Spa Maintenance Questions
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What is the best way to chlorinate a hot tub?
The best way to chlorinate a spa is either dispensing liquid chlorine on a continuous basis or by using a chlorine generator to continually make chlorine from a small amount of salt dissolved in the water. Since most home-use tubs cannot justify the expense of a continuous or automatic liquid system, the chlorine generators make the most sense.
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What is the best way to balance the pH of our Hot Tub?
It is important to measure the total alkalinity of your spa regularly. Ideally, you should keep a hot tub between 100-150 alkalinity. If your pH is a little high, you can add a little white vinegar to lower it. The TechniChlor & Colorchlor will raise the pH in a couple of days. If your pH is extremely low (less than 7.0), add a few tablespoons of common baking soda. Always remember to leave the tub circulating for a couple of days before retesting.
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How often should we be testing our pool for Chlorine and pH?
When adding chlorine by hand, the chlorine and pH should be checked a minimum of once a week for residential swimming pools or on a daily basis for spas and hot tubs. Since chemicals are consumed by contaminants and/or hot water which provides an environment that encourages bacteria growth, the chemical levels have to be kept consistent in order to maintain optimal water quality.
The use of a Chlorine Generator does not completely do away with this responsibility. You will still need to routinely verify the water condition, but it won't be something you HAVE TO DO every day!
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How often should you normally replace the water in a Hot Tub?
With traditional spa chemicals, it is necessary to replace your water every 2-3 months in order to keep your water clear. The reason for this is that the additives in powder chlorine and bromine tablets dissolve in the water and actually inhibit the ability of the pool chemicals to sanitize the water.
By installing a salt water chlorine generator, you can normally go 6-12 months between drainings since there are no additives accumulating in your water.
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What impact will not keeping a cover on our tub have on water quality?
Water quality will not be impacted much with the cover being off - in some cases, it will actually improve. Leaving your cover off will increase your electrical consumption, though, as the majority of heat loss is from the surface of the water when the spa is left uncovered.
We also recommend you let the hot tub breathe from time to time when it is being used. Leave the cover partially open for about an hour after each use.
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Is there anything special about emptying a Salt Water Spa?
No, not really. With salt and chlorine levels very low in the water, there isn't much chance the water will hurt your lawns, water treatment centers or even storm drains. If the water has gotten way too much chlorine (rare) it may discolor some grass, but that is short lived and much much better than the staining caused by traditional spa chemicals.
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How often should I shock me spa water
This isn't an easy to answer question and depends on many factors. Some like to shock the spa water after each use. With an electronic chlorine generator you should shock the spa water at least every two weeks or after 5 uses. More information on shocking here.
