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										| Maintaining a Spa or Swim-Spa!!! |  
						
										| Sanitizing is a must, for proper spa 
										water management.  
										
										Salt Chlorine generators are a 
										better way to utilize chlorine, producing 
										more controllable results. They 
										eliminate the need to handle, measure or 
										store chlorine products, while reducing 
										buildup problems.   
										Arctic Spas 
										and Swim-Spas 
										are designed and engineered for use, in 
										even the most extreme conditions. 
						
										
										
										
						
										An 
										
										Electronic
										PockeTester Kit is a convenient 
										way to monitor the salt level, as well 
										the overall water chemistry. |  
						
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												| Salt Chlorine Generators - 4 
												Models | Arctic Spas and Swim-Spas | Salt Chlorine Generators - 4 
												Models |  
												
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												| Product and Ordering Information | Product Information | Product and Ordering Information |  
												| If you have a pool or spa water 
												testing need, we should have the 
												product.
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												Question & Answer information.
												
												
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												| A 
										
										ColorQ 2X is a 2nd generation, 
												Bluetooth, Waterproof, all-digital tester,
										 
										 
										
												that can 
										measure all the common test factors. There is a model, for every sanitizing 
										need.  
												
												
						
												
												
												Magnetic Water Conditioners  
												
												help solve scaling problems, due 
												to high levels of calcium 
												hardness and are available in 4 
												models.  The 
												
												WaterLink SpinTouch Labs 
												are the ultimate tester, doing 
												up to 10 different water test 
												factors, in just 1 minute.  
												Voted product of the year. |  
												
												| ColorQ All-Digital Water Testers | Magnetic Water Conditioners | WaterLink SpinTouch Labs |  
												
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												| If you have a pool or spa water 
												testing need, we should have the 
												product. ►
												
												
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												| A  
												lot of variables affect the 
												clarity and quality of the spa 
												or swim-spa water.  Filters 
												require reasonable maintenance 
												and cleaning, on a seasonal or 
												as-needed basis.  If you 
												have a cartridge filter, 
										
										The Blaster Automatic Filter Cartridge 
										Cleaner will make that chore 
												much easier.  Fine 
												particles can pass through many 
												filters. 
										
						
										 
										
										Ultra Poly One Coat, 
										manufactured by
						
						
												
										Ultra 
										Polymers, Inc.,
						
						
												is a Hybrid-Epoxy Coating and is 
												used in pools, spas, water parks 
												and water features, all across 
												the U.S.  It covers in one 
												coat and has easy preparation, 
												not requiring an acid wash or 
												the use of primers or sealers.
						
												
												
												  Some water sources contain heavy metals, 
										which can lead to discoloration and 
										staining problems.  Attaching a 
										
										MetalTrap Filter, to the garden 
										hose, will remove dissolved heavy 
										metals, avoiding some potential staining 
										problems. |  
												
												| Automatic Filter Cartridge 
												Cleaner | Magnetic Water Conditioners | Removes Heavy Metals, from  
												the water |  
												
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												and Ordering Information | Product 
												and Ordering Information | Product 
												and Ordering Information |  
												| If you have a pool or spa water 
												testing need, we should have the 
												product.
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												Question & Answer information.
												
												
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										| How to 
								perform routine spa or hot tub maintenance 
								tasks? |   Spas and hot 
								tubs require routine care and periodic 
								maintenance, in order to preserve or restore the 
								aesthetics and maintain good operating 
								conditions. Some products, are available, that 
								can help with the chores and are worthy of 
								consideration.  Proper spa maintenance 
								requires water testing, to help assure optimum 
								water quality and chemistry.  A
								
								ColorQ Tester is an all-digital way to 
								eliminate all color-matching and guesswork.  If problems arise, refer to 
								the Spa Problems 
								Page, as a source of problem-solving 
								information, broken down into various 
								categories.  Scroll down the page and click on the linked
								keywords,
								catch phrases 
								or images, in the archived answers below, to access additional information, on that topic or product. Do you know what's in 
					your water?  If you're having problems, with 
					sanitation or water clarity, testing allows you to better 
					understand the chemistry and determine the cause of the 
					problem.  Once understood, you can select the best 
					treatment option.  Understanding the nature of the 
					problem, should be step one.  For information about 
					our full selection of testing options, visit our
					Test Equipment Store. 
										
											
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								 Helpful, 
								Problem-Solving Information, in a question and 
								answer format. 
								    
								▼ |  
					
											► 
					Fixing Chips, Dings and Cracks In The Gelcoat? 
					Hi Allan, I Would like to know 
					if there is a product for repairing chips or cracks in the 
					gel coat of my spa. 
					Evan, 11/3/2018 
						
							
							
							Boxer Adhesives has an underwater epoxy that 
							will work. It cures to a white finish. Avoid using
							silicone caulk, as that will interfere with any 
							future 
							painting, that you might consider.  You could 
							make the necessary repair and then paint the spa. 
							Ultra Poly One 
							Coat would be an ideal product. It is glossy and 
							shiny and quite attractive. It is supplied with a 
							non-slip additive, for use on steps and other 
							potentially problematic areas.  Best wishes for 
							the New Year. 
							
							Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 11/3/2018 
							
							
											► Rail Is 
					Discoloring?
 
 We have a swim spa that is inground. 
					It is only a year old. The stainless steel rail seems to 
					require cleaning, as it becomes noticeably discolored or 
					stained, after a month or so. I use an ozonator and a low 
					level of stabilized chlorine. I ordered a 
							ColorQ Tester, 
					from your website, to make sure that the chemistry is well 
					maintained. I think that I have done a good job and have 
					never had algae or mold problems. Any ideas?
 
 Jerry H., Boynton Beach, FL, 12/22/2015
 
 Make sure the calcium hardness is in the 200-250 PPM range. 
					Soft water tends to be more corrosive and this might help. 
					Low-grade stainless steel could be an issue. These stainless 
					steel parts used to be made in the USA. Now they come 
							from Asia and might not be equal in quality, to the 
							former USA made equivalent. There are rails, ladder 
							and steps made from composite materials, that are 
							better able to resist the problematic effects of 
							corrosion.  These composite products are easy to 
							maintain and do not require grounding, making 
							installation less complicated.  Corrosion, due 
							to high total dissolved solids (TDS) could be a 
							factor.  I hope that I have been of assistance.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 12/23/2015
 
 
							
											► 
							Greasy Waterline 
					Residue? 
					We have a spa and notice a yellow 
					substance on sides on the wall at the waterline- it feels 
					sticky and smears like grease- we were told it was mustard 
					algae- so we treated for mustard algae - now it has turn 
					blue green - we have purge the spa and now are back to the 
					yellow substance at water line - HELP - want to get back to 
					enjoying the spa.
 Bobby B., 8/29/2018
 
 Whomever told you it was mustard algae has probably never 
					seen it. Mustard algae is pollen like and brushes easily. 
					That is not what you are describing. It sounds like an 
					accumulation of body oils, cosmetic residues and other 
					organic products. Try using an enzyme cleaner to scrub the 
					walls. Adding a weekly dose of a spa formula enzyme 
					additive, could help minimize accumulations. Enzymes tend to 
					decompose organic matter and should make a difference, over 
					time. I hope that this helps get you back into hot water. As 
					always, make sure the sanitizer levels are optimum.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 8/30/2018
 
 
 ► Cleaning A 
					Spa Filter Cartridge?
 
 What's the best way to clean a spa 
					filter cartridge. And how often?
 
 Jessica, Tampa, FL, 2/6/2017
 
 There are Spa Filter Cleaning Products available: these 
					products are usually acidic, detergent solutions. Hose the 
					cartridge off to
  remove hair and other debris. The cartridge 
					should be immersed in a plastic container (5-gallon pails 
					are perfect) containing water and some of the cartridge 
					cleaner. Follow directions, as to duration, etc. If the 
					container isn't deep enough, turn the cartridge over to 
					immerse the other end. Hose off to remove all traces of the 
					cleaner when finished. The easiest way to clean a cartridge 
					filter is with The Blaster Automatic 
					Filter Cartridge Cleaner. It attaches to a garden hose and 
					automatically and thoroughly cleans cartridge filters. How 
					often the cartridge should be cleaned will depend upon the 
					water chemistry and the amount of bather wastes. Any time 
					that the return flow seems weak is a good time to clean the 
					cartridge. Otherwise, every month or so and whenever the 
					water is replaced. Enjoy the spa. I hope that I was helpful. 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 2/6/2017
 
 
 ► Spa Water 
					Loss?
 
 I have been losing about 2 inches of water loss per week in 
					my 375 gallon spa. It is outdoors and it has been cold. I 
					have a good thermal cover. Is this a reasonable water loss 
					or could I have a leak? Thanks.
 
 Tina, T, Mt Sinai, NY, 12/26/2010
  
 I don't recall ever seeing specific water loss figures, for 
					a spa that remains properly covered, except for periods of 
					actual usage. It seems to be beyond what should result from 
					evaporation. An inch of water loss could amount to 10-20 
					gallons. I suggest that you double check for proper thermal 
					cover sealing.  Look for evidence of a leak, such as 
					puddling or wet insulation. If you conclude that there is a 
					probable leak, it may be possible to seal the leak, using 
					Fix A Leak.  It should be easy to use and works well, 
					at sealing small spa leaks. Good luck.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 12/26/2010
 
 
 ► No More 
					Chemicals?
 
 I've been reading e-mails from others 
					on your website and have a similar rash problem. My wife 
					developed a rash within the first week after we got our spa. 
					When she stays out of the spa for a few days it starts to go 
					away, but it comes right back within hours of using the spa 
					again. She had this same problem years ago when she 
					life-guarded at a pool where Bromine was used, so I think 
					she is sensitive to either Bromine or a byproduct. Since we 
					have a ozonator, and I see you have suggested an ionizer or 
					mineral sanitizer, could you tell me what they are, how they 
					work, and how are they installed? I really need to find a 
					way to eliminate the Bromine, and I really don't like 
					Chlorine either.
 
 Wayne S., 10/30/2009
 
 The fact that the rash is affecting your wife and not 
					yourself, indicates the cause is sensitivity to a chemical 
					and not necessarily due to poor sanitation. Ionizers and 
					mineral sanitizers both work by adding metallic ions to the 
					water. Ionizers must be plumbed inline and are electrically 
					controlled. Mineral sanitizers can be plumbed inline or 
					placed in the filter and are not electrically controlled. 
					Your local spa professional should be able to provide you 
					with either or both of these items. Used with an 
					ozonator, 
					it is close to a complete sanitizing system that reduces the 
					amount of chemicals required for overall water maintenance 
					and helps assure bather comfort. You'll just need a low 
					level of chlorine, to act as confirmation that proper 
					conditions exist and to act as a sanitizer backup. I hope 
					that I have been helpful.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 10/30/2009
 
 
 ► Draining A 
					Spa?
 
 We have a built-in spa that was here 
					when we bought our house several years ago. Because we did 
					not have it installed ourselves we have never known how to 
					drain it other than by bailing the water bucket by bucket. 
					Recently the cover was destroyed and needless to say the 
					rain water is intolerable to step inside to bail. The spa 
					has not been used in about 3 years, though it has been 
					emptied a couple times since then. My question is - is there 
					a way to pump the water out using the spa's existing pumping 
					system? I suspect there is some sort of escape valve or 
					something that would allow us to connect a hose and drain 
					the spa by turning on the pump and bypassing the 
					recirculation system. Am I right? If so, what do I look for 
					to connect the hose to? Thanks for your help.
 
 Linda S., 3/27/2011
 
 The pump and filter must be located relatively close by and 
					should provide access to the equipment. Look for a garden 
					hose attachment. There could also be another valve 
					associated with this discharge port, that will have to be 
					opened, in order to direct the water flow to waste. If there 
					is any doubt on your part, pay a visit to a local spa 
					professional. Bring the filter and pump model number. If for 
					any reason, it is not possible to pump out the water, using 
					the spa pump, there is another easy option. Many pool 
					dealers sell submersible cover pumps, that are used as part 
					of pool winterizing. You can attach a garden hose to the 
					pump, place it in the lowest point of the spa and it will 
					pump out the water. After pumping out the water, you'll have 
					to do some serious cleaning. I hope that I have been of 
					assistance. Good luck and I hope that you'll enjoy the spa.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 3/27/2011
 
 
 ► How 
					Difficult Is Spa Maintenance?
 
 I know a little about what's involved 
					in terms of pool maintenance. Spas are completely new to me. 
					I don't want to get involved in something that I might 
					regret. I got your web address from a pool owning friend. 
					Thank you.
 
 Jerry F., Baton Rouge, LA, 12/3/2009
  
 Spa maintenance has never been easier!  Today, there are 
					many more choices for sanitizing. In addition to the 
					familiar chlorine there's: 
					salt chlorine generators, 
					bromine, ozone generators, 
					mineral sanitizers, ionization,
					UV sanitizers 
					and more. It may sound complicated, but many are built-in 
					sanitizing systems that require very little care. The spa 
					already has an automatic timer and controls for the filter 
					and heater. A little water testing and the occasional 
					addition of water balancing chemicals are all that you'll 
					probably have to do. The
					ColorQ Digital 
					Water Analyzers have really 
					simplified water testing. And if you ever get stuck with a 
					water chemistry problem, you can email me again. When you 
					have a spa. getting into hot water is a good thing! Good 
					luck with your decision.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 12/3/2009
 
 
 ► Leaking 
					Spa?
 
 I seem to have a leak that allows 
					water to accumulate under the spa cabinet. I can't see the 
					source and it is not severe, but I'm afraid that given time 
					it will cause rotting and mildew. Any suggestions? Thank 
					you.
 
  Ted, Vermont, 2/2/2004
 
 There is a product called FIX A LEAK that can be used to 
					permanently seal the leak. The product directions will 
					explain how it should be added to seal leaks that might be 
					in the plumbing, shell or installed fittings. It has been 
					sealing leaks since 1980. Hopefully, your problem will be 
					solved. I hope that I have been helpful.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 2/2/2004
 
 
					
											► Painting A 
					Spa?
 I moved into a new house last summer. 
					The previous owners had an inground Gunite spa put in a 
					couple of years prior to selling. The surface seems to be 
					very faded. I'm wondering if the coloring is part of the 
					gunite process or if it was painted after the spa was 
					constructed. If so, can I repaint the gunite and what type 
					of surface preparation and paint should I use? I have the 
					same question if the gunite is colored during the 
					construction. Thanks!
 
 Mark I., 4/3/2010
 
  The term gunite actually refers to the concrete that 
					underlies the surface finish. The colorant is an integral 
					part of the plaster finish. It could have been painted 
					previously and could be repainted again. Close inspection 
					might reveal a previous painting. The surface should be 
					prepared, prior to painting, according to the instructions 
					of the paint manufacturer. Ultra Poly One Coat will work 
					well in this application and it is likely that only a 
					surface power washing will be required, as preparation. 
					Surface defects should be fixed prior to the painting. The 
					coating is a hybrid epoxy and is easier to apply, requiring 
					only a single coat and no primers or sealers. It features a 
					15-year warranty. I hope that I have been of assistance.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 4/3/2010
 
 
 ► Refinishing 
					Choice?
 
 We live in southern California, have 
					an inground plastered spa that is about 14 years old. I have 
					received several estimates to have it replastered and 
					tiled to the tune of $3500-4000. Is there any alternative to 
					replastering? We don't plan on living here for more than two 
					years and don't won't to make that big of investment. I've 
					enclosed a picture so that you can see the spa. Is there any 
					other coating or something that my do-it-yourself husband 
					could try? Thanks.
 
 Sharon L., California, 10/17/2016
 
 You could have the spa painted with Ultra Poly One Coat for 
					a fraction of that quote. A properly painted spa will be 
					easier to maintain than a plastered one. The chemistry will 
					be more consistent and there will be fewer places for the 
					algae to hide. There are lots of paints out there. Some need 
					all sorts of preparation. Others can't be applied, if the 
					humidity is above a certain level - which probably won't 
					happen during the summer months. Some paints need several 
					coats. Not everyone takes the time to do it right and the 
					result could a poor job. A contractor can skimp and offer a 
					lower price. Not really a bargain, if the spa does not look 
					as it should. Ultra Poly One Coat is a high performance, 
					hybrid -epoxy formula that only requires a single coat. It 
					is very durable and long lasting. Surface preparation 
					consists of a cleaning with a citrate solution and then a 
					power washing. Humidity is not an issue and no primers or 
					top coats are required. I hope that this information will 
					prove useful.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 10/18/2016
 
 
 ► Repairing A 
					Crack?
 
 I noticed a slight crack on the side 
					of my spa. It is part of a pool/spa combination that is 
					about 10 years old. I had everything painted about 1 year 
					ago. Other than this everything looks good. Any advice? 
					Thanks.
 
 Barry F., Boynton Beach, FL 2/3/2015
 
					There are several ways to do this. In the simplest case, you 
					can use an epoxy repair material and seal the area. Don't 
					use silicone, as it might not allow repainting. 
					Aesthetically, it make not be the most attractive repair. 
					You could chip out the crack, seal and fill in the chipped 
					out area, with epoxy. The problem with this approach is that 
					the crack can expand and the problem will grow bigger. To 
					prevent a structural crack from expanding, you can use 
					Torque-Lock. It use a staple-like part to hold the opposite 
					together by application of torque. In has to be countersunk. 
					Afterwards, the void can be filled in with epoxy.  Paint to 
					complete the job. Good luck and I hope that this information 
					proves to be useful. 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 2/3/2015
 
 
 ► Oily 
					Residues?
 
 My spa has oily, greasy, deposits 
					around the water line and skimmer. Any suggestions about 
					what it is and what to do?
 
 Jim I., San Mateo, CA, 3/29/2013
 
 Body oils and cosmetic residues are the likely source. 
					Chemical byproducts can react with these residues, as well 
					as waste products and form water line deposits. Various spa 
					cleaning products are available to help clean these areas. 
					The best products are those that are formulated not to cause 
					foaming. Some of the cleaning products contain enzymes to 
					help with the removal. In addition, there are Enzyme 
					Products that can be added directly to the spa water and 
					will help digest and decompose oily, organic residues. Good 
					luck. Enjoy the spa.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 3/29/2013
 
 
 ► Water-Line 
					Ring?
 
 Great site! I have a gunite pool and 
					spa. When I opened this spring I noticed a "ring" stain in 
					the spa at the water-level. There is no stain at the water 
					level in the pool - only the spa. I tried vitamin C tablets, 
					Chlorine and a stain remover liquid, but to no avail. Can 
					you help? Thanks.
 
 Brian, Philadelphia, PA, 05/02/2005
 
 Possibly the ring is due to the deposition of oily residues, 
					body oils, cosmetic residues and fragrance products, that 
					accumulated during the past season and have now have shown 
					up after the winter. What you tried covered a broad range of 
					possibilities. I suggest that you add an enzyme product and 
					give it some time. This ring is probably organic in nature 
					and the enzyme should help digest it over a period of time. 
					Let me know how it turns out. Good luck.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 5/3/2005
 
 
 ► Horrifying 
					Spa Conditions?
 
 I have a customer that we delivered a 
					brand new spa to in June. They were quite faithful in 
					bringing in their water for testing with our WaterLink Lab. 
					There was a time for two months in which we did not see 
					them. When they did come in, at the beginning of the month, 
					their spa was horrifying. I sent someone over to take a look 
					at it and he said it looked like there were large pieces of 
					skin floating around. When you took these pieces out, they 
					shriveled up and were quite slimy. We then did a whirlpool 
					rinse on the spa, not once but twice, gave it a good shot of 
					chlorine shock, and then drained it twice. And again upon 
					refilling it, these large pieces came back. Just so you 
					know, that when I did the test the readings were as follows. 
					Bromine was zero, pH was 7.1, calcium was 180, and the 
					alkalinity was zero. This customer also has ozone. Any ideas 
					what this might be? Thank you.
 
 Dawn P., Penticton, B.C., 11/28/2007
 
 I hope that they weren't using the spa. What you are 
					describing is probably a film of bacteria and other 
					microorganisms. Most likely all of the underwater surfaces 
					were coated with this biofilm. It is the product of 
					prolonged inadequate sanitation. It is consistent with a 
					zero bromine reading. The problem lies not with the test 
					results, but with the lack of customer-performed 
					maintenance! Given the severity of the problem it is 
					probable that the filter was not operated and, therefore, 
					there was no ozone being produced. You need to refill the 
					spa and add chlorine to a level of 5-10 PPM. Keep the water 
					recirculating and make sure you are able to detect FREE 
					CHLORINE after 24 hours. If not, add more chlorine. Once a 
					stable chlorine level is attained, the spa should be 
					drained, cleaned and refilled. Start off with a dose of 
					shock and begin normal maintenance. In this case, I would 
					make sure that they are instructed, as to what should be 
					done. Make sure that the ozonator is working properly. They 
					should maintain 1-3 PPM of bromine, as well, to act as a 
					backup sanitizer. Good luck and I hope this information will 
					prove helpful. Your intentions were certainly good.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 11/28/2007
 
 
 ► Measuring 
					Small Amounts?
 
 I’m having trouble converting chemical 
					grams to measurements that I can make, for instance – I need 
					to put 10 grams of cartridge cleaner per litre of water and 
					I don’t have scales. I use tablespoons and teaspoons for all 
					other gear. How many teaspoons would 10 grams be? I also use 
					a tablespoon of lithium hypochlorite each time we use the 
					spa (it has an ozonator), and once a week dose it with a 
					capful from the chlorine container. This seems to do the 
					trick, but I’d feel better knowing that I have exact 
					measurements. Cheers.
 
 Jill, Australia, 12/14/2007
 
 Different chemicals have different bulk densities and a 
					teaspoon could contain a very different weight. A teaspoon 
					contains 5 ml. That could amount to about 5 grams, if the 
					material had the approximate density of table salt. So far 
					as the additions of chlorine are concerned, you need to add 
					enough to maintain a free chlorine level of 1-3 PPM. How 
					much will be required will depend upon the product added, 
					the size of the spa and how your particular spa is used. 
					Because you have an ozonator, you will need less chlorine, 
					as the ozone is providing oxidation and helping to save the 
					chlorine. Test the water for free chlorine and let that be 
					your guide, as to whether enough chlorine has been added. I 
					hope that this information will prove helpful.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 12/15/2007
 
 
 ► Needing 
					Resurfacing?
 
 Alan, we have had our hot tub about 5 
					years and it now has a dull stain around the water level. 
					Cleaning will not take it off - it has worn off the finish. 
					Is there a way to repair or cover this ring? Thanks for your 
					help.
 
 R K., Sunapee, NH, 1/31/2009
 
 There are means to refinish fiberglass or acrylic spas. 
					Epoxy, PVC and other coatings can be used to resurface a 
					spa. It is very common in swimming pools. I suggest that you 
					consult the local phone directory and look under pool 
					resurfacing. A local spa professional might be able to 
					suggest a company. Always check references and ask to see a 
					sample of the end product. If you would like to save money, 
					by doing it yourself, I suggest 
					Ultra Poly One Coat. This is 
					a hybrid-epoxy coating, that is easy to prep and apply. Good 
					luck and I hope that the suggestion will prove helpful.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 2/1/2009
 
 
 ► Painting A 
					Fiberglass Spa?
 
 I'm struggling about something. You've 
					given me advice on stains before that were very helpful. It 
					now seems, according to our pool person, that some metal spa 
					stains will not come out of our spa at the waterline and 
					we're considering painting the spa. Some questions:
 
 1. Is it true, first of all,  that some metal stains will 
					not/cannot  come out of fiberglass?
 
 2. You recommend the Ultra Poly One Coat vs. other paints. 
					Firstly, it's hard to believe that Ultra Poly One Coat is a 
					better product. Some advertise 8 years, one dealer thought 
					I'd get about 5 years with a popular paint, before some 
					peeling, given the high heat of the spa. Would I really get 
					15 years with Poly? That's an INCREDIBLE difference.
 
 Secondly, if it really is a better product, I struggle 
					because their colors are so limited and my wife does not 
					really like their "pool blue". If you really do recommend 
					it, do you know of any pictures of pool blue being used on a 
					pool or spa that I could show her.  Thanks, so much.
 
 Norm, 1/14/2007
  Some stains are tough! Try scrubbing the stain, with a few 
					wet vitamin tablets. If this works, you should be able to 
					remove the stains using MetalTrap Stain Remover. Have you 
					tried an acidic cleaner or an enzyme? Painting a spa is far 
					less common than a pool. From what I have seen, 
					Ultra Poly 
					One Coat, is about as good as it gets. I think it looks 
					more like a ceramic glaze. The colors may be limited, but 
					custom colors are available. So far as pictures are 
					concerned, we do have some available.  Good luck and I hope that I 
					have been of assistance.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 1/15/2007
 
 
 ► Filter 
					Cycle Operation?
 
 Dear Alan. You have been so helpful 
					with my new spa, thanks to you I know what clear water can 
					look like. However I recently discovered that although my 
					manual says the default factory filtration setting allows 
					four hours a day of filtration, the manufacturer put a new 
					chip in the new models (mine) and maximum filtration is two 
					hours a day, 20 minutes every 6 hours. I'm told that I could 
					have the old chip put back if I so request. Is two hours 
					filtration enough for a 320 gallon spa, used daily by one 
					person and occasionally by two? Or should I request that 
					original chip? Thanks again. Best regards.
 
 Marilyn R., 6/24/2010
 
 Years ago, I ran the filter for 4, 2-hours periods, so that 
					the ozonator would be operated for enough time. Today many 
					spas have ozonators that are operated by a separate 
					low-speed pump, on a continuous basis. That being the case, 
					the filter is operated only for the water quality function. 
					I'll defer to the good judgment of the manufacturer, as your 
					usage should not place any extraordinary demands upon the 
					filtration system. Enjoy the spa.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster. 6/24/2010
 
 
 ► When Should 
					Water Be Changed?
 
 We change our spa water every other 
					month. It is used by 2 adults, 3-4 times a week. 
					Occasionally, some additional adults use the spa. It has an 
					Ozonator and I add some bromine tablets, to a floating 
					feeder. The water looks good - even when I change it. Are we 
					changing the water too often or not often enough? I 
					appreciate your help.
 
 Bill P., Moline, IL, 12/2/2009
 
  Every other month seems quite reasonable. Considering that 
					the water quality is good, even after two months, it would 
					seem that you are acting with caution and common sense. 
					Better to change the water more often than not often enough. 
					The usage a spa gets and the quality of the fill water do 
					affect how often the water should be replaced. When water 
					quality is becoming more difficult to maintain, that should 
					signal a time for a cleaning and a refill. In any event, I 
					would not suggest going more than 3 months, under any 
					circumstances. If your dealer can perform a 
					TDS Test, there 
					is a very scientific way to determine when to change the 
					water. Replace the water when the TDS rises 1500 PPM above 
					that of the water used to fill the spa, unless there is a 
					loss of water clarity and quality or the spa water is more 
					than 3 months old. It was a good question! Thanks for 
					writing.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 12/2/2009
 
 
 ► Why Change 
					The Water?
 
 I haven't changed the spa water in 
					over six months. It looks perfectly clear. Do I really have 
					to change the water? Wondering!
 
 J. L., 4/23/2010
 
 The longer you go without changing the water the more likely 
					it is that you will end up with a sanitizer resistant 
					microorganism. The longer you go without replacing the 
					water, the higher the dissolved solids will buildup and the 
					more likely it will be that you will end up with clarity 
					problems, loss of sanitizer effectiveness and loss of heater 
					and filter efficiency. Even though you haven't told me very 
					much about your spa or how it is used, these statements 
					still apply. I would never recommend keeping the water for 
					more than three months. It's just not worth it! I hope that 
					I have been convincing.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 4/23/2010
 
 
 ► Time To 
					Refinish?
 
 Alan, I am property manager for a home 
					owner who has a 1000 gallon inground spa that developed a 
					severe water leak around the main drain . I drained the spa 
					and after locating the leak in preparation of repairing the 
					leak. It took me a couple of days to dig down to the main 
					drain line and underneath the spa to expose the main drain 
					fitting to confirm the leak source. Unfortunately the 
					weather changed to freezing after I drained the spa and made 
					sure all the water lines were clear. The surface has 
					developed several surface fissures in it causing the marble 
					dust toweled finish to flake off. Some of these areas are 3 
					to 4 inches wide and several inches long. My question is how 
					can I retrowel these areas with similar material. I have 
					contacted the original Install contractor and he informed me 
					that I was on my one because the owner never let them do the 
					bread & butter service, opening and closing work. The spa is 
					a gunite 20 person unit with a marble dust mixture troweled 
					finish 10 years old. I have contacted several pool and spa 
					companies with all stating they could give no advice. Do you 
					know what might have been used in the mixture for the finish 
					besides the marble dust? I removed one of the bad areas, and 
					to me it looks like it might be silica sand with some kind 
					of binder material, then the marble dust was broadcast over 
					that to give it a very sparkly finish.
 
 Carl U., 3/10/2005
 
 If you want the spa looking like it should, I don't see any 
					choice other than refinishing. Plastering mixtures usually 
					contain about 1 part white Portland cement and 2 parts 
					marble dust, aggregates, color particles, etc. After 10 
					years, it would be difficult to match the look, under any 
					circumstances. Sorry that I couldn't be more helpful.
 
 Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 3/11/2005
 
									
						
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