• The first chemical is Stain & Scale.  Stain & Scale is a sequestering agent that is used to prevent scaling on the shell, heater and other components.  Even if you don't experience scaling on the hot tub shell, 2 ounces of Stain and Scale per week should still be used to protect the hot tub equipment. 

• The next chemical is Alkalinity Up.  Alkalinity is the stabilizer for the pH.  Alkalinity should be kept between 80-100 PPM (parts per million).  If you have well water, your alkalinity may be fine.  Most city water supplies have extremely low alkalinty levels.  Use Alkalinity Up to raise the alkalinity.  Add 2 tablespoons at a time and wait 30 minutes between tests.  You will notice that the pH level increase simultaneously with the alkalinity level.  Don't use Alkalinity Up to adjust pH as this will cause the alkalinity level to go above the ideal level. Alkalinity can not be lowered, so the spa will require refill if levels are too high.

• The next chemical is pH up.  pH is the stabilizer for the sanitizer.  With the alkalinity stabilized, the pH won't tend to bouce very much, but pH up will be necessary to maintain proper pH levels.  pH should be maintained at a level of 7.6. 

• The final essential chemical is the sanitizer.  Chlorine or bromine can be used to properly sanitize your hot tub.  Sanitizer levels should be maintained between 3-5 PPM.  Sanitizer levels should be tested prior to use.  If levels are too low, add sanitizer and wait to use the hot tub.  Chlorine (sodium dichlor) comes in granular form and should be added every 1-2 days.  Chlorine should be added following spa use at a rate of 1 heaping teaspoon per person (up to 4).  Bromine tabs should be added at a rate of 2-3 tablets every 3-4 days.  Levels should be tested before use.  If low, add chlorine and wait to use the spa.  Regardless of which sanitizer you are using, 4 teaspoons of chlorine should be added one day per week to shock the water.  After shocking, leave the cover open for 20 minutes to allow the gases to escape.

• The first optionsl chemical is Water Clarifier.  Water Clarifier is a coagulant that is used to clear water.  It works by binding small particles together making them large enough for the filter to catch.  No more than 1 ounce of Water Clarifier should be used per week.  Excessive use will cloud the water. 

• The next optional chemical is Scum Out.  Scum Out is an enzyme which reduces body oils in the hot tub water.  No more than 1 ounce of Scum Out should be used per week. 

• The next optional chemical is Foam Gone.  Foam Gone is used to reduce foaming when soap is introduced into the hot tub.  Foam Gone doesn't remove the soap, it simply changes the water tension so that bubbles can't form.  Foam Gone should only be used in very small doses.  The real solution for soap conditions is to drain, clean, and refill the spa.

 Hot tub chemical and spa chemical instructions with explanations for use. We serve Western Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Vermont

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Why does the pH in my water seem to drop every week? Sanitizers work by creating an acid to kill  organic contaminants. As a result the pH of the water will naturally be lower after 7 days of sanitizer use. In addition, Stain and Scale is acidic in balance and peoples' skin oils tend to be acidic.

• Where does the foam in my hot tub come from? Soap. Water really won't foam for many other reasons. Never wash suits worn in the hot tub. Those with long hair should take special care to rinse all residual shampoo from their hair. Never wear cotton in a hot tub.

• I keep adding chlorine to the hot tub, but I can't get a free chlorine reading. What is happening? If you have added more than 4 heaping teaspoons of chlorine to your water and still haven't managed to get a free chlorine reading, you have contaminated water. Call us for advice immediately!

• My hot tub always has a heavy line at the water line. What causes this? Most often heavy water lines are caused by body oil deposits that are picking up minerals and dirt from the water. Routine glossing of the shell, use of Scum Out, and frequent filter rinses will help reduce this. Many spa brands don't offer sufficient water filtration, which makes water line management more difficult.

• How often should I change my water? Water should be changed at least twice per year. Depending on hot tub size, bather load, and filtration, water may need to be changed as frequently as every 2 months.