Just Ask Maddy
Q: How do I prevent algae in my pool?
A: Owning a pool means that one must also own the minimum costs and maintenance that goes along with pool ownership. That said, you can’t get around proper filtration run times, check and balancing of pool chemistry, or cut a corner when it comes to dosing. When you own a pool, you either pay to maintain it or you pay for algae clean-up. Regular maintenance is a whole heck of a lot less than algae clean-up. Hope this helps, ruff! Read More
Q: How do I flush bacteria from my Hot Tub?
A: Almost all of the bacteria in a hot tub lives within the plumbing lines protected by a layer of biofilm. This biofilm both feeds the bacteria as well as providing protection from the water that streams through the lines while the jets are on. Using a hot tub plumbing flush in-between water changes is highly recommended to effectively clean the plumbing. This also provides peace of mind for hot tub owners. Hope this helps, ruff! Read More
Q: Do Spa/Pool Test kits go bad?
A: Customers wonder why their home test is so different than the computerized version in our store. It’s usually because their reagents are old, thus giving a false read. We recommend you purchase fresh reagents yearly, or at worst every year and a half. It is also important to note, the test kit should be stored in a cool dry place, and not in the storage step area. Also, beware of purchasing reagents at your favorite Big Box Store as they usually store the reagents improperly each season leading to a false test with your new purchase. Hope this helps, ruff! Read More
Q: I rarely clean my hot tub filters. How often should this be done?
Q: How often should I drain my spa?
A: I have two answers for you here. Here in California, we’ve experienced drought years. In this case, I recommended customers drain their spa every 8 months, or up to a year if possible. In non-drought years, I recommend you drain your spa every 4-6 months to keep it fresh. 4 months for a small spa, and 6 months for a large spa. Hope this helps, ruff!
Q: I have been reading up on enzyme sanitizers as an alternative to traditional hot tub sanitizers like bromine and chlorine. Do they really work? I can’t imagine my hot tub without chlorine but I am becoming allergic.
A: Enzymes come in many forms and their specific use as a wellness santizing alternative to bromine or chlorine is increasing rapidly. We recommend and use the Waters Choice brand. Yes, they work well as an alternate sanitizer for your hot tub. However, there is a very small percentage of folks whom enzymes don’t work well with their local water source. We have found by using the higher concentration version of Waters Choice we can overcome those initial issues with ease. BTW, customers tell us they love it! Hope this helps. RUFF!
Q: Hi Maddy. With so many hot tubs out there, how do I choose the right one?
A: Excellent question! Staff always says “not only is it important what you buy, it’s also who you buy it from.” This simply means buy a quality brand, and choose a reputable local dealer. These two points are important in regards to warranty, and warranty service.
Here is an example- Blackthorne Spas has been in business for 44 years. Blackthorne only carries world class brands of hot tubs. Staff is expertly trained in helping customers select the correct hot tub for their family’s needs. Evidence of this successful model is the vast number of repeat customers. When asked, this clientele stated they chose Blackthorne for these reasons; which also includes all aftercare support. Hope this helps. RUFF!
