Question 1

What is a Sanitizer?

Accepted Answer

A sanitizer is used to kill bacteria and inhibit the growth of algae and other organic contaminants. Contaminants can enter your pool by wind, rain, dust and above all else ; swimmers. The most popular sanitizer is Chlorine.

Question 2

What is the difference between Free Chlorine, Total Chlorine and Combined Chlorine?"

Accepted Answer

Free Chlorine is Chlorine that is available to be used in your pool or spa and not attached to a contaminant.   Combined Chlorine is Chlorine that is present in the water however it is combined with a contaminant rendering it useless.   Total Chlorine is the sum of Free and Combined Chlorine.

Question 3

What is the difference between Bromine and Chlorine?

Accepted Answer

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Question 4

What is the Difference between a "Salt Pool" and a "Chlorine Pool""

Accepted Answer

A "Salt Pool" is a pool that is chlorinated using a Salt Chlorine Generator. Chlorine is generated through a process of electrolysis when water with an appropriate level of salinity passes through the salt chlorinator to produce an even baseline of chlorine for your pool.   A "Chlorine Pool" is a pool that is chlorinated through the addition of stabilized chlorine tablets through your pool skimmer or chlorinator.

Question 5

What is Total Alkalinity and why do I need to balance it in my water?

Accepted Answer

Total Alkalinity is the measure of how many alkaline substances are in your water. in pool water we aim to have a Total Alkalinity of 80-120ppm (parts per million).   We correct Total Alkalinity for three reasons;   1)Pool Water Clarity - A pool Low in TA (Total Alkalinity) can cause pool water to be hazy or cloudy. 2)Skin and Eye Sensitivity - A pool low in TA can cause skin and eye sensitivity to bathers. 3)Elasticity of pool liner - Having Proper TA in your pool allows your pool vinyl liner to have elasticity. Without elasticity , your liner can wrinkle and become brittle.

Question 6

What is pH and why do I need to balance it in my water?

Accepted Answer

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Question 7

What Effect Does Copper and Iron have on my pool water?

Accepted Answer

Copper and Iron can be found in most pool water, in small amounts. There are usually more of these substances found in water from a well.   Although typically copper and iron do not cause issue in pool or spa water they can present their own challenges.   A concentration that is too high or Copper or Iron can cause extremely cloudy water. To rectify this you may need to use a metal sequestrant product.   Another common issue that these minerals can cause is staining. Prolonged periods of untreaded Copper and Iron in pool water can cause staining of fixtures such as Steps, ladders, fittings etc. This can easily be prevented by the regular use of a Staining and Scaling product.

Question 8

What are Phosphates, and do I need to worry about them?"

Accepted Answer

Phosphates are compounds of the non metallic phosphorous and are a primary food source for aquatic plants including all types of algae.   Phosphates are broken down into their simplest form , Orthophosphates in one of three ways: 1) Oxidation 2) Hydrolysis (decomposition by water) 3) Enzymatic Digestion   Phosphates come from fertilizers, decaying vegetaion, municipal water and cosmetic items on bathers( lotions, sunscreens, deodorants etc)   Phosphates are non toxic and are not harmful.Removing them as a way to remedy and prevent proliferation of algae is innefective. Your best bet is to maintain proper chlorine levels, regularly use an algaecide to prevent blooming of algae and shock your pool on a weekly basis.

Question 9

What is Algae, and where does it come from?"

Accepted Answer

Algae Spores continually enter the pool water by wind, rain , swimsuits and cleaning tools such as brushes and nets. A lack of good of circulation, filtration and sanitation is usually a contributing cause of pool algae. Algae is a living aquatic creature that multiplies rapidly on warm sunny days.

Question 10

How do I get rid of algae in my pool?

Accepted Answer

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Question 11

How do I get rid of mold in my hot tub?

Accepted Answer

Mold in your hot tub forms when there is a lack of sanitizer for an extended period of time. White Mold in a hot tub typically looks like shredded wet tissue paper.   To rid your hot tub of mold you must;   1) Add one entire jug of household bleach to hot tub and circulate for 24hrs to kill any mold in the lines of the hot tub. 2) Drain Hot tub and wipe down inside thoroughly. Do not forget to wipe down jets and pillows. 3) Replace Hot tub Filter with a new filter - the old filter must be disposed of as it is impossible to remove the mold spored from the fabric pleats.

Question 12

How do I get rid of cloudy pool water?

Accepted Answer

Cloudy water can be caused my a number of things such as;   a) Combined chlorine in the water  Solution: Treat with shock treatment.   b) pH is too high Solution: Add pH down to reach levels between 7.2 -7.6   c) Total Alkalinity is  too low Solution: Add Aka-Rise to reach recommended range of 80-150ppm   d) Calcium Hardness is too High   e) Extremely small particles in pool water caused by storm or pool flooding Solution: Add Filter aid such as Quick Clear or Crystal Cube. In extreme cases 'Floc' may be necessary.   f)  Poor circulation in certain areas Solution: Check the skimmer valve setting drawing water from the surface and bottom drain. Adjust setting of return nozzle downward.   g) Excessive dissolved solids in water Solution: solids build up in water used year after year. Backwash at the rate of 1% per day.

Question 13

How do I get rid of cloudy spa water?

Accepted Answer

Cloudy spa water can be caused by a variety of things;   a) Organic Contaminants build-up Solution: Shock Treatment with Spa shock   b)Suspended Particles Soluton : Add Spa Clear , use Zorbie or Scumbug   c) High pH Solution: Add pH reducer until pH level reaches range of 7.2- 7.6   d) Pool Filtration Solution: Filter is dirty - Clean filter with Cratridge cleaner   g) High Dissolved Solids Solution: Empty Spa and Refill.

Question 14

What is Cyanuric Acid and should I be Concerned?

Accepted Answer

Cyanuric acid, Also known as Stabilizer, is used to reduce the rate at which Free Chlorine is lost to ultraviolet rays.   Cyanuric acid is typically in the formula of pool and spa Chlorine tablets, and will build up over time as you continue to use tablets.   Cyanuric acid is not harmful, however when readings reach a certain level they can effect other water chemistry such as Chlorine, pH and Alkalinity.   Cyanuric acid can only be removed by draining and refilling pool or spa water. Cyanuric Acid can not be removed by a chemical.

Question 15

Are all Fragrances and Bath Salts safe to use in the hot tub?

Accepted Answer

Not all Fragrances and Bath Salts are meant to be used in a hot tub. Check the label of any products you are unsure of. A product that is safe to use in your hot tub without causing water balancing issues will say ' Spa Safe & Oil Free '

Question 16

How do I get rid of foam in my hot tub water?

Accepted Answer

Foam in the hot tub is typically caused by one of two things;   1) Oils brought in by bathers ie Body oils, lotions, hair gels, shampoos, etc   2) Detergent from bathing suits.   The oil causing the foam in your hot tub will eventually be filtered out of your hot tub water however to temporarily eliminate the foam in your tub you can use a product called " Defoamer".

Question 17

What is Black Algae? and how do I get rid of it?

Accepted Answer

Black algae is a type of algae that is very difficult to treat and irradicate. Black Algae can appear as a blackish discoloration or a tar-like substance.   To remove black algae try the following steps;   1) Brush Effected area   2) Reduce pH levels to 7.2   3) Add a "Quat Algaecide" to soften the outer layer of the algae ( Poolboss 10% or Algi - Out 5%)   4) Add a "Poly Algaecide"  ( Formula 500 or Formula 600)   5) Shock the pool with Instaboost or Pool Shock.

Question 18

What is Pink Algae? and how do I get rid of it?

Accepted Answer

Pink algae or slime is actually not algae at all, it is actually a bacteria.   The best type of algaecide to use to irradicate pink algae is a polymer algaecide or a silver algaecide.    Copper algaecides and "quat" algaecides are not effective againts bacterial problems.

Question 19

What is a "Quat" Algaecide?"

Accepted Answer

"Quat" or "Poly Quat" Algaecides are Ammonium compounds which treat and prevent growth of algae without the use of copper.

Question 20

What is AquaFinesse?

Accepted Answer

Aquafinesse is a natural, environmentally friendly water treatment system. It is not a sanitizer however it does play an important role in the control of bacteria.   Aquafinesse breaks down and loosens biofilms from surfaces in the hot tub so that they can be more easily destroyed by a minimal amount of sanitizer.   When new bacteria is introduced into the tub by bathers, bacteria can no longer stick to surfaces and multiply to become biofilm.

Question 21

What is Biofilm?

Accepted Answer

Biofilm is a slimy substance that is created by bacteria for use as a safe shelter, feeding and breeding ground. Bacteria enter the water through various sources including bathers. Needing somewhere safe, bacteria create themselves a slime ( biofilm) that allows them to stick to any damp surface area. In your spa this could be the acrylic, jets, filter and filter housing.   Biofilm is designed to protect the bacteria within. This makes it incredibly difficult for sanitizers alone to penetrate the biofilm.

Question 22

What is an Ozonator?

Accepted Answer

Ozone (o3) is a form of oxygen (o2) and is a powerful oxidizing agent that can control  microrganisms, destroy organic contamination, by-product build ups, dead algae and organic debris. Ozone however is not a true sanitizer as it does not last long in the water. You must still use a 'backup' sanitizer of chlorine or bromine.   'Ozonators' or 'Ozone Generators' produce ozone , and in turn reduce the amount of sanitizer you may need to use otherwise.

Question 23

What is a UV Sterilizer, in reference to pool sanitaton?"

Accepted Answer

UV light can be used as an alternative sanitizing method to very effectively destroy mircoorganisms in swimming pool water. Up to 99.9% of microorganisms can be destroyed  as the pool water passes through the unit. This dramatic reduction in microbial population helps to maintain better water conditions.   A UV light will reduce the amount of sanitizer required to maintain your pool however a sanitizer (Chlorine or Bromine) is still required.

Question 24

Can well water cause staining in my pool?

Accepted Answer

It is very common for well water to contain dissolved minerals, and when these contain copper, iron or manganese staining or discoloration may occur.   Well water however, is not the only reason staining can occur and metals in water can be treated so filling a pool or hot tub with water from a well shouldn't be a concern.

Question 25

How Does Live For Today's Installation list work?

Accepted Answer

Live For Today Pools and Spas has a numbered installation list for Above Ground Pool Installations, Inground Pool Installations, and repairs. This list is made in the order that deposits were received.  We do not offer specific dates for installations,as it is impossible to control factors such as the weather. We do, however, encourage customers to call or email at anytime to see how our teams our making out with the installations and to get a rough estimate for installation timeline.

Question 26

Does my pool installation include filling the pool with water?

Accepted Answer

No, quotes for pool installation typically do not include filling the pool with water.    We can, however, arrange for water delivery on the day of the pool installation. This is at the expense of the homeowner.

Question 27

Does my pool installation include electrical hook-up of equipment?

Accepted Answer

No, Unfortunately we do not have an electrician on staff.   Electrical hookup of circulation pumps,  heat pumps or lights must be done by a liscenced electrician.

Question 28

Will the soil be removed from my property after the pool dig for my installation is complete?

Accepted Answer

Soil removed during the pool dig will remain onsite.   We can arrange for removal of soil at the homeowners request. This is done at the expense of the homeowner.

Question 29

Will someone go over with me the best spot to place the pool?

Accepted Answer

Yes! If there is any concern on where the pool will be placed Live for Today will be more than happy to arrange a site visit to discuss where the best spot for your pool might be.   The installation team will also inquire with the homeowner before starting the installation where the pool is to be placed.

Question 30

Do I need a pool permit?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your community, a pool permit may be required.   You can contact your closest town hall to inquire if a permit is required in your area.   Acquiring a pool permit is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Question 31

Is there any laws about where I can install a swimming pool?

Accepted Answer

Yes , in many communties there are by-laws regarding the installation of swimming pools.   Check with your community's by-laws to find out more about what regulations there are in our area.   Most by-laws are easily accesible online, or you can contact your closest town hall.

Question 32

Is my pool deposit refundable?

Accepted Answer

The $1000 Deposit that was made to hold your spot on the installation list is refundable should you choose not to go ahead with your installation.   The amount will be refunded in full if the deposit was made by cash or cheque.   The amount will be refunded minus 2% processing fee if the deposit was made by credit card.

Question 33

When does Live for Today start Pool Installations in the spring?

Accepted Answer

Each year we hope to begin pool installations as soon as possible. When the temperatures are consistently above 10 degrees and the frost is out of the ground is usually when we aim to begin. Some seasons we are able to start in May and other seasons it is not until later in June that the temperatures are conducive to pool installations.

Question 34

How long does it take to install an above ground pool?

Accepted Answer

Typically it takes 2-3 Days to Install an above ground pool.   Keep in mind this is 2-3 days if the weather is conducive to pool installation.   Delays may occur if there is excessive rain, temperatures below 10 degrees, or frost.

Question 35

How Long does it take to install an Inground pool?

Accepted Answer

Typically it will take 10-14 Days to install an Inground Pool.   Keep in mind that this is 10-14 days that are conducive to pool installation.   Delays may occur if there is excessive rain , low temperatures or frost.   Additional lanscaping in conjuction with the pool( ie brickwork, contruction etc) may lengthen the installation period.

Question 36

How To Change Filter Sand

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Question 37

How To Change Filter Settings on the Sand Filter

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Question 38

How to Manually Vacuum Pool

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Question 39

How to get an Air Lock out of your Hot Tub

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Question 40

How to clean your spa filter

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Question 41

How to read a Test Strip

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Question 42

How to Clean a Dolphin Automatic Pool Cleaner Filter Bag

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Question 43

How to prime a pool pump

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Question 44

How to Drain and Clean your Hot Tub

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Question 45

How to Backwash your Sandfilter

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Question 46

How to use Aquafinesse Spa Clean Tablet

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Question 47

How to use Aquafinesse Filter Cleaner Tablets

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Question 48

How to Add Aquafinesse to your Spa

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Question 49

How to soak your Salt Cell

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Question 50

What Brand of Hot tubs do you sell?

Accepted Answer

The brand of Hot tubs we sell is Hydropool.   You can see what they have to offer at the link below:   www.Hydropoolhottubs.com

Question 51

How much will it cost me for the electricity for the Hot Tub?

Accepted Answer

Hydropool Hot Tubs are very energy efiicient.   You will likely spend approximately $50/month on electricity on PEI for the use of the hot tub.*   *Based on average use of 3-4 times per week.

Question 52

What is required for chemical maintenance for a hot tub?

Accepted Answer

Weekly Maintenance is required for the hot tub to ensure clear water.   Each week you will add your recommended dose of Aquafinesse.  You will also maintain a sanitizer level of at least 1ppm by ensuring your chlorine or bromine tablets have not dissolved.   You may need to check your sanitizer levels 1-2 times per week.   On a monthly basis it is recommended that you test your water to ensure pH, Alkilinity and Calcium Hardness are in Range.   You may use test strips at home more frequently to test these factors quickly and easily.

Question 53

When do I clean the hot tub filters?

Accepted Answer

It is recommended that the filter(s) in your hot tub are to be removed every 1-2 weeks to be rinsed of debris and buildup.   It is recommended that periodically you should soak your filters for a deeper clean. You can use Cartridge Cleaner or AquaFinesse Hot Tub Filter Tablets.

Question 54

Where are Hydropool Hot tubs Made?

Accepted Answer

Hydropool Hot Tubs are proudly made in Canada.

Question 55

Where can I install my Hot tub?

Accepted Answer

A hot tub can be installed on a Deck, Concrete Slab, or simply on a pad of patio stones.   If the Hot Tub is installed ontop of a deck you must ensure that the deck is built to withstand the weight of a Hot tub.

Question 56

Can my Hot tub be installed into a deck?

Accepted Answer

A Hot Tub can be sunk into a deck however there must be adequate access to the hot tub for maintenance and warranty purposes.

Question 57

What is the highest temperature the hot tub will go?

Accepted Answer

The highest temperature a Hot Tub will be able to be set a is 104 degrees.

Question 58

Can my hot tub be used in the winter?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Hydropool Hot Tubs are made in Canada for Canadian Winters.   We suggest that when considering the purchase of a Hot tub to place the tub in an area that will be easily accessible throughout ALL seasons to accomodate fall / winter use of the hot tub.

Question 59

What is the Warranty on Hydropool Hot tubs?

Accepted Answer

10 Year warranty on Shell- This refers to the fiberglass structure of your hot tub or swimspa and specifically guarantees the fiberglass againts cracking or failure due to workmanship or materials for a period of 10 years from the original purchase date.    5 Year warranty on Acrylic Finish - This refers to the interior acrlyic surface and specifically relates to protection against blistering, delamination or cracking for a period of 5 years from the original retail purchase date. This guarantee does not apply to interior surface damage caused by irregular impact, freezing, poor chemical maintenance  or the use of non approved equipment or accessories.    3 Year warranty - This refers to the plumbing, jets, valves and fittings, support package (pump,motor,and spa pack). These components are guaranteed for a period of 3 years from the original purchase date to be free from defects caused by poor workmanship or materials. The guarantee is exempt from failure or deterioration of the product as a result of improper hookup, freezing, improper care, improper water chemistry or any other factor that in the opionon of Hydropool or our retailers caused or contributed to the failure.

Question 60

How often should I drain my Hot tub?

Accepted Answer

It is recommended that when using the Aquafinesse Water Care System that the Hot Tub is Drained two times per year.   It is good practice to drain your spa once in the spring and once in the fall so that you will not need to drain the tub in the winter months.

Question 61

If I dont want to use my Hot tub during the summer, can I just empty it?"

Accepted Answer

Many people choose not to use their hot tub during the summer months as the temperature outdoors rises.   Although there is no concern of components in the hot tub freezing during these warmer months, it is recommended that the hot tub be drained and that the lines be blown out with a utility wet/dry vac so that mold/bacteria does not build up in the stagnant wanter remaining in the hot tub.

Question 62

If I dont want to use my Hot Tub in the Winter, What do I do?"

Accepted Answer

If for any reason you do not wish to use your hot tub all year round, you must Winterize your hot tub to prevent any of the components from freezing.   Live for Today offers the service of winterizing your hot tub for the price of $150 (+HST)   You can also contact us at any time and we can provide you with the instructions on how to winterize your spa.

Question 63

What will happen to my Hot Tub if the power goes out?

Accepted Answer

Hydropool Hot tubs are made in Canada, for Canadian Weather.   If the there is a power outage, your tub will keep temperature above freezing for many days, given that you do not open the cover to retain the heat.   If you are concerned about your hot tub freezing, place a low wattage space heater under the cabinet in the equipment area. This will delay the risk of freezing.

Question 64

How long does a Hot tub filter last?

Accepted Answer

If you have one Hot tub filter that is being used continuously, it will last you roughly 6 months before it is to be replaced.   If you have two filters that you rotate back and forth and are well maintained, a set of filters may last you a year and a half to two years.