If you own a spa pool or hot tub, it is important to understand that it requires a certain amount of owner maintenance to ensure it operates properly and that the water remains clean and healthy.
The water treatment requirements for a spa pool differ from those for a swimming pool, because you are dealing with hot water. Hot water requires different treatment to prevent the growth of viruses, bacteria and algae.
The correct use of chemicals will maintain the water in a clean and healthy condition. The parameters that need to be regularly checked are, total alkalinity, pH and sanitiser (Chlorine or Bromine) level.
Your spa retailer or local pool shop should be able to supply a suitable test kit and advise you on its correct use. It is advisable to test the water on a daily basis.
The spa water should be changed every three to four months, or remove and replace approx. 30% or 1/3 of the volume of water every three to four weeks.
The total alkalinity should be in the range of 90 150 ppm (parts per million). A spa or hot tub with low total alkalinity would require constant adjustment of the Ph.
To raise total alkalinity, add sodium bicarbonate in small quantities. To lower the total alkalinity, add acid (Hydrochloric Acid) in small quantities. Test in one hour.
ph is the measure of the acid/alkaline level of the water. It is important to maintain the correct ph level as it effects the action of other chemicals.
The ph is measured on a scale of 0 to 14. Seven is neutral, below seven is acidic, and above seven is alkaline.
Incorrect pH levels can cause poor chlorine or bromine efficiency, eye and skin irritations, corrosion of metal fittings, cloudy water and formation of scale on the pool walls and fittings The pH should always be above 7.0 (measured at room temperature, not hot) to avoid possible corrosion of equipment. However, it should not be higher than 7.8, as this would reduce the efficiency of the sanitiser.
If the pH needs to be increased, add soda ash. To reduce the pH, add acid. Wait for one hour and test again.
Total alkalinity: 90 - 1 10 ppm ph: 7.4 - 7.6 Chlorine: 2 - 3 ppm
Bromine: 3 - 4. Ppm
Sanitising your spa is essential for safe, healthy water, free of harmful microorganisms. The most common forms of sanitizer are chlorine and bromine. Ozone may also be used in conjunction with it. Salt water chlorinators must be of sufficient capacity to maintain the recommended chlorine residual.
The amount of disinfectant required depends on a number of factors, including, water temperature, the frequency of use and the number of people using the spa. It is most important to always keep the sanitiser level at 2 to 3 ppm. In very hot water the sanitiser can be used up very quickly, and should be checked regularly whilst the spa is being used. After heavy use of the spa or on a weekly basis, the water should be shock dosed with
chlorine or bromine. Be sure to check the level again before use.
If the spa or hot tub is not being used, add sanitiser every day to prevent contamination.
It is important to note that if the right pH and sanitiser levels are maintained, viruses and bacteria should not survive in the water.
In terms of general hygiene, it is important to keep the filter and pump clean. Clean the filter regularly and empty hair and lint from the pump as often as required.
Children should be supervised at all times when either in or near the spa or hot tub. Alcohol should not be drunk while using the spa.
DISCLAIMER: The Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Australia (SPASA Australia) has compiled the Material contained in the publication for the benefit of readers. The Material is made available on the understanding that SPASA Australia and its employees and agents shall have no liability to the readers of the Material for any loss, damage, cost or expense whether direct, indirect consequential or special, incurred by, or arising due to, any person using or relying on the Material and whether caused due to any error, omission or misrepresentation in the Material or otherwise.