Owning a hot tub is an incredible way to relax and unwind, but to keep your hot tub clean, safe, and enjoyable, it’s essential to use the right chemicals. Whether you’re new to hot tub ownership or a seasoned pro, understanding which chemicals are needed and how to use them properly can make all the difference in maintaining crystal-clear, sanitized water.
Here are the key chemicals every hot tub owner should have on hand and how they work to keep your spa in top shape:
1. Sanitizers
Sanitizers are crucial for maintaining water hygiene by killing bacteria and other harmful organisms.
The two most common types of sanitizers are:
- Chlorine: Chlorine is one of the most popular hot tub sanitizers and is effective at killing bacteria quickly. It’s available in granular or tablet form and is easy to dissolve in water.
- Bromine: Bromine is a popular alternative to chlorine, especially for hot tubs because it remains effective at higher temperatures. It’s gentler on the skin and eyes but may be slightly more expensive.
Both sanitizers work well, but many hot tub owners prefer bromine for its longer-lasting effect in hot water and reduced odor compared to chlorine.
2. pH Balancers
Maintaining a balanced pH level is key to protecting your hot tub equipment and ensuring the sanitizer works efficiently. Ideally, your pH should be between 7.2 and 7.8. Here are the essential chemicals to help balance your pH:
- pH Increaser (Sodium Carbonate): If the pH level drops below 7.2, it’s too acidic and can damage your hot tub’s components. Use a pH increaser to raise the pH level.
- pH Decreaser (Sodium Bisulfate): If your pH exceeds 7.8, the water is too alkaline, which can cause cloudy water and scaling. Use a pH decreaser to lower the pH back to the optimal range.
3. Alkalinity Adjusters
Alkalinity acts as a buffer for your pH levels, helping to keep them stable. The ideal alkalinity range for hot tubs is 80-120 ppm. If the alkalinity is too low, the pH will fluctuate wildly, making the water more difficult to balance. If it’s too high, it can cause scaling and cloudy water.
- Alkalinity Increaser: This product helps raise the total alkalinity of your hot tub water, making it easier to maintain a stable pH level.
4. Calcium Hardness Increaser
Calcium hardness measures the amount of calcium dissolved in the water. If the calcium level is too low, it can corrode your hot tub’s equipment. If it’s too high, you risk scale buildup. Ideally, you want your calcium hardness to fall between 150 and 250 ppm.
- Calcium Hardness Increaser: This product is used to increase the calcium levels if they are too low to protect your hot tub components.
5. Shock Treatments
Shocking your hot tub water involves adding a higher dose of sanitizer to quickly oxidize contaminants like body oils, lotions, and organic materials. Shock treatments are typically done weekly and help maintain clear water.
- Chlorine Shock: This type of shock quickly raises the chlorine level to kill off bacteria and other contaminants.
- Non-Chlorine Shock: If you use bromine or are sensitive to chlorine, a non-chlorine shock is a great alternative for oxidizing organic materials without affecting the sanitizer levels.
6. Water Clarifiers
Water clarifiers help clear cloudy water by coagulating small particles that are too tiny to be caught by the filter. These chemicals bind the particles together, making it easier for the filter to remove them.
- Clarifier: Add a clarifier whenever you notice your water becoming cloudy, especially after heavy use.
7. Defoamers
If you notice foam forming on the surface of your hot tub water, a defoamer can help break it down. Foam usually occurs when oils, lotions, or detergents build up in the water.
- Defoamer: Adding this product will quickly dissolve foam, leaving the water clear and smooth again.
8. Stain and Scale Control
Hot tub water that has high levels of calcium or other minerals may cause stains or scale buildup on the surface of the tub and within the plumbing.
- Stain and Scale Remover: This chemical prevents minerals from depositing on your hot tub shell and equipment, keeping it in great condition.
How to Test and Maintain Your Hot Tub Water
To keep your hot tub chemicals in balance, it’s essential to test the water regularly. Use test strips or a digital test kit to measure your pH, alkalinity, sanitizer levels, and calcium hardness. Regular maintenance ensures that you can address imbalances quickly and avoid long-term issues.
Maintaining your hot tub with the right chemicals will not only ensure a clean and safe experience but will also prolong the life of your hot tub. At Blue Lagoon Pools, we offer a full range of hot tub chemicals to meet all your needs. If you’re unsure about which chemicals to use or how to test your water, don’t hesitate to stop by or give us a call!
Need Help?
Visit our store in Sinking Spring, PA, for expert advice and to pick up all the chemicals you need for your hot tub. Our team is here to help you maintain the perfect balance and enjoy your spa to the fullest.
