Cedar wooden planters have always been the choice wood for planing shrubs or herbs and flowers. The barel desing used in manufacturing our cedar hot tubs has also become poplular for thoses looking for large indoor or outdoor wooden planters. The cedar barrel planter can be used to house much larger trees than normal wooden planters can handle. What is even more attactive is the planter can be moved! If you grow tired of the location of your tree you can change it arround. As a deck planter you can have much bigger trees than normal planters allow. You can even grow potatoes and other root vegtables that require lots of soil depth.
Giant planters hold much more soil that regular wooden planters so they can support the root system of larger trees. The large amount of soil capacity means the their is also the appropriate base weight for taller tree in windy conditions. Very large planters can sustain almost any type of tree from spruce to palm trees.
Another advantage of our large cedar tubs for trees is that 1 1/2 thick cedar will not rot or decay like pine or spuce planters. Large wooden planters also will hold much more water for tropical treees such as figs and palms.
For more information including prcing off our large wooden planters click here.
[yt_spacer height="30" ]
[yt_promotion_box type="arrow-box" align="left" yt_title="Check Out Our Cedar Barrel Saunas" title_color="#86440e" button_text="MORE INFO" button_link="https://www.cedarbarrelsaunas.com/" width="100" target="_blank" promotion_color="#86440e" promotion_background="#ddd" promotion_radius="3px" button_color="#fff" button_background="#86440e" button_background_hover="#612e03" button_radius="3px" ] Place an order for both a hot tub & sauna and receive free shipping! [/yt_promotion_box]
Contact Us For More Information On This Special Offer
[yt_spacer height="10" ]
If you have any questions regarding our products please call us [yt_buttons type="none" style="default" link="tel:+18007598990" target="_self" color="#FFFFFF" background="#86440e" icon="icon: phone-square" icon_position="left" subtitle="" radius="3px" animated_icon="no" size="lg" full="no" center="yes" ] Toll Free: +1(800)7598990 [/yt_buttons] or send us email [yt_buttons type="none" style="default" link="mailto:sales@cedartubs.com" target="_self" color="#FFFFFF" background="#86440e" icon="icon: envelope-o" icon_position="left" subtitle="" radius="3px" animated_icon="no" size="lg" full="no" center="yes" ] sales@cedartubs.com [/yt_buttons]
Your Coupon Code is CT-542ABC. you can use it on your purchase and get upto $500 discounts.
Contact Us For More Information On This Special Offer
Email:sales@cedartubs.com
Toll Free: 1 800 759 8990
[yt_heading style="flat-green" align="center" heading="h3" color="#ffffff" width="100" size="16" margin="20" ] Key Highlights - Click on a number to see more info [/yt_heading]
smartslider3[62]
[yt_spacer height="30" ]
[yt_spacer height="30" ]
[yt_heading style="modern-2-dark" align="center" heading="h3" color="#86440e" width="100" size="16" margin="20" ] Layout Configuration CAD Drawings [/yt_heading]
[yt_spacer height="20" ]
[yt_columns grid="yes" ] [yt_columns_item col="4" offset="0" margin="0px" padding="0px" background="none" color="#ccc" ] [yt_box style="default" box_color="#86440e" radius="3" yt_title="Small Tub (Metric)" title_color="#ffffff" ] [yt_lightbox yt_title="" align="none" type="none" style="none" src="/images/articleimages/1231632194Tub with accessories dimensions 4ft 8in in centimeters.jpg" video_addr="" width="100%" height="100%" lightbox="yes" description="" ] [/yt_box] [/yt_columns_item] [yt_columns_item col="4" offset="0" margin="0px" padding="0px" background="none" color="#ccc" ] [yt_box style="default" box_color="#86440e" radius="3" yt_title="Small Tub (Standard)" title_color="#ffffff" ] [yt_lightbox yt_title="" align="none" type="none" style="none" src="/images/articleimages/1231632211Tub with accessories dimensions 4ft 8in in inches.jpg" video_addr="" width="100%" height="100%" lightbox="yes" description="" ] [/yt_box] [/yt_columns_item] [yt_columns_item col="4" offset="0" margin="0px" padding="0px" background="none" color="#ccc" ] [yt_box style="default" box_color="#86440e" radius="3" yt_title="Medium Tub (Metric & Standard)" title_color="#ffffff" ] [yt_lightbox yt_title="" align="none" type="none" style="none" src="/images/articleimages/5-metric-standard-large.jpg" video_addr="" width="100%" height="100%" lightbox="yes" description="" ] [/yt_box] [/yt_columns_item] [/yt_columns]
[yt_clear]
[yt_columns grid="yes" ] [yt_columns_item col="4" offset="0" margin="0px" padding="0px" background="none" color="#ccc" ] [yt_box style="default" box_color="#86440e" radius="3" yt_title="Large Hot Tub (Metric & Standard)" title_color="#ffffff" ] [yt_lightbox yt_title="" align="none" type="none" style="none" src="/images/articleimages/6-metric-standard-large.jpg" video_addr="" width="100%" height="100%" lightbox="yes" description="" ] [/yt_box] [/yt_columns_item] [yt_columns_item col="4" offset="0" margin="0px" padding="0px" background="none" color="#ccc" ] [yt_box style="default" box_color="#86440e" radius="3" yt_title="X Large Hot Tub (Metric)" title_color="#ffffff" ] [yt_lightbox yt_title="" align="none" type="none" style="none" src="/images/articleimages/7-metric-large.jpg" video_addr="" width="95%" height="90%" lightbox="yes" description="" ] [/yt_box] [/yt_columns_item] [yt_columns_item col="4" offset="0" margin="0px" padding="0px" background="none" color="#ccc" ] [yt_box style="default" box_color="#86440e" radius="3" yt_title="X Large Hot Tub (Standard)" title_color="#ffffff" ] [yt_lightbox yt_title="" align="none" type="none" style="none" src="/images/articleimages/7--standard-large.jpg" video_addr="" width="90%" height="100%" lightbox="yes" description="" ] [/yt_box] [/yt_columns_item] [/yt_columns]
[yt_spacer height="30" ]
[yt_heading style="modern-2-dark" align="center" heading="h3" color="#86440e" width="100" size="16" margin="20" ] Tub Code Using 47" High [/yt_heading]
[yt_spacer height="20" ]
| A | B | C | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Users | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 |
| # of Seats | 3 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Diameter | 56 | 65 | 74 | 84 |
| Height | 47" | 47" | 47" | 47" |
| # of Jets Standard | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Max # Jets | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 |
| Gallons (IMP) | 294 | 400 | 523 | 687 |
| Gallons (US) | 352 | 480 | 628 | 825 |
| Liters | 1334 | 1819 | 2378 | 3124 |
| Pump size HP | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Heater | 5.5kw/Chofu | 5.5kw/ Chofu | 5.5kw/Gas | 5.5kw/Gas |
| ElectRequired Service Required | 2P-40A GFD | 2P-40A GFD | 2P-40A GFD | 2P-40A GFD |
| Weight (Including Tub) |
3300lbs | 4400lbs | 5750lbs | 7700lbs |
| Chofu Wood APRX Heat Up Time |
3-4 | 5 | 6 | 9 |
| Electric APRX Heat Up Time |
9 | 11 | 15 | 19 |
| Natural Gas/Propane APRX Heat Up Time |
2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
* All our stave come from the factory at 47" however we can make the tubs shorter at no additional charge should a customer request. Total hight of the hot tub is 48" of the ground.
* Elec Service applies to electric heated systems with 5.5KW heater and 1-3 HP pump. Gas systems can be configured to run on 120 VAC 15A GFD. Chofu systems do not need any electrical requirements unless a filter system is used.
* All electric systems come in either Canadian/US (230VAC/60Hz) and European (220VAC/50Hz) supplies and codes. The customer is responsible for the electrical hookup (usually 30A or 40A 2P GFCI) This will require an electrical contractor which should be budgeted into the overall cost. You will also have to budget for creating a flat foundation to place the tub on.
[yt_spacer height="30" ]
[yt_heading style="modern-2-dark" align="center" heading="h3" color="#86440e" width="100" size="16" margin="20" ] 3-D Overviews [/yt_heading]
smartslider3[63]
[yt_spacer height="50" ]
[yt_clear]
[yt_buttons type="none" style="border" link="index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=258:hot-tub-designs&catid=2:general-articles&Itemid=754" target="_self" color="#86440e" background="#86440e" icon="" icon_position="left" subtitle="" radius="3px" animated_icon="no" size="default" full="no" center="yes" ] Hot Tub Design Studio [/yt_buttons] [yt_buttons type="none" style="border" link="index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=359:tub-talk&catid=2:general-articles&Itemid=860" target="_self" color="#86440e" background="#86440e" icon="" icon_position="left" subtitle="" radius="3px" animated_icon="no" size="default" full="no" center="yes" ] Hot Tub Talk With Owner Dan Jung [/yt_buttons]
[yt_spacer height="30" ]
Mark Tanko
Weico Builders, L.L.C.
Hammonton NJ
609-965-9110 voice
609-517-5787 cell
email: mtanko@comcast.net
Bill and Donna Taylor
Shelton, CT
H: (203) 926-1226
M: (203) 814-2199
email: dr.bill.taylor@gmail.com
Medical experts consider hot water exercise essential for treating arthritis, rheumatism, painful joints, varicose veins and other musculature and back disorders. It is especially popular for early sport injury recovery. Without it, joints will stiffen and muscles will shorten. If morning stiffness plagues you, limber up in the spa before facing the day, or let the spa help you unwind after a busy one.
Exercising in the water:
"Exercising in water is generally very good for patients, because there's less weight across the joints," Klippel says, especially people with Osteoarthritis of the hips or knees, the most common form of arthritis. "It may also promote weight loss," he adds. "Any exercise for a person with arthritis that can lead to weight loss is very beneficial."
"The heat from the warm water makes joint movement in the person with arthritis much easier," says Washington, D.C., rheumatologist Dr. Jack Klippel, medical director of the Arthritis Foundation. "We consider it an important component of therapy."
Water's buoyancy serves as a cushion, protecting joints during exercise routines. Because it is a liquid, water offers more resistance than air, helping people build muscle strength as they push against it.
Aqua Therapy Tub | Aqua Tub Specifications | Aqua Tub Pricing | Cold Plunge Pool Chiller Tubs
Research has shown massage, heat and whirlpool to have the following effects:
The Aqua Therapy Tubs unique ability to offer hydro massage while standing in near buoyant water is comparable only to that of a $95/hour massage. Given the ability to massage all parts of the body including back muscles, side muscles and front muscles is truly unique. The warm water already increases blood flow to the skin and muscle tissues. The added gentle pressure of water applied to the muscles and joints is perhaps the quickest way to relieve pain and stress and inflammation.
Aqua Therapy Tub | Aqua Tub Specifications | Aqua Tub Pricing
Thank you for your order, we appreciate your recent order. Customer satisfaction is of utmost importance to us and we value your trust in our company.
We are confident that you will be more than happy with your purchase, however, please do not hesitate to contact us if any problems should arise.
Potential customers often wonder what the least expensive form of energy is in their area. Should I use electricity or is natural gas cheaper? We have no way of answering this question broadly. You will have to contact your local electric and gas utilities and ask what they charge. Electricity is charged in $ per kilowatt-hour and natural gas is charged in $ per therm or sometimes in $ per Mcf. Once you have this information, then you can make a comparison. Here are the conversion factors:
1 therm = 29.3 kilowatt-hrs
only 80% efficient. Taking this efficiency factor into effect, the following table provides the equivalent cost at which alternative fuels would need to be priced:
1 therm =0.097Mcf or 1 Mcf = 10.3 thermHowever, while electric heating is nearly 100% efficient, gas pool and spa heaters are typically TABLE
Below 1.17 US$/therm. Break-even is however not good enough. At least a 25% savings is required, to justify the extra capital cost and extra maintenance costs of a gas heater system. Capital cost for a more elaborate gas heater with the additional digital spa pak can be $1000
The amount of energy used by a 5ft 5in OD cedar hot tub, with an insulated floor, is in the order of 30 kW-hrs/day during a moderate winter season (similar to NYC or London). At 5 cents/kWhr this cost you .05 x24 x30 = $45/month, during this season. During the summer the energy usage is considerably less (~1/3) and during spring and fall it would be about 1/2. If you live in a warmer climate (such as LA) your usage will be much less in the winter and during the summer the pump energy can be enough to keep the tub at temperature. Of course, if you live in a more severe winter climate (Montreal) it will be more during winter, fall and spring. During the times you are in the tub; energy usage will be greater since the cover is off. Larger tubs will also require more energy to heat, roughly in proportion to the ratio of the surface area of the staves. If using LPG (propane) a good question is how many gallons I will use and how big should my tank be. 30 kW-hrs/day equates to 1.07 gal (US)/day of LPG. You should therefore expect to use 30 ? 40 Gal (US)/month during in a moderate winter (such as in NYC). We recommend at least a 500 pound size tank (called a pig in some areas). LPG has a density of approx 4.5 lbs/ Gal (US). A 500 lbs tank would therefore hold somewhat more 100 Gal (US) or a 3 - 4 winter-month supply.
For example if you are being charged 5 cents/kW-hr, natural gas would be cheaper if it is priced more.
This is a very popular subject and a question many customers ask us all the time. The answer is NO because in addition to keeping your tub sanitary you need to keep the water balanced (adjusted for alkalinity, pH and water hardness). The later involves adding products which adjust the water chemistry to bring it in line with ideal "pH Neutral" levels. Having neutral water to begin with is very important as it affects how the water reacts with the heater elements, your skin, and how effective the sanitizers will be. Without neutral water, problems will quickly arise. Balancing chemicals such as pH up, pH down, Alkalinity rise, calcium increase, are seldom discussed as chemicals. However, these by definition are certainly chemicals, and as such make it impossible to say that NO chemicals can be used.
When most people ask about "chemical free systems", they are usually referring to traditional sanitization chemicals such as Bromine and Chlorine. "Can I use a wooden hot tub without any harsh sanitizing chemicals such as chlorine and bromine?" As suggested, for the sake of this article we will consider "chemicals" to be considered the Halogens family in the form of Bromine or Chlorine. So, the question should be reframed to, "are there effective skin and health friendly alternatives to using chlorine or bromine in keeping a hot tub sanitized?"
It seems very logical that customers seeking a natural hot tub soak provided by a wooden hot tub, would also want that experience to be free of these chemicals. The problem with any type of hot tub, wooden or plastic, is that the high temperature conditions, ratio of persons per unit volume of water, and frequent use, are a perfect mix for breeding bacteria and algae. 3 persons in a small hot tub is equivalent to 300 people in a backyard pool.
To answer the question of safe alternatives, we 1st must understand what function chlorine and bromine have in a pool or hot tub. Once we clearly understand their functions we can then address substitute products.
The USA's EPA certifies Chlorine and Bromine as two safe chemicals for water control in pools and spas. Specifically, they certify their ability to safely sanitize and oxidize a pool or spa. When used properly these chemicals are considered safe, otherwise they would not have EPA and other countries equivalent approval. Until recent times, these chemicals have long been considered the main pool and spa sanitizers.
The debate on which chemical to use (bromine or chlorine) is ongoing, however on a wooden hot tub the choice is one sided. Bromine is the sanitizer of choice simply because Chlorine under specific circumstances can break down the wood fiber causing irreversible damage to the tub. Besides this important fact, Bromine is considered to have fewer odors and is more stable than chlorine at high temperatures (chlorine "gases off" after 98 degrees).
Now to discuss alternatives, we need to clearly understand the two processes that bromine (chlorine) provides in a hot tub or spa. These are to sanitize and to oxidize, as this is ultimately the functions we require when looking for alternatives.
A restricted definition for a "sanitizer", as used in the pool and spa industry, is any product that destroys live bacteria and viruses, present in the water or on wetted surfaces. Chlorine and Bromine's are EPA approved sanitizers in that sense. Under the right concentration and provided the pH is in the 6.8-7.5 range, which is comfortable for our skin, both will kill any bacteria that impose a health risk. They are members of the Halogen family and when combined with water form a sanitizing chemical HOCl (hypochlorous acid) or HOBr (hypobromous acid) which when in contact with bacteria and viruses will destroy them (depending on the contact time and concentration of the chemical). Bromine and Chlorine when dissolved in water further also produce oxidizer radicals, which will be discussed later. We will limit our choice to bromine as chlorine can attack the wood and break down the fibers. It should be obvious however, that bacteria and virus killing properties are not unique to only chlorine and bromine. The question will be whether the alternatives can get the job done effectively or entirely on their own.
While oxidizer and oxidation suggest having to do with a chemical reaction involving oxygen, in chemistry oxidation is defined in terms of a reaction where the substance (being oxidized) gives up electrons to the element or compound that take away the electrons (the oxidizer). Of course, in doing so the original property of the substance being oxidized is destroyed. Common oxidizers (elements or compounds that easily attract electrons, include the halogens (chlorine, bromine, etc.), oxygen, ozone, potassium monopersulfate (MPS), to name some. In the hot tub situation, the important thing to note is that organic compounds, including oils, lotions, as well as living microbes, contain hydrogen and carbon and thus can be susceptible to being destroyed by the right oxidizer. A strong oxidizer (in the pool and spa industry is often referred to a shock) can meet both definitions of being an oxidizer and a sanitizer.
When bromine gas is dissolved in water it forms the sanitizer HOBr and the oxidizer OBr- (hypobromite ion). At the normal target pH levels of 6.8 -7.5, a very high percentage of the bromine is converted to HOBr and thus it is effective in its sanitizing role, but the OBr- ions have a relatively low concentration and therefore bromine is not so effective in its oxidizer role. Thus, in a bromine system we recommend using an additional oxidizer (MPS or Ozone) to aid in oxidizing contaminants such as oils, lotions dead skin as well as destroy bacteria quickly.
What has all this got to do with alternatives to chlorine and bromine? We need to understand how these products work to lay a framework for understanding the alternatives.
It is a powerful oxidizer that breaks down the organic contaminants but also oxidizes and therefore destroys most bacteria. Therefore, it can be considered in a dual role, an oxidizer and a sanitizer. Unfortunately, there are a few bacteria that ozone does not treat effectively and for this reason the EPA requires that some chlorine or bromine still be used with ozonators. Fortunately, these bacteria are easily destroyed by smaller concentrations of chlorine or bromine and it doesn't take a high dosage to do so. This allows one to reduce the levels of Bromine/Chlorine normally used by up to 50%.
Ozone is produced by either passing an electricity discharge through air or shining UV light through air. With either method a certain percentage of the stable form of oxygen, O2, that encounters the electric discharge or UV light is transformed, to the less stable O3 molecule (ozone). The ozone, however, is looking to rob electrons so it can get back to a more stable form. That is what makes it an excellent oxidizer. The ozone enriched air is injected into the hot tub water where it can then oxidize bacteria and contaminants. Ozonators for consumer hot tubs come mostly of the uV type. Corona discharge ozonators produce considerably more ozone but are intolerant to high humidity and to keep them working and not have them fail prematurely the air needs to be dried. To do this all properly, results in complete corona discharge ozonators being quite expensive, relative to UV systems.
Does ozone have drawbacks? Ozone dissipates very quickly and there is no such thing as an ozone reserve, thus if no ozone is being injected, such as if the filtration cycle is off, there is no oxidation or sanitation going on. For the consumer there is also no practical measurement for ozone. And as mentioned ozone does not destroy all bacteria and some use of bromine and of a non-chlorine shock still needs to be used.
This is another alternative way of killing microbes. These are commonly known as mineral ionization systems, since often the metals come in mineral forms. The metals used for this purpose are normally copper and silver. When ionized by water these minerals form positively charged ions that are released into the water and float around within the water. Bacteria ingest these ions and are either killed by them or are sensitized or made much more susceptible to other mechanisms then destroying them. These ionization systems will control bacteria, and algae, but because they do not oxidize, a hot tub still requires an oxidizer such as chlorine or bromine (or alternative such as ozone or MPS) to be added to treat the other contaminates. Northern Lights Cedar Tubs uses the inline "Spa Frog" silver mineral cartridges, because they work well with bromine. Products like Nature II or ApaRx are formulated for use with chlorine only, which we want to avoid with wooden hot tubs. The Spa Frog silver ionization products conveniently fits inside the filter dispenser hidden form bathers and provides a slow release of ions. Typically, the dispenser will last to 4 month. This makes them very convenient.
One item often overlooked, although is included in every Northern Lights Cedar Tub "Starter Chemical Kit", is our natural enzyme-based clarifier product. This is an excellent supplement to any hot tub. This is a natural 'food grade' enzyme (safe to digest) that eats away body oils and skin debris that attach to the spa surface giving it the "ring around the tub" expression. It also helps keep your filter clogging therefore making it last longer and work better. These oils can be a breeding ground for bacteria so by removing them you reduce the bacteria's food source. It also eliminates foul odors that can build up. Of course whatever the enzymes can dispose of, the oxidation products don't have to deal with, making them more effective.
MPS (Monopersulfate) is a product originally developed by DuPont® under the trade name Oxy-Out. This is a highly effective oxidizing agent. When used in full strength it is often referred to as non-chlorine and bromine "Shock", because of its effectiveness to destroy and remove contaminants and bacteria. Similar to ozone MPS can act as both a sanitizer and an oxidizer. When used on a regular moderate basis, MPS will provide strong residual oxidizing protection to the hot tub. In our chemical line we include a product called Energize which is a pH stabilized form of MPS that can be used regularly to aid in the oxidation process in a hot tub. When excessive hot tub use results in excessive contamination, MPS products can be added in a larger quantity to quickly shock and destroy the contaminants, restoring clarity.
In summary, if you are using a wooden hot tub you must ensure the products you use don't attack wood. This eliminates use of chlorine products. According to EPA guidelines, you must still use some amounts of halogen sanitizer (Bromine). The amount required will be based on the amount of alternative sanitizers you use. As you add alternative sanitizers, you can begin to reduce the amount of halogen sanitizers. For example, using an ozonator with a mineral cartridge can reduce the required bromine by up to 80 %. Using Natural Enzymes as well as MPS oxidizer can further reduce the requirement for Bromine.
So. for those who are disposed against bromine or chlorine, there are workable alternatives. The above-mentioned alternatives are the ones we have found effective in conjunction with a wooden hot tub. We will not sell products that can lead to early wood deterioration, which means we avoid selling certain products and caution customer to check with us before using any off-the-shelf chemicals. Most Pool and Spa sales people know very little about wooden hot tubs! Even if you own another brand of wooden hot tub, or own a plastic spa, you can still use the same chemical alternatives that we use. These are available at Cedar Tubs Direct https://www.cedartubsdirect.com/ . This store contains all the products we recommend. You can also sign up to receive our quarterly Tub Talk newsletter!
Happy Hot-Tubbing
Dan Jung -President
Shelf Coverage Chart |
||||
|
Tub Size
|
# of Jets
|
Staves Between Outside Jets
|
Fractional Shelf Coverage
|
Shelves Recommended to cover all jet plumbing
|
|
4ft 8in
|
4
|
3
|
2.61
|
3
|
|
6
|
2
|
3.30
|
4
|
|
|
6
|
3
|
4.00
|
4
|
|
|
5ft 5in
|
4
|
3
|
2.42
|
3
|
|
6
|
2
|
3.06
|
3*
|
|
|
6
|
3
|
3.70
|
4
|
|
|
8
|
2
|
4.03
|
4*
|
|
|
6ft 2in
|
4
|
3
|
2.04
|
2*
|
|
6
|
2
|
2.59
|
3
|
|
|
6
|
3
|
3.13
|
4
|
|
|
8
|
2
|
3.40
|
4
|
|
|
8
|
3
|
4.14
|
5
|
|
|
10
|
2
|
4.22
|
5
|
|
|
7ft
|
4
|
3
|
1.99
|
2
|
|
6
|
2
|
2.52
|
3
|
|
|
6
|
3
|
3.05
|
3*
|
|
|
8
|
2
|
3.31
|
4
|
|
|
8
|
3
|
4.11
|
5
|
|
|
10
|
2
|
4.11
|
5
|
|
|
10
|
3
|
5.17
|
6
|
|
Marginally, < 10% of a shelf, short to fit over all jets. Requires either extra separation between shelves to achieve fit or to go to one more shelf.
In order for customers to be comfortable with any large purchase, proper education is paramount in their purchasing decision. In the last decade, we have compliled a library of articles and technical publication that cover the most common questions and concerns customers have. Some of the articles pertain to wooden hot tubs and others are industry generic. I hope you find these informative and educational. If you have any questions regarding the articles or would like to see a new topic covered, please contact us
"Tub Talk - with Dan Jung ? Owner / President / Hot tub enthusiast"
Aqua Therapy Tub
Over the years we have done several custom designed hot tubs. However, in the last two years we noticed an increase in the number of requests for 5’ high hot tubs. When enquiring as to the use of this size of tub, we found that some customers were looking for a deep hot water tub on the advice of their physician for exercise.
When we studied the market, we realized a few things.
Dieter, our engineer took up the challenge to design a new tub that would allow bathers much more than the traditional soaking hot tub. To begin with he changed the stave height to 5’ making this the deepest hot tub on the market. With this increase in height, we have added a forth strap to contain the 1000 + gallons of water.
[yt_columns grid="yes" ] [yt_columns_item col="3" offset="0" margin="10px" padding="10px" background="none" color="#000" ]
[/yt_columns_item] [yt_columns_item col="9" offset="0" margin="10px" padding="10px" background="none" color="#000" ] Next, Dieter re-engineered the seating design to allow for much more useable space inside the tub. He chose a more practical combination of seat and step design that would allowed users to easily access the tub and still provide efficient seating room while allowing more space to move about inside the tub. [/yt_columns_item] [/yt_columns]
[yt_columns grid="yes" ] [yt_columns_item col="3" offset="0" margin="10px" padding="10px" background="none" color="#000" ]
[/yt_columns_item] [yt_columns_item col="9" offset="0" margin="10px" padding="10px" background="none" color="#000" ] Another significant change was the design of a full massage wall. Unlike traditional hot tubs that only focus on the back-side muscle groups, this vertical wall of jets allows an innovative 360 degree massage. Now bathers can get a total body massage that includes the back side muscle groups as well as side muscles and frontal muscle groups. This unique Massage Center has jets that cover upper and lower muscles groups form the calves to the shoulders. [/yt_columns_item] [/yt_columns]
[yt_columns grid="yes" ] [yt_columns_item col="3" offset="0" margin="10px" padding="10px" background="none" color="#000" ]
[/yt_columns_item] [yt_columns_item col="9" offset="0" margin="10px" padding="10px" background="none" color="#000" ] New to the Aqua Therapy Tub is the introduction of a plastic liner on the inside. While the traditional cedar cooperage design is ideal for holding water, we believed that market for this product would want both indoor use applications as well as out door. Given the tendency for wooden hot tubs to leak when 1st filled as the wood initially expands, we thought that by adding a liner, customers could now safely install a wooden hot tub indoors without initial-leakage worries. The liner we choose is a 30 ml vinyl custom fit liner with a matching wood grained pattern that blends in with the cedar. This liner comes complete with a 10 year warranty. [/yt_columns_item] [/yt_columns]
You will find this tub comes standard with wooden accessories such as cedar side shelves and cedar skirting to place drinks and towels as well as hide the jet plumbing. It also comes standard with custom designed stairs and a hand railing to make entry in and out of the tub easy.
We include not one but two LED mood lights that run-in sync to produce an array of colorfully lighting effects that is sooth the mind and soul. As with our regular hot tubs, we equipped the Aqua Therapy Tub with only the best components such as touch pad LCD top side controls, Balboa Digital Spa Pack controllers with 5.5 Kw or 11 Kw heating options, Ultra Jet, quiet, high efficiency pumps, and Rainbow filtration systems that produce the crystal-clear water.
New to this model is the introduction of a natural salt water purification system. Sanitation is done using only low levels of therapeutic salt in combination with low voltage electrolysis. Gone are the days of monitoring chlorine and bromine levels. No more red eyes, or irritated skin caused by heavy chlorine and bromine. No more bleach clothing and chlorine odors! In fact, these systems have been in use in Australia and Europe for over 30 years. Northern Lights Cedar Tubs is one of the 1st hot tub manufactures to offer this new system.
There is so much excitement on the benefits of salt water and salt water sanitization that I will be focusing an entire Tub Talk article on these systems so STAY TUNED!
In conclusion our new Aqua Therapy Tub fits a very niche market, a market where customers demand more from their investment! Consumers are increasing their focus towards health and well-being. The Aqua Therapy Hot Tub was designed to be the ultimate in pleasure, exercise and relaxation. Given the affordable price of our hot tubs, consumers can now enjoy all the benefits of these Aqua Tubs (previously reserved for high end spas, and sports and physiotherapist clinics) at their own home!
Happy Tubing
Dan Jung
President
"Tub Talk - with Dan Jung ? Owner www.cedartubs.com / Hot tub enthusiast"
A hot tub is an architecture marvel that draws people's focus. A hot tub's pureness and simplicity in design demands attention. However, the simplicity one finds in a hot tub is only the result of years of R & D and a deep understanding of the principles of Cooperage.
I often get customers who use our product and our web site as their home work in anticipation of building their own hot tub. Sure, they are crafty and wood is easily accessible so maybe they will just build their own! In fact, "build a hot tub" is one of the most often searched fraises under "hot tubs". I always give people the advice they seek and wish them luck on their endeavor. The reality is the amount of work that goes into building a commercial grade hot tub requires two very important ingredients:
We use only Clear Grade Western Red Cedar with a "2 Clear or Better" rating, this is absolutely critical in designing a hot tub that will last. All our wood is hand selected and milled with a specific grain pattern to obtain natural circular curve overtime. To give you an idea of the cost factor, typical retail cedar that you will find at your local lumber shop is 5-grades less than the grade we select and is reflected in its cheaper cost. In other words there is simply no substitute for Western Red Cedar!
Other areas of quality are found in our sturdy engineered seats that fit perfectly with a unique dual height for comfort and ease of entry.
Our choice of digital spa packs is another significant statement towards quality. Digital packs cost significantly more but the resulting product is much better. Temperature accuracies of +/- degree, on board diagnosis, and ease of use are just some of the added benefits.
Our use of only stainless steel makes a huge difference; Stainless steel is 5-6 times the price of regular steel but it is required in order to have a tub that will maintain its appearance and not rust or deteriorate the wood. Through the years we have tried all sorts of methods and materials including powder coating the band. In the end, only stainless steel will truly work. Our bands are 2" wide resulting in even pressure distribution when tightening.
I often tell people of the preciseness needed to obtain an exact circumference of a complete circular of the magnitude of 6'. Remember your school days of "2 * pi * radius". Let's use the example of a 6' tub and change the radius. Imagine a radius change of only 1/32" close to that of a human finger nail in thickness, the results would end up with a gap in the staves nearing a ¼". This would certainly not be acceptable in holding water.
The other area we need to apply in our formula is the swell ratio. All wood including cedar have vertical swell ratio and a horizontal swell ratio. These are never the same. Each wood swell ratio is also a factor of the moisture content and varies across species. Without going into further details, these are only some variables that play a very important role in producing a water tight seal. This we call our "Cadbury Secret"!
We use a very precise computer-controlled dado machine that has an X, Y, and Z 3-D axis. This allows us to perfectly match the radius of the dado cuts on the staves with that of the floor. Most other manufacturers simply use a straight chord cut which only touches the floor in one specific spot making it susceptible to leaks.
All our components are computer modeled before they go into production. The Romans may have called this cheating when it comes to Cooperage. However, it certainly produces a barrel that even the Roman Emperor "Caesar" would have been proud of and would most certainly enjoyed soaking in.
Some people call it science others call it an art. Either way the ability to design a tub to hold 500 + gallons of water is not an easy task. To those who are brave enough to try their own, Good Luck!
Dan Jung
President
"Tub Talk - with Dan Jung ? Owner www.cedartubs.com / Hot tub enthusiast"
Benefits of Using an Ozonator
In this issue I want to discuss the benefits of using an Ozonator, which you will see is a highly recommended option that we offer.
Ozone is comprised of three atoms of oxygen - one of nature's basic elements. Ozone is produced in nature when the ultraviolet rays of the sun strike oxygen molecules high (about 90,000 feet) in the earth's atmosphere. This process creates what we know as the "ozone layer". Because the ozone absorbs the sun's energy, people on earth are protected from the damaging and potentially cancer-causing rays of the sun. Nature also produces ozone nearer to the earth's surface each time lightning flashes. The sweet, fresh smell observed after a thunderstorm is the fresh ozone in the air.
An ozonator naturally destroys contamination and micro-organisms using Ultra Violet Light (UV) to produce the ozone. This is a similar process that is found in water purifying system for drinking water. Its first large-scale use was the installation of an ozone purification plant for the city of Nice, France in 1906. Today, more than thirty countries use ozone systems to purify drinking water. In fact, the city of Los Angeles installed one of the largest ozone water treatment plants in the world, processing more than 74 million gallons of water per day. It is very safe and produces no by products except pure oxygen. We connect our ozonators so that the ozonator is powered when the pump is on low speed and, therefore, this is when Ozone is introduced into the water . Ozone is very fleeting with a half life of 22 minutes naturally. In the hot tub it is introduced through the aspiration of of one of the jets. It can be effective only as long as it stays in solution in the water. Being a gas it will constantly bubble out of the water. Once the ozonator is shut off, there is little continuing sanitation. Therefore the best way to use an ozonator is to not use a timer on the Spa Pak, so the pump runs continuously. In this case Chlorine or Bromine , although still needed can be used sparingly. This will greatly prevent these substances from damaging the wood.
In the hot tub industry ozone is produced one of two ways. The 1st is by using a special lamp gives off a specific wavelength of ultraviolet light which converts Oxygen O2 molecules into Active Oxygen, Ozone O3 molecules. This all occurs instantly inside the Ozone chamber in the Ozone Generator. The second is using a Crona Discharge (CD). In this system, Ozone is produced by passing air through a high voltage electrical discharge, or corona. A minimum of 5,000 volts of electricity is necessary to create the corona. Air or concentrated oxygen dried to a minimum of -60 degrees C dew point passes through the corona which causes the O2 bond to split, freeing two O atoms which then collide with other O2 molecules to create ozone, the ozone/gas mixture discharged from the CD ozone generator normally contains from 1% to 3% ozone when using dry air .
Ozone is by far the safest method of sanitizing a hot tub both for the wood and the human skin. Over use of chemicals will in the long run deteriorate the fibers of the wood causing very fine fiber residue to form which will require frequent cleaning of the filter, not to mention the negative effects on skin and eye irritation that excessive chlorine can cause. Because the ozonator greatly lowers the amount of Chlorides required to purify the water, it will provide a much longer life to the inside of the hot tub and reduce the chemical requirements by up to 70%. This will effect your pocket book on the positive side over time, as chemicals purchases come at a cost.
If you have any questions regarding the maintenance of your tub or have any experiences you would like to share, please call or email me any time.
Happy Tubbing!
Dan Jung
President
Cedar Tubs Insulation Value
In this issue I want to discuss the insulating value of a cedar hot tub. I get asked all the time if I can operate my hot tub in cold climates. The answer to this is yes! In our climate in Canada we experience summers in the 30 degrees range (Celsius) and in the winter -30 degrees. Even though I personally don’t like to hot tub in -35 degrees, we have lots of customers that never shut down their hot tubs except to change the water. In fact, I know of one individual that has never turned his hot tub off in 4 years since his purchase it here in Winnipeg.
There are 3 major differences between an acrylic tub and a wooden tub. The 1st is that the cedar itself is an excellent insulating material. Log cabins are a very good example of the insulating value of wood. Cedar is a soft wood that consist of long fibrous material with a softer cellulose material surrounding these fibers. Cedar has long been considered the highest insulating wood available.
The 2nd issue that one must look at is the total surface area of a cedar tub. This is important as the surface area is where heat loss occurs. If you look at a molded square acrylic tub that contains formed seats, and calculate the total surface area, the area of an acrylic tub is almost twice that of a round cedar tub. This means that there is much more contact area between the hot inside water and colder outside.
The 3rd issue that must also be considered is the volume of total water versus the total surface area. A cedar tub which is much deeper and contains almost twice the amount of water has a much higher ratio compared to an acrylic tub. This means that there is much less surface contact per liter/gallon of water. As the surface is where the heat loss occurs, a round cedar tub retains more energy.
Finally, as with all hot tubs, wood or acrylic, the hot water creates steam like boiling water. This steam escapes the tub from the top (hot air rises principle). Using a good cover is very important in retaining heat loss. Our covers are a full 4” thick at the center. This provides a tremendous amount of insulation where it is most needed. Other tubs/spa manufacturers often cut costs in this area. We don’t!
Should you have any question or comments on this issue please email me directly at dan@cedartubs.com.
Happy Tubbing!
Dan Jung
President
Maintaining your hot tub.
I often get asked what all is required to maintain a wood hot tub. As an owner of both acrylic tubs and of course, wooden tubs, the maintenance is virtually identical. There are 4 areas that need to be considered. Water maintenance, filter maintenance, exterior maintenance, and interior maintenance.
Water maintenance: Regardless of whether you purchase an ozonator or ionizer you will still have to keep up your water chemistry. These extra devices will reduce the amount of chemicals used but they will not eliminate them. Water maintenance is a simple task once the water level is in balance. There are two tests that I concentrate on. The 1st is the level of chlorine or bromine. The 2nd is the PH level. These control the bacteria and acidity. With our standard starter chemical kit, you will have all the tools to keep your water chemistry in perfect harmony. Water hardness and total alkalinity is something you may have also read about. These become important only if your water supply is at the extremes (for example water too soft). In that case you may experience premature failure of some metal parts, such as the heater sheath. This can be adjusted by adding suitable minerals.
Filter Maintenance: I recommend a monthly cleaning of your filter. The cleaner the filer is the more efficient your pump will be. Because a clean filter allows more water circulation, you will also find your water stays much clearer. A filter can be cleaned using a tap or garden hose. I don't recommend using a pressure washer as this can damage the filter. I also recommend using filter cleaner chemical. This chemical aids in breaking down dirt and debris resulting in an almost new filter. I recommend replacing the filter with a new one on an annual basis. Also, important, is to check for debris that may collect on the bottom intake suction. This suction has a cover that prevents any larger objects from being sucked in. It can easily get clogged by fibers, hair, and leaves. Clean this each time you use the hot tub by reaching into the water and removing debris.
Exterior Maintenance: This is a personal choice. Some people prefer the natural grayed look of aged cedar. Others want to keep the new look of western red cedar. If you want the grey look then simply do nothing. If you choose to preserve your cedar color, then I recommend using Sik ken Cetol products found in most specialty paint supply stores. In my opinion it is the best! You will pay for it, but nothing works better. I have used 3 different tints of this product and they all look beautiful. The Cetol 'Clear' provides a more yellow finish, the Cetol 'Oak' will provide a browner finish and the Cetol 'Redwood' provides a red hue to the tub color. If you choose to stain your tub, this should be done as per manufacturer's instructions, with 3 coats. Depending on the amount of sun received, you may need to redo the finish every 1-3 years.
Interior Maintenance: The inside of a tub is cleaned in the same fashion you would with an acrylic tub. You will find over time a "bath tub ring" may form. This can easily be removed by using a soft scrub brush and water lightly mixed with Javex bleach. I usually recommend doing this each time you drain the water (every 2-3 months). This is a simple task that takes 15 min.
If you have any questions regarding the maintenance of your tub or have any experiences you would like to share, please call or email me any time.
Happy Tubbing!
Dan Jung
President
One very common question I get is "what are the hidden operating costs of owning a hot tub"? Most customers know that there are energy costs associated with ownership but what about cost such as chemicals and replacement parts such as filters? This should certainly be factored into your budget when deciding what tub is right for you.
Northern Lights has always had a philosophy of maintaining a relationship with our customers long after the sale! As such you will find almost all our parts both chemicals and accessories are priced lower than you would be able to purchase through your local retail outlets. We know there are cost outside heating operation and find that nearly 90% of our customers continue to buy their chemical and supplies through us.
1.) Low price even after shipping- visit our online hot tub parts store and compare!
2.) Chemical Free Sanitation - Customers who choose our chemical free ozone & ionization combo, quickly find that the system pays for itself in many ways. 1st there are no more cost associated with purchasing sanitizers chlorine and bromine. 2nd no more measuring and testing of the water, once you have initially balanced your water you can simply forget it! 3rd No more smells and skin irritants associated with Bromine and Chlorine. 4th a hot tub that will last for years and years as it is not effected by ozone and mineral ionization!
3.) Approved for wooden tub products- I want to spend a minute talking about this as it is often overlooked. The fact is most pool and spa shops know nothing about wood hot tubs. However, they would like you to spend your money in their business. I can't tell you how often I have had calls from customers regarding wood fibers in their filter. When we examined the problem closer, it is almost always because they were purchasing the wrong chemicals. Sure, it might work in plastic but a wood hot tub is different. (Did you know chlorine is also used in pulp and paper industry to break down fibers). I bet your local pool sales person doesn't know that! As such we make sure each product we provide in our chemical system is approved for wooden hot tubs. This means it has been tested for years and years before we give it the stamp of approval. Even if you don't own a wooden hot tub these approved chemicals are guaranteed to be much safer on skin and bathing suites, while being equally as effective.
Q: So, what should I budget for operating costs?
A: If you are using our Ozone Ionizer Combo, and have neutral water, you should be safe at about $75-100/year in chemicals and replacement filters.
Q: Do I need to buy them through Northern Lights?
A: Absolutely not, but be sure the products you use have the same chemicals ingredients as the ones that came with your tub. If you are uncertain, just give us a call.
Happy TubbingDan Jung
Free shipping offer is valid on Hot Tubs and Ofuro Tubs The free shipping applies to depot delivery only. This means the tub will be shipped to the nearest local carrier depot. From here you will be contacted to arrange final local delivery. Customers should be aware that local delivery services and charges will very depending on the distance and the type of services select i.e. tail gate and or weekend delivery options. Local delivery is the responsibility of the customer as they can select any carrier they wish.
To locate the nearest depot, enter your zip code at https://my.roadway.com/dynamic/rex/servlet?CONTROLLER=com.rdwy.ec.rexcommon.proxy.http.controller.PublicProxyController
If you selected residential delivery service on your 'quote request' form, we will arrange curb side delivery with tail gate option (where available).
NOTE: Residential delivery option may not be available to all location such as cottages and remote locations, as such the customer should arrange for final delivery beyond the depot.
Contact us for more information. 1-800-759-8990
All Ofuro Soaking tubs come pre assembled ready to go. All plumbing suction ports are pre installed to make final conection simple. Simply add water!
[yt_spacer height="30" ]
[yt_buttons type="none" style="border" link="ofuro-technical.html" target="_self" color="#86440e" background="#c39563" icon="icon: clipboard" icon_position="left" subtitle="" radius="3px" animated_icon="yes" size="lg" full="no" center="yes" ] Technical Specifications [/yt_buttons] [yt_buttons type="none" style="border" link="pricing.html" target="_self" color="#86440e" background="#c39563" icon="icon: dollar" icon_position="left" subtitle="" radius="3px" animated_icon="yes" size="lg" full="no" center="yes" ] Ofuro prices start as low as $1900 [/yt_buttons]
Northern Light Cedar Tubs
835 Kapelus Dr. West St Paul
Winnipeg, MB
Canada
1 800 759 8990
Toronto, ON
Charles Pugh
phone 416 901 1321
Balnea Spa
Bromont-Sur-le Lac, QC
Canada
Phone 1 450 534 0604
email: denis@balnea.ca
Have questions about our handcrafted cedar hot tubs? We're here to help! Whether you're looking for product details, installation guidance, or need assistance with an order, our team is ready to assist you.
Fill out the form, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
