| By :
Sarah Simmons
If you have never owned a hot tub, the thought of maintaining one may seem overwhelming. In reality, maintenance is quite simple. A few minutes a week are all that is needed so that you and your family will enjoy using your hot tub for years to come. From the exterior to the interior to water chemistry, here are your hot tub maintenance 101 basics. Acrylic shells on most hot tubs are simple to clean because their non-porous surfaces prevent dirt or germs from getting embedded within the shell. However, just like anything else that sits outdoors, the shell can get dusty. Wiping the shell down with a damp cloth periodically will keep your hot tub or spa looking as nice as the day you bought it. Speaking of dust, your hot tub cover is exposed to the elements day in and day out, so it's always a good idea to use a vinyl protector to extend its life and appearance. Vinyl cleaner and protector, as well as other hot tub accessories, are available from Jacuzzi brand hot tub dealers. Vinyl cleaner should be used only on the top of the cover; you don't want any of the cleaner's chemicals to get into your hot tub and possibly affect the water's chemistry. To clean the underside of the cover, use a garden hose. To dry the hot tub cover, just let it air-dry (needless to say this should be done on a warm or sunny day). While Jacuzzi brand water purification systems surpass all other hot tub systems to ensure clean, clear water, there are still some basic chemicals, such as chlorine, bromine, baquanine or mineral based purifiers, which you will need to add to the water to kill standing bacteria and other germs. Chlorine is one of the most common and widely known water sanitizers; you can find chlorine tablets and granules created specifically for spa use available at spa and hot tub retailers. When the water care basics are followed hot tub water chemistry can be maintained in just a few minutes a week. Always ask your local hot tub dealer for help in determining the proper formula for your spa. The right configuration will be based on the size, make and model of your spa as well as how often you use it. Cleaning your filter on a regular basis is also necessary to lengthen the hot tub's life. Maintenance for your hot tub doesn't require a lot of skill, but you do have to know what to do and when to do it. Proper hot tub spa maintenance will help your spa retain its beauty and performance, and ensure it continues to be a source of stress relief, relaxation and family fun for years to come.
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