FAQ's -Frequently Asked Questions about swimming pools & spas

How soon can I have a swimming pool ?

• This depends if you want to fit your pool yourself or if you want us to install for you. We have a full range of kits in stock ready for despatch for DIY pool installations, if you want a swimming pool installed with terrace, pool security etc, etc then we may need as long as 4 months to program you in and organise your planning for you.

If I buy a DIY pool kit is it really that easy to install myself ?

• It's a daunting task, but really installing a swimming pool kit needn't be any harder than building a flat pack wardrobe or kitchen so as long as you have a knowledge of DIY and follow our pool installation guides. It does help to hire a good artisan to excavate your hole to install your pool if it's going in ground, the more level and accurately the hole is dug, the easier it will be to install your swimming pool. We are always on hand to offer our help and advice.

What about maintenance, can you tell us what we have to do with our pool ?

• Of course, we have various articles and manuals to help you understand water chemistry, maintenance, opening and closing pools, even liner replacement, if you don't want to read anything you can always call us for a chat to discuss anything pool related. We are here to help you.

Is it true that pools for gite's or campsite's are subject to more stringent regulations ?

• Yes it is. We cannot stress enough the importance of maintaining good water chemistry in any pool, neutral pH and total alkalinity are just two of the important factors, when it comes to "public pools" defined in France as pools used by more than one family there are more factors to take into consideration set down by the health authority (DDASS). We have a leaflet describing the guidelines set out by the DDASS but basically the filtration system on a "public pool" must enable the water to be filtered within 1.5 - 2hrs, this means higher flow rates and larger filters are required than a standard pool. Chemicals MUST NOT be manually added to the pool and tests must be carried out and recorded at regular intervals to ensure the highest quality of water is maintained at all times. Stabilizer (Cyanuric acid) levels must also stay below 75mg/ltr and you must replace a minimum of 30ltrs of water PER BATHER A DAY. These are just a couple of the requirements, please download our leaflet here to find out more.

What type of water treatment do you recommend ?

• The most commonly used water sanitizer is Chlorine, you can buy it anywhere and it's very easy to use, but it's not necessarily the best. We can supply salt water chlorinators so you can use salt, we can supply a completely chlorine free water treatment which is about the closest thing to fresh water currently available. Talk to us and we can give you all the pro's and con's of each system.

Why are your spa's so cheap ?

• We import Spas to Europe and We have several direct accounts with the largest European importers of several Spas including Beachcomber, Poseidon Spas and Sunbelt Spa's,  we want to be competitive and have spas delivered direct from the importer so there are no middle men, Sunbelt spa's have no flashing lights, DVD players or any other non essential equipment, (although available) just quality jets, pumps and filtration systems, acrylic and microban.

How long do liner pools last ?

•  Most pool liners are guaranteed for at least 10 years, when they deteriorate beyond repair it's just a case of replacing the liner. The grade of liners used in pools differs from manufacturer to manufacturer, ours are 75/100mm which is a heavy grade and could last in excess of 20 years if the water quality and chemical balance is well maintained.

Do I need planning to install a pool in France ?

• Yes. A pool can be installed in France by submitting a "declaration de travaux" it's not quite a planning application but still has to be approved by your local Marie and DDE, the governing body for building in France. If you are having a house or extension built it may be easier to submit a planning application at the same time, either way you will be required to show dimensions, shapes and the proposed location of your new pool before you start work.

What about the new pool security law ?

• There are four main approved types of security system for new in-ground swimming pools in France, Pool Alarms, Pool Fencing, Pool Abri Covers and Security Covers. You must allow to have one type or another when you fill out your application. Every new pool installed in France must conform by having an approved security system in place so it's a case of deciding what type of security system will be most practical for you.

• On ground pools are not required to have a security system at this time.

Can I heat my Pool ?

• Certainly!  You can heat your pool in several ways, you can use an existing boiler and fit a heat exchanger to pass the treated pool water through without it coming in contact with the heating circuit of the boiler. You can use a heat pump which takes the heat from the surrounding air and converts it to heat for your pool by passing it through a heat exchanger with a fan, rather like a fridge takes warm air out of the inside and gets rid of it through a coil on the back, but in reverse. Then you have solar heating which is a great free source of heating, (so long as the sun is out) it does require quite a large area of "solar collectors" or panels to be fitted either on the floor or an adjacent roof, usually 50% of the pool surface area is needed for optimal heating.

Can I have a pool shaped to my design ?

• Surprisingly the answer is yes ! You can actually have a pool shaped any way you like, we have a system which enables us to design a pool in any shape or size, the only problem is cost, if it's not an issue then tell us what you want and we will build it for you.

If I am not in France most of the year what happens to the pool ?

• Over the winter we normally close pools down, this involves draining the pool by 25 -30% to allow for rainfall, draining the whole pump circuit and even removing the pump if it is susceptible to frost damage. We add a chemical called Hivernage to keep the pool water as clean and algae free as possible until such time as the pool is reopened and normal sanitization can be resumed. The best option if you do not want to employ someone to look after your pool when it is open is to install a device like the JEP control which automatically doses your pool with chemicals at a level to maintain a perfect balance and keep your pool water clean. Use of an automated pool robot cleaner will mean that the walls and floor of the pool are cleaned, further reducing the risk of algae growth.

• When you turn up for your holiday, a couple of hours to adjust water quality and clean any bits missed by your pool robot should be all it will take before you can use your pool for the duration of your stay.

SUNBELT SPA FAQ's

What is the Spa's Surface ?

 

• All Sunbet Spas come standard with either Lucite or Microban® Anti-Microbial Product Protection built into the "cast acrylic" sheet used to make spas. It is available in both the new popular granite look and feel, but also the brilliant marble smooth surfaces.
  
   

What is a cast acrylic sheet?

• It is a relatively thin piece of special plastic that is manufactured by Lucite® and it's the first step in making a new hot tub. They take a sheet of this "cast acrylic" and place it in a special oven. At approximately 400° the acrylic is now pliable and dropped into a vacuum mold and air is withdrawn providing a "skin". This spa "skin" is then fiberglassed on the underside to provide the strength.
  
  What is this Microban®?

• It's a microbial resistant product found in many new applications. Hospital operating rooms starting using a fabric coated version of Microban® to help keep the environment more sterile. The product has expanded to soap, tooth brushes and much more. Lucite® Acrylics has incorporated Microban® into the spa's acrylic surface providing both and cleaner and more bacteria resistant surface. It will last the life of the spa. Note: Microban® is a registered trademark. www.microban.com.
  
  Why is Microban® important to you?

• A spa is a warm environment that tends to breed micro-organisms and although chemicals/ozonation kill most bacteria, Microban® resists the growth of bacteria on the spa's surface. It also creates a cleaner spa since it reduces the build up of "surface lines". Ask for Microban® by name when looking for a new spa.
  
  Does Microban wear off?

• According to Lucite® Acrylics, the Microban® is incorporated into the actual production of the sheet and will remain a part of it forever. It will not wash or wear off ever.
  
  Filtration System
  
  
  What is Sealed Filtration?

• It's a filter system that works like the oil filter in your car by forcing dirty water through and then back to the spa ensuring 100% filtered water. A cartridge is located outside of the spa's environment in the "lip" of the spa and is easily accessed for cleaning or replacement. A sealed system like this helps to eliminate most odors and visual effects (yuck!) common with open filter systems.
  
  Where do you put the chemicals?

• Unlike other spas which use some sort of floating chemical spreader (ie: ducks or floating device), some spas have a dispenser that is built into the filter lid as part of the cleaning system. There is a setting on the filter lid and instructions for usage for simple and easy adding of chemicals to the spa.
  
  What is Ozonation and how does it work?

• Ozonation purifies spa water by killing micro-organisms in conjunction with the spa's normal chemical application. Testing has proven this to be a good association with chemicals.
  
  Is it difficult to maintain my spa?

• Normal usage requires periodic checking of the water chemistry and minor wiping of the spa's surface above the water. Cleaning and draining procedures are explained in the manual and on the video.
  
  Spa Equipment
  
  What type of pumps do you use?

• Sunbelt use the industry's finest aquatic pumps with superior windings and components.
  
  Do I want bigger or more pumps?

• More or bigger pumps draw more "amps" and therefore may increase your electrical bills. In addition, there is only so much water and air that can go through your jet system. Sunbelt Spas match "flow to jets" for maximum action and very little wasted energy.
  
  Why should you check out pump(s) horsepower claims?

• Pump size should be based on the "gallon per minute flow" and there appears to be some misunderstanding within the hot tub industry in regards to the size of the actual pumps. Most residential hot tub pump motors are 48 frame, high performance pumps with oversized impellors and 2 horsepower motors. Due to the fact that these pumps will often pump more gallons per minute than conventional 3, 4 and even 5 horsepower pool pumps, many hot tub pump manufacturers, as well as most hot tub manufacturers, are now labeling their pumps 4HP, 4.5HP and even 5 HP referring to them as "high performance" or "hydrotherapy power", and not using conventional horsepower ratings. Please don't be misled by these "marketing" type ratings. You should also keep in mind that larger pumps usually will draw much more amperage and could raise your electrical costs.
  
  
  Why does the pump filter at different times?

• Sunbelt Spas use the same high volume pump for jet action, heating, and filtration. Pumps on Sunbelt spas move 80 gallons per minute. Other spa manufacturers use a tiny pump that filters less than 80 gallons per hour for filtration. This is similar to the difference between a small window air conditioner and an effective central A/C system.
  
  Does my spa filter automatically?

• Yes. It has factory pre-programmed settings that turn the spa's pump on and off running the water through the filter. The default settings are permanently set at the factory and not lost during a power outage. You have the option to change the cleaning cycles to fit your lifestyle.
  
  How long should it take to warm my spa up?

• It really depends on a few things. If the spa is hooked up for 220V, it will heat much faster than a spa that is simply plugged into a 15amp household outlet. The 220V units heat up an average of 10 degrees per hour, but overnight is quoted.
  
  What is a "blower system"?

• It injects warmed air into the spa's water through a series of openings. The blower agitates the water creating more activity in the spa. The air is produced by a quiet air blower located near the equipment package.
  
  Do blowers cool down a spa?

• You betcha! If you set in a spa longer than 1/2 hour, your body will rise to the temperature of the spa water. This presents an unhealthy situation, but you can slowly cool the water down by turning on the blower and turning down the heat. This will allow you to enjoy your spa longer without having to get out of it or by adding cold water.
  
  Is a blower good to have on a spa?

• A blower adds to the enjoyment of the spa because it doubles the agitation of the water. As long as the heat is on, your spa will maintain the temperature you set it for. A blower uses the same motor assembly of a common home vacuum cleaner that generates warm air.
  
  
  Will my spa freeze if there is a power outage?

• Depending on the air temperature, it is more likely that your spa's pump will freeze first. The water in the spa is better insulated and will take a great deal longer to freeze. A short power outage should not be a problem, but there is nothing, short of a backup generator, to stop this from happening to your spa. Emptying and winterizing the spa is another option, if you have a concern.
  
  
  
  Is my spa tested prior to shipment?

• Yes. All our Spas are checked for air and water integrity. In addition the heater and all functions of the spa are fully tested.
  
  Total Control Jet System
  
  Are your jets adjustable?

• All of the larger or "Magna" jets have an adjustment ring to control the jet flow from minimum and maximum. The jet nozzles can also be interchangeable to other locations in the spa if desired.
  
  Do I want more jets?

• Most second time buyers agree that having more jets wasn't as important as the comfort of the spa's interior and the positioning of the jets. Manufacturers call this "Planned Hydrotherapy". They also liked adjustable and interchangeable jet nozzles for their particular needs. Sunbelt agree and carefully plan the position and capability of each jet. You're in the spa to relax, and not be pummeled and bruised by an over supply of jets.
  
  Why don't you use chrome or stainless fittings?

• Quite simply they corrode. No matter how careful you are, water chemistry takes its toll on these fittings. We only use acrylic in our handrails and UV stable plastic jet fittings. This means less grief for you in the future.
  
  Why don't you offer tile on spas?

• In the old days, spas built with gunite (concrete) used tile to dress up an otherwise dull spa. Spa manufacturers put them on the acrylic surface with silicone and soon enough they started falling off. Tiles would be nice if they stayed on, but they don't.
  
  What are air controls?

• They are the adjustable valves that invigorate the jets by controlling the amount of air to the opening of the jet nozzle.
  
  
  Do your handrails really light up?

• Yes. on certain spa there is a lighting element at the end of the clear acrylic rails. Not only white, but you can add color chips to the rail and create a different ambiance. The hand rails and the spa's main foot well light have three different dimmer settings.
  
  Spa Comfort
  
  Are all spas designed the same?

• There is a great deal of thought toward the design of any new spa. Will it fit users of all sizes and shapes? Does it support the bather while muscles relax? Are the jets placed in the right place for every type of user?
  
  What are lumbar supports?

• These are built into every new spa to support the lower back and provide the extra comfort you may need to really enjoy your spa.
  
  Are they easy to get in and out of?

• The models with hand rails help a lot, but all of our spas are designed with the cabinet under the lip so you won't get splinters as you cross over the edge.
  
  What is the cabinet made of?

• At present Sunbelt use EON™ a synthetic and virtually indestructible alternative to wood, it perfectly captures the look, feel and natural beauty of wood with none of the drawbacks and benefits the homeowner who can easily pull panels off if necessary for storage, repair or similar.
  
  Can I put a Sunbelt Spa "IN" my deck?

• Yes. All Sunbelt spas are self standing and come with an ABS base, so it shouldn't be a problem if you have room beneath the deck for a small concrete or similar pad. You should plan to position the spa so that you have access to the equipment package. Check with a local dealer or registered contractor.
  
  How much weight will my deck support?

• For placing a spa ON the deck, you should first consult with local building codes, deck builder or licensed contractor to determine the exact requirements for the weight of the spa. If building a deck, plan to make it strong enough for a spa. We have drawings and PSI ratings available that should help.
  
  Thermal Hard Cover
  
  Why is a thermal cover important?

• The thermal cover retains most all of the heat that has been built up in the spa over a period of time. Without a cover, any spa would struggle to bring the temperature up to desired temperature. Sunbelt provides a heavy duty cover with each spa standard. These covers come complete with tamper resistant locks and keys.
  
  
  
  The Warranty
  
  What is the warranty program?

• The basic warranty on Sunbelt spas is 25 years structure, 7 years surface, 2 years other equipment. unless offered this only applies to the replacement of parts, due to our already low prices we don not offer a labour inclusive warrentee..
  
  Do you have additional warranty programs?

• Yes. Three and Five year programs are available at nominal charge. They need to be purchased within 7 days of the delivery of the spa. Check with your dealer for details.
  
  Is it safe to buy from a Brico Depot or department store?

• As long as the building doesn't fall on you, we guess it's safe. Spas that are being offered as discounted models during special promotions are like buying a lottery ticket. Chances are if it's too good to be true, you know the story. Most cases that we've heard about end up the same way. No warranty follow up, no delivery, no service and sometimes no more manufacturer. Sure it's a good deal, but..."caviat emptor" (buyer beware)
  
  
  Do you sell spas all over Europe?

• Yes, and we have trade prices for small to container load shipments.
  
  Are hot tubs good for health reasons?

•  As far as muscle relaxation, there is no question they are. As far as making someone better, we hear stories from people with chronic arthritis that claim warm water is the best therapy for them. The National Arthritis Foundation openly recommends hot tubs and warm water.