Hot Tub Chemistry 101 - a beginner's guide

Does thinking about keeping the water in your hot tub properly balanced make you as nervous as a high school student facing a pop quiz in chemistry class? We get it - all that talk about pH and alkalinity can be as overwhelming as that time your 6th grade science teacher made you memorize the periodic table. Take a deep breath. It’s really not that hard. A little studying and you’re sure to pass this course with an easy “A,” and have safe, clean water to enjoy in your Michael Phelps Legend, Twilight, Healthy Living or Clarity Spa. Here’s your study guide:

1. pH levels - 7.2 - 7.8
2. alkalinity  - 80 - 120
3. sanitizer - 1.5 - 3.0 (chlorine) or 3.0 - 5.0 (bromine)
4. amount of organic material in the water

These elements are all connected, and all affect the cleanliness and safety of your spa water. To keep them in check, add these items to your school supply, err, hot tub supply, list:

1. testing strips
2. alkalinity adjuster
3. sanitizer and shock chemicals
4. pH adjuster

The test for this class is super easy - just dip your test strip according the package directions, and compare colors on the strip with the color swatches on the strip package. Check your levels in this order:

1. alkalinity
2. pH
3. sanitizer

If testing indicates something needs to be adjusted, correct it according to package directions. If more than one chemical is out of balance, correct one thing at a time waiting several hours between chemical additions. (Teacher’s note: Before you add additional chemicals, be sure to test again to make sure they are still needed.) The only other thing you’ll need to do is shock your hot tub about once a week. Think of it like recess for your spa water - a chance to clear out all the gunk, just like recess always helped you clear your mind. Shocking is important, no matter how good you are about sanitizing, checking and balancing your spa water. Now, you’re ready for your final exam! Trust us, you’ll love this one. All you have to do is enjoy your Master Spas hot tub from Atlas Spas & Swim Spas!