PPM, shocking, alkalinity, pH levels—your spa or hot tub is supposed to be relaxing, but if those words have you stressed out, we can help. Read on for some top tips on understanding water chemistry!
Why is it important to understand water chemistry?
There’s nothing quite like a luxurious soak in your spa… unless of course, the water is full of bacteria, or it’s causing damage to your equipment! Keeping your water balanced will not only keep your hot tub experience pleasant but will also help extend the lifespan of your spa and reduce maintenance costs.
Sanitizers and Shock Treatments
Bacteria thrive in warm, wet conditions, which means your spa or hot tub can quickly turn into an ideal breeding ground for infections if you’re not careful. Spa sanitizers such as chlorine or bromine will help eliminate any pesky bacteria or viruses. Keep chlorine levels between 1.5–3.0 ppm (parts per million) and bromine levels within 3.0–5.0 ppm for best results. Shock treatments can also be used to treat your water, especially if it looks cloudy or has an odor.
Balancing pH Levels
The pH level is perhaps one of the most important elements when it comes to water chemistry. pH refers to how acidic or alkaline (basic) your water is—anything above 7.0 is alkaline, while anything below 7.0 is acidic. Distilled water, for example, is 7.0 on the pH scale, while bleach is 13.0 and orange juice is 3.0.
High pH ratings can lead to cloudy water, cause skin or eye irritation, and lower the effectiveness of your sanitizer solution. Low pH ratings, on the other hand, can corrode your equipment and stain any plaster surfaces, as well as cause skin and eye irritation.
At Spa Tech, we know how important it is to keep your hot tub or spa properly balanced—and we also know how complicated it can be! That’s why we offer a comprehensive Water Care Program for hot tub owners in Edmonton and the surrounding area, so you can rest assured knowing your hot tub is being taken care of by our team of experts.
We offer a variety of programs, including seasonal and monthly, weekly, or bi-weekly year-round care. We’ll help get your hot tub set up and perform regular check-ups, adjusting the water balance as needed. Visit our website or call 780-901-7872 to get started today!
