tub
To ensure a safe and enjoyable hot tub experience, choosing a reputable and experienced provider like Ajax Pool & Spa is crucial. Our knowledgeable team will guide you through the process, offering competitive pricing options and high-quality products without many problems. Even better, our experts are available for repairs and maintenance to keep your tub running for a long time. Give us a callat 970-279-5253 or send a text message at 239- 225-8626. You can also complete our online form to schedule a consultation with one of our agents. Take the necessary steps to make your hot tub ownership a genuinely delightful experience.
Soaking in a hot tub has many health benefits, but the American Red Cross warns that there is a higher risk of nausea, dizziness, and fainting if you spend more than 15 minutes in a hot tub. This is because it takes a while for your body to acclimate to the heat generated by a hot tub, as you can absorb a lot of heat during that time.
When you soak in a hot tub for longer than 15 minutes, you risk dehydration, exhaustion, electrolyte imbalances, and even distress to your cardiovascular system.
What Affects How Long You Can Soak in the Hot Tub?
There’s no strict rule on how long you can spend in the hot tub, but there are guidelines that include knowing factors that may increase your risk of harm. Let’s look at some of these factors outlined below.
The Temperature of the Hot Tub
The hot tub’s temperature can have the most influence on how long you can safely soak. Sitting in 98-degree water probably won’t bother you since that’s about the same as your average body temperature. However, the difference will be felt if you raise the temperature by two to four degrees.
It’s common knowledge that sweat is the body’s natural way of cooling down. However, perspiration becomes increasingly difficult and requires more water intake as external temperatures hit triple digits.
When this happens, the body’s internal temperature rises because the heat is trapped inside and cannot escape. Avoid this by always having a bottle of water nearby when you soak. Dehydration follows shortly after.
Overall Health
Another determinant of how long you can sit in the hot tub is your current physical fitness and overall health.
For instance, pregnant women shouldn’t soak in hot tubs longer than 10 minutes and should avoid those hotter than 102 degrees. Those with high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, or circulatory difficulties should consult their doctors before using a hot tub.
Anyone on prescription medicine, especially sleep aids or blood thinners, must check with their doctor before getting in a hot tub.
Your Age
You can safely soak in water heated to 102 degrees for however long, provided you are healthy and not pregnant, as long as you are comfortable.
Children under 12 should only soak for a maximum of five minutes at 104 degrees. Longer soaks of up to 15 minutes are acceptable when the water temperature is between 98 to 104 degrees. However, these rules do not apply to healthy kids.
One effective safety measure to prevent children from getting their entire bodies wet in the hot tub is by having them use elevated “jump seats” to keep most of their upper bodies out of the water.
Sitting Level
Hot tub seatsare positioned at different heights so that you can move around and cool other body parts. Sitting at the lowest level for at least 15 minutes causes your body temperature to rise far quicker than if you went to a seat where your upper body was out of the water. You can extend the hot tub time limit by moving around and switching to different seat depths.
Dangers of a Prolonged Soak
Observing your physical responses is the most reliable way to know when you’ve spent too much time in the hot tub. Look out for these potential warning signs:
Lightheadedness or Dizziness
A feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness during a bath could indicate that your body temperature is higher than you think. Take a few minutes to cool off outside.
Overheating
Most people don’t realize they’re overheating until it’s too late and they’re physically ill. Knowing the warning signs can help you avoid letting your body get to that stage. The following are some warning signs of overheating:
Tingling skin sensation
Headache
Weakness or fatigue
A higher or lower heart rate
Dizziness
Sweating heavily or not at all
If you experience these symptoms, get out of the water and into a cool, dry place. Stay hydrated and aware of your physical state. Call emergency services if your condition worsens.
Vomiting and Nausea
Extreme heat can trigger nausea and vomiting. Nausea is another indicator that you should get out of the tub and drink lots of cool fluids, even if you don’t think the symptoms are related to heatstroke.
Skin Burns
While redness and burning may indicate that you have sensitive skin, they are also warning signs that it’s time to leave the hot tub. Even if it’s just a heat rash, it indicates your body is overheating and needs cooling.
Blood Pressure Drops
If you don’t have a blood pressure monitor with you, it can be hard to tell if your blood pressure is dropping. If your blood pressure drops too low, though, your body begins to send out warning signals. Most of the signs are identical to those of overheating:
Dizziness
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Having trouble focusing
Nausea
Fainting
In severe cases of hypotension, the patient may experience confusion, quick and shallow breathing, and a rapid or weak pulse. Leave the hot tub right away if you feel like your blood pressure is dropping.
What Is the Recommended Soak Time?
This information helps to decide what to do in most “if-then” scenarios. For instance, what if you’re perfectly healthy and can soak for 30 minutes without any effects? Can you stay in the tub as long as you like? Basically, yes. However, it is wise to take precautions and establish rules for yourself.
We don’t want to ruin your good time, but we advise you to take a break from your hot tub every 15 to 30 minutes. These are only some general suggestions, and they may change depending on the weather, your current state of health, among other variables.
You should soak for as long as you feel you need to relax. You’re alright if you feel fine. If, however, you start to experience symptoms such as lightheadedness, nausea, or any other change in state that is not normal, you should get out of the tub and drink some water.
Reach Us
As you consider the appropriate hot tub temperature, know that Ajax Pool and Spa products are the best way to take care of your hot tub and ensure a serene body, mind, and environment. Browse our high-quality hot tubs, accessories, genuine replacement parts, user-friendly hot tub water maintenance chemicals, and more!
Please call us at 970-279-5253 or text us at 239-225-8626 to share your details and preferences. We’ll prepare a price quote and model recommendations for you!
It would be best to keep up with the chemical treatments to enjoy the occasional soak while relaxing and unwinding in your hot tub. Some pool and spa companies add a mineral filtration system to the hot tub installation cost. However, you’ll still need to keep up with the regular hot but maintenance and add the necessary chemical products to your tub.
Experts recommend regularly treating your tub with chemicals and checking on the water at least twice a week. How often you maintain your tub depends on several factors. Such as:
Your hot tub usage
The local water supply
Your maintenance schedule
Hot Tub Chemicals and How to Use Them
Unlike a bathtub where you fill it with water, use it, and drain it, hot tub water can stay undrained for weeks or even longer. Stagnant water acts as an incubator for multiple microorganisms, and you will get infected if you soak in such water. To avoid all that, it is best that you keep up with the chemicals.
The first step is to test your water before adding any chemicals. With the results, you’ll know what chemical you need to add and the amount. Keep test strips or a liquid test kit around for accurate results.
How frequently you’ll need to put chemicals in your spa depends on how often you use it. Refilling your tub every 3-6 months would be best. However, having a good hot tub cover can stretch the water for 5-8 months. Watch out for signs of discomfort like itchy eyes, rashes, and skin irritations, which indicate poor tub chemical upkeep, and it’s time for a refill.
Below is a list of hot tub chemicals and their application:
Sanitizer
Sanitizer is an essential chemical as it helps sterilize the tub. There are several types of sanitizers available on the market. They are:
Chlorine sanitizer effectively kills bacteria, fungi, and viruses in your tub. It is affordable and easy to add. However, it gives off a smell as its chemical components break down. The average levels are 1-3 parts per million (ppm).
Bromine is another choice with a lower pH than chlorine, is gentler on the skin, lasts longer, and doesn’t give off any pungent smell. It works slowly, meaning you’ll have to give it more time to kill the contaminants in the hot tub. Correct bromine levels are 3-5 ppm.
Minerals like silver and copper. Silver is an excellent bactericide, as copper is an algaecide. The minerals are used alongside small amounts of chlorine.
Biguanide is an odorless, gentle, and effective sanitizer with a delicate feel on your skin. It is more costly and can deteriorate rubber gaskets and some plastics in your hot tub. The proper levels are 30-50 ppm.
Salt systems have a device known as a salt chlorine generator. Saltwater tubs have a generator that converts salt into chlorine. Instead of buying chlorine, you buy salt, which is cheaper, and the water is gentler on your skin and eyes.
Shock The purpose of a shocking agent is to release oxygen into the water by momentarily increasing the total chlorine above the recommended levels. The shocking process helps get rid of bacteria and chloramines.
Shocking is a super sanitizer and an effective method to clear your tub. If you are keen on keeping up with your sanitizer levels, an occasional shock will do your tub good. You can use chlorine or a non-chlorine shock depending on your spa and preference.
pH Adjusting Products
You must check the tub’s pH levels often. pH indicates how basic or acidic the water is. You should have a pH increaser and decreaser and add accordingly. You want your water to be neutral because when it’s acidic, it irritates your skin and damages your spa. While alkaline, it’s uncomfortable for your eyes and skin, making the sanitizer less effective.
Defoamer
The foam in your spa comes from body lotions, oils, and other cosmetics. An effective way to reduce foam is by taking a shower before soaking. It is easy to manage the foam if you are alone. A defoamer will be handy, especially if you are hosting a party. However, you’ll need a defoamer when working with a group.
Sequestering Agents
If your hot tub water turns brown, red, green, and orange, it’s time to add the sequestering agent. A sequestering agent removes the heavy metals and calcium from the tub water. You should add the sequestering agent when you notice the color change and as a precaution when filling up your spa.
Water Clarifier
A water clarifier offers a temporary solution when your tub water is cloudy. However, you will need to find the cause of the problem and address it to avoid a recurrence. Adding a water clarifier isn’t a quick fix, as you’ll still need to keep up with the spa treatments.
Calcium
When testing the water, be sure to check for calcium hardness. An imbalanced amount of calcium and magnesium in the spa causes cloudiness or foam in the water. It is crucial to have a calcium hardness increaser and decreaser and add accordingly to avoid scale build-up or damage to the metallic aspects of the tub.
Hot Tub Enzymes
Hot tub enzymes help you avoid getting scum in your spa. Hot tub enzymes are naturally occurring spa chemicals that break down organic contaminants. The typical organic pollutants that end up in the tubs include twigs, leaves, insects, skin cells, and body oils, to mention but a few. If you keep up with the chemical treatments and refill your tub at least quarterly, you won’t need hot tub enzymes.
Reach Us
Ajax Pool and Spa offers services for custom installations, repair, and maintenance of Jacuzzis, hot tubs, and swimming pools. Our products are top-quality and can blend with all types of home décor. If you are considering installing a pool or spa, we’ve got you covered.
Contact us for a free quotation on Jacuzzis, swimming pools, and hot tub installation costs. Call us at 970.279.5253 and learn more about our installation expertise.
