Methods For Testing The Spa Water - HotSpring Landmark Owner's Manual

The water's chemical balance and pH control are also the responsibility of the spa owner. You will have to add chemicals to
maintain proper levels of Total Alkalinity (TA), Calcium Hardness (CH) and pH. Proper water balance and pH control will
minimize scale buildup and corrosion of metals, extend the life of the spa, and allow the sanitizer to work at maximum
efficiency.

METHODS FOR TESTING THE SPA WATER

Accurate water testing and analysis are an important part of effectively mantaining your spa water. You must have the ability
to test for:
• Total Alkalinity (TA)
• Calcium Hardness (CH)
• pH
• Sanitizer
Two types of testing methods are recognized and recommended by Watkins:
The Reagent Test Kit is a method which provides a high level of accuracy. The reagents come in either liquid or tablet form.
Test Strips are a convenient testing method used by many spa owners. Keep in mind that test strips are susceptible to heat
and moisture contamination, which will result in inaccurate readings.
IMPORTANT: Always read and carefully follow the directions included with the Test Kit or Test Strips to ensure the accuracy
of the test results.
BASIC CHEMICAL SAFETY
When using chemicals, read the labels carefully and follow directions precisely. Though chemicals protect you and your spa
when used correctly, they can be hazardous in concentrated form. Always observe the following guidelines:
• Allow only a responsible person to handle spa chemicals. KEEP THEM OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.
• Accurately measure the exact quantities specified, never more. Do not overdose your spa.
• Handle all containers with care. Store in a cool, dry, well ventilated place.
• Always keep chemical containers closed when not in use. Replace caps on their proper containers.
• Don't inhale fumes or allow chemicals to come in contact with your eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash your hands
immediately after use.
• Follow the emergency advice on the product label in case of accidental contact, or if the chemical is swallowed. Call
a doctor or the local Poison Control Center. If a doctor is needed, take the product container along with you so that
the substance can be identified.
• Don't let chemicals get on surrounding surfaces or landscaping. Don't use a vacuum cleaner to clean up chemical
spills.
• Never smoke around chemicals. Some fumes can be highly flammable.
• Don't store any chemicals in the spa equipment compartment.
HOW TO ADD CHEMICALS TO THE WATER
IMPORTANT: All spa water chemicals, including granulated dichlor, MPS, granulated pH increaser or decreaser, granulated
total alkalinity increaser, liquid stain and scale inhibitor, and liquid de-foamer must always be added directly into the filter
compartment while the jet pump is running in its high speed mode, and it must run for a minimum of ten minutes.
To Administer Spa Water Chemicals:
1. Fold back the cover. Carefully remove and set aside the filter compartment cover.
2. Push the CLEAN button to turn on the jet pump.
3. Carefully measure the recommended amount of chemical and slowly pour it into the filter compartment. Use care not to
splash chemicals on your hands, in your eyes, on the spa shell surface or on the spa cabinet.
4. Replace the filter compartment cover. After ten minutes, the jet pump will automatically shut off to complete the
procedure. Close and secure the cover. Risk of Drowning: Never leave an open spa unattended!
IMPORTANT "SUPER CHLORINATION/NON-CHLORINE SHOCK TREATMENT" NOTE: After administering a super
chlorination treatment or non-chlorine shock to your spa, leave the cover open for a minimum of 20 minutes to allow the
oxidizer gas to vent. A high concentration of trapped oxidizer gas which may exist as a result of the shock treatment (not daily
sanitation) may eventually cause discoloration or vinyl degradation to the bottom of the cover. This type of damage is
considered chemical abuse and is not covered under the terms of the limited warranty.
Page 43 Water Quality and Maintenance