The American Standard Americast Bathtub

American Standard's Americast bathtub is made of a durable lightweight alternative to cast iron. The material called Americast is exclusively manufactured by American Standard. Americast bathtubs are half the weight of its cast iron counterparts; yet have the same structural thickness. The rich enamel colors provide excellent heat retention.

The Americast tubs were seven years of research and testing in the making. In 1988, Americast was introduced to the public. The unique three-layer construction consists of a smooth porcelain-enamel finish bound to high-quality alloy that is backed by an injection-molded structure. The backing structure material helps protect the porcelain finish from chipping and crazing. The composition of these tubs allowed for a deeper more usable bathing space.

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American Std began marketing with the Princeton model. It is now available in six models and continues to be popular. Features such as a Luxury Ledge for holding toiletries has been added to the original design. The installation flexibility of the bathtub has been unsurpassed. The company's plant in Salem, OH handles all manufacturing of the Americast tubs.

The American Standard Americast Bathtub

Installation of your American Standard Americast bathtub can be handled by yourself if you are comfortable or the contractor of your choice may perform the task. The bathtub may be shipped to your door in some situations. There are currently three different models available. These are:

o The Stratford features a glossy porcelain finish and full slip resistant surface. This model is available in the colors Arctic, Linen, Silver, Bone, Fawn Beige and White. This bathtub is available in a whirlpool model.

o The Princeton features a glossy porcelain finish, slip resistant surface, beveled headrest and built in lumbar support. This classic Americast bathtub has an innovative Luxury Ledge for toiletries. Colors available in this model are Bone, White, Fawn Beige, Black, Linen, and Silver.

o The Cambridge model is a five foot bathtub. Due to it's rugged construction, several commercial institutions around the globe use this American Standard bathtub. This model is available in the same colors as the Princeton. A whirlpool can be added to this bathtub if you desire.

American Standard Americast Bathtub's have easy cleaning recommendations and care instructions. Using a non-abrasive cleaner such as powdered Bon Ami, Spic 'N Spam, didi seven or ZUD on stains; wet and wipe off the surface. A scouring pad or other abrasive material should not be used.

All American Standard Americast bathtubs feature a "Stan-Sure" slip resistant enamel surface. This finish is obtained by mixing porcelain and hard quartz to produce a safer surface. This built in safety feature can reduce the need for mildew and bacteria harboring mats and unsightly tapes in the bottom of your bathtub. Please note that soap and body oils may accumulate on surfaces, therefore routine cleaning and maintenance is recommended to protect you and your American Standard bathtub.

American Standard Americast bathtubs come with a limited lifetime warranty to allow you to make your purchase with confidence.

The American Standard Americast Bathtub

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Tips For Replacing Your Bathtub Drain

Bathtub drains occasionally need to be replaced, and drains with the built in stoppers are the ones that usually have problems. These will with time become harder to use and will slowly allow water to leak while the tub is supposed to be plugged, as well as hold water when they are supposed to drain. These are the reasons that you cannot properly rinse off your ankles in the shower in many cases. In time your bathtub drain stopper mechanism will need to be repaired or replaced. This is actually a minor repair that most do-it-yourselfers are willing and able to tackle. You will need to have on hand some plumber's putty, channel locks (or other wrench), a Philips screwdriver, and the replacement part for the bathtub drain you are replacing as well as a few cleaning rags.

Start by removing the old bathtub drain plug mechanism. This has a face plate in the tub which has two screws attaching it to the tub. Once you remove the cover plate you will gain access to the rest of the assembly. Simply grasp it and remove through the hole it was installed in.

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If you have any broken pieces you have a couple choices; if you have access to the other side of the wall the easiest thing to do is open the wet wall panel and make the repair in the open space but this is usually not an option. The most likely scenario is you are going to have to fish out the parts in a very small amount of space. A piece of wire, or a wire hanger, straightened into a hook works well.

Tips For Replacing Your Bathtub Drain

Once you have fished out all of the old pieces you merely need to clean up, and reassemble and reinstall the pieces. Often you can repair this type of draining mechanism without having to replace any of the parts by simply cleaning it up and putting it back together correctly.

For those drains that do need to be replaced you need make sure your new parts are the same as the old parts were. Changing to different sized parts when you are working with plumbing is not a good idea, unless you like having your home flooded.

Test the parts, make sure everything is in good working order. If the stopper fits in and plugs the pipe properly you are ready to install the bathtub drain stopper. If not you need to get the right equipment first.

Plumbers putty should be used on all of the pipes and flanges where they attach to one another to make sure they seal well. The mechanism that lifts and lowers the stopper needs to be attached to the overflow plate. Before you seal the plate down make sure the stopper is working properly by testing it. If the tub is holding water and draining the water back out at appropriate times you are ready to seal the plate down.

You need to smear some plumbers putty on the plate and then put it in place and screw it down. You can then clean up any excess plumber's putty. Make sure that you haven't covered the overflow vent and you are finished. Your bathtub drain should work as good as new.

Tips For Replacing Your Bathtub Drain

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How To Install A Bath Tub Yourself

Installing a bath tub can be a difficult endeavor, but with the appropriate tools and knowledge of what to do it can be successfully completed. It's a good idea to consider other options before deciding to install a new tub. An existing bath tub can be updated and improved by having it re-glazed, or by having a fitted liner created and installed. These options can decrease the cost and length of time involved in replacing a bath tub.

If you've decided that installing a brand new bathtub is the only option, you must carefully research the best method of installation for the tub you choose and your bathroom. If you have the appropriate plumbing and construction knowledge, or know someone who does, the first step is to assemble the necessary tools for the job.

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A bath tub installation will require some basic tools that you will most likely already own, such as a hacksaw, drill, hammer, level, nails, screws and tape measure. Other parts and tools may have to be purchased for the job, such as a tube cutter, propane torch, PVC pipes, plastic shims and, of course, your new bath tub. Safety equipment, such as goggles, should always be worn whenever necessary during the project.

How To Install A Bath Tub Yourself

When installing a tub to replace an existing unit, the old bath tub needs to be disconnected and removed. It's best to choose a similar size and style of tub, so no additional framing or alteration of original water supply lines needs to be performed.

Using as much assistance as is necessary, place the new bath tub into place and use shims to level it. Support boards should be present under the rim of the tub to help support its weight. After the tub is leveled and is adequately supported, the next focus is to connect the necessary plumbing.

The steps needed to connect the plumbing will depend on what is already present from the previous tub. The drainpipe may have to be cut to fit, so that it connects to the trap, which should be centered below it. Reconnect all of the plumbing fixtures in the same manner as the previous tub was disconnected.

After turning on the water and testing the entire system, it may need to be inspected, depending on building code regulations. After completing any necessary inspections, the final faucets and handles can be connected and the surrounding walls can be refinished and caulked.

Although the process of bathtub installation can be complicated, once you learn how to install a bath tub, you can save a great deal of money by completing the task yourself. If you have the right tools and supplies available, along with some assistance to move the tub, the entire process can be completed in as little as a day.

How To Install A Bath Tub Yourself

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What is a Jacuzzi?

Many people use the word Jacuzzi to describe a hot tub or spa, but in fact they are incorrect as Jacuzzi is a brand name.

It's just the same as how people use the brand name 'Hoover', to call a vacuum cleaner.
Many people commonly use the word Jacuzzi for any bath tub with jets in. This is because most people have experienced the in ground hot tubs found at hotels, health clubs and on cruise ships which are normally called Jacuzzi's

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The reason why many people use wrongly the word Jacuzzi is due to the Venturi jet that Roy Jacuzzi invented and patented in 1968.

What is a Jacuzzi?

A Venturi jet is one that induces air into the flow of the water creating the bubbling effect. The ratio of air to water can be adjusted by using an air control.

The hot tubs on today's market have a pump that circulates the water through pipes and then out of underwater Venturi jets. This then creates the bubbling effect within the tub that provides the hydrotherapeutic relaxation which many people enjoy.

It was during the 1900's that the Jacuzzi brothers wanted to help their family member that had an arthritis problem. They invented a portable "hydrotherapy pump", this being a pump that increases the water pressure through a small massage jet.

During the 1960's, Roy Jacuzzi took over the business and then started marketing and selling the first Jacuzzi hot tub using the same jet systems that was invented by this family.

The Jacuzzi brother's patent ran out 10 years later in 1976 which lead to the American hot tub market taking off as they were able to use the Jacuzzi type jets. Hot Tub manufactures have improved the jets to give a better hydrotherapeutic effect.

Since the America Hot Tub market has taken off it has been spreading over to the UK, but within the UK most people will call them Hot Tubs where as people in America use Spa, The only time you will see the word Jacuzzi is when the brand Jacuzzi are are being sold or when they sell Jacuzzi Hot Tub spare parts, but no other company can use name Jacuzzi.

What is a Jacuzzi?

Are Hot Tubs a Cause of Urinary Tract Infections?

If you aren't sure what causes urinary tract infections, don't feel bad, you aren't alone. In a 2003 survey sponsored by the Bayer Corporation, 75% of the women questioned did not know that bacteria, such as E. Coli, are the origin of utis.

The urinary tract is a sterile environment. Urine is also sterile. E. Coli bacteria generally live in the intestine and do no harm there. Sometimes, however, they spread to the urinary tract and cause a painful infection.

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How does E coli get to the urinary tract? The major ways are sexual intercourse, wiping from back to front after urinating, and sometimes from soaking in warm water.

Are Hot Tubs a Cause of Urinary Tract Infections?

Clean, well-maintained hot tubs do not cause utis all by themselves. If the water is cloudy or has tiny particles floating on it or in it, probably it hasn't been cleaned recently. The best time to use a hot tub at a health club is in the morning, when, hopefully, it has just been cleaned and not many other people have been in it yet. The hot tub filters need cleaning, too; not just the tub itself. And some hot tubs have too high a level of chemicals. This can upset the pH balance of your urinary tract if you use the tub often, making it a more welcoming environment for the bacteria.

Just because the bacteria reach the urethra, doesn't mean you will get an infection. Bacteria like a warm moist environment to grow in. You need to make sure they don't get it. If you wear a swimsuit in the hot tub, take it off immediately when you get out. Take a shower after your session. Don't wear tight-fitting pants. Do wear cotton undies. Definitely go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the need.

Another good way to protect yourself from a uti is to use an herbal remedy two or three times a year to keep your system in balance. It will maintain the health of the urinary tract, bladder and kidneys and help eliminate contaminants like bacteria and viruses.

Herbs often used in natural uti remedies are buchu and bearberry leaf. They both stimulate the production of urine, causing you to go to the bathroom more often, flushing out your system. Bearberry leaf also has astringent properties that tone the lining of the urinary tract, making it harder for the bacteria to attach themselves.

There are many causes of urinary tract infections. Hot tubs can contribute to an infection, but you don't have to give up enjoying the physical and mental health benefits they can provide. Just be careful about how you use them; and pro-active, keeping your body healthy naturally.

Are Hot Tubs a Cause of Urinary Tract Infections?

(c) Debra Higgins, 2008

Debra Higgins has been researching herbal and homeopathic remedies for physical and mental health for many years. Visit her website at http://www.FourSeasonsVirtualAssistance.com to find more articles on natural/alternative remedies.

Salt Water Pool Review

Over the past four decades thousands of backyard swimming pools have been installed. The use of chlorine was the norm for sanitizing the pool. Be it liquid or dry, a whole industry sprang up producing chemicals for swimming pools. Unfortunately dry skin, damaged hair, and red burning eyes where the result after a day of swimming. Since nothing could be done people tolerated these problems, all the while dreaming of a solution.

Then someone came up with the idea to use salt in pools. When one thinks of salt they think of the ocean. These pools are not like the salt water found in the ocean. They still have chlorine but at lower levels. This confuses people but shouldn't, the salt is used to generate chlorine as the salt passes through a cell. The salt ranges from a low of 2700 parts per million to a high of 3400 parts per million. Each system is a little different so the owner's manual should be consulted.

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Salt water pools solve the problems of dry skin, damaged hair and red eyes as the solution of salt is at the right levels to give one a comfortable swimming experience. Another benefit is not having to transport chlorine from the pool store. This also makes for lower chemical costs. Should you purchase a salt water system? Lets look at some of the drawbacks before you make that decision.

Salt Water Pool Review

Lets start with the initial cost of the system. They can run well over a thousand dollars installed. The cell may only last five to seven years depending on how well the systems is maintained. By this I mean that the salt levels must be kept at the correct parts per million or damage may occur to the cell, which can be expensive to replace. So you still need to purchase the salt, this may be only a few times a year depending on how much is purchased at one time.

Another drawback is the pool still needs to be tested for chlorine and acid demand. Yes you still need to test for chlorine. The salt cell generates the chlorine but adjustments must be made to prevent the levels from becoming to high or low. Then you need to test for the ph level. If the ph level becomes too high or low the salt cell can be damaged leading to replacement and extra cost.

Then there is the question of how much time is needed to run the pool pump. Many people want to run their pump a few hours a day. They become accustomed to the low electric bills. Then when they purchase the salt system they find that more hours are needed for the system to work correctly. This leads to higher bills so people tend to turn the pump time back down. Guess what happens then? Well if the pool experiences heavy use the chlorine level drops or disappears. So one has two choices, they can either run the system longer or add liquid chlorine. The later kind of defeats the whole idea of a salt water pool.

Another drawback is that a salt system cannot be installed in pools that have copper pipes. Many pools in the sixties and seventies had copper plumbing. Salt will eat away at the copper over a period of time. So plastic pipes need to be installed which can become very costly.

These are the major pros and cons of owning a salt water pool. You decide is it worth it to have soft skin nice hair and the absence of red eyes? Many think it is the only way to go and wouldn't ever go back to fresh water pools.

Salt Water Pool Review

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Treating Smelly Hot Tubs

Does your spa or hot tub smell? Does it have odors that you just can't get rid of? Let's try to figure this out. More often than not, many spa owners blame the odors on "too much chlorine." Unfortunately, that is rarely the case - especially if you're not using chlorine! Some odors are chemical, some are environmental. Most odors can be successfully treated and cured. Odors can even be prevented with proper maintenance.

Smelly Spa & Hot Tub Odors are caused by:

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• Improper sanitizer use
• Improper water balance
• Lack of regular maintenance
• Insufficient drain & refill procedures
• Environmental reasons caused by uncontrolled biofilm build up

Don't try masking odors with spa fragrances & aromatherapy products. You'll only make the situation worse. Deal with the root causes.

Treating Smelly Hot Tubs

Chlorine and bromine are both excellent sanitizers used in spas and hot tubs. When they are used, they do breakdown, actually combine with, waste products of what they have sanitized. These wastes are typically in the form of nitrogen and when the nitrogen combines with the chlorine, they become smelly chloramines; when combined with bromine, they become bromamines. The real bad news is that chloramines are virtually worthless at killing bacteria. Bromamines however, are still somewhat effective sanitizers.

Consumer studies have shown that people actually like the smell of chlorine; at least when it's in its useable state! A "fresh" chlorine odor reminds people of cleanliness & sanitary conditions. Chloramines are a different matter especially when further combined with carbon dioxide gassing from the air jets, while also driving up the pH. That's what gives you that acrid or acidic "chlorine" odor that nobody likes. That's one of the "false" reasons people then switch to bromine. But bromine has its own di-stink-t odor (sorry, I couldn't resist).

In order to break up these combined chlorines & bromines, it is necessary to shock the water. Shocking, using additional chlorine or a non-chlorine oxidizer such as potassium mono-persulfate, breaks the chemical bonds. The trick is to allow the waste to fully gas off from the spa water. What happens if the waste is not allowed to gas-off? Chloramines and bromamines recombine with a vengeance. Excess chloramines & bromamines can also lead to "red-eye" (tear gas is a form of chloramine). You won't only smell the problem, different parts of your body will feel the problem.

The gassing-off process is simple: after shocking, leave the spa cover off of the spa for at least 1 - 2 hours (ideally). If the waste is not fully allowed to gas-off, the waste chloramines and bromamines literally hit the underside of the spa cover and fall back into the water! Even if your spa is not regularly used, it is an excellent idea to remove the cover for at least one hour weekly to let the "bad air" gas-off.

Keep in mind that as similar thing happens with an indoor spa thereby requiring good & constant ventilation especially while the spa is being used. The condition can become worse as the waste gasses and un-oxidized bacteria are aerosolized into the room. People with asthma or other breathing trouble can experience a condition known as "hot tub lung."

We sometimes hear of customers noting similar "choking" odors when using biguanides such as BaquaSpa or Soft Soak or Leisure Time Free. A similar scenario is taking place: "used" biguanide molecules with attached wastes are being aerosolized out of the spa and into your face! Proper shocking with the hydrogen peroxide shock is necessary on a weekly basis to break up this un-filterable waste. Don't be afraid to double or triple shock. Do NOT however, use swimming pool hydrogen peroxide - the odor will be worse. Only use spa formulated biguanide products.

Poor water balance - especially very low or high pH - will affect the chlorine & bromine levels leading to chloramines and bromamines as mentioned above. Low pH (under 7.0) can cause the water to give off very acidic gases leading to coughing, wheezing or other health problems. Water having a High pH (over 7.8) can lead to stale & funky smells plus additional scaling.

Regular maintenance of your spa includes periodic (weekly at least) cleaning or wiping down of the spa surfaces (waterline, pillow areas, drink-cup rests, etc). This wiping also aids in removing the biofilm build-up on visible areas. Further regular cleaning involves cleaning the filter (chemically cleaning, not just rinsing) and cleaning the inside of the spa cover (monthly spray of Pristine) helps kill mold & mildew that grow in or on the insulating foam.

Draining & refilling of your spa or hot tub on a regular basis is the simplest, single best thing you can do to control odors. Be sure to know often to drain & refill; this varies with spa size, use, time of year, parties, even showering BEFORE using the spa. Typically every 4 to 12 weeks is good. Smaller 2 person spas normally need more frequent water changes than larger 8 person spas (except if 8 people are using the spa more than twice a week!). Take a look at our article about Purging, Draining & Refilling. Following that formula be sure to Purge (removes biofilm build-up), Drain, Clean (all surfaces & filter), and Refill.

Environmental reasons for spa & hot tub odors are due to the build-up of bio-films on spa surfaces and plumbing lines that contribute to the formation of White Water Mold and Pink Slime and all of their odors. As biofilms build, multiply, and spread throughout the spa system, odors worsen dramatically. For that reason it is almost mandatory to use plumbing line cleaning products such as Spa System Flush or Spa Purge.

Enzymes can further help prevent and eliminate odors by "eating" or consuming much of the greases, body oils and waste that interfere with whatever type of sanitizing system you use. With a little effort (no more than 15 - 20 minutes each week) you can effectively control and even eliminate odors in your spa.

Treating Smelly Hot Tubs

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Hot Tub Therapy - How Hot Tubs Lower Blood Pressure

That wonderful feeling you get whenever you sit back in a hot tub is because of the way your body reacts to the heat and jets of water. Our bodies are infinitely complex, and many types of therapies and drugs can work. Hydrotherapy, or the therapy of water, in a home hot tub is one way to improve on our health.

Hot tubs are great for those with high blood pressure (also known as hypertension), commonly defined as being greater than 140/90. For those with this condition, time in a hot tub or spa is an exceptionally beneficial therapy as it can assist medications.

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Blood pressure is necessary for us to survive, and it is produced in three different ways: heart rate (how rapidly the heart is beating); how much pressure the heart is pumping against (the more relaxed blood vessels are, the easier it is to pump blood into them, the tighter they are, the more difficult it is); and the volume of blood in the veins and arteries.

Hot Tub Therapy - How Hot Tubs Lower Blood Pressure

Hydrotherapy in a hot tub provides relief for high blood pressure because it dilates or opens up blood vessels so the heart doesn't have to pump as hard. This lowers blood pressure and it lowers the amount the heart has to work by up to 20%. Your body opens up the blood vessels because it thinks you are getting too warm and the ones near the surface of the skin relax in an effort to release heat.

This vasodilation (opening up of the vessels) allows oxygen to travel more easily to places where it normally does not go in great quantities. Because of the fact that oxygen is a necessary part of healing, hot tub hydrotherapy hastens healing.

Vasodilation serves a second purpose because the blood clears away wastes from different parts of the body in the same way that it circulates nutrients. Whenever it's been a hard day and your muscles are aching, it is often because there is a build up of lactic acid. The faster blood gets to the muscles to remove the lactic acid, the faster they will feel better. This also permits your muscles to relax.

A hot tub is a significant purchase that can pay dividends on your health for years to come. Make sure you check with a doctor before treating yourself for any disease or condition.

Hot Tub Therapy - How Hot Tubs Lower Blood Pressure

Rebecca Naylor is a nurse who has an interest in how the body works. She is always looking for ways to improve quality of life for her patients. She offers more health improving information on the health benefits page of her hot tubs and saunas [http://www.hot-tubs-n-saunas.com] site. Check out her other sites with helpful info: skin care and cosmetics [http://www.skin-care-n-cosmetics.com] and plus size clothing.

Hot Tub Safety - Are Hot Tubs Bad For Your Health

As inviting and innocuous-looking as your Jacuzzi or hot tub may seem, using it for therapeutic purposes will require more precaution than you probably expect. The first rule is: if there are potentially bothersome health issues, talk to your doctor. There are bodily conditions that warrant some amount of prudence.

Pregnancy

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Most doctors will probably agree that it isn't advisable for pregnant women to take too hot a bath. Who knows what injury the unborn baby may sustain if the mother's body has gotten too warm? Pathogens in the water pose an added danger. Forgoing the delights of a hot tub until after giving birth and healing is a wise option many pregnant women take.

Hot Tub Safety - Are Hot Tubs Bad For Your Health

Heart Diseases

Be careful if you are taking anticoagulants. These blood-thinning drugs can make you vulnerable under extreme temperature. They may combine with the heat of the tub to cause fainting, dizziness or nausea. If the doctor gave you the go-signal to immerse yourself in the water, follow the prescribed duration and temperature, and if you feel anything undesirable or out of the ordinary, get out of the tub as soon as you can. Do it slowly, carefully. Take a cool shower, taking care that the water you shower with is not cold, and drink some more water.

High Blood Pressure

The relaxation brought about by a hot tub bath will be quite beneficial if you are suffering from high blood pressure. But beware of unwanted reactions if you are taking hypertensive mediations. Again, check with your physician first before taking that dip.

Substance Use

Imbibing alcohol while in the hot tub is like driving under the influence. When combined with the heat of the water, the dehydrating and blood-thinning effect of the alcohol may cause you to become weak or dizzy. You may also get sleepy and doze off until you slip under the water. Avoid taking over-the-counter drugs known to have the side effect of drowsiness. These would include cold, sinus and cough medications. Needless to say, you are in even greater danger if you are using illicit chemicals.

Exceeding Time Limits

There's a limit to how long you, or anyone for that matter, should stay in a steaming tub. No more than twenty minutes inside is a good guideline. Conversing can make some people stay in the water more than is necessary. Getting overheated or dehydrated can be the result.

Water-Borne Diseases

Beware of the following conditions that may result from a poorly sanitized tub water, already made conducive to bacterial growth by the warm temperature in the first place:

• "Hot tub" folliculitis, or pseudomonas folliculitis, an infection characterized by reddening and pus-filled blisters, and requiring medical attention.
• The even more serious and potentially fatal Legionnaires' disease, a form of pneumonia that is transmitted through water spray when breathed in.
• Infections of the upper respiratory tract and the middle ear caused by bobbing of the head in and out of water.

Besides being a great way to relax, hot tubs offer therapeutic effects, when done the proper way, which is, with safety in mind. There are times when it should be altogether avoided, even under professional supervision. Otherwise certain precautions should be put into place. Hot tub or spa owners, take heed!

Hot Tub Safety - Are Hot Tubs Bad For Your Health

For more information on Hot Tub Safety visit Facts About Hot Tubs Guide, a popular site about the therapuetic benefits of hot tubs. Find out how to choose the right hot tub, where and how to install it and the safety and health aspects that must be observed.

Cheap Hot Tubs - How You Can Find One

Not everyone can afford to pay ,000 (or more) for a hot tub. Add expenses for chemicals, accessories, installation, and a good quality hot tub cover and you are spending some serious cash. Are there less expensive ways to get a good soak? Absolutely! Leaving aside the possibility that you could build your own, there are several other ways of finding a cheap hot tub.

After shopping at your local spa dealer you might be discouraged with how high the prices are. Even the discount factory warehouse chains sometimes seem to lure you in with a low price in a newspaper ad, then try and talk you out of buying the advertised one and spending instead on a top of the line hot tub. They will use arguments like, "this discount tub is a closeout and the technology has come a long way since this has been manufactured". Or come up with things like "the insulation in this other tub is much more efficient", "the motor is more powerful", or have some other reason to steer you toward a more expensive tub. Some of the things salespeople are saying might be absolutely true, but they are trying to play on your fears and emotions to get you to spend more than you might have initially budgeted.

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Step back for a minute and really evaluate your needs and budget. Recently our local factory warehouse ran a newspaper ad and featured a hot tub on sale for 0. "A cheap hot tub, a piece of junk" the salesman said, when I asked about it. "Let me show you a real hot tub". What he didn't say of course was that the "real hot tub" sold for ,000. But if you are willing to put up with cheaper construction, a less powerful motor, and higher lifetime heating costs, the difference in purchase price between the two hot tubs might make buying the less expensive one a perfectly reasonable decision. You can normally add lights and some other accessories after you have used the tub for awhile. You can probably decide later to add an accessory if you are missing something you really want.

Cheap Hot Tubs - How You Can Find One

If you research spas you'll find lots of information about acrylic shells, fancy heating units, insulation, and dozens of other factors you to consider when buying a hot tub. If the one factor that is most important to you is price, then there is at least one manufacturer who makes a cheap hot tub [http://www.spa-hot-tub-covers.com/pages/other-hot-tub-info.php#5] -- a new and complete unit for less than ,000. It's also very light so it is inexpensive to ship. Of course there are lots of things that you won't get with a lower end model, like fancy lights, seating for 8, or a powerful heater, but any hot tub is better than no hot tub, right?

eBay, the king of online auctions, typically has dozens of hot tub auctions running at any one time. Most of these tubs are new and you do need to be careful about the shipping costs which can run 0 or more. Frequently the delivery company will only put the spa on the curb and it will be up to you (and probably take a lot of your neighbors) to find a way to lug it to the location where you want it.

Buying a used spa is another way of acquiring a hot tub without paying full price. Local classified newspaper advertising or your area's ad rags will frequently carry offers from people who have a unit to sell. You do have to be cautious about the quality of used hot tubs. If someone has one sitting empty in their backyard be very careful and check it out completely. There are dangers to buying used spas, and if the hot tub is not set up and running so you can test the pump, heater, and other features, then you might be very disappointed when you get it home and set up.

It might take a little more time and energy to find them, but there are some cheap hot tubs out there. Be patient and persistent, and you'll be soaking in a steaming hot tub before you know it!

Cheap Hot Tubs - How You Can Find One

Rodney Wallin writes about hot tubs and helps to sort out the facts from the hype. Head over to his website at www.spa-hot-tub-covers.com for direct links to sources of cheap hot tubs.

NOTE: You have full permission to reprint this article within your website or newsletter as long as you leave the article fully intact and include the author's bio and the website link.

Mold in Spas & Hot Tubs

We've seen White Water Mold (WWM) in swimming pools for almost 20 years. Now we are beginning to see it spas & hot tubs as well. WWM is a "naturally" ocurring fungus that can show up anywhere there is water or moisture.

Customers are calling and asking about and mentioning a "wet tissue like" substance on the surface(s) of the spa shell, filter pleats and other places. Sometimes, a slight "pinkish" coloring is noticed alongside the mold. That is called "pink slime." The two often go hand-in-hand.

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Unfortunately, by the time you notice the WWM or pink slime in the spa itself, it almost always means that the plumbing lines, jets, pump components, etc. are completely infested. By the way, WWM & Pink slime is not harmful - it just looks REALLY bad.

Mold in Spas & Hot Tubs

How do you get rid of it? With lots or effort! The WWM is a biofilm that builds up overtime in the plumbing lines & gradually spreads throughout the spa. Customers typically notice that the spa has a "funky" odor and they can't maintain a good level of sanitizer (chlorine, bromine, or biguanide). The biofilm build-up is VERY resilient against any kind of shocking or high levels of halogens (chlorine or bromine). The bottom line is you want to prevent it rather than treat it.

How do you prevent White Water Mold & Pink Slime? Pretty simply. Follow these steps:

1. Maintain a good sanitizer level.
2. Shock regularly (at least weekly).
3. Maintain good water balance (pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness).
4. Add a good quality natural enzyme such as SpaGuard Natural Enzyme or Natural Chemistry Spa Perfect. Enzymes do great jobs "eating up" organic matter. That's what these 2 critters are - organic matter. Using enzymes according to label instructions will make a world of difference. A couple of ounces weekly makes the difference.
5. Keep up on your regular maintenance - keep the surfaces wiped down (all surfaces under the water). Wipe around spa pillows, jets, lights, handrails, etc.
6. Chemically clean the filter at least every 6 weeks. Rinsing alone will not suffice.
7. Drain & refill the spa every 3 to 4 months. The bulk of problem cases we see occur when the spa is not regularly drained, cleaned & refilled.
8. When draining & refilling, be sure to use a product like Spa Purge, Swirl Away or Spa System Flush. These products will break down a lot of biofilm build-up prior to draining. Regular use whenever the spa is drained will prevent re-infestations.

One of the newer products that we are having very good success with is AquaFinesse. AquaFinesse specifically targets biofilms allowing a better "kill" by the chlorine or bromine. Customers who are or have been using AquaFinesse, report really nice feeling water, simpler water balancing care and a significant decrease in the use of chlorine.

Proper maintenance makes spa & hot tub care easy. It also enhances your enjoyment of your hot water investment.

Mold in Spas & Hot Tubs

Find out more at our Knowledge Base at http://www.spacareonline.com, or directly at this White Water Mold link.

http://www.parpools.com

House Plans - Selecting a Bathtub

One of the most significant additions to your new home is selecting your bathtubs. Choosing the proper tub for each bathroom is an important decision. Just as you had to choose amongst everything from luxury home floor plans to traditional ranch plans, bathtub options are plentiful. Bathtubs can be built-in or freestanding, soaking tubs, shower combinations, or tubs built for two. And each style is offered in an abundance of materials, shapes and sizes.

The size of your bathroom will set the stage for your options. Keep in mind that home style often guides but certainly doesn't dictate bathroom size. Colonial houseplans, for example, may often feature smaller bathrooms. Tubs can range from 40 to 85 inches in length and 22-72 inches in width and 12-32 inches in depth. Different sizes account for different functions. A deeper tub is more suitable for soaking, or for people of larger stature. In contrast, a petite person may be uncomfortable in a deep, larger tub. Design your bathroom to meet your needs and accommodate the home's style.

\"Garden Tubs\"

Built-in and freestanding tubs are the two most common styles in most homes. Built-ins can either be alcove, drop-in or corner designs. Alcove tubs are the standard American bathtub. These frontal exposure tubs are on the shallow side, typically include a shower, and are available with limited customizable options.

House Plans - Selecting a Bathtub

Drop-in, or sunk-in, models are sunken into the floor or a tub deck and can also be described as garden tubs. The expansive deep spa tub makes them ideal for relaxing, especially in large bathrooms with a separate shower. The surrounding deck space is ideal for candles and soaking accessories for a spa-like experience. Corner models are similar, as they are situated to the corner of the bathroom with surrounds on the two sides.

Freestanding tubs include an abundance of styles, including the classic claw-foot, pedestal and other legged designs common in many country farm house plans. These models have exposed pipes so they are easier to install, require no additional framework and are often thought of as antique with a certain amount of charm. They are also typically deeper than standard built-in models to accommodate for soaking.

Bathtubs can be made from a multitude of materials. Porcelain on steel (POS) is the most common due to its resistance to corrosion, acid and abrasion. It is also lightweight and moderately priced in comparison to other materials. Fiberglass is also a popular choice because of its price. It is not the most durable of materials, but can be repaired fairly easily. Acrylic is also used, although are prone to wear and tear over time. Products are available to resurface acrylic and buff out any scratches. On the pricier side is enameled cast iron. With the high cost comes a very durable material as it is extremely resistant to chipping and scratching. Other "high-end" options include marble and granite.

House Plans - Selecting a Bathtub

With all of the options involved, it is best to visit showrooms and search sites such as House Plans and More to find a tub to suit your home. Whether you are building from colonial houseplans or country farm house plans, any plan can turn into luxury home floor plans with the right bathtub in place.

The History Of Steel Reinforced Concrete

There is a number of building materials that have been found to be exceptional when used in the construction of buildings. One of these exceptional building materials is steel reinforced concrete. Steel reinforced concrete is a specific type that has had strong steel rebar or fibers added to it while wet, creating a very strong type of concrete that is able to withstand almost anything when it has dried. Because the results of using steel reinforced are so good for the strength of the building, most modern buildings today use steel reinforced concrete in the construction process.

The advantages of using this in building construction was first discovered in the mid 1800's by a man by the name of Joseph Louis Lambot. He found that by adding thin steel bars or steel fibers to concrete, he could greatly increase the strength of the concrete, making it better for use in a variety of applications. In the early years, this was used for making a number of items, such as reinforced garden tubs, road guardrails, and reinforced beams. There were a number of different types of reinforced concrete products on the market because construction firms all wanted to use the product, but no standard method of production had yet been developed.

\"Garden Tubs\"

Over time, many different companies tried their hand at creating the perfect type of steel reinforced concrete. Through much trial and error, the best versions of this became widely known while the lesser brands slowly faded away. Buildings that used reinforced concrete in their construction began popping up all over the world, especially in the United States and Europe. This caused the buildings to have stronger support and last longer, allowing constructors to begin building upward and reducing limitations on weight and height for the buildings. One company in Europe completed over 7,000 buildings using reinforced concrete during its first ten years of operation.

The History Of Steel Reinforced Concrete

In 1878, the first system was patented in the United States by an American by the name of Thaddeus Hyatt. The Pacific Coast Borax Company refinery, located in Alameda, California, was the first building constructed in the United States using this new system. The popularity of the process skyrocketed in the early 1900's and soon, a majority of the developers in the country were using steel reinforced concrete in the construction of their steel buildings. The process has been refined over the years, constantly changing and improving the formula for making high-quality steel reinforced concrete.

Today, many of the buildings located in industrialized nations use steel reinforced concrete to make the buildings stronger and better able to withstand the ravages of time and the weather. Reinforcing the concrete that will be used on the building adds tensile strength to the concrete, making it much stronger and more flexible that regular concrete, which helps prevent cracking and breakage. Steel reinforced concrete can be used in a number of building applications, including floors, beams, supports, walls, and frames.

The History Of Steel Reinforced Concrete

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