Chemistry 101 for Hot Tubs and Spas
Awareness of the basic elements of water chemistry is a must when in comes to hot tubs and spas, because they are not drained after each use. Keeping a perfect balance of chemicals will ensure that your experience in your hot tub or spa is a pleasant and sanitary one.
To balance the chemicals to where its not too acidic nor too alkaline is only one way to manage and maintain your spa. The other aspect for keeping the water free from harmful microorganisms and retaining healthy water is maintaining your sanitizing system. There are several reasons for you to keep up your regiments of sanitation: bacteria will not only come from bodies, but from airborne mold spores. Algae and viruses can be introduced to the water also. Having an effective sanitizer system in necessary to control the organisms. There are many EPA-approved spa purifier systems that meet or go beyond the standards for an effective component in hot tubs and spas.
Once you’ve pick a sanitizer system, you then, periodically, add a shock agent to oxidize the water, which aids in the break-down of dead organic materials, soap film, dirt, perspiration and hair spray. Shocking the water is essential for clean, clear spa water. It also allows the sanitizer to perform efficiently. Chlorine can be a good shock, but consider also using a non-chlorine MPS shock treatment to correct an occasional water issue.
Mineral components of spa water when in correct proportion with one another creates balance. If scale buildup is showing up on your spa equipment, then you have a high pH (alkaline) level. If you start seeing corrosion with the plumbing of your spa, then you are too low in your pH (acidic) level. Also, properly balanced water not only feels good on the skin, it allows the sanitizer to do its job more efficiently.
Total Alkalinity (TA) is a good way to gauge the spa’s water ability to resist changes in the pH, it gives the water a buffer zone. It’s less of an issue if the TA is too high, rather than too low. The TA should always be checked first, then check the pH level. When you properly maintain the TA, then the pH automatically adjust to a good level. There are many products on the market that will help you balance the water chemistry for all makes and models of hot tubs and spas.
Related posts:
- Hottub, hot water, hot hot hot!!!
- Hot Tubs and Back Yard Gardens
- Hot Tub Features and Accessories
- Business Meetings in Spa or Hot Tub
- Hot Rod Accessories and More
Leave a Comment