Hot Tub Chemicals for a Spectacular Spa

Much like the chemicals in a pool, hot tub chemicals are necessary to keep your investment in optimal working order. Hot tub chemicals are even more important in some ways because the amount of water is much smaller. Proper chemical maintenance will keep your tub clean and ensure that it is ready to go whenever you are.

Hot Tub Chemical Schedule
Keeping your hot tub in prime condition requires having a set maintenance routine. While many things need to be done every once in a while, there are certain tasks that should be done up to a few times a week when the tub is being used regularly. The most frequently used hot tub chemical is sanitizer. Check the sanitizer levels and dose accordingly at least a few times a week when the tub is getting a lot of use. This is especially important when multiple people are getting into the tub every day. Hot tubs that use chlorine will generally require more frequent attention than those that use bromine.

The pH level in your tub should also be checked a few times a week. The optimal range for a pH level in a hot tub is between 7.4 and 7.6. This level is just on the alkali side of neutral to prevent equipment corrosion. Check the pH often and add chemicals to raise or decrease it accordingly. To eliminate oils, perspiration, and cosmetics, an oxidizing shock treatment is recommended once a week for well-used tubs. This chemical treatment will keep the water sparkling clear, and make it feel better as well.

Hot Tub Chemicals for Calcium Problems
Depending on the water you use in your hot tub, there can be certain problems with the water that might not exist in other areas. The most significant of these problems comes from calcium-rich ("hard") water. In areas where hard water exists, calcium deposits can build up. This can affect not only the appearance of the tub, but its function as well. If your tub is filled with hard water, a de-scaling chemical should be added periodically to prevent problems.

Less common, but still a problem, is having water that is too soft. In these areas, you may need to add a water hardener to bring calcium levels up. The ideal calcium level for a hot tub is between 100 and 200 mg/l. If it is any lower, the water can be corrosive and cause damage to the hot tub heater.

Hot Tub Filters
Cleaning the hot tub filter is a very important part of hot tub maintenance. The hot tub filter cartridge should be cleaned at least once a month, and even more frequently on a heavily used tub. A dirty filter cartridge can cause many problems with your hot tub, not the least of which is dirty water. The filtration system must be kept clear and in good working order if you plan on having a tub that's clean enough to enjoy.