Spas and Swim Spas FAQ
The Spas Wholesale Spas & Swim Spas FAQ
Spas are the perfect way to unwind and relax in the comfort of your own home. This is where we answer all of the frequently asked questions.
Spa Safety Considerations
If you plan to install a spa in your backyard it is important to investigate safety before you buy or build. Spas are an enjoyable and fun way to relax, and are totally safe when used responsibly.
Use Lockable Safety Covers
Spa covers decrease the possibility of accidental drowning. By using your lockable spa cover, the chances of accidental drowning fall sharply. Don't forget to cover your spa between sessions, using a lockable spa cover. A lockable spa cover is the first line of defense against small children finding their way into the water.
Install Fences with Locked Gates
For Swim Spas we recommend a fence to prevent unauthorized access to the spa. Fence/gate alarms can also help to prevent unauthorised entry.
Follow Basic Spa Safety
- Babies should not be taken into in hot spas. Baby bodies can heat to unsafe temperatures, and they can’t communicate their discomfort.
- Never jump or dive into a spa
- Never exceed 40 degrees celsius in your hot tub. Temperatures exceeding 42 degrees celsius can potentially lead to heat stroke. Also keep in mind that your age and health can also change the safe temperature zone.
- Don't forget to ease yourself out of your spa after longer spa sessions. Your body has been in a deep state of tranquility, so mind your motor skills when getting out.
- Don't forget to cover your spa between sessions, using it's lockable spa cover. A lockable spa cover is the first line of defense against small children finding their way into the water. You might also consider installing a pool fence around the spa area to further restrict access.
General Spa and Swim Spa FAQ
Preparing a Foundation for Your Spa
Your Spa needs a good solid foundation. The foundation on which your spa is placed must be able to support the weight of 500kg per square metre and 1000kg per square metre for Swim Spas. If the foundation is inadequate, it may shift or settle after the Spa is in place, causing stress to the shell.
NOTE: Damage caused by inadequate or improper foundation support is not covered by the Spa Industries Warranty.
It is the responsibility of the Spa owner to provide a proper foundation for the Spa. Place the Spa on an elevated foundation so that water drains away from it. Proper drainage will keep components protected from wet weather and also aid you when draining the Spa for maintenance. If you are installing your Spa indoors, pay close attention to the flooring beneath it. Remember that the Spa is filled with water, so choose flooring that will not be spoiled or ruined from water damage.
If the Spa is to be located on decking make sure the deck can support the weights mentioned. It is recommended that a qualified contractor prepare the foundation for your Spa. A base of 100mm (4”) minimum concrete slab (or equivalent) is required to place your Spa on.
Does my spa need to be hardwired to the house?
Depending on the model of your portable spa, Australian standards dictate every spa is to have its own designated electrical circuit. Therefore, the cost difference between a plug-in and a hardwired spa remains minimal. Even though Just Spas provide plug in model spas, we do recommend hardwiring your spa.If your spa is fitted with the Hybrid Gas Heat Cell, you will also need a gas fitter to run the gas to your Heat Cell.
If you are going to have any constructional work done - decking, roofed surrounds, additional lighting or electrical points installed, make sure the work complies with local council regulations. If your proposed site is a deck and you are unsure if the decking is strong enough to hold 500kg per m2 for standard Spa pools or 1000kg per m2 for Swim Spas, it is recommended you consult an architect or a structural engineer.
Indoor installations require adequate ventilation. When the Spa is in use, considerable amounts of moisture and humidity can be produced. This moisture can damage walls and ceiling surfaces over time. An exhaust fan will help to prevent damage and discomfort caused through humidity built up.
Spa Electrical Requirements
It is your responsibility unless prearranged with your dealer, to organise and pay for a Registered Electrical Contractor to install all relevant power requirements to your Spa.
The Spa must be installed by a Registered Electrical Contractor and be installed to all relevant codes and standards together with an Electrical Safety Certificate. A copy of the Electrical Safety Certificate may need to be submitted to the Dealer or Manufacturer if applying for a warranty claim.
NOTE: Your Dealer can supply you with the power requirements for your new Spa. Your dealer can advise you on the chemicals you will require and the best methods of storage and handling. Keeping water clean and clear is both important for health, hygiene and also for the purpose of warranty.
Where Should I Put My Spa?
Think about the positioning of the Spa for all seasons. What might be a very private area during the summer could be very exposed when the trees are bare in the winter.
Access for Service
Your Spa must be installed in such a manner as to provide drainage away from your Spa. Placing the Spa in a depression without the provisions for proper drainage could allow rain, overflow and other casual water to flood the equipment and create a wet condition in which it would sit, voiding your warranty. Your Spa may be fitted with a drain which will need to be easily accessed at periodic intervals. This drain has a hose fitting connection for ease of draining.
Planning the Delivery Route
Consider the following when planning your delivery route: • Check the width of gates, doors and sidewalks to make sure your Spa will pass through unobstructed. You may have to remove a gate or part of a fence to allow adequate width clearance.
If the delivery route requires a 90 degree turn, check the measurements at the turn to ensure the Spa will fit.
Are there protruding gas meters, water meters or A/C units on your home which will cause obstructions along the delivery path to your yard?
Are there low roof eaves, overhanging branches or rain gutters that could be an obstruction to overhead clearance?
Are there steps along the delivery path?
Are there any animals that may hinder the access along the designated route and into the yard
You may need to organise multiple able bodied people to help you lift your Spa along the access route and into position.
How long does it take to heat the spa?
With the Hybrid Spa System option, you can have your spa heated and ready to use in under 30 minutes. With a spa’s standard heating system, the spa will heat 1,000 litres by 3 degrees per hour.
Should a hot tub be in the sun or shade?
A warmer climate may require shade from the hot sun. Consider placement of trees, shrubs, patio cover or perhaps a Gazebo structure to provide shade. Also nearby access to change rooms is advisable. We recommend that you have storage space nearby preferably a locked cupboard, for keeping chemicals safe from children but close enough for easy maintenance.
Keeping Your Spa Clean FAQ
Spa filters remove do a great job of filtered out body residue, metals, bacteria, chemicals, dust and debris, However they can only do so much. If contaminants are left in the water long enough they can form a layer of scum on the water surface and a ring around the hot tub shell itself.
Prevent dirt and foliage from being tracked into your Spa by using concrete for paths and access areas. Check the location of trees and spill paths from gutters to see if wind or rain will sweep debris into your Spa.
How Do I Balance My Spa Water?
Water quality will differ from area to area around the country. It is recommended that you regularly test your water using Test Strips, to enable you to test and adjust if required. Correct water balance ensures that equipment and surfaces are protected and that water is comfortable for bathers.
How Do I Test My Spa To Ensure It Is Ready To Use?
We are testing for correct water balance. To test pH, alkalinity and calcium levels in the water, use the Spa Fresh 4 Way Test Strips.
Remove the strip from the vial and swirl beneath the surface of the spa water 2 to 3 times then line the strip up against the outside of the container. (Do not shake water from the strip).
Maintain alkalinity at 80 - 120 ppm and pH at 7.2 - 7.6. Using the label, determine the correct amount of Spa Fresh Alkalinity &pH Increaser required. Scoop up container of spa water and add the required dosage of Spa Fresh Alkalinity & pH Increaser. Dissolve Spa Fresh Alkalinity & pH Increaser completely in the bucket & pour back into spa. Re-check pH & alkalinity using Test Strips. Repeat process if needed to attain correct level.
Why Is My Water Cloudy?
Cloudy spa water can result from a heavy bather load. It can also be a result of dirty filter cartridges, clean with Spa Fresh Filter Scrub as per instructions. Other causes can be insufficient filtering time, pH and alkalinity out of balance or incorrect dose rate and low levels of calcium hardness (particularly with tank water). Sometimes it is simply time to dump the spa water.
Optimum Spa Water Care Tips
- Fill your spa through the filter box
- Test and adjust your spa water balance 2-4 times per week.
- Never leave a Spa empty in the direct sun
- Don't wear clothes in the Spa washed in washing powder
- Don't enter the Spa with oils and body lotions on your body
SPA TIP: Human skin prefers an environment close to neutral pH level. Also, chemicals work most efficiently in water that is closer to neutral pH levels.
We recommend SPA FRESH Sanitiser as it works efficiently at 7.0 - 7.8 pH, making it very acceptable to our skin. Maintaining pH in this band also protects the spa equipment.
How do I prevent Spa Scum Developing?
It is important to test and adjust the sanitiser and pH levels of your spa on a frequent basis. These tests should be performed prior to each use of the spa. At a minimum it is recommended that you test the spa water each week, regardless of use. Simply test your water weekly with test strips, or more often if you are experiencing a scum issue.
All spas need the following regular maintenance:
- Regularly managed balancing of the pH, total alkalinity and calcium hardness levels of the spa water.
- Regular dosage of a bactericide to clarify and sanitise the recirculated water by effectively killing bacteria. This will result in clear spa water.
- Regular cleaning of the spa filter cartridge/s, to eliminate build-up and prevent clogging of the element pores.
- Periodic cleaning and scouring of the spa pipes with a degreaser strong enough to eliminate accumulated body fats and organic waste.
NB: For specific guidance on maintaining water quality for your Spas Wholesale spa, consult our technical staff who can recommend appropriate chemical products for sanitising and maintaining your spa.
How do I drain my Spa?
Step 1: Turn-off main electrical breaker to spa.
Step 2: Locate drain spout below equipment compartment door.
Step 3: Pull the drain spout out with a slight clockwise turn.
>Note: Drain spout is fully extended at approximately 50mm. Use pliers if needed
Step 4: Remove drain cap.
Step 5: Attach a standard garden hose. Push the drain spout in halfway to actuate the drain.Note: The Spa will drain about 20 litres per minute. Ensure that the drainage is in an area safely away from windowwells or basement entries.Step 6: Once the spa is fully drained, pull the drain spout out all the way, remove hose, replace the drain cap and push drain in all the way.
Step 6: Once the spa is fully drained, pull the drain spout out all the way, remove hose, replace the drain cap and push drain in all the way.
How do I refill my spa?
WARNING: When refilling the spa, always Super Sanitise the new water by adhering to the instructions in the WaterChemistry section.
Step 1: To avoid air pockets in the pump(s), refill the spa with water by placing the hose into the filter compartment through the Weir door. Fill to the water level indication on the faceplate of the filter assembly.
Step 2: Restore electrical power supply.
Step 3: Press any button to reset the control system.
Step 4: Following instructions in Starting the Spa with New Water.
Important
Never fill the spa with soft water unless an appropriate mineral supplement is immediately added. If your water is extremely hard, it is preferable to either dilute the water’s hardness by blending the water with water from a water softener, or by the addition of a special water softening chemical. For more information, speak with our Spa water care experts.
