What is a Hot Tub Blower?

Hot tub blowers are also commonly referred to as air pumps or bubblers, as these names imply, a blower does just that, blows air into your hot tub water causing bubbling.

How does it work?

The blower is a unit that utilizes a fan to create air flow; it then forces the air through channels into the jets that allow for a release. The combination of air and water flow through the jets can provide a wonderful massage experience for the hot tub user.

What Do I Need to Know about a Blower?

If your spa does not currently use a blower and you are contemplating adding one, first of all you will want to make sure that your control pack will run a blower, it is a specific function that the control pack needs to be capable of operating. Also make sure you are ready to do the plumbing needed to connect in the air flow to your jets.

Also there are a few things to know that some people consider disadvantages of having a blower. The first is having the air injected into your water can cool down the water temperature and it does expend energy to have to keep reheating the water to maintain the higher temperature. Some people also find the blower running with the jets is too loud and interrupts there relaxation, but on the other hand many people count on the jets as their key to relaxation; so it all really comes down to personal preference.

If you already own a blower, they are a fairly simple piece of machinery that basically consists of a fan motor and housing. For this reason we recommend that if your unit goes out you replace the entire unit as it is much simpler and trying to just replace parts will offer little to no cost savings.

When looking for a new blower it is important to make sure you determine the correct voltage needed for your control unit, as they come in both 110V and 220V. Also, make sure your get the correct size to link up to your plumbing, usually 1.5” or 2”.

There are also different plug types available based on what type you need. Our Ultra and Max blowers include both a 4 FT Amp Cord and 4 Pin Plug. Our Silent Aire Blowers come with the option at checkout of a 3-pin Molded Plug, a 4-Pin Amp plug, a Gecko XM/XE 240 Volt Plug, or if you plan on hard-wiring and do not need a plug that is also an option.

How Can I Extend the Life of My Blower?

Premature blower failure is most often caused by water intrusion, there are a few ways to reduce the chance of water intrusion therefore extending the life of you spa blower. A Hartford loop in your plumbing that the use of a check valve will greatly decrease your chances of water intrusion, make sure that your installer/ technician uses both, it is also a recommendation that you replace your blower check valve anytime you replace your blower.

Is your Hot Tub Ready for the Cold Weather?

It seems like last week summer was making a final statement with record high temperatures in many parts of the country and today winter has decided it is time to get in the game and it is COLD! One thing the cold does bring is the perfect weather for soaking in your hot tub.

Before the cold weather really sets in for good, it is a great idea to do a thorough examination of your hot tub and ensure everything is in tip top shape heading into the cold winter months. Give your equipment a quick look and make sure everything seems to be working well, check for any leaks, and then now is also a good time to drain your water, give your spa and filters a good cleaning, also see how your hot tub cover is fairing.

First, take a look at your equipment. Check your pumps, heater, controls and plumbing to make sure everything appears to be working properly. It is much easier to try and fix a problem now, than in the middle of winter when you are worried about the tub freezing and you are waiting on a replacement part.

Next, make sure you do not have any slow leaks. Is your water level slowly dropping or is there any visible wet spots inside your cabinet? Finding a leak now can save you a lot of headache from having a frozen leak later. If you do find a small leak, the solution is often as simple as running a bottle of Fix-A-Leak through the tub; it will give you a very easy repair to most minor leaks.

Now is a great time to drain the water from your spa, give it a good through cleaning with Spa Cleaner, Gel Gloss, and Spa Purge. Then you can refill with sparkling clean water that should last you through most of the cold winter months. Also don’t forget your filters, pull them out give them a good spray with the hose and then soak them overnight in Filter Cleaner. This will ensure that your tub and water are clean and prepared for the cold weather.

Now, last but not least how is your hot tub cover doing? Is it getting a little saggy or extremely heavy due to water logging? If it needs to withstand the weight of snow during the winter now might me a really good time to think about replacing it. Also, if it is heavy and hard to lift a spa cover lift will come in very handy for you on those cold winter nights you are craving a relaxing soak in the hot tub but not wanting to wrestle the large cover in the snow.

Winter will be here before we know it so if you are planning on soaking in your hot tub while enjoying a cup of hot cocoa and gazing at the stars it is time to make sure your hot tub will be in top working condition for you when you are ready to use it.

What is a Pressure Switch?

A pressure switch is a device that is configured to sense a change in a certain pressure on something and then react in a certain manner. Pressure switches are used on many devices such as electric and gas heaters, pumps, small air compressors, electric strip heaters, food processing equipment, and of course on many hot tub heaters.

When it comes to your hot tub, the pressure switch (also often referred to as a flow switch), makes sure that water is flowing while your heater is on so that in the event water is not flowing your heater will not over heat, and burn itself up. It is a safety feature that keeps the heater from turning on when there is not water flowing. The switch senses water pressure and if the pressure is where it should be the switch completes the circuit of electricity to the heater.

If you are having trouble with your spa heating or heating insufficiently, the problem may not be with your heater. It could be a pressure switch issue. If your pressure switch is not working properly it could cause the water not to heat, but always make sure you have water flow because the spa not heating could also just be the pressure switch doing its job.

Why did I get a Rash from my Hot Tub?

Your hot tub is supposed to be your relaxing oasis, the last thing you want is for it to leave you with red irritating bumps all over your skin. Unfortunately, this can be a common problem if your hot tub sanitizer is too low and not being maintained properly.

Warm water can be an ideal breeding ground for microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, protozoa's, and viruses. Sanitizers in spas such as bromine or chlorine are used to kill these microorganisms, and maintain safe, clean water for bathers. People often think they are allergic to spa sanitizers after developing a rash from bathing, but usually the culprit is actually inadequate sanitizer which leads to the buildup of microorganisms that can cause skin irritation and rash.

Hot Tub Folliculitis is a common condition caused by Pseudomonas bacteria, and can often be found where there is a spa sanitation issue. The symptom most often associated with hot tub folliculitis is small reddish bumps or an itchy rash; it can commonly be confused as a bug bite. With Hot Tub Folliculitis bumps can cover the entire body but tend to be more prominent in areas where the bathing suit covers. If you develop symptoms it is best to contact your health care provider, although the symptoms typically clear on their own after a few days. Also keep in mind that while your doctor is an expert in human conditions, they may not be an expert in proper spa care so please follow the tips below to keep your spa safe and microorganism-free!

Proper Care Tips to Avoid Contamination:

· Refill your spa with fresh clean water at least every 4 months. The use of a Spa Pure Pre-Filter may help in getting you water balanced properly from the get go.

· Maintain proper sanitizer levels, whether you are on a bromine, chlorine, or biguanide system.

· Shock treat regularly, especially after heavy usage.

· Test your water often using proper test strips or test kit!

· Maintain proper pH and alkalinity levels.

· If your spa cover is in poor condition, smells, or is water logged---replace it. It will not only help fight microorganisms but also help with energy savings.

· Before each drain and refill purge your spa of any build up using Spa Purge!

· Give your filters a deep clean at each drain and refill, and replace them when needed.

By properly caring for your hot tub you can ensure that it is a healthy and safe environment for all those who enjoy it.