How to Turn Your Pool into a Spa

 In Pool Heating

Converting your luxury pool into a spa can transform your backyard into your very own tranquil paradise. Spas continue to increase in demand due to the benefits it offers the body. The hot water of the spa can ease aches and pains, and promote a feeling of well-being. Turning your pool into a spa does not include a tedious renovation; in fact, the process can take only a few weeks. For residents of New York and Connecticut, the high water temperatures in a spa can help extend your usage past the summer.

Raising the Temperature

Spas have high temperatures ranging from 99 to 104 degrees while pools range from 80 to 85 degrees. Creating a spa does not force you to buy a new heating system. In fact, most pools have a spa mode function.

High water temperatures cause the pH balance to change frequently. Spas also need alkalinity testing and balancing at least three times a week. Remember to check the water level after each use since bathers lose more than a liter of body fluids while in a spa. For a chlorine system, the total maintenance costs approximately $800 per year. You will also need to install on-scale resisters since warm water has a tendency to drop out calcium and magnesium. These two minerals can create small deposits in your pool.

How to Balance Chemicals

A spa requires the same maintenance as a pool. Use a test strip to check and adjust the chemical levels in your spa frequently. Most test strips provide 6-in-1 readings including alkalinity, calcium, chlorine, pH, and bromine. Be sure to keep your spa water running when adding the chemicals, so the jets can propel the chemicals in the water. Being that a spa and pool share the same mechanics, they must also use the same chemicals. But, a salt-water pool requires a higher maintenance cost due to the salt chlorinator. The chlorinator in salt-water hot tubs produces a steady flow of chlorine at all times which is softer on the skin. Salt is corrosive at high temperatures, so saltwater spas need frequent replacements of metal parts and internal components.

Installing Jets

When converting your pool into a spa you will need many jets. Jets promote the flow of warm water and provide relaxing massage bubbles. Jets come in a wide variety of nozzle and plumbing configurations. Thus, you should choose a jet that produces mild, relaxing pressure. High-pressure jets have a higher water volume, which can be discomforting for some swimmers. Try buying smaller jets for spas with small children and seniors. Medium to large jets can sooth seniors’ aching joints and bones. Soft tissue jets offer a softer feel that provides a comforting experience than sturdy standard jets. The soft tissue massage nozzle will offer a therapeutic massage.

Jets are available in plastic and stainless steel. Pool professionals recommend stainless steel jets because of their aesthetic and anti-corrosive properties. In order for jets to run efficiently, be sure to remove and clean jets once per year. You should also soak them in a mild vinegar solution to help with hard mineral buildup. For an improved jet performance, check your filter periodically in case you need a replacement.

Health Benefits of a Spa

Spas have optimized the ancient practice of hydrotherapy. The high temperatures in spas can treat muscle and joint stiffness, inflammatory diseases, and even spinal pain. Spas also work wonders for your mental well-being, submerging in a spa for ten minutes helps relieves daily stress. If you suffer from insomnia, hot tubs can better prepare you for sleep by relaxing your body. Hot tubs can also help lower blood pressure!

Luxury Pool or Luxury Spa?

Homeowners who have a pool often contemplate on the extra amenity of a spa. Installing an attached spa can cost approximately $15,000 dollars. Summer is approaching and the thought of looking at a construction site is not appealing. Turning your pool into a spa is the best option. The spa uses the same plumbing and mechanical systems as your pool, so installation will not break the bank. Adding a spa will extend your pool usage beyond summer because of the high temperatures of the water. Your pool can be a hot spring this fall. Dial (203) 357-1544 to see how Shoreline Pools can transform your pool into a luxurious spa! Make sure to also follow us on HOUZZ.

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