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Water Chemistry
Disinfecting (continued)
MAINTENANCE
return to the 2.0 to 5.0 ppm range before using the spa
again. Do not install a rigid cover during this procedure until
the disinfectant level is back to normal. High concentra-
tions of chlorine or bromine will damage metallic plated
finishes if the cover is in place.
Balancing pH:
For good hygiene and longevity, maintain the pH of your
spa water according to the instructions provided. pH is the
measure to determine if the spa water is too acid (low pH)
or too alkaline or basic (high pH). The ideal range for spa
water is 7.2 to 7.6 pH. For excessive acidity (below 7.2 pH)
add soda ash or sodium bicarbonate to the spa water. For
excessive alkalinity (above 7.6 pH) add dry acid to the spa
water. Caution: Refer to the spa chemical manufacturer’s
instructions for the initial amount of chemicals to add for the
gallonage of your spa. Low pH can cause equipment
damage, as acidic water will dissolve metals, while high pH
can cause scale or calcium deposits to build up in the
system or on the shell. After adding chemicals, run the filter
system for at least 30 minutes before testing water quality
again for accurate readings.
Balancing Total Alkalinity:
Total alkalinity is the measure of base materials in the
water. The recommended range for total alkalinity is be-
tween 80 ppm and 150 ppm. If the chemistry of the water
is not within this range, you will have difficulty adjusting your
pH level, which will affect your adjustments for the proper
amount of free available chlorine. If the alkalinity of your
spa water is high, it is advisable to drain the water from the
spa and begin the balancing process over again. Purge
and sanitize your spa (according to instructions in “Equip-
ment Set-Up” section of the Installation Instructions) and
clean the spa surfaces thoroughly before refilling with fresh
water. Then re-establish water chemistry. If the spa is used
heavily, change the water at least every month.
WATER QUALITY DEFINITIONS
pH:
A chemical term used in expressing relative acid-
ity or alkalinity in numeric values with 7.0 usually
regarded as neutral, and for purposes of this manual,
indicating pure water. From 7 to 0 indicates increasing
acidity, and 7 to 14 indicates alkalinity.
PPM:
Parts per million.
Free Chlorine:
Chlorine that has not combined with
other chemicals and that is available to destroy bacte-
ria in the spa water.
TriChlor:
A form of chlorine used in pool or spa water
treatment; usually supplied in tablet form. Not recom-
mended because of its higher acidic nature and slow
dissolving action. Prolonged contact with the spa shell
may bleach or permanently mark the shell.
Sodium DiChlor:
The type of chlorine that is
recommended for spa use, as it is available in fast
dissolving granular form. It is neither excessively acid
nor alkaline in character and does not readily dissipate
in higher water temperatures.
Calcium Hypochlorite:
A granular chlorine prod-
uct that is inexpensive and effective but not recom-
mended because it often tends to form calcium depos-
its on heater parts and plumbing fittings and leaves an
unattractive film on the spa at the water line.
Sodium Hypochlorite:
A liquid chlorine product
that is inexpensive and effective but not recommended
because the liquid is readily spilled onto the spa or a
surrounding area, causing permanent damage.
Total Alkalinity:
The measure of amount of alka-
line materials (such as carbonates, bicarbonates and
hydroxides) in the water. High alkalinity inhibits the
effectiveness of chemicals to change the pH. If the
alkalinity of your spa water is high (above 150 ppm), it
is advisable to drain the water from the spa and begin
the balancing process over again. Low total alkalinity
(below 60 ppm) could be corrosive and damage your
spa system.
Superchlorination:
(also referred to as "shock
treatment") The addition of an above-normal level of
disinfectant to kill any bacteria or algae that might have
become resistant to normal levels of disinfectant.