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Water Chemistry (Continued)
Disinfecting
When filling the spa for the first time, follow the purge/
sanitizing instructions in the Equipment Set-Up procedure
of the Installation Instructions (page 6).
Add a disinfectant to the water on a regular basis to help
control the amount of bacteria, algae, and organic materi-
als. Such bacterial contaminants, if not controlled, could
cause skin rashes or other physical problems. To disinfect
the spa for normal use, first establish the amount of chlorine
or bromine to add and determine how often you need to add
these.
We recommend that you maintain a free chlorine level
of 2.0–5.0 ppm at all times except when you must exceed
that during the initial purge/sanitizing procedure or during
superchlorination (refer to Water Quality Definitions be-
low). Superchlorinate your spa every two weeks during
periods of heavy use. If using sodium dichlor, add one
heaping tablespoon for each 150 gallons of spa water.
Scrub the spa surfaces with this solution to remove oily
deposits. This will ensure that bacteria or algae which are
resistant to the normal disinfectant level are killed. After
adding the disinfectant, run the filter system and allow the
free chlorine level to return to the 2.0 to 5.0 ppm range
before using the spa again. Do not install cover 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.
pH: A chemical term used to express relative acidity 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 bacteria in
the spa water.
Trichlor: A form of chlorine used in pool or spa water
treatment; usually supplied in tablet form.
mended because of its higher acidic nature and slow dissolv-
ing action. Prolonged contact with the spa shell may bleach
or permanently mark the shell.
Sodium dichlor: The type of chlorine recommended for
spa use, as it is available in fast dissolving granular form. It
is neither excessively acidic nor alkaline in character and
does not readily dissipate in higher water temperatures.
MAINTENANCE
Balancing pH
the pH of your spa water at the level recommended in the
instructions. pH is the measure that determines if the spa
water is too acidic. Low pH indicates the water is too acidic.
High pH indicates the water is too alkaline or basic. 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.
instructions for the initial amount of chemicals to add
for the gallonage of your spa. Low pH can cause
equipment damage, as acid water will dissolve metals,
and 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
water.
between 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 reestablish proper water chemistry. If the spa
is used heavily, change the water at least every month.
WATER QUALITY DEFINITIONS
that is inexpensive and effective but not recommended
because it often tends to form calcium deposits on heater
parts and plumbing fittings and leaves an unattractive film on
the spa at the water line.
inexpensive and effective but not recommended because
the liquid is readily spilled onto the spa or a surrounding area,
causing permanent damage.
Not recom-
materials (such as carbonates, bicarbonates and hydrox-
ides) 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.
ment.) 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.
For good hygiene and equipment longevity, maintain
Caution: Refer to the spa chemical manufacturer's
Total alkalinity is the measure of base materials in the
The recommended range for total alkalinity is
Calcium Hypochlorite: A granular chlorine product
Sodium Hypochlorite: A liquid chlorine product that is
Total Alkalinity: The measure of the amount of alkaline
Superchlorination: (Also referred to as shock treat-
11
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