Hugh Cairns: Hot tub maintenance saves money

The benefit of early detection and preventative maintenance means that you have the peace of mind that things running smooth. If you’ve ever had the stress of trying to find a repair person on a weekend or in the dead of winter, right before the holidays, you know what I mean. (Photo: Hugh Cairns)

Hugh Cairns: Hot tub maintenance saves money

It may not be pool season, but it certainly is still hot tub season. A hot tub offers a chance to get away from it all and usually only steps from the inside of your home. Hot tubs can be a great source of fun, relaxation and a place where family and friends can come together. With all that enjoyment comes the responsibility that goes with hot tub ownership – maintenance and inspections.

It makes plain sense that with the colder temperatures and freezing weather that you don’t want a failure. Frozen hot tub equipment and water lines can set you up for a substantial repair bill. Most of the hot tubs I see are at the rear of the home and out of high traffic areas where they operate mostly unseen. Just for that reason alone, it is a great idea to have the equipment evaluated and maintained by a Pro. Hot tub maintenance inspections include an evaluation of all the hot tub equipment, examination for leaks including pump seals, tightening and replacement of gaskets where required, and an assessment of areas of potential risk.

I spoke with Jim Tompkins from Kelowna Pool & Spa Services about the some of the common problems that hot tub owners encounter. Not surprisingly some of the biggest problems revolve around leaks – including pump seal leaks. “Having a pump seal leak addressed in the early stages is the best preventative maintenance you can do”, advises Jim. Pump seals can last from days to years, depending on your water chemistry, and proper priming of the pump after a water change. Even the smallest leak from a failed pump seal can cause extensive damage to the pump motor, so it makes sense to inspect and maintain your equipment regularly.

Hot tub pumps aren’t cheap; some pumps can cost over a thousand dollars! Times that by 2 or 3 pumps for an elaborate hot tub, one can quickly see why early detection and repair pays for itself fast. “Early detection of a leaking pump seal can mean savings of hundreds of dollars in repair bills immediately”, recommends Jim. The benefit of early detection and preventative maintenance means that you have the peace of mind that things running smooth. If you’ve ever had the stress of trying to find a repair person on a weekend or in the dead of winter, right before the holidays, you know what I mean.

Don’t just choose anyone when you are looking for maintenance and repair work. Maintaining and repairing hot tubs requires the right equipment and lots of experience. Experience means being able to fix things right the first time and being able to detect future deficiencies. When you choose a Pro to superintend your equipment look for a company with service vehicles that a stocked with professional grade hot tub products, including vital cartridge filters. “It’s our commitment to try and resolve every hot tub issue in a single visit, whether the call is for emergency work or a regular maintenance call”, says Jim. 

Hot tub maintenance inspections are something that you can book well in advance, or when you suspect a problem. Set visits are a great investment in your equipment and can be had for as little as $99 in the Kelowna area. Look for an inspection that includes all the hot tub equipment and recommendations for preventative maintenance.  In addition, look for an inspection that includes an onsite water test.

Owning a hot tub is a luxury that provides better health, less stress, and a lot of fun. It is something you can enjoy every evening as part of your unwinding routine or just whenever you feel a little stressed. You have a huge investment in your tub, keep it maintained regularly to get the most enjoyment out of it.

For more information on hot tub maintenance programs contact Jim Tompkins from Kelowna Pool & Spa Services