FAQs

You Ask, We Answer

Your backyard should offer a place for you to relax with family, entertain guests and restore your energy. You can customize your outdoor oasis to meet your each and every need. Whether you have a fully-loaded swimming pool area or opted for a built-in hot tub or swim spa installation, questions might arise from time to time. That’s where our experts at Sundance Spas of Edmonton can really come in handy. With many combined years of experience, our team of backyard specialists can help answer any questions you may have and find solutions to maximize the enjoyment of your outdoor living space.

If you have a question about a product purchased from our store or a question about our services, scroll down and browse through the many questions and answers below. If you can’t find the solution you’re looking for, simply get in touch with us today. Feel free to stop by our showroom to get started.

How often should I clean my pool water?

There are several cleaning procedures that need to be completed at different time intervals, such as:

Daily or Every Other Day
• Clean skimmers
• Use a net to remove leaves, insects and dirt from the surface

Weekly

• Vacuum the pool
• Test the pool water and treat accordingly
• Clean the tiles with a cloth and cleaner

Monthly
• Clean the pool pumps: open and backwash

When it comes to the safety and efficiency of your pool, you can never be too clean!

Will pool water hurt my dog?

Although many chemicals have the potential to be dangerous, the amount of chlorine inside a pool is normally no more than tap water, unless the pool has just been super chlorinated (shocked) after which you would normally wait eight hours before entering the pool or spa. Although the risk is small, we always recommend using caution if you allow your dog to enter the pool. Keep an eye on your dog to ensure that he or she can swim. If possible, swim with your dog to help create a safer environment for them. Take them out of the water often and have them take a break, ensuring that they do not become exhausted or overexert themselves. Not to mention to take a bathroom or snack/drink break! If your pool has a vinyl liner, your pet’s claws can tear the liner if they are trying to get out of the pool. Provide a ramp or lift your pet out of the pool.

Should I buy a pool or a hot tub?

Determining whether you will purchase a swimming pool or a hot tub is never an easy feat. Consider the following factors before taking the ultimate plunge in backyard leisure and entertainment:

• The size of your backyard: a smaller backyard may not be able to accommodate a swimming pool, while a more compact hot tub installation could be possible.
• Your wants and needs: are you looking to kick back and relax after a long day at the office, or would you prefer a backyard that caters to fun, recreation and entertainment?
• Your budget: swimming pool installations will often cost more than hot tub installations, while the ongoing maintenance costs may differ from person to person.
• Your lifestyle: are you newly retired or an empty nester, or perhaps you have a young family with children who love to play? Your current and future lifestyle may play a bigger role than you think on the choice between a pool and a hot tub.

If you simply can’t choose between a hot tub and a swimming pool, why not consider a swim spa? Most describe swim spas as the perfect combination of the two, which means you wouldn’t have to compromise on one benefit or feature for another!

For more information about the hot tubs, pools and swim spas available to you, speak with our experts at Sundance Spas of Edmonton today.

What are the advantages of an above-ground pool?

Above-ground pools can offer many advantages and benefits to homeowners, including:

• Higher resale value
• Improved functionality
• Improved safety, as above-ground installations can be fenced off and have a reduced risk of injury, as it can be much easier to slip and fall into an in-ground swimming pool
• A place to entertain guests
• A more welcoming atmosphere

Can you exercise in a swim spa?

If swim spas had a middle name, it would be exercise. Also known as exercise pools, swim spas offer an open-concept area that’s perfect for water-based exercise. As low impact or vigorous as you see fit, you can engage in a wide range of exercises from the comfort of your swim spa. Swim spas are equipped with a jet system at the far end. The power and placement of this jet creates a stream of water for one to swim against if tethered in place, higher-end swim spas can actually provide a current that allows one to swim without the tether, making it a much more natural swim, while the layout of the swim spa provides more than enough space for you to move around. Especially if you prefer to engage in other exercises, like flutter kicks or reverse crunches.

DISCLAIMER:
We highly recommend consulting a physician before engaging in any fitness regimen. Your best health is always our top priority.

Can swim spas be used in the winter?

They don’t call swim spas “all season pools” for nothing! These versatile and comprehensive systems can be used 365 days a year and, in any season, including the wintertime. A user-friendly and all-in-one control system enables users to adjust the temperature of the water, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Are swim spas worth it?

Depending on your lifestyle, swim spas can absolutely be worth the investment. Offering swimmers an opportunity to relax, spend time with loved ones, play games, or exercise, swim spas have something for just about everyone. In fact, the use of a swim spa on a regular basis can result in the following health benefits:

• Better sleep patterns
• Reduced fatigue and stress
• Better skin and circulation
• Weight loss or maintenance
• Stronger muscles and improved endurance
• Fewer aches and pains
• Improved post-injury recovery

Not to mention, swim spas fit into most backyards, can be installed below or above ground, and can even be installed within your house!

What is a swim spa?

Also known as all weather pools, hydrotherapy pools and exercise pools, swim spas can offer the perfect addition to just about any backyard. Ranging between 12 and 19 feet in length, swim spas are often described as the perfect combination of a hot tub and a swimming pool. While bigger than a hot tub and smaller than a pool, swim spas can provide you with the benefits of both.

Swim spas come equipped with a seating area at one end and an open-concept area at the other. This provides you with both a place to relax and entertain, as well as swim, exercise or just play. The seated area usually has strategically-placed jets in order to massage some of the more tense and stress-prone areas of the body, along with other features such as interior lighting and control panels. The other end of the swim spa will feature a high-powered jet system, which can create a stream of water that is powerful enough for you to swim, walk or jog against. Great for more than just exercise, you can spend countless hours creating valuable memories with family and friends alike in your outdoor swim spa.

How often should I clean and change my hot tub water?

We recommend testing the pH and chlorine levels of your hot tub water before using to ensure safe water and at least once a week if you have not used the spa, and three times a week if you use your spa even twice a week. Depending on the results of this test, you should add water care products as needed to ensure the safety and cleanliness of your spa. Once every three to four months, you should conduct a deep cleaning, including a full water change, inspection and cleaning of all interior components, and cleaning the cover. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, have a question or require hot tub service, get in touch with us right away. Our service department would be more than happy to assist.

Note: The water in Sundance® Spas with MicroClean® filtration and UV-C water purification can last up to 12 months before requiring a change.

How often should I clean and change my hot tub filter?

Clean your hot tub filter with water from the hose and a cleaning spray every two weeks to remove surface dirt and debris.

Soak your hot tub filter overnight every two months in a bucket of water with a filter cleaning solution, to remove deep-down dirt and debris. Let the filter dry completely before putting it back in spa. Have a second filter clean and ready for when you remove a filter for cleaning.

Replace your hot tub filter every two to three years, to ensure a properly maintained and effective filtration and circulation system.

Do I need a hot tub cover?

When it comes to hot tub covers, it is absolutely recommended that you have one. Hot tub covers provide a variety of benefits, including lower operational costs, improved water quality and enhanced backyard safety.

Energy Efficiency
Each hot tub has a cover that fits it perfectly. This perfect fit will seal the cover to the hot tub, effectively trapping heat inside the spa, preventing it from escaping. This helps to better regulate the temperature inside and maintain it, reducing the amount of power required to continually heat the water as heat escapes from the surface.

Water Quality
By securing a cover on top of your hot tub, not only will you keep the heat and water in, but you will keep other contaminants out. By protecting the water from insects, dirt, debris, rain water, and other contaminants, you can enjoy clear and safe water for longer periods of time.

Backyard Safety
A secure hot tub cover will keep curious wildlife, pets and children from entering the water, especially without your supervision. Hot tub covers should be lockable to keep everyone safe, and for insurance purposes.

How many people can fit into a hot tub?

The number of people that can fit into a hot tub will depend on the seating arrangements within the spa. You should never go over capacity, as this can cause water to overflow or create a safety hazard. As a general rule of thumb, the number of occupants should not exceed the number of seats. For example, if the hot tub has five seats, bring no more than five people in the water.

How much do hot tubs weigh?

How much a hot tub weighs greatly depends on the materials used to build it and the size. Larger hot tubs that are fully-insulated and offer more seats will likely weigh more than a smaller, 2-3 person hot tub. Generally, smaller hot tubs will weigh about 2,000 to 3,000 lbs when filled with water, while larger hot tubs often weigh between 4,000 and 6,000 lbs when filled. No matter the size or weight of your hot tub, the area where your spa will be installed should have a solid foundation that is strong enough to support the spa and distribute the weight evenly.

How much do hot tubs cost?

Hot tubs are available in a variety of price ranges. Lower-quality spas often cost between $3,000 and $6,000, while higher-quality spas tend to span from $8,000 to $20,000, or more. As they always say, you get what you pay for. This rule most definitely applies to hot tubs. While it may seem like a great idea to cut costs and opt for the hot tub with the lower selling price, this road doesn’t always lead to a great experience. Most often a cheaper hot tub will only last for a few years at the most, during which time you’ll be saddled with costly repairs and a sub-par spa experience.

Here at Sundance Spas of Edmonton, we believe in quality spas built for excellence. That’s why we only sell the best. By spending a little more upfront on a top-tier hot tub, one that leads the industry in innovation, you can invest in a future of health, wellness, leisure, and entertainment. These higher-quality spas are often fully-equipped with the latest features and modern technology, including powerful hydrotherapy jets, ergonomic seats, comprehensive and user-friendly controls, Bluetooth technology, durable materials, and extensive warranties. Not to mention it’s almost guaranteed that it will last for many years to come, providing you and your family with countless memories.

The price associated with a hot tub can depend on factors such as:
• Location
• Brand
• Model
• Materials

• Features
• Size
• Capacity
• Seating
• Age

Before you head to our showroom, you may find it helpful to first determine a comfortable budget, both long and short term. This will help your sales associate to better narrow down hot tubs available in your price range or provide you with acceptable alternatives.

Which hot tub is best for me?

The best hot tub for you depends on your lifestyle, interests and preferences. Consider the following factors before shopping for or purchasing a hot tub to determine which one is best for you and your family:

• Your budget, both short and long term
• The layout of your backyard and where you would install the hot tub
• The size of your family, as this can influence the capacity or number of seats you’ll require
• The style of your backyard, as you may want to match your hot tub to create flow

For more information about the hot tubs available to you, visit our showroom today.

Is professional hot tub service worth it?

For many spa owners, regular service and maintenance from a professional are worth it. Regular service can help to ensure that your spa water is always safe, enjoyable, and ready to use. A professional can also use this time to inspect your spa, looking for any issues or potential problem areas that could lead to damage, an imbalance in water, or costly repairs, and rectifying the situation before it grows into a larger issue.

To learn more about our professional hot tub service solutions, contact our experts today.

How long should I stay inside a hot tub?

How long you stay inside a hot tub can depend on several deciding factors, including your age, health, climate, water temperature, and personal preference. As a general rule of thumb, it is suggested to soak in a hot tub for anywhere from 15-45 minutes at a temperature of up to 102° F.

If you are new to using a hot tub, we suggest starting with shorter soaks until you gradually build your tolerance, adjust to the environment or find which suits you best. If you have a pre-existing health condition, we suggest that you first speak with your physician to ensure the safest way to enjoy hydrotherapy.

How often should I drain my hot tub?

Drain hot tub questions: How often you change your hot tub water can depend greatly on how often the spa is used, the quality of water used to fill it, and how well the water is maintained. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend draining, cleaning, and refilling the hot tub every three to four months for an optimal operation.

How often should I clean my filter?

A clean and functioning filter is key to an operational filtration system, as it catches and removes dirt and debris, keeping the water clean and free of impurities. We recommend rinsing the filter every two weeks with fresh water from the hose or kitchen sink. You can also use this time to spray it down with a filter cleaner and then continue to rinse.

Filter cleaning nozzles are available that can be attached to the end of a hose, which can help water to better reach the nooks and crannies of your filter. Soak your filter overnight in a bucket filled with water and a small amount of filter cleaner every two months to remove deep-down debris. We recommend replacing your hot tub filter annually to ensure a fully functional filtration system.

How often should I clean my hot tub?

Cleaning hot tubs is the best practice for an enjoyable soak. How often and in what manner you clean your hot tub will depend on two factors: how often the spa is used and the manufacturer.

  • Test your hot tub water with test strips once or twice a week.
  • Treat your hot tub water accordingly based on the readings from the test strips.
  • Clean the filter every two weeks with water from the hose.
  • Drain, clean, and fill the hot tub once every three to four months.

For more information about the water management system and cleaning process for your hot tub, get in touch with us today.

What is hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is a therapeutic technique that harnesses the healing properties of water. What is hydrotherapy? The combination of heat, buoyancy, and massage helps to relax muscles, ease sore joints, improve circulation, and reduce muscle tension. Used by healthcare professionals all around the world, hydrotherapy can help to improve sleep patterns, reduce stress, ease aches and pains, aid in post-injury recovery, and soothe sore joints, among many other health benefits.

What size hot tub should I buy?

The size of your hot tub should reflect your intended use for it. What are the top hot tub sizes? Will it cater to the needs of the entire family? Is it meant just for you and your significant other? Or do you enjoy hosting elaborate backyard parties? Your lifestyle and layout of your backyard can help you determine if you would like to invest in a smaller or larger hot tub.

Most hot tub brands have models available in the following sizes and capacities: 2-3 seats, 4-5 seats, 5-6 seats, 6 or more seats. For a better idea of how big or small our hot tubs are, visit our showroom in person today.

Should I buy a hot tub?

Making the decision to buy a hot tub is a big one. It’s not something you do every day, after all. Your lifestyle can have a significant impact on the decision to purchase a hot tub. Before making the decision, ask yourself these following questions:

  1. Where in my backyard will I install a hot tub?
  2. Will the hot tub be for my entire family, or just for me?
  3. Will I benefit from fewer aches and pains, better sleep, and reduced stress?
  4. Will I enjoy the convenience of access to a hydromassage in the comfort of my own home?
  5. Will my family benefit from the additional family time in the spa?

If you said yes to one or more of the questions above, a hot tub might be right for you! Speak with one of our team members to learn more about the prices, sizes, and brands available to you.