The weather will start to turn colder and the beautiful New England leaves prepare to fall.  Now is a good time to prepare your swimming pool and hot tub.

These are tips to consider. 

Or, give us a call (or get a quote) and we can schedule your Fall pool and spa maintenance.

Fall Maintenance Tips

Please call us to clean your pool if it looks anything like the pools in this video!

860-618-2310

Is Draining the Right Option?

Draining will depend on the type of pools. You should avoiding draining fiberglass and vinyl pools. The old vinyl liners can shrink while draining and the fiberglass is lightweight.

Water removal might affect the quality and longevity of the material. If you avoid draining, you will have to spend hundreds of dollars on chemicals to recover the poor water. However, it will not serve the purpose completely. The recovered water can still contain certain bacteria.

It is important to understand the type of material and then you can plan the cleaning accordingly. Wrong cleaning methods might affect the durability and appearance of your pool. Jason the Pool Guy has licensed experienced professionals ready to repair any pool.

Nature can be brutal to a spa.  Your Hot Tub can go bad in a few days or weeks without being filtered or sanitized.  In our Connecticut temperatures, spa water can stay fresh for up to two weeks, if covered tightly.

After a week or two the water in your tub will begin to grow algae and bacteria, even without light and under a dark spa cover. Spas that sit untended will begin to grow biofilm or bacterial colonies. It's the kind of scum you see in a toilet that hasn't been used or cleaned in a while.

Hot Tubs sitting unused and unmaintained for a period longer than a few weeks, you may need professional help.  This video show a definite worst-case-scenario. 

Call us to take care of an unmaintained Spa.

We will:

• Drain and Clean
• Refill and Reset
• Test the Filtering System
• Re-balance the Water

Your hot tub can actually be the best place to cool-off during a heat wave.

With the cover off and air jets running, the water temperature will drop quickly.   Put your spa in cool-water mode, or just reduce the temperature setting to 85°F or less.  You can also turn the heater off. 

To maintain a reduced water temperature, keep your hot tub covered during sunny days.  Then run the hot tub with the cover off. This will cool the water!  Because water heats slower than the outside air.

And A Cool Hot Tub Saves Energy

Without the costs of the heater, your hot tub will only cost pennies a day. 

So when the temperature rises, use your valuable investment and enjoy your spa as a cool-down soak.

A hot tub can last anywhere from 5-20 years or more; that is the time your life will be improved. Cheaper hot tubs made with lower quality materials won't last long. If those hot tubs are not well maintained, they may not last more than 5 years. Quality hot tubs that receive excellent care can be enjoyed for as long as 20 or more years.

A new pool liner and a few nice liner accessories can completely renovate any tired-looking vinyl pool.

Swimming pool liners add the most to the look of your pool. More importantly, they keep the water in the pool!

Hydrocare has supplied and installed thousands of pool liners to homeowners just like you. Choose from a wide variety of colors and patterns in several thicknesses. A thicker pool liner is less likely to puncture, hides uneven pool floor areas better, and may have a longer life span. Darker pool liners and swirl patterns tend to hide dirt and debris better than solid blueliners and may have a small solar benefit.

Contact us to schedule a new pool liner install.

Soaking in a spa is very relaxing and people love them. Owning a hot tub means that people will always want to come over and enjoy the soothing and healing powers of the heated water.

Like hot tubs attract people, they may also attract unwanted bugs and varmints.  Here are some of the more common tips on preventing them from becoming a drain on time, money, and resources.

Clear the area of food

You are likely to attract pests with food left around your hot tub area.   When you go camping, use the same motto, "Leave no trace."  Rats and raccoons will dine on crumbs and food left out.

Relaxing in a hot sauna may not only feel good -- it might affect your heart and blood vessels in ways that are similar to moderate exercise.

That's the finding of a new study that tested the effects of a 30-minute sauna session. The researchers say their results may help explain why people who regularly use saunas tend to have a decreased risk for heart disease and even dementia.

On average, the study found, sauna users saw a drop in blood pressure and artery "stiffness" immediately after their heat bath. They also showed an increase in heart rate that was similar to the effect from moderate exercise.

Vinyl swimming pool liners stay useful between 10 and 15 years.  The factors that determine this are

• water chemistry
• sun exposure
• frequency of use
• liner thickness

All of these affect the lifespan of your liner.

Maintaining the proper water chemistry is vital to increasing the longevity of your vinyl liner.   You can develop scaling and even stains on the liner. Balancing chemicals are not usually ones that will stain the liner, but improper water balance makes it easier for stains to form on a vinyl liner.

Winter is a great time to own a hot tub. Having a hot tub adds a bit of dazzle and luxury to any gathering. Even better, hot tubs expand your party space because your deck doesn't have to go dormant for the winter.  Here are a few tips if you have a hot tub party.

1. Numbers Matter

Your tub can only hold a certain amount of people comfortably, so don’t invite too many people to your party. Don't leave anyone out!

Or, have your guests get into the hot tub in shifts, which will allow you to maximize the space.

2. Dip before you drink

If you’re going be drinking alcohol at the party, it’s best if you have your drinks first. The warm water in the hot tub can speed up the process of inebriation, and can even up your chances of a hangover.

Provide plenty of water and other non-alcoholic beverages too.

With snow falling around you, what is the best medicine?  A Hot Tub.  Be the ultimate Santa and buy your family a new Hot Tub from HydroCare.

In genera Winter is typically the slowest time of the year for some hot tub dealers, you, the consumer benefits and find good deals on spas and accessories.

What you don't see promoted is health care.  We hear about vulnerable populations: the elderly, people with comorbidities and the over-weight.  Also, vitamin D levels have an impact on the severity of COVID-19.

What could be better than enjoying the sun to increase vitamin D levels and run, laugh and swim to keep up your health.

A leaking swimming pool can cause havoc on your outdoor space.  It is important to understand certain methods may not work for your specific system.  A pool leak will eventually decrease the water level below the intake line, which can damage the whole pump system.  Also, a pool leak can affect the plumbing connecting the pool with the filter equipment, causing the pipes to corrode. If you think your pool has a leak, contact HydroCare immediately; we can address the problem.

Check The Area Around Your Pool

It is always better to open earlier rather than later.

The recommended time to open up your pool is when temperatures in your area consistently reach 70 degrees. 70 degrees is not exactly swim weather, these temperatures can promote algae growth. This can be a problem if you use a mesh pool cover that brings sunlight to the water.

Another thing to keep in mind is pollen. As the weather warms into the growing season, our allergies and your pool are affected by pollen.

Schedule a pool opening and we can help prevent algae growth and pollen collection, making sure your pool stays a pool instead of turning into a backyard swamp.

Click here to schedule a pool opening.

You can create your own fever by subjecting your body to a very warm environment. You get a fever with the flu, because it is your body's response to activate the immune response.

Hot Tubs do not get you all the way there, but warming up in one is a start. You can then put very warm towels around your neck to help with the immune response.

This is NOT medical advice, and you need to consult your physician.

Below is a video from a doctor talking about fevers and its effect on COVID-19.

485 deaths since June 1, 2020 from COVID-19 vs 757 deaths from seasonal flu in 2018.

Although COVID-19 is bad for the elderly (over 70) and those with comorbidities, the chances for you to die of COVID-19 if you are under 50 and healthy is LESS than the seasonal flu. The big number in the beginning of the year are mostly elderly people that were in poor health.  We greive for those lost souls and will keep them in our memories. 

Swimming, relaxing in your spa and other water-related activities are excellent ways to get physical activity and improve your immune response to COVID-19.

According to the CDC, "Physical activity helps you feel better, function better, and sleep better."  And, "Adults with excess weight are at even greater risk during the COVID-19 pandemic." It is important to maintain physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how you can continue to exercise effectively and safely.

Summary:

• Measures taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19 are causing changes in everyday schedules and are disrupting workout routines for many Americans.
• Exercise is especially important now, because it can reduce stress, prevent weight gain, boost the immune system, and improve sleep.
• You can safely engage in physical activity by exercising with family and getting outdoors.
• Relaxation and sleep are important for your immune system

Although it might be tempting to skip your workout during these challenging times, public health officials say that exercise — while undoubtedly crucial under normal circumstances — is essential to your physical health and mental well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Here are some simple tips to help with keeping your pool tiles clean and maintained. 

1) The first thing you'll want to do is clean off any dirt, leaves, bugs, etc. that could be seen easily on the tiles. Then you can take a stiff brush to scrub off any calcium build-ups. Depending on how small the area is that you're cleaning, you can use a toothbrush for a better clean.

2) If you have only small amounts of dirt, scale, or grime, you can use a cleaning solution such as water and vinegar.

Here are some of the main benefits of owning your Hot Tub! 

1) This one is pretty straightforward, Relaxation. A soak a day keeps the bad vibes away! 

2) Improved Sleep. Increased circulation and relaxed muscles can help you easily fall asleep at night.

3) Privacy. No need to go to a hotel or gym for a soak; do it in the privacy of your own backyard!

4) Hot Tub Parties!. There’s plenty of ways to party with a hot tub! Holidays, birthdays, etc.

5) Winter Warmth. Still enjoy the outdoors even when the air is so cold it stings your face.

Give us a call for more information on how you can get your hot tub today! 860-601-8147

Here are some fun facts about swimming pools to help get you ready for summer!  

1. The oldest known swimming pool is in Pakistan. The Great Bath in Mohenjo-Daro, Pakistan is situated amongst the ruins of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. This pool is estimated to date all the way back to the 3rd millennium BC.


2. An Olympic-sized pool can hold up to 850,000 gallons of water. Olympic-sized pools are always 50 meters long, but they can have widths of either 25 yards or 25 meters. That’s enough water to fill more than 9,400 bathtubs!

3. Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise. It’s a great cardiovascular workout, strengthening both the heart and the lungs. Burning more calories than walking or biking, swimming uses every major muscle group in the body, making it an ideal activity to keep you in shape.

While a sauna cannot prevent contracting COVID-19, it can help boost your immune system.

There is evidence the heat from a sauna can reduce the occurrence of colds and viruses. If you do happen to get a cold or the common flu, the use of a sauna can help alleviate symptoms and may actually speed recovery by promoting drainage of nasal passages and reducing inflammation. It is speculated this helps with respiratory viruses as well.  The theory being the heat relieves congestion in the lungs and improves ventilation.  Also, sauna therapy has been shown to release toxins stored in fat cells such as heavy metals.

How often should you practice sauna therapy? While there is no hard-fast rule, most studies show using your sauna for 30-45 minutes 3-4 times a week may have health benefits.

The good news is there is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools and hot tubs according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

But there is a caveat: "Proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection (e.g., with chlorine and bromine) of pools and hot tubs should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19."

“The COVID-19 virus has not been detected in drinking water,” the CDC adds. "Conventional water treatment methods that use filtration and disinfection, such as those in most municipal drinking water systems, should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19," the CDC says.

Nonetheless, both adults and kids at private or public pool gatherings should maintain "social distancing" practices, particularly staying away from people who are coughing and sneezing.

Nope - no au naturel photo here.You may be aware of the health benefits from sauna use. There are, however, a few steps to maximize your health benefits.

Do you know how long you should be in a sauna or how frequent you should sauna? Here’s how to get the most out of your sauna:

1) Maintain a regular schedule and routine
2) Max use 15 minutes
3) Exfoliate and boost circulation to the skin
4) No clothing is best
5) Stay hydrated
6) Shower before and after using your sauna
7) Maximize skin exposure to heat
8) Stretch out or lay down

Above ground pool care and maintenance is just as much work as cleaning your in-ground pool. Tools are all the same as are the steps.  You will need to do some brushing, skimming and vacuuming. Your wall skimmer will catch most of the floating debris. A bag type of leaf rake will work best if you have lots of leaves.  It can also handle scooping debris from the pool floor.

Both indoor and outdoor settings have benefits. Most importantly are the health benefits and camaraderie a new hot tub brings to the family. But there are some other things to consider that will help you get the most out of your new hot tub:

Indoor Pros

1) Privacy may be the very first consideration depending on who is planning to use the hot tub the most
2) No worries about the weather with an indoor tub. Your environment and temperature is completely under your control
3) Create your own paradise getaway in a spare room of the house with an indoor tub without worrying about getting things put away quickly to avoid rain or wind damage

Hot tubs provide the perfect excuse to have a party for no real reason. Who doesn't love a good hot tub party?

Of course any good party starts with a clean slate to work with so don't forget your normal hot tub maintenance and cleaning beforehand.

Then check off these basic party must haves:

Decorations - Decide if you will be hosting a theme party such as Hot Tub Tiki Bar or an Open For Interpretation party (decorating with whatever seems to work together). Either way, there's some majors in this category to consider. Possibly the biggest being lighting. Since hot tub parties are often at night you'll want to consider the weather and the durability of the lighting you choose. For example: party lights can be a closed string of LED lights or an open strand with decorative lanterns hanging throughout. Another way to add color and fun is adding illuminated floaties.

Everyone's Included - Make sure to stock up on a variety of types and sizes of swimsuits and towels. Take a look at your invite list and try to get a few that will work if someone forgets their suit. Speaking of invite list, be mindful of how many people can be in the tub at once and how much in and out traffic you'll get with a bigger crowd.

Many rodents such as mice, squirrels, and snakes like to cozy up to the heat of your hot tub. There are some simple steps to curb them from intruding your personal soaking space:

1) Do not feed squirrels and other small animals near your hot tub area. The food may attract larger animals as well which could be more than a nuisance and cause serious damage.

2) Make sure to seal all small cracks in the siding. Many new hot tubs are vinyl siding, but some of the wood plank spas can get small open areas. These are perfect for little mice to warm up and build nests in. A simple solution is some inexpensive spray foam.

3) It's amazing how medium size critters like racoons, deer, and even the family dog can get hot tub covers completely off. Not only does this cause damage to the cover, it creates an unsafe environment- especially if small children are close by. The solution is as easy as investing in a heavy duty cover that small animals will not be able to nudge off and some solid wind straps.

Stress free soaking is what it's all about!

So after this cold Winter, you can expect to spend in the range of $175-$300. You can save money by doing some of the work yourself or by contacting us (use our Get a Quote form).

Call HydroCare Pools and we can help open your pool.

1) Remove the Winter Cover. Make sure there isn't dirt or debris on the pool cover. Drain the water sleeves and remove them. Once the water sleeves are clear, untie and remove the tie-downs, then the cover itself.

Hot Tubs = Relaxation

They could be the same words.  Although they don't occur together in the Thesaurus, there are many benefits to sitting in a hot tub. You don't need a research study to understand the health benefits of a good soak in a spa. 

Hot tubbing is so relaxing and has wonderful health benefits, but our hair and skin can suffer if we don't implement some basic skin and hair care steps.

It might not be a good idea to have lotion on before you jump in. However, a slathering of lotion after will keep your skin cells plumped up minimizing the appearance of dimply skin. Some products around the house, such as olive oil and cold pressed coconut oil, work wonderfully.

Using a quality leave in hair conditioner is key to keeping those locks moisturized. Also, make sure to pin up your hair so it isn't soaking up those chemicals.

Always stay hydrated before and after your hot tub soaks. Drink plenty of water. Adding lemon slices makes it tasty and refreshing.

Lip balm is one often forgotten skin care product. Peeling and dry lips are not so attractive or comfortable.

Lastly, you may want to consider purchasing a water conditioning product to help offset the effects of the chemicals.

When you put in a swimming pool, spa or hot tub in Connecticut, there are certain state codes you must follow. Hydrocare Pools & Spas knows the state-wide regulations and any local requirements.

Below is some useful information from the State's Department of Public Safety - Office of State Building Inspector.

An outdoor swimming pool, including an in-ground, above-ground or on-ground pool, hot tub, or spa, shall be surrounded by a barrier which shall comply with the following:

1) Balance the water chemistry. About a week prior to closing the pool, adjust your water balance within the ranges below:

Alkalinity: 80 - 120 ppm
Calcium Hardness: 180 - 220 ppm
pH: 7.2 - 7.4

Several days before closing, shock the pool with a chlorine or non-chlorine shock, at least 2lbs per 10,000 gallons (follow package directions). Allow the chlorine level to return to 1.0 - 3.0 ppm before adding any winter algaecide and your pool cover. Very high chlorine tends to break down both algaecides and pool covers. Never add chlorine shock and algaecide at the same time and not right before covering it. At the very least, shock the night before you plan to close the pool, and run the filter all night long.

4) Dry the Hot Tub.

 

1) Take Pictures and Prepare Insurance Information. Email these photos to your insurance agent.  Take photos of the spa from all angles.

2) Be sure the Power is Off. Turn off the power to the unit. Turn off the circuit breaker. If the spa is 120v, unplug it from the outlet.  Then if you have any questions or concerns, contact a professional electrician.

3) Assess the Damage. Check for burn marks and places that may show corrosion. Replace anything that looks damaged. Contact us to complete any repair - we have access to all parts no matter the make or model.

These easy-to-perform maintenance routines will keep your sauna inviting, fresh and enjoyable:

1) Keep a brush near the sauna door; a small hand brush works best.  When the last person leaves the sauna, dip the brush in the water bucket, and do a quick scrub of the benches, walls, and backrests.  This quick and simple step keeps the sauna looking great. 
 
If you do not follow this tip regularly, consider using a sauna wood cleaning kit with Bacterinol, or paraffin oil.

If you don't use your hot tub in the winter, the best plan is to drain and winterize your tub. However, if you enjoy soaking on a cold winter night, here are a few things to keep in mind.

• Temperatures can dip fast and uncirculated water can freeze fast-Keep the water circulating
• Keep the cover snug
• Make sure your water stays between 100-104 degrees
• Hot water can last 2-3 days if covered tightly
• Check your insulation in the cover and around the tub panels before the first big freeze

Extend your home's beauty and functionality by making your patio an additional living space. Below are a few tips that, combined, will be a sure-fire way to take your patio from drab to fab.

First, ask yourself a few questions:
1) Will your patio be for beautiful summer evening dinner parties with family and friends?
2) Will your dining be followed with relaxing by the fire? Is that fire focal point a fireplace or a group of chairs resting casually around a fire pit?
3) What type of lighting do you envision? Tall freestanding oil torches? Strands of classic party lights? Candle lanterns?

What are the Benefits of Tiles?

If you are looking for a high end look to your pool, adding tiles is the way to go. Tiles are a premium upgrade becaus of their durability and appearance.  Also, if you compare tiles to vinyl, tiles are more durable and easier to clean and require less maintenance.

There are two types of tiles used as pool tiles.  There are ceramic and glass tiles.  They are usually under 100mm in size. They have a mesh backing forming a sheet around 300 x 300mm in size. Over the past 15 years, glass have gained in popularity.  Because they are made from glass, there are no pores as do ceramic tiles.  This means the manufacturers need to include latex additives so they stick to the pool.  Because of the added manufacturing processes, they are more expensive then ceramic pool tiles.

A vinyl pool liner lasts about 9 to 11 years given proper care and maintenance.  Over time, weather and chemicals will cause deterioration.  Pool liners can be expensive to replace.  But with Hydrocare, we minimize your expense.

Repair vs Replace

Often, if caught in time, damage to a pool liner can be repaired.  It does depend on a a few factors.  With liners under 3 years old, repair should be considered.  Consider where the pool liner is damaged.  If there is a leak or damage near cutouts (e.g. around a skimmer or return jet), these are not usually repairable. Damage near the liner's bead or plastic fittings are difficult to repair.

If you are looking to purchase a hot tub, should you look at buying a used hot tub?

Know the person or dealer you are buying from...

2 out of 3 people would buy a used tub, especially if they knew the person. You'll find used spas and hot tubs on craigslist and local papers by dealers and home owners.  Of course we are here to help - if you have any question about a tub, Contact Us.

Buy from a Friend you Trust

If you have a friend who is generally "clean" it may be worth while to look into their used spa. Some people suggest never doing business with friends if you want them to stay that way.  But, if you trust them,  you will help them out and get a hot tub at a good price.

Buy from Some Guy Online

This is risky.  CraigsList ads are from dealers and not someone trying to dump their tub.  Check them out.  If you are close, take a look at the spa, and if it looks good call Northcoast Spa & Hot Tub and we'll do a systems check on spa.  We can also schedule a move and set up or any repairs if needed.

How much will a used hot tub cost?

For tubs under 10 years old, you should expect to pay about 50% of the retail cost - maybe more for a newer model.  If any of the systems (i.e. cover, shell, skirt, pumps, blowers) look worn, take another 15% off what they are offering.

It is never too late or too early to think about taxes.

IRS regulations allow you to deduct your hot tub only if your doctor recommends or prescribes it for a medical condition.

Many customers tell us the reason for installing one of our Hot Tubs is for a medical condition.  People that suffer from RLS, Fibromyalgia, back pain, Arthritis learn that soaking in Hot Water helps. There are certain medical conditions that can be used to justify a hot tub purchase from Northcoast Spa & Hot Tub.

The benefits of the sauna

Sweating eliminates toxins from the body. Normally heat helps heal your body's tissues.  This is the natural way your body defends itself against a virus - a fever.  A warmer body encourages circulation and can releive joint and muscle pain.

How hot is too hot?

How long is too long?

In 2010 Vladimir Ladyzhenskiy of Russia died during the World Sauna Championship in Finland.  He was in the sauna for only 6 minutes (the sauna was at 225 degrees farenheight).  They have discontinued the event.

So what safety rules apply to sitting in a sauna?

Rules for sauna safety

1. Time - keep your stay to 15 to 20 minutes at a time.  If you are sensitive to heat, start off with a short stay.
2. Heart - A warmer body means a faster heart beat.  If you have heart problems, consult your physician
3. Toasting - Do not drink alcohol in the sauna. Yes, thats a period.
4. Take a Break - Let your body recuperate for at least 10 minutes between sessions
5. Drink - not alcohol, but water.  Rehydrate with plenty of water before and after.
6. Buddy System - Like swimming have a friend or family member either join you or be aware, or around when you sauna.  
7. Cool down – the nordic way is to jump in the snow after sitting in a sauna.  you can also take a cool shower.
8. How do you feel - If you begin feel dizzy, a headache, or nauseous, get out. The purpose of a sauna is to feel better not worse.

The sping time is the best time to clean your pool tile.  You will need to drain your pool some to remove those seemingly impossible stains.

There are biodegradable cleaners available but they may change your pool chemistry and require costly and time consuming balancing.

It is recommend to wait until pool closing to do a thorough cleaning.  A well balanced pool is the best way to avoid stains or calcium buildup.

1.  Purchase Necessary Cleaning Supplies

2.  Lower Water Line

3.  Pool Tile Cleaner Application

4.  Scrub with Pumice Stone

Chemical Ranges for Your Hot Tub

These are the guidelines from the National Swimming Pool Foundation.  When testing your hot tub, used these.  If you have a question, contact HydroCare Pools & Spas.

Parameter	Min.	Ideal	Max.
Free Chlorine, ppm	2.0	3.0-5.0	10.0
Combined Chlorine, ppm	0	0	0.5
Total Bromine, ppm	2.0	4.0-6.0	10.0
pH	7.2	7.4-7.6	7.8
Total Alkalinity, ppm	60	80-100* 100-120**	180
Total Dissolved Solids, ppm	NA	NA	1,500 over start-up
Calcium Hardness, ppm as CaCO3	100	150-250	800
Heavy Metals	None	None	None
Visible Algae	None	None	None
Bacteria	None	None	Local code
Cyanuric Acid, ppm (if used)	0	30-50	***
Temperature, °F	—	Personal preference	104°F
Ozone, ppm	—	—	0.1 over 8-hr. time wtd. avg.

* For spas sanitized with calcium hypochlorite, lithium hypochlorite, or sodium hypochlorite
** For spas sanitized with sodium dichlor, trichlor, BCDMH, or chlorine gas
*** Dictated by state or local codes. Typically 100 ppm. (Some codes higher, others lower.)

If you have an electrical problem with your Hot Tub or Spa, more than likely your GFCI trips when you turn on the power

If you have a new hot tub, it was probably installed incorrectly. Call your hot tub dealer and have them take a look at it.

Here are some steps to take if you are experiencing electrical problems with your Spa.

Isolate the problem

Turn off the power and unplug the heater from the control box. You may also need to remove the wires leading to the heating element.

Before you make the final purchase of your whirlpool tub (jetted tub) be sure you ask (and answer) the following questions. 

And remember, if you already have a whirlpool tub and it needs repair, give us a call.

What are the most important features?

• Tub Dimensions
• Adjustable Jet Flow
• Number of Jets
• Color Options
• Control Types (manual, Electrical)
• Heater
• Jet Type (air, water, both)
• Lighting
• Number of Occupants
• Material (Fiberglass, acrylic, other)

Plan a Party for the Kids Let the youngsters make a splash at a backyard bash complete with swimming, games, and delicious finger foods.

Spread the Word - Invite your guests to your watering hole with an aquatic theme.  Here is a simple idea? Write the party details in permanent marker on rubber swim caps.

Set aside small beach pails filled with an inflatable beach ball, a squirt gun, and Swedish Fish for party favors.

No pool? No problem. Set up an inflatable pool or a sprinkler for the kiddies to splash around in. But Hydrocare does not sell inflateable pools - no problem.

No Fuss Food - Make the menu is easy for you and simple for your guests.  Try finger foods:

• Fish-shaped crackers
• Chicken Fingers
• Pigs in a Blanket
• Ice Cream Sandwiches

And don't forget to plan a Party for the Adults

Call us today and get your pool started for the party to come.

How do you get rid of frogs in your pool?

Answer: Use use the pool skimmer to scoop them out.

Frogs are one of the least offensive amphibian. Kids love 'em, French restaurants love 'em.  But when they find residence in your pool they are not so cute.

Frogs have a permeable skin, and need to keep moist.  As a result they can become a nuisance as they quench their bodily thirst. Most homeowner with a decorative pond or pool can attest to their frog sanctuary.

In general, adult Supervision is imperative Hot Tub safety. There should always be an adult designated to maintain constant visual contact with children whenever they are near any body of water. Educating yourself on the potential dangers, and with adult supervision, you can relax and not worry with children around.

Hot tubs should be covered with a locked safety cover when not in use and children should be kept away unless there is constant adult supervision. From the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), drowning is the main hazard associated with hot tubs. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has recorded more than 800 deaths in spas since 1990. About four in twenty were children under the age of five.

...sounds like the name of a resturant near Miamonque Yacht Club...

Your Scupper or Pool Skimmer is a great time saver.  It reduces the amount of hand skimming you need during the Pool season.    Be sure it is ready for the Summer - here are some tips:

• Check for freeze damage - your pool skimmer may be cracked
• Check the sides - sometimes a pool skimmer may separate from the wall causing leaks
• Flo or No Flo - if the skimmer is clogged with debris, you may not see any flow
• The flapper gate (aka the Weir) may not close

Be sure to relace the skimmer if you see any cracks or obvious leaks and operating issues.  Contact Hydrocare to diagnose and visit your home.

Give us a call if you have any questions - one of our experts may have a quick fix idea for you.

A pool liner of vinyl has a sheet of vinyl between the water and the structure of the pool.  This layer is cutom made for the shape of the pool.  Generally speaking, the vinyl liner pool is less expensive than the gunite (aka concrete) pool.

Compare this to gunite or shotcrete that uses plaster to keep it waterproof.  By contrast and for a better seal, vinyl liners lock the top edge into a track on the bottom of the coping at deck level.

If you are experiencing a leak - call HydroCare to open your pool and check for any problems in your vinyl liner.

Eventhough vinyl liners are made 20 mil in thickness and are resistant to punctures - they will happen given enough time and usage.  If you are adding more than 1" of water to your pool on a weekly basis - you may have a leak.  There are many DIY aids and videos, but if you read or watch closely, there are many "Watch Outs" in them.  We recommend using a professional team - in the long run it is less expensive

Fortunately HydroCare can, find, and fix your leak.

If you need a new vinyl liner, click here to see all the options, colors and patterns available to you.