Hot Tub Chemicals 101
Water Treatment Products for Your Home Spa
Hot tub owners are accustomed to dealing with the competing claims of water-treatment products that go by a variety of names: sanitizers, cleansers, oxidizers, clarifiers, balancers, ionizers, defoamers and more. Its important to know the difference between these products as well as which types of chemicals are most effective when it comes to the performance of your hot tub or spa.
Spa owners need to do two things to their tub water - keep it clean and keep the pH level balanced. The most common approach to hot tub treatment is to use chemicals to do the job.
Granulated chlorine (sodium dichlor) is often used in spas and hot tubs. Some prefer bromine as an alternative because they prefer the smell and feel of bromine, even though it is more expensive than chlorine. The choice between chlorine and bromine will depend on your personal preferences as well as the amount of money you are willing to spend.
Hot tub owners who prefer a more natural approach can experiment with a variety of enzyme formulations that kill bacteria. These products are very effective in cleansing the water in your hot tub and providing you with a clean, healthy place to relax, however their downfall is that they are often hard to find and more costly than chemicals.
Alternative sanitizers such as ozone generators or ionizers can also treat hot tub water. Ozonators work with the tub's air pump to inject bacteria-killing ozone into the water, while ionizers use copper and silver electrodes to kill organisms. Both are quite effective, though many tub users are discouraged by the initial cost of purchasing either unit.
The type of water treatment you choose is usually dependant on personal preference and budget, so take the time to learn about the options available. Research the cost of certain chemicals and cleaners as well as their effectiveness. The more information you obtain in the beginning, the better decision you can make when it comes to effective means of cleaning your hot tub.
Keeping Your Home Spa in Top Condition
Hot tub testing kits and strips can help hot tub and spa owners check chlorine, bromine, or pH levels. Spas should be regularly tested to ensure the water is safe and clean. If you do not test your hot tub and spa water on a regular basis, you run the risk of contaminated water which can be unhealthy for users.
Hot tub testing kits come with testing equipment and charts for analysis. Most require you to take a sample of water from your spa or hot tub, place a specified number of drops in the water sample and then analyze the color of the treated water. There is no room for error with these kits and the person testing the water must ensure that all steps are properly followed so that the results aren't skewed. Follow each step carefully in order to ensure accurate test results.
Testing strips are small sticks that you dip into the water. Spa testing strips often come in bottles with either paper charts or information on the bottle for you to match the test stick with the corresponding color in order to analyze the test results. They are offered in three-in-one, four-in-one or six-in-one variations. For example, a four-in-one or four-way strip will measure four things. Strips are disposable and are praised for being convenient and easy to use, but less precise than kits.
Hard water testing kits measure the amount of calcium and magnesium in your hot tub or spa. Usually about three-quarters of the total hardness of your spa or hot tub is calcium. Too much calcium in the water is undesirable.
Copper testing strips and kits are important for use with ionizers and they can also be used if rust on piping or equipment is suspected. Iron test strips, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) Test Strips and Total Hardness strips are also available for their specific purpose.
Hot tub spas should be checked regularly to ensure chemical and natural pH levels are correct. Testing kits and strips are ideal for this, although some prefer to take a sample periodically to their hot tub specialist for in depth analysis. Regardless of the method you choose, it is important to test your hot tub and spa water on a regular basis to ensure it is healthy for you and your guests to enjoy.
Keep These Spa Chemicals on Hand
Enjoying your spa and keeping it running effectively on a regular basis requires a large amount of time and effort. One of the most important factors in maintaining the quality of your spa is keeping it clean and using the appropriate chemicals regularly. There are a number of chemicals which can be used in your hot tub or home spa in order to ensure it continues to operate effectively.
Spa chemicals can be divided into four basic categories: water balancers, clarifiers, sanitizers/shocks and cleaning chemicals. You should have some form of each chemical on hand at all times. In order to ensure your understanding of these products, we have compiled a brief description of each; in order to ensure you have a good grasp of what is expected of you.
Water Balancers - Water balancers are very important in order to ensure high water quality. Some examples of water balancers include alkalinity up, calcium hardness up, ph down, spa increase and spa decrease. After testing your water, you will be able to identify which type of chemical is needed for your water.
Sanitizers/Shocks - These chemicals are used to clean the water and eliminate bacteria and any other unwanted chemicals which may be present in the water. Some examples of hot tub sanitizers and shocks include bromine sanitizers, Oxy-Brite Shock (a non-chlorine shock) and granular chlorine shock.
Clarifiers - Clarifiers are used for hot tub water that is cloudy or foamy. These chemicals are designed to clear the water in order to make it feel and appear healthier for users. An example of a hot tub clarifier is Natural Clear, a natural enzyme clarifier used to restore water back to its original color.
Cleaning Chemicals - Cleaning chemicals are used to kill bacteria in your water and make it healthier for users. Some examples of cleaning chemicals for your hot tub include Whirl-O-Clean (a chemical used to eliminate scum in the plumbing) and Minute Rinse (a filter cartridge spray cleaner).
There are a number of alternatives for each type of hot tub chemical. The types of chemicals you choose for your hot tub will depend on a combination of your personal preferences and the amount of money you can spend on hot tub chemicals. It is important to use the appropriate chemicals in your hot tub - doing so can add a number of years to the life of your spa.
Hot Tub Sanitizers
Hot tub sanitizers are one of the most important choices a hot tub owner can make. Essentially, a sanitizer is the primary product that you will need to keep your hot tub or spa clean.
There are a number of options to choose from when it comes to the type of sanitizer you'll be using for your hot tub. Stand-alone systems such as chlorine, bromine or biguanide products can be used on their own but there are a number of co-dependent systems which assist in cleaning the water as well. Keep in mind, co-dependent systems do not have the ability to perform all functions required for healthy water.
Stand-Alone Sanitizers
Chlorine recommended for spas is granulated chlorine (sodium dichlor). All other types of chlorine are for swimming pools only.
Bromine tablets specifically made for spa use are an effective but expensive alternative to chlorine.
Biguanide products are also available to clean the water. Biguanide sanitization systems are not compatible with many other products on the market (i.e. chlorine or bromine). For this reason, there are complete biguanide product lines that include shock, testing strips, filter cleaner and defoamers, to name a few.
Chlorine generators for spas and hot tubs are also available. These devices transform salt into chlorine to sanitize the water.
Co-dependant Systems
Spa ozonators or ozone generators are units that change air into ozone and then release this natural bacteria destroyer into the spa's water.
Mineral purifiers are devices, often with replaceable cartridges, that use minerals to sanitize water.
Spa ionizers or ionization systems are devices that electronically dispense metallic ions. Ions naturally kill algae and other bacteria in water.
Hot tubs and spas are more conducive to disease and germs as a result of the very high temperatures and smaller water per person ratios. For this reason it is imperative that regular testing and a cleaning regime is followed to ensure the water is clean and balanced. Spa owners must find the balance as using too many chemicals or too few can be detrimental.
Spa owners should read the equipment and chemical manufacturer's directions carefully before dispensing any products. Incompatible chemicals and sanitization systems can be quite dangerous and harm your hot tub and you.
Water Hardness
Water hardness is a concentration of calcium and magnesium in your hot tub or spa water. It is important that your water remain at the appropriate hardness level in order to prevent erosion of equipment and other parts of your spa. The ideal calcium hardness level for hot tubs and spas is between 200 and 400 PPM (parts per million).
Depending on where you live and the type of water you are using, your water hardness may be too high or too low. It is important to test your water in order to determine whether it is at the appropriate level or if changes need to be made. It is relatively easy to correct the level of water hardness when it is too high or too low.
Low hardness can be corrected with a product called Hardness Up or with any type of calcium booster. It is important to recognize that calcium boostera are not recommended if you are using pH balance or other pH holding products. These two types of chemicals are not compatible and may cause damage to your tub. If your water is too hard, simply cut back on the amount of chemicals you are using.
There may be some indications of hard or soft water which can assist you in determining which types of chemicals to use to correct the problem. It is always best to test your water using testing kits or testing strips in order to ensure the results are accurate. Sometimes indications of what you think may be wrong with your water are incorrect. Testing your water will ensure you take the appropriate steps to correct the problem.
Indications of high hardness in your water include the following:
* Cloudy water
* Scale formation
* Foamy water
* Irritations to the skin and eyes
Indications of low hardness in your water may include the following:
* Cloudy water
* Foamy water
* Corroded metals and equipment
Water hardness levels that are too high or too low can cause health issues, whether it is with the skin, eyes or other parts of the body. It is your responsibility to ensure the protection of all individuals using your hot tub or spa - remember to test your water regularly and take the appropriate measures to ensure healthy water.
Total Dissolved Solids
A Leading Cause of Foam in Your Hot Tub
Total dissolved solids (TDS) are a measure of the amount of substance (in liquid form) in your hot tub or spa water. Total dissolved solids include, but are not limited to, everything from calcium and magnesium to carbonates, metallics and bicarbonates. If there are too many total dissolved solids in your water, the water may become cloudy and foamy. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to control this problem.
Total dissolved solids can build up in your water for a number of different reasons. Generally the biggest cause of this problem is a result of perspiration, bacteria and dead skin cells which are distributed throughout the water when you step into the tub. Once all of these particles are combined, they will form into foam and sit at the top of the water. This can be very unhealthy and should be taken care of as soon as possible.
There are a number of solutions to irradicate the foam at the top of the water, but there is only one solution which will effectively remove the total dissolved solids from your water. You can try a number of types of chemicals and defoamers but these will likely just add to the problem. When you add chemicals to your water, you are basically just adding another solid to the mix. The best way to eliminate the total dissolved solids from your water is to completely empty and refill the water in your hot tub or spa. You will have to continue to do this every three months or so, but it is definitely worth it. Your water will be much healthier and much safer for those using the tub.
Neglecting to change the water on a regular basis can severely compromise the effectiveness of your hot tub or spa. Eliminating dissolved solids totally from your hot tub water is critical in order to ensure the safety of users. Ensure your health and the health of all users and remember to change the water in your hot tub on a regular basis. This will eliminate the foam in the water and provide a more relaxing experience for everyone to enjoy.
Chemical Applications
Ensuring Your Safety When Applying Hot Tub Chemicals
There are a number of important things to remember when applying chemicals to your hot tub or spa. Improper chemical application can be very dangerous and potentially cause a great deal of harm. In order to ensure your safety when adding certain types of hot tub chemicals to your spa, we have compiled a list of guidelines to follow to ensure a successful procedure. Follow the guidelines listed below for the safest application possible:
* Always follow the instructions listed on the manufacturer's label. Read the label before beginning any type of application.
* Make sure your hands are clean and dry before beginning your application. Likewise, make sure you wash your hands immediately after the application as well.
* Always add chemicals to water. Never add water to chemicals.
* Never mix chemicals together.
* Make sure you use plastic, glass, china or enamelware utensils and containers. Do not use metallic utensils.
* Never add chemicals to the spa water while there are bathers occupying the unit.
* Always keep chemicals out of the reach of children. In addition, chemicals should be stored in a cool, dry, locked area that is inaccessible to children.
* Never reuse old chemical containers and make sure you use separate containers for each type of chemical.
* Rinse out empty chemical containers before you throw them away. Neglecting to do so may result in fire, explosion or poisoning. Do not use soap or any other substance than water.
* Never inhale chemical fumes or allow the chemicals to come in contact with the eyes, nose or mouth. If possible, use a protective breathing mask while performing the application.
* Make sure you replace your chemical testing kit each year.
Following the chemical application guidelines listed above will help to ensure your safety and a successful application. If you experience any difficulties with the process, contact the manufacturer. If you experience any medical difficulties, contact your doctor immediately.
Neglecting to follow the guidelines listed above can result in bodily harm, injury and potentially death. Apply all chemicals with care and common sense. Complying with these recommendations and the recommendations of your chemical and hot tub manufacturer will not only ensure your safety but will also ensure your hot tub remains in good condition for as long as possible.
Defoamers
Eliminating the Foam in Your Hot Tub or Spa
One of the most common difficulties expressed by hot tub and spa owners is the large amount of foam residing at the top of the water. This is a very common problem associated with hot tubs and spas, fortunately it can be easily fixed. In order to fully understand the solution to your problem, you need to first recognize the cause for the foam in the first place.
Hot tub foam can be the result of many factors. The most common cause of foam is the particles that are released from bathers when they first enter the spa. Dead skin cells, bacteria, residue from swimsuits and particles from tanning or body lotions are the most common reasons for the foam at the top of the water. These particles, combined with the particles released during chemical applications, can result in a high amount of total dissolved solids in the water. The higher the total amount of dissolved solids in the water, the more foam you will acquire in your hot tub.
Now that we've established the reason for the foam, we must consider the most effective solution to the problem. Defoamers are products that are used in hot tubs and spas to decrease the amount of foam in the water. There are a number of different types of defoamers on the market which are effective in eliminating the foam; however, it is important to recognize that even though the foam is gone, the unhealthy particles remain in the water. Defoamers simply make the foam disappear, but most products do not completely eliminate the particles which created the foam in the first place.
If you are concerned with the way your hot tub looks with the foam, a defoamer will be an effective solution to your problem. However, if you are concerned with the health issues related to the foam, a defoamer is not an effective solution. The best way to ensure both the foam and the health concerns are eliminated is to completely empty the existing water in your hot tub and replace it with new, fresh water. This should be done approximately every three months in order to ensure healthy water, even if there is no foam in your hot tub.
If you are interested in purchasing a defoamer for your hot tub or spa, you have many options. Defoamers cost anywhere from $10 to $30, depending on the brand name you choose.
Hot tub owners are accustomed to dealing with the competing claims of water-treatment products that go by a variety of names: sanitizers, cleansers, oxidizers, clarifiers, balancers, ionizers, defoamers and more. Its important to know the difference between these products as well as which types of chemicals are most effective when it comes to the performance of your hot tub or spa.
Spa owners need to do two things to their tub water - keep it clean and keep the pH level balanced. The most common approach to hot tub treatment is to use chemicals to do the job.
Granulated chlorine (sodium dichlor) is often used in spas and hot tubs. Some prefer bromine as an alternative because they prefer the smell and feel of bromine, even though it is more expensive than chlorine. The choice between chlorine and bromine will depend on your personal preferences as well as the amount of money you are willing to spend.
Hot tub owners who prefer a more natural approach can experiment with a variety of enzyme formulations that kill bacteria. These products are very effective in cleansing the water in your hot tub and providing you with a clean, healthy place to relax, however their downfall is that they are often hard to find and more costly than chemicals.
Alternative sanitizers such as ozone generators or ionizers can also treat hot tub water. Ozonators work with the tub's air pump to inject bacteria-killing ozone into the water, while ionizers use copper and silver electrodes to kill organisms. Both are quite effective, though many tub users are discouraged by the initial cost of purchasing either unit.
The type of water treatment you choose is usually dependant on personal preference and budget, so take the time to learn about the options available. Research the cost of certain chemicals and cleaners as well as their effectiveness. The more information you obtain in the beginning, the better decision you can make when it comes to effective means of cleaning your hot tub.
Keeping Your Home Spa in Top Condition
Hot tub testing kits and strips can help hot tub and spa owners check chlorine, bromine, or pH levels. Spas should be regularly tested to ensure the water is safe and clean. If you do not test your hot tub and spa water on a regular basis, you run the risk of contaminated water which can be unhealthy for users.
Hot tub testing kits come with testing equipment and charts for analysis. Most require you to take a sample of water from your spa or hot tub, place a specified number of drops in the water sample and then analyze the color of the treated water. There is no room for error with these kits and the person testing the water must ensure that all steps are properly followed so that the results aren't skewed. Follow each step carefully in order to ensure accurate test results.
Testing strips are small sticks that you dip into the water. Spa testing strips often come in bottles with either paper charts or information on the bottle for you to match the test stick with the corresponding color in order to analyze the test results. They are offered in three-in-one, four-in-one or six-in-one variations. For example, a four-in-one or four-way strip will measure four things. Strips are disposable and are praised for being convenient and easy to use, but less precise than kits.
Hard water testing kits measure the amount of calcium and magnesium in your hot tub or spa. Usually about three-quarters of the total hardness of your spa or hot tub is calcium. Too much calcium in the water is undesirable.
Copper testing strips and kits are important for use with ionizers and they can also be used if rust on piping or equipment is suspected. Iron test strips, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) Test Strips and Total Hardness strips are also available for their specific purpose.
Hot tub spas should be checked regularly to ensure chemical and natural pH levels are correct. Testing kits and strips are ideal for this, although some prefer to take a sample periodically to their hot tub specialist for in depth analysis. Regardless of the method you choose, it is important to test your hot tub and spa water on a regular basis to ensure it is healthy for you and your guests to enjoy.
Keep These Spa Chemicals on Hand
Enjoying your spa and keeping it running effectively on a regular basis requires a large amount of time and effort. One of the most important factors in maintaining the quality of your spa is keeping it clean and using the appropriate chemicals regularly. There are a number of chemicals which can be used in your hot tub or home spa in order to ensure it continues to operate effectively.
Spa chemicals can be divided into four basic categories: water balancers, clarifiers, sanitizers/shocks and cleaning chemicals. You should have some form of each chemical on hand at all times. In order to ensure your understanding of these products, we have compiled a brief description of each; in order to ensure you have a good grasp of what is expected of you.
Water Balancers - Water balancers are very important in order to ensure high water quality. Some examples of water balancers include alkalinity up, calcium hardness up, ph down, spa increase and spa decrease. After testing your water, you will be able to identify which type of chemical is needed for your water.
Sanitizers/Shocks - These chemicals are used to clean the water and eliminate bacteria and any other unwanted chemicals which may be present in the water. Some examples of hot tub sanitizers and shocks include bromine sanitizers, Oxy-Brite Shock (a non-chlorine shock) and granular chlorine shock.
Clarifiers - Clarifiers are used for hot tub water that is cloudy or foamy. These chemicals are designed to clear the water in order to make it feel and appear healthier for users. An example of a hot tub clarifier is Natural Clear, a natural enzyme clarifier used to restore water back to its original color.
Cleaning Chemicals - Cleaning chemicals are used to kill bacteria in your water and make it healthier for users. Some examples of cleaning chemicals for your hot tub include Whirl-O-Clean (a chemical used to eliminate scum in the plumbing) and Minute Rinse (a filter cartridge spray cleaner).
There are a number of alternatives for each type of hot tub chemical. The types of chemicals you choose for your hot tub will depend on a combination of your personal preferences and the amount of money you can spend on hot tub chemicals. It is important to use the appropriate chemicals in your hot tub - doing so can add a number of years to the life of your spa.
Hot Tub Sanitizers
Hot tub sanitizers are one of the most important choices a hot tub owner can make. Essentially, a sanitizer is the primary product that you will need to keep your hot tub or spa clean.
There are a number of options to choose from when it comes to the type of sanitizer you'll be using for your hot tub. Stand-alone systems such as chlorine, bromine or biguanide products can be used on their own but there are a number of co-dependent systems which assist in cleaning the water as well. Keep in mind, co-dependent systems do not have the ability to perform all functions required for healthy water.
Stand-Alone Sanitizers
Chlorine recommended for spas is granulated chlorine (sodium dichlor). All other types of chlorine are for swimming pools only.
Bromine tablets specifically made for spa use are an effective but expensive alternative to chlorine.
Biguanide products are also available to clean the water. Biguanide sanitization systems are not compatible with many other products on the market (i.e. chlorine or bromine). For this reason, there are complete biguanide product lines that include shock, testing strips, filter cleaner and defoamers, to name a few.
Chlorine generators for spas and hot tubs are also available. These devices transform salt into chlorine to sanitize the water.
Co-dependant Systems
Spa ozonators or ozone generators are units that change air into ozone and then release this natural bacteria destroyer into the spa's water.
Mineral purifiers are devices, often with replaceable cartridges, that use minerals to sanitize water.
Spa ionizers or ionization systems are devices that electronically dispense metallic ions. Ions naturally kill algae and other bacteria in water.
Hot tubs and spas are more conducive to disease and germs as a result of the very high temperatures and smaller water per person ratios. For this reason it is imperative that regular testing and a cleaning regime is followed to ensure the water is clean and balanced. Spa owners must find the balance as using too many chemicals or too few can be detrimental.
Spa owners should read the equipment and chemical manufacturer's directions carefully before dispensing any products. Incompatible chemicals and sanitization systems can be quite dangerous and harm your hot tub and you.
Water Hardness
Water hardness is a concentration of calcium and magnesium in your hot tub or spa water. It is important that your water remain at the appropriate hardness level in order to prevent erosion of equipment and other parts of your spa. The ideal calcium hardness level for hot tubs and spas is between 200 and 400 PPM (parts per million).
Depending on where you live and the type of water you are using, your water hardness may be too high or too low. It is important to test your water in order to determine whether it is at the appropriate level or if changes need to be made. It is relatively easy to correct the level of water hardness when it is too high or too low.
Low hardness can be corrected with a product called Hardness Up or with any type of calcium booster. It is important to recognize that calcium boostera are not recommended if you are using pH balance or other pH holding products. These two types of chemicals are not compatible and may cause damage to your tub. If your water is too hard, simply cut back on the amount of chemicals you are using.
There may be some indications of hard or soft water which can assist you in determining which types of chemicals to use to correct the problem. It is always best to test your water using testing kits or testing strips in order to ensure the results are accurate. Sometimes indications of what you think may be wrong with your water are incorrect. Testing your water will ensure you take the appropriate steps to correct the problem.
Indications of high hardness in your water include the following:
* Cloudy water
* Scale formation
* Foamy water
* Irritations to the skin and eyes
Indications of low hardness in your water may include the following:
* Cloudy water
* Foamy water
* Corroded metals and equipment
Water hardness levels that are too high or too low can cause health issues, whether it is with the skin, eyes or other parts of the body. It is your responsibility to ensure the protection of all individuals using your hot tub or spa - remember to test your water regularly and take the appropriate measures to ensure healthy water.
Total Dissolved Solids
A Leading Cause of Foam in Your Hot Tub
Total dissolved solids (TDS) are a measure of the amount of substance (in liquid form) in your hot tub or spa water. Total dissolved solids include, but are not limited to, everything from calcium and magnesium to carbonates, metallics and bicarbonates. If there are too many total dissolved solids in your water, the water may become cloudy and foamy. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to control this problem.
Total dissolved solids can build up in your water for a number of different reasons. Generally the biggest cause of this problem is a result of perspiration, bacteria and dead skin cells which are distributed throughout the water when you step into the tub. Once all of these particles are combined, they will form into foam and sit at the top of the water. This can be very unhealthy and should be taken care of as soon as possible.
There are a number of solutions to irradicate the foam at the top of the water, but there is only one solution which will effectively remove the total dissolved solids from your water. You can try a number of types of chemicals and defoamers but these will likely just add to the problem. When you add chemicals to your water, you are basically just adding another solid to the mix. The best way to eliminate the total dissolved solids from your water is to completely empty and refill the water in your hot tub or spa. You will have to continue to do this every three months or so, but it is definitely worth it. Your water will be much healthier and much safer for those using the tub.
Neglecting to change the water on a regular basis can severely compromise the effectiveness of your hot tub or spa. Eliminating dissolved solids totally from your hot tub water is critical in order to ensure the safety of users. Ensure your health and the health of all users and remember to change the water in your hot tub on a regular basis. This will eliminate the foam in the water and provide a more relaxing experience for everyone to enjoy.
Chemical Applications
Ensuring Your Safety When Applying Hot Tub Chemicals
There are a number of important things to remember when applying chemicals to your hot tub or spa. Improper chemical application can be very dangerous and potentially cause a great deal of harm. In order to ensure your safety when adding certain types of hot tub chemicals to your spa, we have compiled a list of guidelines to follow to ensure a successful procedure. Follow the guidelines listed below for the safest application possible:
* Always follow the instructions listed on the manufacturer's label. Read the label before beginning any type of application.
* Make sure your hands are clean and dry before beginning your application. Likewise, make sure you wash your hands immediately after the application as well.
* Always add chemicals to water. Never add water to chemicals.
* Never mix chemicals together.
* Make sure you use plastic, glass, china or enamelware utensils and containers. Do not use metallic utensils.
* Never add chemicals to the spa water while there are bathers occupying the unit.
* Always keep chemicals out of the reach of children. In addition, chemicals should be stored in a cool, dry, locked area that is inaccessible to children.
* Never reuse old chemical containers and make sure you use separate containers for each type of chemical.
* Rinse out empty chemical containers before you throw them away. Neglecting to do so may result in fire, explosion or poisoning. Do not use soap or any other substance than water.
* Never inhale chemical fumes or allow the chemicals to come in contact with the eyes, nose or mouth. If possible, use a protective breathing mask while performing the application.
* Make sure you replace your chemical testing kit each year.
Following the chemical application guidelines listed above will help to ensure your safety and a successful application. If you experience any difficulties with the process, contact the manufacturer. If you experience any medical difficulties, contact your doctor immediately.
Neglecting to follow the guidelines listed above can result in bodily harm, injury and potentially death. Apply all chemicals with care and common sense. Complying with these recommendations and the recommendations of your chemical and hot tub manufacturer will not only ensure your safety but will also ensure your hot tub remains in good condition for as long as possible.
Defoamers
Eliminating the Foam in Your Hot Tub or Spa
One of the most common difficulties expressed by hot tub and spa owners is the large amount of foam residing at the top of the water. This is a very common problem associated with hot tubs and spas, fortunately it can be easily fixed. In order to fully understand the solution to your problem, you need to first recognize the cause for the foam in the first place.
Hot tub foam can be the result of many factors. The most common cause of foam is the particles that are released from bathers when they first enter the spa. Dead skin cells, bacteria, residue from swimsuits and particles from tanning or body lotions are the most common reasons for the foam at the top of the water. These particles, combined with the particles released during chemical applications, can result in a high amount of total dissolved solids in the water. The higher the total amount of dissolved solids in the water, the more foam you will acquire in your hot tub.
Now that we've established the reason for the foam, we must consider the most effective solution to the problem. Defoamers are products that are used in hot tubs and spas to decrease the amount of foam in the water. There are a number of different types of defoamers on the market which are effective in eliminating the foam; however, it is important to recognize that even though the foam is gone, the unhealthy particles remain in the water. Defoamers simply make the foam disappear, but most products do not completely eliminate the particles which created the foam in the first place.
If you are concerned with the way your hot tub looks with the foam, a defoamer will be an effective solution to your problem. However, if you are concerned with the health issues related to the foam, a defoamer is not an effective solution. The best way to ensure both the foam and the health concerns are eliminated is to completely empty the existing water in your hot tub and replace it with new, fresh water. This should be done approximately every three months in order to ensure healthy water, even if there is no foam in your hot tub.
If you are interested in purchasing a defoamer for your hot tub or spa, you have many options. Defoamers cost anywhere from $10 to $30, depending on the brand name you choose.
posted by Alberta Aquam Home Spas at
9:14 PM
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