are antimicrobial spa filters worth it


If you have any further proof that would back up claims saying your hot tub water will last longer in between water changes if you use a Microban filter, please send us the details so we can update this post. Hot Tub Filters: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, High performance pleated polyester media - (100% Reemay). Meanwhile, that filter you have in your hot tub is just fine! Figure 1 (page 24) illustrates the traditional antimicrobial treatment system. JUST SPEND 60 & ORDER BY 2:00PM, CHECK OUT OUR GREAT PRICES ON AQUASPARKLE CHEMICALS, FIND OUT ABOUT ECO3SPA HOT TUB WATER TREATMENT WITHOUT ANY SKIN IRRITATION, THE SYMPTOMS OF OUT OF BALANCE HOT TUB WATER, THE PROBLEMS CAUSED BY CHLORINE IN HOT TUBS. That really burns me up, and I hope the DuPont legal team has some recourseagainst those who use copycat names. Sort through some of the most popular well-known sayings and ideas on water care and maintenance some are true, but many arent. The pleated cartridge of this filter is strong enough to be cleaned with strong cleaning solutions (provided that you dont soak it for too long). Two years ago BBA Filtration, Old Hickory, Tenn., introduced its Reemay Advantage with Microban antimicrobial protection. Always check the reviews and avoid products that are newly listed without any reviews. Remember that many types of hot tub filters are interchangeable. That protection that you have on the filter is going to be a benefit.". The hollow centre facilitates the flow of water through the filter and all its wrinkles. Again, it is important not to extrapolate from one application to a different one. "description": "Buy hot tub filters from Wal Mart or Home Depot? Don't see the model you need? Need to, Your zip code will help us to provide you with the most up-to-date delivery information. Copyright 2022 Zonda Media, a Delaware corporation. The Pleatco PDO75-2000 replacement cartridge is an excellent filter solution for hard-to-clean hot tubs. "I'm afraid that some people feel the antimicrobial does more than it really does," he says. "width": "1060", He also says Hollingsworth and Vose sent cartridges to Foss Manufacturing, which produces the substrate used in the cartridges, for productivity testing. Detractors actually have said that Microban on the filter may make it more susceptible to pores clogging sooner. And not just because they use something other than Reemay, but also because the fabric weight is not posted, or even mentioned. Should You Consider Switching to Cost-Plus Pricing? No one knows, it seems to be a closely guarded secret. "With a coating on top, as this [cartridge] is constantly wet with water flowing through it, there is going to be erosion of that coating on the material.". Antimicrobial media, which is coated on the cartridge filter or built-in to the fibers of the filter, help suppress bacterial growth in and on filters that can lead to dirty and clogged cartridges. Much cheaper than brand microfilters from some of the best known companies. A lower cost, but you'll pay for it!" "name": "Hot Tub Works", According to Microban International, a leader in built-in antimicrobial product protection, when microbes come in contact with the product surface, Microban protection penetrates the cell wall of the microorganism and disrupts cell functions, making the microorganism unable to function, grow and reproduce. 1-800-537-5437. If you find that your current hot tub filter is not working as it should, you may be tempted to simply remove it and not bother buying a replacement. This filter has a simple handle that makes removal and replacement very easy. "It's an added benefit on the filter, but it's not a replacement. Rick Pearce, senior director of business marketing for North Charleston, N.C.-based Polymer Group, says manufacturers are being pressured by dealers to provide both standard and antimicrobial filters in their product lines. "name": "Leslie's, Inc.", There wasn't a choice of brand, they were all made by Unicel, or Aladdin. Shown here is a secondary advantage of non-leachable antimicrobial treatment the ability to regenerate the active agent by adding clarifying agents to remove leftover anionic debris. In fact, I would go as far as to say that the filter is the most important part of your hot tub. Because of the huge number of different microbe species that exist, it becomes extremely expensive to test for all microorganisms. But if you are wondering if your standard hot tub filter will filter the water just as good (or even better?) And not by just hosing it off, he says, but by deep cleaning or soaking it. VAT Reg No: These are larger filter cartridges that are compatible with most of the hot tub models available on the market today. It may need to be replaced much more often than the cartridge filter. Although demand stayed high and kept service businesses booming, the pandemics toughest challenges namely, supply and labor shortages bled over into 2022. The idea behind Microban on spa cartridge filters is that they would have microbe-inhibiting protection. The Unicel 5CH-940 is a powerful filter that you can soak in aggressive chemicals (for a short time) when thorough cleaning is necessary. This is because it helps the tub maintain all of its proper functions. "keywords": "", Microban is not to be confused with Reemay which is a brand of filter media (actually quite a great brand of hot tub filter fabric). Goranov also says he believes it is only a matter of time before customer demand makes antimicrobial filters a standard feature in hot tubs and pools. After two months, I threw it in the trash can. "@type": "BlogPosting", No: 9246055. Google Microban dangers and you will be served up several sites not saying it is the best thing to use since sliced bread. 2022 Leslies Poolmart Inc. Were sorry we missed you; we look forward to assisting you soon. or at any of our 900+ retail stores! The Great Barrier features Reemay Advantage spunbond polyester pleats with Microban antimicrobial protection. However, filters will help to significantly reduce this exposure. Figure 2 (page 24)shows the non-leachable antimicrobial treatment system. Equipped with an easy-to-use handle, which makes it easier to remove and replace. In closing, the World Health Organization continues to identify microbial hazards as a major health risk. He says with a built-in antimicrobial being an integral part of the fiber, it is constantly available at the surface of the pleat and doesn't wash off. This means that they can sometimes come loose. Examine Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) systems and their use in modern pool maintenance. "publisher": { "author": { This material combines 100% polyester synthetic fibres with Microban antimicrobial technology to filter out contaminants and inhibit the growth of bacteria - making sure your water is always perfectly clear, clean, and pure. Dont worry, this article is here to help. This filter is not as interchangeable with other models as some of the others listed in this article so double check before you buy. But you may feel a bit overwhelmed by the enormous amount of options for hot tub filters that are available. The Future Builders of America is getting Florida students excited about jobs in the skilled trades including the pool and spa industry. It is just that it seems hard to connect the dots between what above water, sanitary applications these big names use the product for and the extension to charging more for hot tub filters because it is Microban coated. As the microorganism attempts to absorb the metal ion, it is destroyed. Indeed, Microban does have those properties, but the value of microban underwater is questionable. Pool Bob dreams of life as a superhero pool man. Enter your filter model number in the search box above or find your filter by dimensions. Essentials recently introduced its line of Great Barrier filtration products. Find manufacturers and suppliers in the most extensive searchable database in the industry. When the moth finally reaches its goal, the opposite charge quat-amine short circuits it. Our microban filter cartridges are manufactured from Reemay Advantage filter media with built-in Microban antimicrobial product protection. Its very important that what ever filter you buy will fit your device and work effectively. Get to know the germs that cause Recreational Water Illnesses and how to kill them. Also if the pipes are too clogged then it can be a much bigger job. He earned his Ph.D. in chemical engineering and has participated in more than 25 years worth of successful product launches and process developments. There are some important quality differences in these cartridges, imported from Singapore. Lasts for a long time (up to a year) so long as you regularly and thoroughly rinse it. A good hot tub filter, from the brands I mentioned above, can last 2-3 times as long, with less cleaning and better filtering. Many prefer to dream of idyllic days spent leisurely floating on a comfortable raft or of the pleasant sensation of cool breezes on their faces while their cares are drummed away by pulsing hydrotherapy. The filters in your hot tub can also prevent air from getting into your pipes. He also recommends homeowners have two filters on hand, so while one is being cleaned the other can be used in the spa to maintain water quality. "The prevailing opinion among the experts in the filtration industry at Filtration 2004 (a trade show held Dec. 8-9 in Philadelphia) was that antimicrobial media will experience the fastest growth in the marketplace in the next five years.". "height": "500", Figure 3 (page 28) demonstrates this effect. The bacteria end up clogging the filter and there's potential for it to release back into the water. Its design has no handles. However, he says, when the organisms are trapped on a filter that features antimicrobial activity, they are suppressed. Email This will allow you to know the dimensions and specifications that you need to consider before purchasing your new filter. "There are certain filter elements where they'll put a coating over the polyester elements, either soaked or sprayed on," he says. Let me give a personal opinion, and excuse my French; the spa filters from Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart and others are crap. So it seems that Microban is a practical product that works in many above water applications and is used by huge names such as DuPont, Bissell, Rubbermaid and other trusted household brands. The filter is protected, it doesn't clog as much and homeowners end up with a cleaner filtration system, he says. All rights reserved. Email us at info@spafilters.ca. Follow along as they work to keep the pool in tip-top shape! In this graphic, a non-leachable antimicrobial treatment is used. "height": "500", Especially if it gets to the pump. "@type": "ImageObject", A rough analogy would be like a moth approaching a light. Treatments are applied at small concentrations, just sufficient to perform their task while avoiding health risks. By their very nature, antimicrobial ingredients interact with microbial life, or they wouldnt function in their role. "address": "", It should be used in conjunction with a traditional cartridge filter and can *NOT* be by itself. So just remove it from your filtration system, clean it and replace it for up to a year without having to buy a new cartridge. The first is a diffusion mechanism whereby the treatment diffuses to the outer surface of a coating. https://www.mrwatergeek.com/wp-content/uploads/Change-Filter-Lid.mp4, buy hot tub replacement filters from Amazon, find the right replacement filter from Amazon today. Be sure to order either mpt (fine) thread or sae (coarse) thread type. That metal ion could be copper, silver, zinc or another metal. "You've got that dye and coating in your blue jeans, but you wash them a few times and they don't stay blue anymore. So for a very minimal charge of $5 to $10 [for the homeowner], why wouldn't you want to ensure you have the most protection available. However, this is a very traditional size and hot tub filter shape. "contentUrl": "", Without digging intoadvanced microbiology, it is certainly clear that Microban protection is used in many consumer products including shoes, countertops, baby changing stations and other above water applications. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Here Is Everything BAD About The Best Hot Tub Replacement Filters. Always measure your old filter cartridge or check the recommended dimensions in the instruction manual of your filter. Its robust construction prevents the filter from dissolving even after repeated use and cleaning. fabric weight (per square foot) is most suitable, with 4 oz. The filter medium is made of polyester. The outer media surface automatically refreshes until the antimicrobial treatment runs out. Remember that you have refund options when you buy from Amazon. "@type": "Organization", "And from a dealer standpoint, because it's fairly new, I believe it offers additional profit opportunities and I believe there is a real opportunity out there for the industry to sell more filters, which is going to make them more money, but even more importantly, it's going to ensure that the consumer has a good experience when enjoying and utilizing their hot tub. Below are the best hot tub replacement filters on the market today. Abelli uses denim as an analogy. Microban Disinfectant actually kills allergy and disease causing germs and may even be superior to bleach in some applications. But what about the actual hot tub filter application underwater? JOIN OUR CLUB FOR A 10% DISCOUNT ON NEARLY EVERYTHING! The Unicel 5CH-940 Waterway Replacement Cartridge is designed to be used with Aber brands. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Check your previous filter to see if you will need any further tools to install a new one. Chemicals and devices that will help maintain a healthy and clear pool. ", Newsletter for Pool and Spa Professionals. Concrete or Vermiculite for Vinyl-Liner Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples Receives 2022 AI Dream Designs Honor, Check Out This Year's Dream Design Waterparks, These Family Aquatics Centers Take Dream Designs Recognition, See These Other Categories That Took Dream Designs Honors, The Cove at The Piazza Pool Awarded 2022 AI Dream Designs. Even a small handful of reviews will let you know if the product is worth it or not. It has a reinforced construction that prevents the filter cartridge from breaking or bending, even under pressure or prolonged use. If a simple $30 cartridge replacement could prevent you having extremely expensive hot tub damage, wouldnt you take it? However, it can also be used with a variety of other devices that have similar configurations. "url": "https://i8.amplience.net/i/lesl/LES00004-Leslie's-Logo-Refresh_Final_FullColor_Outlines_Crop" There are some interesting points made about not all germs being bad and about health risks. From the perspective of microbial life, the filtration area represents a proverbial cesspool where it can gather, reproduce into colonies, seep back into the mainstream pool, and create increasing pressure drops across the filter media. Depending on the type of hot tub you have, you can find the perfect new filter among the products that Im about to review. Hence this is why it is also compatible with Grandmaster, Hydromaster, Simplicity and a wide selection of similar Jacuzzis. "url": "https://lesliespool.com/blog/" This is a very affordable filter that will save you a lot of money in the long run. Announcing the winners of the 2022 Truck & Van Contest! }, Leslie's is proud to partner with Hot Tub Works to bring you this helpful content on lesliespool.com. This means that it is strong enough to be used several times before it needs replacing. Pricing and offers are subject to change. Warning Will Robinson, be on the lookout for inferior imported hot tub filters. Only select filters that are in accordance with the specifications of your hot tub. Feel free to leave us a message and we will be in touch as soon as an agent is available. Shop Online This is the primary reason why most companies never boldly claim that their treatment kills all microorganism life forms. Customer Serviceinfo@spafilters.ca. "mainEntityOfPage": "https://lesliespool.com/blog/hot-tub-filters-from-wal-mart.html", Clarifying agents also carry a positive charge, so they can swoop in and replenish the used surface. Consider the following tips and tricks to make your online purchase easier: With these tips in mind, you will be able to easily find the right replacement filter from Amazon today! The filter cartridge is finely folded so it can catch even the smallest of sediments, minerals and other contaminants that you dont want to get into the water of your hot tub. Get industry news, insights, and new product information delivered straight to your inbox. Industry-specific business software can help to minimize costs as gas prices soar. It can be difficult to fit this cartridge into some big brand hot tub filter housing units. As this filter is much smaller and will fill up with dirt faster. "@context": "https://schema.org/", But is also interchangeable with other brands. Easy to use with your cartridge filter as long as your hot tub is compatible. Your email address will not be published. "image": { It has many wrinkles to filter your water despite its larger size. Squeeze Those Service Vehicle Fuel Dollars, Pool Bob's Hydro-Eclectic Musings: Kicking the Buckets, Mythbusters: Pool Chemistry Truisms That Don't Pass the Sniff Test. Once someone invents a hot tub filter that sanitizes the water and frees it from bacteria, we have a long list of customers who would try THAT product. Pool Bob's Hydro-Eclectic Musings: Pool Com Sync Chat. Always keep in mind that the water that passes through the filter area eventually ends up back in the mainstream pool where your guests swim! A Close Look at the Workings of Antimicrobial Filtration Media. This content was previously featured on the Hot Tub Works website. "We have barely scratched the surface of potential applications for antimicrobial fibers in filtration," says Konstantin Goranov, director of fiber research for Foss Manufacturing. REFERENCES[1] https://www.inyopools.com/Blog/the-5-worst-pool-advice-we-have-ever-heard/[2] https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/FAQs/Pages/Antimicrobial-Use-and-Antimicrobial-Resistance-FAQs.aspx[3] https://mr-paullers-wiki.wikispaces.com/file/view/Ch11%2612Lecture.pdf[4] https://www.biocote.com/how-antimicrobial-technology-works/[5] http://smartfabrx.com/docs/The-use-of-reactive-silane-chemistries.pdf[6] https://www.astm.org/Standards/E2149.htm[7] https://www.aatcc.org/test/methods/[8] https://www.iso.org/standard/59586.html[9] https://www.iso.org/standard/54431.html[10] http://www.advancedsciencenews.com/leach-not-leach-antimicrobial-polymer-materials/[11] http://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/antimicrobial[12] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26806336[13] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fick%27s_laws_of_diffusion[14] http://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/ficks-laws-of-diffusion[15] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA0gDcl2oGI[16] http://smartfabrx.com/docs/The-use-of-reactive-silane-chemistries.pdf[17] https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-h-epas-registered-products-effective-against-methicillin-resistant[18] http://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/bathing/srwe2full.pdf. "headline": "Hot Tub Filters: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly", Although antimicrobial technology is fairly new in the pool and spa industry, the high interest among consumers and dealers is prompting some companies to introduce new and improved products. As the number of pools and spas using pleated filter cartridges grew to more than 5 million in the US - more domestic manufacturers entered the ring, namely Filbur and Pleatco. The high temperatures and a wet environment of a hot tub makes unprotected filter surfaces a target for the growth of bacteria. If not buying direct from Amazon, try to make sure you buy from Amazon sellers with a means to contact their internal customer service on their profile page. The answer: Purchase antimicrobial-treated media, whether in the form of sand beds or cartridge filters. But as worries drift away, body oils, tanning lotion and various debris are floating toward the filter, where bacteria can attach and live a long and happy life of their own until recently.