Clean, fresh water is the cornerstone of an enjoyable hot tub experience. Regardless of the number of seats or massage jets your spa boasts, murky water can ruin the experience. Regular chemical or salt maintenance is essential to maintain water quality and safety.
This guide covers the basics of hot tub chemicals and provides step-by-step instructions to help you maintain pristine water in your spa.
To keep your hot tub in good condition, you'll need the following chemicals:
Chlorine is the most common sanitizer for hot tubs and swimming pools. It effectively kills bacteria and other harmful microorganisms in the water.
Bromine is an alternative to chlorine, especially beneficial for those sensitive to chlorine's smell. It has longer-lasting effects but is slightly more expensive.
pH measures how acidic or alkaline the water is. Maintain pH levels between 7.2 and 7.8 to ensure optimal water quality.
Total Alkalinity (TA) buffers pH levels, preventing dramatic changes. Maintain TA levels between 80 and 120 ppm for stable water chemistry.
Calcium hardness measures dissolved calcium in the water. Maintain levels between 150 and 250 ppm to prevent corrosion of hot tub components.
For saltwater spas, salt replaces bromine and chlorine, offering a gentler option for sensitive skin.
Adding chemicals to your hot tub is straightforward but must be done correctly for maximum effectiveness. Follow these steps:
Important: Never mix chemicals directly in the hot tub water. Dissolve them in a bucket of water first, then add the solution to the spa.
The order in which you add chemicals is crucial for their effectiveness:
Adding chemicals in this order prevents imbalances and ensures maximum effectiveness.
It is important to follow this order for maximum effectiveness. If you add the chlorine or bromine too early, it can cause the pH levels to shift, making them less effective.
If you’re looking for hot tub chemicals or have any questions about the hot tub chemical process, Watson’s has everything you need.
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Yes, you should shock your hot tub after filling it with water. Simply add the recommended amount of oxidizing shock solution to the water to eliminate any bacteria or other impurities that may have entered your hot tub during the filling process, as per the manufacturer's instructions, and wait for it to dissolve. Once it's dissolved, run the filtration system for four hours or as instructed by the manufacturer.
Don’t go in a hot tub that hasn’t been treated with the proper chemicals!
Chemicals are used to keep the water clean and free from harmful bacteria and other impurities. Going in a hot tub without the proper chemicals is not only unsanitary but can also cause skin irritation and other health problems.
If you own a saltwater spa then it won't require bromine and chlorine to keep it clean but you will have to test the water to ensure the salt levels are balanced.
You should wait at least 30 minutes after adding chemicals before using your hot tub. This will give the chemicals enough time to dissolve and distribute evenly throughout the water.
The lifespan of hot tub chemicals varies based on how often you use them and factors like temperature, sunlight exposure, and filter operation.
Generally, chlorine or bromine granules can last up to two months before requiring replacement. Test strips and liquid chemicals have a shorter lifespan, typically lasting up to six months.
It's important to store your hot tub chemicals in a cool, dry place and away from sunlight to help them last the longest. Avoid storing them under the hot tub or in the pump area, as this can affect their potency.