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(ARA) - Spend more time in your hot tub, spa or pool than on it. Innovations in design and maintenance and high-tech water care for both pools and hot tubs make this possible. And along the way, you can extend the life of your investment with attention to a few details.

Most builders and manufacturers take steps at the very beginning to cut down on upkeep. State-of-the-art automatic cleaners, hardworking filters and natural sanitizers keep pools and spas clean with a minimum of chemicals and fuss.

There are, however, some things you can do to extend the life -- and enjoyment -- of your pool and spa. The National Spa & Pool Institute (NSPI), the world's largest organization of pool & spa professionals, asked some of its members for a few maintenance tips. Here's what they said:"In the long run, preventative maintenance is key," says Tommy Johnson, a NSPI certified builder and service professional. "The second most important thing is to pay attention to the chemical balance of the pool." Johnson, owner of the Huntsville, Ala.-based Johnson Pools & Spas, says, "You can build the best pool in the world, but if it is not maintained over the long run, it won't make a difference."Johnson sees firsthand how regular maintenance pays off. "I have customers who have had a vinyl liner last 20 to 22 years. Looking back over their chemical records (his company provides service, too), most have been good, loyal customers. They are doing what needs to be done to the pool to maintain it correctly."

Bob Lauter, president of Master Spas, Inc. in Fort Wayne, Ind., says that spas also last longer if you manage the chemical balance. Make sure the pH is in the right range, he says. Otherwise the filters get clogged, and the computers and motors won't last as long as they should. And make sure to clean filters on a regular basis. "The number one reason for a low-flow message is because the filter is dirty," says Lauter, a member of NSPI's Hot Tub Council. "Just cleaning your filters will go a long way to keeping your spa running and running well," he says.

Of course another, truly hands-off way to maintain your pool or spa is to call on a service professional.NSPI Certified Service Professionals are highly qualified, having successfully completed various levels of training and testing. This certification ensures that the technician you hire is knowledgeable and skilled in how to care for your pool or hot tub.

Frank H. Goldstein, president of Chesapeake Aquatic Consultants, LLC in Grasonville, Md., was in the service industry for more than 35 years before becoming a consultant. A member of NSPI's Service Council, he writes training manuals and educational materials for NSPI."Most people who buy pools in this market don't want to do a thing. They want them to be self-maintained. And to some degree we can do that," he says. Automated vacuuming systems built into the pool structure, robotic vacuuming units and covers that keep out debris will help. And chemical controls mean owners don't have to worry about the water chemistry.Of course, some folks like to do it themselves. Goldstein suggests these people consult with an expert to make sure maintenance is done correctly. There are some good books on general pool maintenance, he says. And some retail outlets that are NSPI members will hold how-to seminars.

Whichever way you go, maintaining water balance is the key to the long life of a pool or spa, Goldstein stresses. If the water chemistry is out of balance it becomes corrosive or scale-producing. Both situations reduce the effectiveness of the equipment and shorten its lifespan.It's not really difficult to keep your pool and spa in tiptop shape. Technology and skilled experts make maintenance easy. But remember: The better the care, the longer the life of your pool or spa.

Courtesy of ARA Content