How to keep your Hot Tub safe and clean!
Posted on Mon, May 09, 2011 @ 10:35 AM
If you are like me you want your hot tub or spa water to be nicely fresh and clean. Many folks really don't understand how and why this is so important with a hot tub so hopefully we can help you today!
A hot tub is about 5 times larger than a regular old size bath tub but has many more people per gallon than a bath tub. In a bath tub you drain it after each use but a hot tub you recirculate the water. The job of the filter and the chemicals to keep the water clear, clean and safe.
Hot water needs to be carefully taken care of to keep it becoming out of balance and unsanitary. One person can perspire as much as 16 oz in a 15 minute time period at 102 degrees. This is why it is very important to understand spa maintenance and chemical treatments.
Spa filter maintenance - is taking the time to rinse the filter every 30 days to remove any debris in the ribs. We also like to recommend spraying it with a cleaner such as Kleen it or soaking it in a spa filter cleaning solution such as Spa Filter Cleaner.
Water sanitization - Spa water needs to be sanitized with either Chlorine or Bromine which are the most popular sanitizers for spas and hot tubs. Chlorine granules can be added to the water with the jets running to kill germs and bacteria and make the water clean, clear and safe. Bromine granules or tablets can be used to sanitize a hot tub and work well in wide pH ranges.
Shock or Oxidization - you must shock a spa to burn off waste such as chloramines which contains ammonia and other undesirable compounds plus bather waste and oils. It is best to shock a spa after each use to keep it fresh and clean plus the water will smell great.
Spa water balance - spa water needs to be balanced by first testing the water either by yourself or here a the Pool and Spa Connection. You will want to test and adjust the pH, alkalinity, calcium plus for metals such as copper and iron. Adjust these chemicals into range which will make sure the sanitizers work plus the water will be clear. This is also important to keep the spa shell, pumps, heater, and jets working properly. Water that is out of balance will severely affect your spa's equipment and can violate your spa's warranty so have it tested and adjusted.
Summary - taking care of your spa's water balance plus sanitizing and shocking the spa water in addition to keeping the filter clean will ensure you have a safe and clean hot tub for years of fun and enjoyment. Please feel free to contact us at our store or through our website as we look forward to helping you.
Sincerely,
The team at the Pool and Spa Connection!