Water Care Tips

This is the time of year where many begin making plans to escape the cold of winter for some place warm. In your planning, don’t forget that your hot tub needs to be cared for when you are away.  If you will be away for more than 3-4 days here are a few tips to […]

We’ve put together a handy cheat sheet to make your job as a hot tub owner simpler. Have a look at the full guide which will give you what you need to know on a regular basis at a glance. Find out the correct balances for Alkalinity, Sanitizer, pH and Calcium, and as always, let […]

It’s been a great pool season but all good things come to an end! With fall approaching it’s time to think about winterizing your pool. Here are a couple of tips for a successful close. Bring in a sample of the pool water for proper balancing. Book your pool winterizing with the professionals at Backyard […]

When purchasing hot tub chemicals there may be a temptation to purchase them from a “Big Box” store. The main reason for this decision is often based on price and convenience. While it may be to your advantage to purchase toilet paper, laundry soap, or other household items at these stores, it’s not sthe best […]

Is your hot tub going through way more chemicals than usual? You could be struggling with biofilm. Discover how to deal with it. Download PDF here

This time of year we have a number of people coming in and asking about draining their hot tubs for the summer. Personally, I like to just drop the temperature a bit and use it for the kids and I to cool off in on hot days 🙂  When there are days of over 30 […]

Pools, of course, need chlorine to kill algae and bacteria. Without it, the water would turn green, cloudy and would be unhealthy to swim in. That’s the last thing you want on a hot summer day when you’re wanting to take a refreshing dip! However, the same sunlight and heat that you enjoy while using […]

From time to time we hear horror stories of customers who have broken a glass in the pool or hot tub and spent hours trying to get it all cleaned out. We highly recommend using only plastic around your pool and hot tub. Come in and see our beautiful selection of Strahl Acrylic “Glassware” for […]

Looking after the water in your pool can feel like an intimidating job, but it doesn’t have to be. While there is a bit of a learning curve you’ll find that if you follow certain procedures on a regular basis it will soon become a piece of cake. Check out the instructions in this handy […]

Hot tub covers are one of the most important energy saving aspects of your hot tub. Every cover from Backyard Leisure is a heatshield that virtually locks in heat and energy. These covers are made in Canada for Canadian climates. Our covers are created to blend into your backyard environment and match your home décor […]

Keeping your hot tub filter clean is an important key in having nice, clean, sparkling water in your tub. While it may sound difficult, it’s actually quite easy to keep a filter clean. Here are a few simple tips to filter care. Basic Filter Rinsing You should pull out your filter once a week and […]

In response to the rapidly changing COVID-19 situation, Backyard Leisure is committed to ensure the safety of staff and customers by taking all necessary precautions as outlined by Alberta Health Services. Since Backyard Leisure is a retail establishment these restrictions apply: Capacity restricted to 1/3 fire code occupancy. Attendees must be with household members only, or […]

It’s that time of the year when we start thinking about getting the sprinkler lines blown out and turning off the outside taps before the frost hits. Before you turn off those taps for the winter, consider doing a drain and refill of your hot tub. A typical hot tub will go 3 – 4 […]

Back to school can be stressful! Especially this year! Covid 19 has created a whole new level of stress such as we’ve never seen before. How are you going to deal with it? A great way to de-stress is in your hot tub. From simply relieving stress, to helping you sleep and relieving muscle pain, […]

Make sure bacteria doesn’t make your Hot Tub its new home! Here’s how to make sure it doesn’t happen. Bacteria loves warm, non-moving water! After each use, make sure all jet ports are opened so that water is able to flow through them freely. If you have any diverter valves, turn them half way so […]

With all the focus on the chlorine availability this season, we’ve created a tip sheet on how to reduce the amount of chlorine that you’ll need to purchase this season. Happy Swimming!

It is that time of year again where you are starting to think about jumping into your pool and enjoying your great backyard oasis! We are currently booking customers for their Spring Pool Openings!     As you’re deciding when to open your pool consider a few things: Seasonal Holidays Weather Birthday, Year-End or other Parties […]

St Patrick’s Day may be filled with your favorite shades of green but we hope your Hot Tub isn’t!!!  There could be a variety of reasons your water isn’t clear. One of the first ways to ensure your water stays clean and clear is to outfit yourself with a good test kit and check your […]

The thought of “springing” your clocks ahead this weekend can at times cause stress and frustration. We finally got to the point where it’s light outside when we go to work. Now it’s all going to change again! Don’t let it get to you this year! Instead, change all your clocks and then go out […]

You may get an unpleasant surprise when you open your hot tub cover. You may see yellow, slimy spots with a foul odor. It looks like snot…but it’s not! This is a type of bacteria that has formed…likely for the following reasons: 1.       You haven’t opened your cover in a while. Even though you may not […]

A question that is often asked is how to raise Free Chlorine in your hot tub. Before providing an answer to that question, you need to understand the terms used on your typical test strip. On a typical test strip, there is a reading for Total Chlorine and Free Chlorine. Total Chlorine is Free Chorine […]

Your hot tub doesn’t need to be a cause of stress and frustration. Make it simpler by trying Mineraluxe. This pre-measured water care program is as simple as 1,2,3! Not only will it make life simpler but it will also provide a healthier bathing experience. Your skin will feel softer and you can rest easy […]

Make sure bacteria doesn’t find a home in your Hot Tub!  Warm water, especially warm water that isn’t moving, is a great breeding ground for bacteria. There are a few simple things you can do to combat bacteria. After you’ve finished using your hot tub, make sure all jet ports are opened and water is […]

The pH level in your hot tub is actually quite important. Even though your water may look clean and clear, it is not necessarily an indication that all is well with your water balance. You need to be checking your levels regularly, especially your pH, in order to ensure bather comfort and the integrity of […]

Calcium hardness is one of the important spa and hot tub water chemistry parameters and its control is important to help ensure proper water quality. Calcium hardness is a measurement of minerals in your water including calcium and magnesium. Low levels of calcium can lead to possible corrosive water conditions that can be damaging to […]

A common question we often get is about bubbles or foam in the hot tub. Foam can be caused by a number of water balance issues but it can also be caused by detergents, cosmetics and lotions.  Encourage everyone in your family to pick a swim suit for the hot tub that does not go through […]

ISSUE POSSIBLE CAUSE(S) SOLUTION(S) Brown Water High Mineral Count Add Eliminate Plus 2 (60ml/1000L initial, 30ml/1000L weekly) Low Alkalinity Test and adjust alkalinity accordingly using an alkalinity increaser like Resist or Alkalinity Increaser Inadequate Sanitizer Test and adjust chlorine/bromine accordingly Calcium Deposits on Surfaces Hard Water Use Eliminate Plus 2 (60ml/1000L initial, 30ml/1000L weekly) Out […]

Hot tub covers are one of the most important energy saving aspects of your hot tub. Every Beachcomber cover is a heatshield that virtually locks in heat and energy. These covers are made in Canada for Canadian climates. A Beachcomber cover will last  you at least 5 years … and beyond if you look after […]

In light of the recent pandemic surrounding COVID-19, many might be wondering whether our pools and hot tubs are safe to enter. The key practice at all times is to regularly monitor and maintain your pool and hot tub at specified levels. It’s even more critical during times like this when there is a heightened […]

It’s that time of the year again! It’s a time filled with excitement, the laughter of children, smells of fresh baking, last minute shopping, parties, great food, visiting with family and friends, and the list goes on. Enjoy it to the max but in all the hustle and bustle, don’t neglect your hot tub and/or […]

Did you know that in just 15 minutes 1 person will use up approximately 1 ppm of Chlorine or Bromine.  In other words if you and 3 friends are in the hot tub for just 30 minutes you will use up 8 ppm of sanitizer. If you are keeping your tub at the suggested 3-5 […]

Whether we want to admit it or not, colder weather is coming. So, before the snow starts blowing now would be a great time to drain and refill your hot tub. That way you can enjoy clean, sparkling water all winter long. Before you drain your tub and refill with fresh water we recommend a […]

It’s tough sometimes, with a young family, to find the time, money and energy for a date night out. One of the great things about having a hot tub is that it allows you to enjoy a quiet date night without having to pay a babysitter! Just get the kids to bed, pour your favorite […]

Did you know that our tap water contains impurities such as: copper, iron, calcium, sodium and other deposits? All of these can be harmful to yourself, your spa, and make it harder to balance your hot tub water. If you are filling your tub from a well or with irrigation water it is even more […]

A common question we get asked relates to bubbles or foam in the hot tub. Foam can be caused by a number of water balance issues but it can also be caused by detergents and cosmetics.  Encourage everyone in your family to pick a swim suit for the hot tub that does not go through the […]

Before you fly south you may want to consider winterizing your hot tub. Unfortunately most of the time when a family member or friend is left in charge of the hot tub our customers come home to an unsightly and smelly mess. If you are considering winterizing your tub ensure you don’t miss a step. […]

An oxidizer is a great way to ‘shock’ your tub or pool and enhance the waters dazzle and sparkle. Oxidizers will destroy chloramines and reduce waste by literally burning it off.  The only thing left is oxygen. When you’re using one of these products, make sure you run your jets a full cycle and leave […]

Tired of sitting in your hot tub after a long hard day and wondering why it is so smelly?  The strong smell that is sometimes emitted from your hot tub is usually caused by one of two things – Low Alkalinity/pH OR Combined Chlorines (chloramines) The Solution: Test your water and adjust the levels of Alkalinity and pH as […]

Where To Start You’ve heard the spiel, you’ve read the facts, and now you want to switch to Mineraluxe. But where do you begin? Though there can be a lot of details to pay attention to, here is a step-by-step list of what to do for the big switch to Mineraluxe: Deep Clean Your Hot Tub […]

Achieving clean, clear water is something we all dream about but admittedly it can be a challenge. It’s an issue we hear about frequently in our Water Care Department. Enjoying clear water can be a reality! Three keys to water clarity are: Filtration Circulation Sanitization If even one of these is out it can wreak […]

Did you know when your pool temperature raises just 6°C it can increase your chlorine use by up to 50%? This warm weather means higher chlorine demand. Make sure you are checking your chlorine levels daily to ensure you are maintaining safe levels of sanitizer. If you use chlorine pucks or sticks check them more often and […]

Improper winterizing can cause issues in Hot Tub or Pool plumbing!  Avoid costly mistakes and talk to the experts at Backyard Leisure. For guidelines and tips, check out this great article, Going Away On A Winter Vacation? Or, for tips and guidelines on what to do in the summer, check out the article, Thinking About Draining […]

Now is the ideal time to head out to your hot tub and take a look at all the equipment to make sure everything is running optimally.  Check for any signs of leaks around the pumps and equipment.  Make sure all jets are in working order.  Leaks and wear on jets can be caused by improperly balanced water.  Prevent […]

Use a reusable filter. For best results, rinse your reusable filter under water once a week, and then soak it in a filter cleaner once a month. Depending on use and care a filter could last you well over a year! Now that’s a money saver! Ask your Backyard Leisure Water Care Specialist to ensure […]

When treating and adjusting your hot tub balances, follow the alphabet. Alkalinity should always be adjusted first, followed by Bromine or Chlorine and finally the pH. For more tips and advice on treating your hot tub or pool come and talk to the experts at Backyard Leisure!

All of these problems can be solved! A healthy pool or hot tub requires proper filtration, circulation and sanitation to keep it and you happy. Our in-store water experts would be happy to help you find the simplest and safest ways to achieve sparkling, clean and clear water! Bring in a cup of your water for a […]

Here at Backyard Leisure we want to see you and your family in safe and sparkling water.  Whether it’s your pool or your hot tub we have some great alternatives to the traditional harsh synthetic chemicals. Come in today and ask your Water Care Specialist at Backyard Leisure about the safe and easy way to […]

We have some wonderful and easy-to-use treatments for pool and hot tub stains. Stains can be caused by a number of different things including metals, calcium, and scum. Bring in a sample of your water to Backyard Leisure to have it tested and receive a custom treatment process for your pool or hot tub.

Before you leave to go fishing this summer make sure you have set up your hot tub for success.  A few things to remember before you go… Turn down the heat: at a lower temperature your hot tub will go through less chemical and you will decrease your risk of bacterial and algae growth. A […]

Clouds are seldom a sign of something good and that’s no different in your Hot Tub or Pool.  Have you ever opened up your tub or pool just to find the water is terribly cloudy? It doesn’t take long for the water to cloud if the sanitizer gets too low. The first step is to […]

Sick of pulling that cumbersome solar blanket off your pool? Did you know there is actually a product called Cover Free that you can pour into the water to create a protective barrier that will actually keep in the heat, prevent chlorine loss and slow evaporation without using a solar blanket?! Come in and talk […]

Do you feel like you are constantly fighting low pH in your hot tub or pool? Did you know that pH is affected by something called Alkalinity? If your alkalinity is low it will continuously pull your pH down. It is key to test your alkalinity and balance it prior to trying to adjusting your pH.  For […]

If you are tired of foamy water or scuzzy scum lines it might be time to consider a Hydro Mop or Scum Bug for your Hot Tub. Our swim suits and of course our bodies expel all sorts of things into the hot tub that sit on the surface and can cause frustrations for you. […]

Whether you have a hot tub, pool or swim spa you will rely on proper filtration for sparkling clear water. Do you know when you cleaned or backwashed your filter last? We recommend rinsing hot tub filters once a week and soaking them in a filter cleaner every 4-6 weeks. Pool filters come in two […]

pH measures the level of acidity or basicity of your water. It is important to monitor it with some degree of regularity to ensure not only bather comfort but also safety. If your pH is not in the ideal range of 7.2 – 7.8, your sanitizer will be less effective and you may experience some […]

A pool should be a place for your family and friends to relax and have fun, NOT a cause of stress and frustration. There are a few quick and easy things you can do in the spring to ensure your pool is stress free for the summer! Come in and talk to one of our water […]

When treating and adjusting your hot tub balances, follow the alphabet. Alkalinity should always be adjusted first, followed by Bromine or Chlorine and finally the pH. Okay, I know pH doesn’t start with C but you get the idea! This little tip should help you remember the order in which you check and treat your […]

Our priority is your families safety. We want to ensure you understand how to safely use less chemical but still maintain clean bacteria-free water in your pool or hot tub. There are all sorts of sites providing information that is neither safe nor accurate and we want to help you as you sift through this. […]

The days are getting longer and the sun’s rays are getting warmer!!! This is great news for everyone except, your Hot Tub cover. Make sure your cover is ready for the heat of summer by treating it with our moisturizing Cover-All.  For more information on maintaining your Hot Tub or Pool so that it operates […]

Wilf Mann was in the store this morning getting his hot tub water tested and couldn’t say enough about the medical benefits he and his wife have received from owning a hot tub. They retired and moved down from Calgary about 21 years ago. The house they bought had a Beachcomber Hot Tub at the […]

We hear this all the time from our customers. I am here to tell you it doesn’t have to be that way! The strong smells that are sometimes emitted from your Hot Tub are usually caused by chloramines (combined chlorine).  What does that mean?! It means that the chlorine in your tub is “locked” and […]

This week while you celebrate your loved ones, don’t neglect the one who is there for you any time of day…the one who is willing to give you a massage at any moment…the one who warms your heart and makes all your stresses melt away!  Yes, that’s right, your Hot Tub!  Don’t forget to give […]

Do your family and friends sometimes push your buttons? A common problem we see is people complaining of cloudy water. And one of the causes of cloudy water can be poor filtration. That doesn’t necessarily mean the filter hasn’t been cleaned (although that can cause cloudy water too).  It could also be that someone was […]

The house is clean, the smell of Christmas baking is wafting through the air and the company is coming.  Is everything ready?  Did I forget anything?  THE HOT TUB!!! Make sure your hot tub or pool is ready for the company.  It is a season when the hot tub and/or pool are getting high use.  […]

The 3 keys to water clarity are Filtration, Circulation and Sanitization. If even one of these are out it can wreak havoc on your Hot Tub or Pool. See your Water Care Specialist at Backyard Leisure to ensure you get the most out of your Pool or Hot Tub.

We often have customers come in and complain that the sparkle just isn’t there anymore. All the tests are balanced properly and yet the water just has that bit of a cloudy appearance to it. There are some great products out there like Dazzles Nature Sheen that help bring that good old sparkle back! Bring […]

“We cannot say enough about the product Mineraluxe. We have been using the product for just over two years now.  Mineraluxe has been the best thing for us.  Our hot tub water used to look dirty no matter how much we tried to maintain it.  We tried both the chlorine and the bromine products prior […]

You already know that you should test your hot tub water regularly.  But did you know that your test kits/strips have a shelf life of approximately 1 year?  Test strips often have a “best before” date printed on them.  If you are unsure if your test kit is still testing accurately bring in a sample […]

Here at Beachcomber we want to see you and your family in safe and sparkling water.  Whether it’s your pool or your hot tub we have some great alternatives to your traditional harsh synthetic chemicals. Come in today and ask your Water Care Specialist at Backyard Leisure about the safe and easy way to enjoy […]

Use a reusable filter.  For best results, rinse your reusable filter under running water once a week, and then soak it in a filter cleaner once a month to release lotions, oils and other buildup. Depending on use and care a filter could last you over a year!

Hot Tubs like to “Trick or Treat” too!  If you forget to “Treat” your hot tub regularly you could be met with a terrifying surprise.  Remember to check your water regularly for proper levels of sanitizer and pH.  And as a special “Treat”, bring a sample by the store for a specialized computer analysis of […]

Alkalinity first, then Bromine or Chlorine and finally adjust your pH. If you are unsure how to test your water or need some help figuring it all out just come in and see the experts at Beachcomber Hot Tubs, Pool and Patio.

Did you know that your pool and hot tub cover can be a good indicator of water care?  If your covers are wearing badly it could be caused by improperly balanced water.  Ensure you balance your water regularly to extend the life of your covers.  Want a little help figuring it all out?  Just bring […]

Have you ever opened up your tub or pool just to find the water is all cloudy? It doesn’t take long for the water to cloud if the sanitizer gets too low. The first step is to test the water and balance your Alkalinity, Sanitizer and pH. Cloudy water can also be caused by a few […]

When deciding how best to treat your hot tub, keep in mind that on average 1 person will use up 1ppm of Chlorine or Bromine in just 15 minutes.  If you and 5 friends are in there for an hour imagine the demand there is on your sanitizer so treat the water appropriately.  If left […]

All of these problems can be solved! A healthy pool or hot tub requires proper Filtration, Circulation and Sanitization to keep it and you happy.  Our in-store water care experts would be happy to help you find the simplest and safest ways to achieve sparkling, clean and clear water!  Bring in a cup of your […]