Hot tubs offer a major form of relaxation. These luxuries may bring a wealth of enjoyment to home owners and guest alike. However, they must be properly maintained. Hot tub maintenance is not difficult. It only requires an understanding of proper techniques. Below are some tips on how to use hot tub chemicals to keep your tub in excellent condition.
Sanitizers
Sanitizers are what keeps your hot tub clean and secures healthy use. These chemicals kill harmful bacteria which tend to linger in warm water. It is important to test the water twice a month to determine the need for sanitizer. Testing is a simple process. It is performed using test strips. A sample of water is collected from the hot tub and placed into a clean container. The test strips are then dipped into the water. The color change will determine the level of sanitizer and the need to add more.
There are three main types of chemical sanitizers. Each one has their own unique perks to keeping the various spa parts clean. Below is a highlight of the different types.
• Chlorine: Chlorine is the most commonly used sanitizer for swimming pools. This chemical also works wonderfully in warding off harmful organisms in hot tubs. Chlorine sanitizer may be purchased in tablets or granules.
• Bromine: Bromine is often chosen for use in hot tubs because it does not dissipate in temperatures above 98 degrees. This sanitizer may come in the form of granules, nuggets, or tablets. As well it may be purchased as a sodium bromide or self activating chlorine bromine combination. Sodium bromide will need to be mixed with an oxidizer to activate.
• Biguanide: Biguanide sanitizes do not contain chlorine or bromine. This chemical attacks the cell wall of organisms destroying them from water. Many people prefer biguanide because it does not produce a powerful odor as does chlorine. It also does not gas off at temperatures above 98.
Ozone
Ozone is a productive hot tub chemical. This is an oxidizer. Oxidizers work in accordance with sanitizers.
Mineral Spa Care
Mineral Spa Care is used to assist the function of sanitizers. They help to further lower the levels of contamination. However, they do not replace sanitizers.
The above chemicals will help to keep your hot tub clean and contaminant free. However, they do not replace the need to change water. The water inside a hot tub should be changed every 60 to 90 days. Once the water is changed it should be tested and new amounts of chemicals need to be added.
