10 tips to extend the life of your spa

Practical tips to maximize the lifespan of your spa

1. Install your spa following the manufacturer’s guidelines. First and foremost, ensure that the location you’ve selected is suitable. The surface should be level, firm, and sturdy enough to support the weight of the spa when filled with water and bathers. Additionally, make sure that water can drain properly around the spa to avoid any pooling or damage.

2. Test water regularly. Check the pH of your water and make sure it stays between 7.2 and 7.8 to prevent corrosion and ensure your sanitizer works effectively. Another bonus: it helps keep the water more comfortable for bathers!

3. Use products recommended by your Sima dealer. It’s crucial to use the right products in the proper quantities. For instance, adding too much sanitizer can cause discoloration of the parts and damage the jets and cushions.

4. Maintain your pipes. Don’t overlook the maintenance of the less visible areas of your spa! As recommended by your retailer, use a descaler weekly and an all-in-one cleaning kit to descale the plumbing at least once a year, during the water change. This ensures clean pipes, improved circulation, and helps extend the lifespan of both your heater and pump.

5. Clean your spa thoroughly. Regular maintenance with the right products is essential to preserve your spa. Clean the waterline and the acrylic surfaces and be sure to regularly clean and replace the cartridge filters to keep them working efficiently.

6. Inspect your spa regularly. Regularly open the spa cover to release any buildup of sanitizer vapors, and take the time to inspect the jets, pumps, and check for any signs of leaks. Replace parts as need to ensure your spa lasts longer.

7. Monitor the water level. Ensure the water level in your spa is sufficient and top it up if necessary (a guide typically indicates the recommended level). Low water levels can cause the spa to shut down, which may lead to potential issues. Stagnant, untreated water can compromise water quality, and the worst-case scenario is a spa that freezes in winter, potentially causing significant damage.

8. Be smart about winter operation. To keep the heat locked in and your water at the perfect temperature, ensure your spa cover is securely sealed. As temperatures drop, boost your filtration cycles to keep the water circulating through the jets, preventing freezing and ensuring your spa is always ready for use.

9. Be ready for a winter breakdown. If your spa must stop running temporarily, keep a small space heater on hand to place underneath it while waiting for repairs. If immediate repairs aren’t possible or in the event of an extended breakdown, always have a supply of spa antifreeze available so you can quickly winterize your spa. Leaving your spa inactive in the winter can lead to freezing, which can cause costly, even irreversible damage, such as cracks in the acrylic.

10. Call in the professionals! To ensure your spa’s longevity, trust a Sima dealer for its opening and closing. Improper winterizing could lead to unpleasant surprises come spring. Our Sima experts, specialized in spas, have the right tools and the best advice for optimal maintenance. They can even come to you, offering home service for ultimate convenience!