Families are looking to save money where they can and if they can find ways to operate their swimming pools and hot tubs on a more economical basis, it simply makes sense. Saving a dollar here and there can help the bottom line budget. There are many ways to save money on your hot tub or spa and in some instances you can save as much as 20% depending on the type of changes and upgrades you make to your hot tub.
Here are some examples of money saving steps you can take to see energy conservation with your hot tub and the first one involves simply turning off your thermostat when you’re on vacation or when you know the hot tub will not be in use for a week or so. Bear in mind though that if you’re only going to stop using it for a day or two, it might cost you more to re-heat it than it would to simply turn it down a few degrees. Another way to conserve energy is by being diligent in the use of hot tub covers. These covers not only minimize heat loss they minimize the amount of water lost to evaporation. An uncovered hot tub is prone to gathering dirt and debris and it simply costs more to heat an uncovered hot tub than one that is covered.
Maintaining your hot tub at a steady temperature saves money as well. Find a temperature that appeals to most everyone and stick with it. Lowering your temperature by just two degrees can make a large difference in your energy bill. Additionally, a drop from 104 to 102 will make more of a difference than you’d imagine. Drop the temperature by one degree at a time until you find one that suits you.
Any time you keep your equipment in good working order you will enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Keeping the hot tub parts in good repair helps make certain the water is being properly and effectively filtered through the system. Speaking of filters, check them to make certain they’re not clogged as that can cause the equipment to have to work harder to keep the water clean.
Using a timer on your hot tub, and setting it to turn on at the times when you normally use the hot tub saves money rather than having your heater run all day long. The use of a timer woks to get the water up to the temperature you enjoy and it will be ready for when you’re getting ready to jump in and relax.
For hot tubs that fit into any budget and any need, and come with a low price guarantee, visit DiscountSpasDirect.com.
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November 12 2011 | Landscaping | No Comments »
It is a common misconception that propane fire pits are less safe than gas or wood burning fire pits. Propane is a relatively new choice in the world of fire pits and propane products and appliances have had many technological advances over the years. Some homeowners fear that having propane cylinders near their homes is dangerous and that the cylinders could be prone to rupture or explode.
The fact is that propane cylinders are built to withstand an extreme amount of abuse and wear and that there is very little chance that they would ever explode or rupture in any way. There have been very few incidents where homeowners have been injured in accidents involving propane tank mishaps, and wood burning fire pits are generally known to cause more injuries and damage than gas or propane fire pits.
Propane equipment must pass rigorous safety standards and tests before being put out on the market. And today’s propane tanks use overfilling prevention devices (OPDs) that have greatly improved the safety of the tanks. The device shuts down the filling process of tanks when they are about 80 percent full. This ensures that they are never overfilled and leaves room in the tank for the fuel volume to expand and contract in different weather situations.
All fire pits must be used with caution and there are a few common sense safety guidelines that should be used when it comes to the handling and storage of propane fire pits and cylinders.
You should never smoke when you are handling your propane cylinder, and you should never use lighters or matches to check for leaks on your cylinders. You should also never try to repair any broken mechanisms on your cylinder without the proper training. It is best if a professional handles this. Never pour lighter fluid into your propane fire pit for any reason. You should be able to turn on your pit with the simple flick of a switch.
When storing your cylinders, remember to always place them outdoors in a well ventilated area that does not receive high traffic. You should never ever store your cylinder indoors. Also, do not place you cylinder in a damp area that could cause it to rust or on an unstable surface like rocks or soil. It should be placed on a level and sturdy surface like concrete.
If you follow simple safety guidelines a propane fire pit will be absolutely safe to make a part of your home. Plus, they offer many benefits. They are safe and environmentally friendly. They burn a clean fuel, are easy to turn on and off, do not produce ash or debris, and do not produce noxious smoke.
Want to find out more about propane fire pits, then visit Jolene A Cruise’s site on how to choose the best fire pits for your needs.
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July 03 2010 | Landscaping | No Comments »