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WATER QUALITY AND MAINTENANCE
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SUPPLEMENTAL WATER MAINTENANCE
Proper water sanitation and mineral balance (pH control) are absolutely essential for a complete spa water maintenance program. Here are three other popular water
additives that are optional:
Mineral Deposit Inhibitors
As water evaporates from your spa and new water is added, the amount of dissolved minerals will increase. (Minimize evaporation by keeping the cover on the spa
whenever possible.) The spa water may eventually become “hard” (Calcium Hardness too high) enough to damage the heater by calcifying its surface. Proper pH
control
can minimize this.
Normal soap build-up will require water replacement regularly enough that mineral deposits normally are not a problem.
Occasionally, high iron or copper content in the water may produce green or brown stains on the spa. A stain and scale inhibitor may help to reduce these metals.
NOTE: Well water may contain high concentrations of minerals. The use of a low water volume, extra-fine pore water filter will help to remove many of the larger
particles during the filling of the spa.
Foam Inhibitors
Spa water requires changing due to the buildup of soap in the water. Typically, soap will cause the spa water to foam when the jets are used. Soap is introduced into
the spa water from two sources: users’ bodies, which retain a soap residue after showering, and swimming apparel, which retains soap after washing.
Foam inhibitors can suppress foam, but cannot remove soap from the water. Soap is very difficult to remove from the water because soap is not oxidized by any
chemical added to the spa. Only ozone can oxidize soap.
Eventually the soap build-up in the water will be concentrated, resulting in an unclean feeling on the bather’s skin, which is impossible to remedy. When this occurs,
it’s time to drain and refill the spa. Depending on the soap input, the water should last about 4 months before needing to be drained.
MONARCH
®
CD OZONE SYSTEM
The Monarch high output ozone system is the one ozone purification system approved for installation in your spa. The Monarch ozone system utilizes Corona
Discharge (CD) technology to produce a higher concentration of ozone than is produced by competing ultraviolet light (UV) ozone systems.
The Monarch high output ozone system unit is less susceptible to the effects of freezing temperatures because it is installed in the equipment compartment. To
access it for inspection, remove the equipment compartment door to check the unit operation (this is usually done prior to disconnecting the power to the spa
before draining). Simply listen for the buzz of the transformer to verify operation of the Monarch high output ozone system.
The Monarch high output ozone system greatly enhances the quality of the spa water when used to supplement the spa owner’s regular water maintenance
program. Contrary to some information circulated throughout the pool and spa industry regarding ozone systems, ozone CANNOT be used as a single-source
sanitizer, water clarifier, anti-foamer, and mineral chelating agent. Watkins
®
Manufacturing Corporation recommends that a chemical maintenance program based on
recognized and documented industry standards still be followed when using an ozone purification system to assure water sanitation and the highest quality purified
water.
Cleaning the Ozone Injector
On occasion, a mineral build up may clog the ozone injector, causing a lack of flow or low flow, of ozone bubbles. To prevent this, refer to the following instructions
to clean the injector:
1. Disconnect power to the spa.
2. Access the equipment compartment.
3. Locate the ozonator in the equipment compartment and unplug the ozonator from the control box.
4. Place 16 ounces of white vinegar into a container such as a cup or bucket. Place the container on the equipment compartment floor. NOTE: White vinegar will
not damage any of the spa components.
Nitric acid accumulates in the air lines of the ozonator and injector. Nitric acid
will cause severe chemical burns if direct skin contact is made, so always
wear protective gloves, glasses and clothing when working on the ozonator
or injector lines. To prevent inhalation or ingestion of the nitric acid, DO NOT
blow or inhale with your mouth to any of the adapters, fittings or tubing of
the ozonator or injector air lines.
WARNING
WARNING