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Rintoul's Pools & Hot Tubs wants our customers to use the products we sell to create the perfect outdoor living experience. And we want you to enjoy your purchase for years to
come. In this section you’ll find some useful tips and advice.

Beachcomber Hot Tubs are covered by
the most comprehensive guarantee in the industry. Rintoul's Pools
& Hot Tubs offer a wide selection of Water Care Products.
They ensure clean, healthy water, while enhancing the lifetime of your hot
tub. All of our products are protected by their manufacturer’s warranties.

Rintoul's Water
Care Products

Rintoul's Pools & Hot Tubs has
a full-line of water treatment products. All our Water Care
Products are specially designed to work together as a simple and easy to use
system – ensuring a friendly, safe and inviting hot tub environment for family
and friends.

We are proud to offer a fully computerized
water testing service to all of our customers, FREE of charge. We recommend
you bring in a water sample every time you drain and refill, as well as every
30 days the hot tub is in use. We stock a full range of test kits which can be
purchased for day to day testing needs.

FAQs

Q.       
Why is my water cloudy?

A:       
In 90% of cases this is caused by a lack of sanitizer or disinfectant. Once you
can get your sanitizer level at the 3-5ppm range, and maintain this level for a
couple of days, it will clear up.

Q:       
Why does my water foam when I turn on the jets?

A.       
Foaming is caused by a lack of sanitizer or disinfectant. Test your chlorine or
bromine levels and be sure it is in the proper 3-5ppm.

Q.       
Why does my water have a funny, musty smell?

This odor is normally caused because
the water needs to be disinfected, or the pH level is off. First, try
‘shocking’ the water with 2-3 tablespoons of disinfectant. If that does not
work, test your pH level to be sure it is in the proper range of 7.2-7.8. If
your pH level is not within this range, adjust your levels as recommended
by the Rintoul's professional.

Q.       
Why are there white flakes/particles floating in my water?

A.       
These flakes are ‘biofilm’ that has grown in your water due to lack of
sanitizer or disinfectant. Start by adding 3-4 tablespoons of sanitizer and
remove your existing filter. If the problem persists please bring a water
sample into the store.

Q:       
Why does my pH seem to always drop? Is there an easier way to keep it in the
recommended range?

A.       
The reason your pH is constantly dropping is that the products you are
putting in your hot tub are low in ph. The best way to keep it in line is to be
sure your total alkalinity level stays between 100 and 120 ppm to hold
the pH in its proper range. See your Rintoul's professional for exact
amounts of chemical to add.

Q:       
My sanitizer level is too high, how can I bring it down to the proper level?

A.       
There is more than one way to bring your sanitizer level down. First, try adding
fresh water to dilute the sanitizer. If this does not work, bring in a
water sample to Rintoul's Pools & Hot tubs for analysis and advice.

Q.       
How often should I be changing my water and replacing my filter?

A.       
We recommend changing your water every 6 months with regular hot tub usage (3-4
times per week). If you have two filters and you are cleaning them monthly they
should be replaced every 18-24 months. If the band in the middle of the filter
comes detached, it needs to be replaced.

Q.       
What is the difference between the water care products at Rintoul's Pools
& Hot Tubs and the Big Box Stores?

A.       
Most big box chemicals contain high percentages of fillers and binders to keep
the price down. You have to use much more of their products to get the desired
results – plus you end up adding unwanted by-products into your hot tub which
can lead to other issues in your water and mechanical equipment.

POOL RETROFIT

Each year as spring approaches we are inundated with advertisements and flyers that entice us to explore the latest trends in home improvement and interior design. But don't forget about your outdoor living space.There are many things you can do to upgrade your swimming pool area to create your own backyard retreat that won't break the bank.

A NEW LINER

In-ground pools offer many benefits, but if they're poorly maintained they may not last as long as you'd expect. You can retrofit your pool with a new liner or cover the existing steel steps to look like new without having to sink an enormous amount of money into the project.

SWITCH TO SALT WATER

Perhaps you want to change your traditional water to salt water. This can be achieved with the installation of a specially-designed converter connected to the control unit by simple plug-in cord, and plumbed into the filter pump's return line to the pool. As water is pushed through the cell, an extremely safe low-voltage electrical charge turns the salt previously added to the water into fresh, sanitizing chlorine which is then dispersed evenly throughout the pool via the return jets.

TURN UP THE HEAT

Many poolowners allow the sun to heat their pool, but if you are interested in extending your swim time then perhaps a heating system is something to consider. There are many options such as heat pumps or solar heating set ups that are very effective for the energy conscious consumer.

VARIABLE SPEED PUMPS

These are the most important energy-saving innovations in the last few years.With a variable speed pump you are now able to customize your pool to turn over the amount of water necessary yet still have your heater and chlorine generator activate. The end result is not using any more energy than is absolutely necessary. For most pools a variable speed pump will cut operating costs by 80% !

WATER AND LIGHTING FEATURES

Water features can be a show stopper and add a focal point to any backyard. And don't forget about lighting. With proper balance of lighting, both in and out of the pool, you can transform your wide open space into a tranquil relaxing nighttime retreat.

BACKYARD AUTOMATION

It's amazing what a little automation can do to enhance your backyard experience!

With today's technology we have automated virtually everything from building cars and packaging food, to having our morning coffee ready to start the day. Why not bring the luxury of automation to your backyard retreat?

If you are a proud swimming pool or hot tub owner, or have owned one in the past, you know that it's a great place to have fun and enjoy time with family or friends. However, owning one is not a task to be taken lightly.

From scooping out leaves and vacuuming, to water tests, chemical balancing, and keeping the equipment in good shape, your LeisureScapes dealer can automate these features in your backyard. They will reduce the time you spend looking after your pool and increase the time you spend enjoying it.

Create the perfect backyard environment with the simple touch of a button. As your LeisureScapes dealer will tell you, there are all sorts of tasks that can be automated. You can control the temperature, water level, lighting and filtering of your pool and spa as well as turn on or off of your automatic sprinklers and decorative fountains.

Before you head home from work, turn up the heat and fire up the jets on your hot tub for a relaxing evening. Warm up your pool for a last minute pool party after soccer practice or set the mood and dim the lighting for a romantic evening with your spouse. You can control these features from inside your home, from any web- enabled device. Simply program your desired settings and watch the magic happen.

Automating tasks like adding an energy-efficient variable speed pump can save you up to 75% on energy costs every year. It will also reduce your chemical usage and can even be timed to operate on off-peak hydro hours.

Properly sanitized and balanced water is important for swimmer comfort and safety. It also dramatically extends the life of your pool its materials and your equipment. Controlling your chlorinating system with an automatic sanitizer can keep your water perfectly balanced at all times and bring you softer, silkier and sparkling water.

Evaporation can be one of the largest sources of energy loss in any pool or hot tub. Adding an automatic cover will help reduce evaporation and loss of heat and will keep debris to a minimum when your pool is not in use. As well as controlling heat loss, your automatic cover will save you the hassle of winterizing your pool and keep it clean for spring.

Whether you opt for a single remote control unit or even that operate independently of one another, your LeisureScapes dealer can walk you through the benefits, set up and installation. You can also get an app for your smart phone, which gives you complete control of your backyard with the touch of a button.

How do you know which automation package is right for you? Your best bet is to visit your local LeisureScapes dealer. They will help determine which types of automation will best suit your lifestyle and your needs.

Rintoul's LeisureScapes want to give you more time to enjoy what matters most - your backyard retreat, and spending time with your family.

Entertaining poolside is always enjoyable, but there is a special appreciation for the quiet conversation with good friends and great wine.

Few things are more intimate than a warm summer evening gathered around your pool with the perfect balance of friends and food. Backyard entertaining can be simple and elegant. But you don't have to stress over the preparations. Remember, you should be able to enjoy the evening as well. Here are a few tips to make your backyard entertaining extra special.

Adding some white linen to your everyday decor adds elegance without a lot of fuss.

Cover a few tables with white pressed linen tablecloths. Add some tall vases with limes or pears for added greenery and place a candle in each for subdued lighting.

Melamine is back in fashion with colours to match any decor, but white is always a winner. Let your food be the inspiration for the infusion of summer fresh yellows, vibrant reds and luscious pinks. And if you plan your menu right, cutlery is unnecessary.

Fruit, always in season and ready to serve.

Watermelon and apple, pear or melon cut into rectangles sprinkled with sweet toasted coconut and chopped pistachios and drizzled with a really good balsamic vinegar blended with a bit of honey make for a very tasty and elegant fruit salad that you can eat without a fork.

A shot of red velvet

Cupcakes - easy to make and everyone loves them. Here is an elegant twist that makes guests think you had a private caterer. Use a red velvet cake mix and bake the cake on 2 deep sided cookie sheets so it doesn’t over flow and that the final baked layer is about 1 inch thick. It will bake faster, about half the time, so toothpick tests it often. Once cooled remove from pan onto parchment paper and put a layer of frosting over the entire surface of one. Trim the second layer so its even thickness and place the second cake layer, bottom side up, on top of the frosting. Take s shot glass size cutter and cut your cake into individual servings, add small dot of frosting to the top to complete your dessert. Serve on a paper doily for bite size elegance; add shaved chocolate on top for added brilliance.

Water cooler chicken

You can never go wrong with chicken being a party favorite and it's an easy dish to make but it can be cumbersome to eat on a stick. Prepare your favorite chicken dish, just cut into cubes rather than long strips and serve it in paper water cooler cups for easy finger food.

Meatloaf has never been more sophisticated

Using a pound of extra lean ground pork and a box of stove top stuffing, rolled to a fine crumb, mix together and add finely chopped baby spinach. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 -40 minutes in a shallow pan with meatloaf no deeper than 2 inch depth. Cut in 1 inch round shapes with a cookie cutter and served on a bed of baby spinach leaf with a slice of cherry tomato. Arrange on white platter and sprinkle with fresh basil for colour and aroma.

Don't forget the simplicity of a cutting board. Use it as your serving platter for cheese, vegetables and cured meats. It will look great and keep you moving among guests.

NOJITO - REFRESHING & ALCOHOL - FREE

• 20-30 fresh mint leaves
• 2 lemons
• 2 tbsp. sugar
• 400 ml of Sprite/Soda (if using Soda, double the amount of sugar)
• Chop up the fresh mint leaves.
• Slice the lemons down into thin wedges, removing all the seeds.
• Drop the mint leaves and wedges into a jar/glass.
• Add the sugar.
• Using a spoon/muddler, mash up everything.
• Ensure if everything is combined.
• Pour in the Sprite/soda.
• Pour yourself a glass and enjoy!

THE MAGIC OF WATER

Water has a density greater than our bodies. Water literally "pushes" back against us, providing buoyancy (we float) and a natural resistance to movement. These special properties of water create a perfect environment for practicing non-weight bearing (low impact)exercise that is also resistive in nature.

Swimming is the most obvious form of low- impact water-based exercise, but shallow and deep water walking/running, dynamic movement exercises, yoga, stretching, etc. can also be practiced in the water. Your pool is your personal gym - start your membership today!

DO MORE WITH LESS

Swimming offers something that most land-based activities don't - the ability to work your body without the harsh impact on joints, ligaments and connective tissues associated with typical land based movements. The low-impact environment of water is thus ideal for those who are managing osteoporosis or arthritis, rehabilitating injuries, recovering lost functional capacity or in need of recovery from high-impact exercise training.

INCREASED MUSCLE TONE & STRENGTH

Water-based movement is a great way to increase muscular tone and strength. Every kick and every arm movement in the water becomes a resistance exercise. However, unlike the weight room - where the load is equal to the amount of weight you hold - the load in the water is equivalent to the number of reps you perform. Therefore, the longer you move in the water the more benefit! Aim for 30 minutes per day!

IMPROVED FLEXIBILTY

Swimming puts the body through a broad range of motion, especially at the shoulders. The act of moving a joint through its full range of motion helps to increase and maintain the mobility and strength of the joint. Any joint of the body can be exercised in the water in a safe non-weight bearing way. Try taking some of your favorite stretches to the water!

A HEALTHIER HEART

Because swimming is an aerobic exercise, it serves to strengthen the heart and to make it more efficient pump - which leads to better blood flow throughout your body.

WEIGHT CONTROL

Swimming is an immense calorie burner. To boost the calories-burning effect of swimming. consider using intervals in which you work to increase your intensity for short bursts and then recover with slower swimming or rest and then repeat.

LOWER RISK OF DIABETES

When it comes to preventing and managing diabetes, there are a few prescriptions as powerful as aerobic exercise. According to the Canadian Diabetes Association, diabetics should strive for a minimum of 150 minutes or aerobic activity per week to improve and maintain glycemic control. Swimming and other water-based movements are an essential component of any long-term aerobic fitness plan.

LOWER STRESS, HIGHER SPIRTS AND A BETTER BRAIN

A release of natural endorphins is one of the most pleasant side effects of swimming. In addition to the endorphins high, swimming can also evoke a relaxation response. This is similar to the way yoga works on the body through rhythmic contraction and stretching of your muscles underpinned by deep rhythmic breathing. Swimming is also a meditative exercise supported through the rhythmic sound of your own breathing and splash of the water as mantra of sorts.

Aside from the metaphysical benefit of swimming, research shows that it can change the brain for the better through a process known as hippocampal neurogenesis, whereby the brain replaces cells lost through stress.

SWIM YOUR WAY TO BETTER HEALTH

Given all these benefits of swimming, along with the fact that better health leads to a longer life, why not dive in and get started to a lifetime of good living? Start slowly, have fun and enjoy the magic of water by swimming as part of your healthy lifestyle today.

As a LeisureScapes dealer with a history dating back to 1970, Rintoul's Pools & Hot Tubs is a member of one of Canada's largest professional network of Independant Pool, Spa and Outdoor Leisure retailers and suppliers. Owner, Phil Rintoul and the staff maintain the goal of helping customers to createthe ultimate leisure space - the outdoor living room in your own backyard.

Whether it is the design and custom installation of a swimming pool for any landscape orientation and budget, or maintenance and supplies for an existing pool or spa, Rintoul's LeisureScapes can cover your needs.

The sky is the limit when it comes to creating your dream backyard! If you want to soak away the days stress or spend quality time with the family, a RotoSpa or Canadiana hot tub from Rintoul's LeisureScapes is an affordable luxury that provides the therapeutic benefits of hydrotherapy, combining heat, natural buoyancy, and water massage. we have some of the industries most talented and creative landscapers working with us. Whether updating your backyard or starting from scratch we can make it happen. Dreams that can make come true for you:

• Stamped Concrete
• Fencing - Iron, Wooden, Chain link, Ornamental, Decorative Metal
• Interlocking Stone
• Retaining Walls
• Natural Stone
• Sodding

From free water analysis and expert water management advice to supplies, Rintoul's LeisureScapes provides everything you should need, including BIOGUARD and DAZZLE speciality chemicals at competive prices, salt water systems, solar heating, and UV Sterlizers. Leak detection, liner replacement and repair can be arranged, in addition to weekly pool cleaning and maintenance services, pool openings and closings and hot tub and pool repairs.

Create a little paradise in your own backyard - visit Rintoul's LeisureScapes and make your dream happen this year.

For centuries, people have flocked to natural springs to take advantage of the 'curative' properties of bathing in its hot water. Today people around the world continue to agree that nothing seems to sooth the aches and pains of a hard day's work like a hot soak.

While natural hot springs are tough to find, modern homeowners can easily bring this experience to their backyards with a hot tub. Buying one, however, can be overwhelming. But if you do your homework, you can ensure you'll buy the hot tub that best suits your needs.

There are five basic things to consider when buying a hot tub:

1. Comfort and Design
2. Reputation
3. Insulation
4. Massage Capabilities
5. Ease of Maintenance

Comfort and Design

Above all else, you want your hot tub to be comfortable. Check to see if the hot tub seats are ergonomically designed to fit your body's natural curves. You need to make sure you fit comfortably into the seats in order to get the best possible soaking and massage experience. Don't be afraid to get in and test out the seats. If a seat is not comfortable when it is dry, odds are it won't be any more comfortable when it is wet. You should also take a close look at other design features of the hot tub. For example, is there multi-level seating, does the hot tub have a large enough foot well to accommodate multiple bathers and are there safety steps to enter the hot tub? Even minor features should be studied. For instance, if the hot tub comes with pillows, ensure they are comfortable and easy to remove and clean. Check to see if there is a place to put an ice bucket or place drinks. No detail is too insignificant.

Reputation

Look for hot tub manufacturers that have been in business for awhile and have a proven record of reliability. Visiting your local LeisureScapes dealer for advice is a good place to start. You can also ask friends or family members with hot tubs about their experiences with particular brands.

Also, investigate whether the product they offer are covered by a reasonable warranty. A good warranty would consist of a 10 year structural warranty, 5 year acrylic surface and 3 year parts and labour warranty.

Insulation

This factor is significant because of its link to energy efficiency, an important consideration for any home-owner. First and foremost, look for a hot tub that is approved by the Commission for Environmental Co-operation (CEC). Investigate how long it takes for the hot tub to pump out and filter 100 percent of its water. The less time this takes the more energy-efficient the hot tub will be. Look at models that use low-amperage filtration pumps. A good hardcover can also provide added insulation and energy efficiency.

Massage Capabilities

Likely the most appealing element of a hot tub is its massage capabilities. When added to soothing feel of hot water, it can truly make or break your hot tub experience. Through it may be tempting to go for the model with the most jets, more is not always better. Instead, look for jets that are strategically placed in the most optimal spots. For example, foot jets are often overlooked, even though they can provide one of the best possible massages.

Customization is also a much sought-after feature when it comes to jets. A model with optimized hydraulics will ensure an even flow of water is sent to each jet for a smooth, comfortable massage.

Ease of Maintenance

No matter what hot tub you choose, you need to make sure it is easy to service. When it comes to hot tub maintenance, there are two primary factors you need to address - filtration and disinfection.

Filtration. In a hot tub, dirt can only do two things. It is either light enough to float on the surface or heavy enough to drop to the bottom. When assessing a hot tub's filtration capabilities, be sure to ask how long it takes to filter 100percent of the water. Also check to ensure the skimmer is sufficient. Does it provide enough filtration to remove debris and does it have a floating door to skim the surface of the water? also ask the salesperson whether the hot tub has a suction side filter or pressure side filter. The suction side filter offers less expensive filtration, but is not as effective ; It will only filter 50 percent of the hot tub water. Conversely, pressure side filters are more expensive, but since 100 percent of the water passes through the filter, all of it can be cleaned.

Disinfection. To keep your hot tub safe and pleasant to use, you will also need to disinfect the water regularly. Ideally, look for a hot tub that has an in-line chemical feeder as opposed to a floating dispenser. If you choose to use an ozone system, which is designed to reduce your overall chemical requirements, look for a model that uses an injection system. If you opt for a saltwater bromine system ask your local dealer to help you set it up properly to best suit your needs. Once you understand the system, it will be easy to use and makes for a very pleasant soaking experience.

Go Forth And Shop

Although looking for a hot tub can be confusing at times, you can make the process less complicated by narrowing down your search criteria to the five areas above. With a little preparation ahead of time, your hot tub buying experience will be a stress- free, enjoyable experience.... the way it should be.

Comfort and Design