24 ClarityWater
Testing and Adjusting Spa Water
You have two types of testing methods to choose from:
•The reagent test kit is a method which provides a high level of accuracy. It is available in either liquid or tablet form.
•Test strips are a convenient testing method commonly used by spa owners.
Balancing the Total Alkalinity
Total alkalinity (TA) is the measure of the total levels of carbonates, bicarbonates, hydroxides, and other alkaline substances in the water. TA can be considered a “pH buffer”. It is the measure of the ability of the water to resist changes in pH level.
The recommended total alkalinity is 80 - 120 ppm..
If the TA is too low, the pH level will fluctuate widely from high to low. Low TA can be corrected by adding an alkalinity increaser
If the TA is too high, the pH level will tend to be too high and may be difficult to bring down. High TA can be corrected by adding an alkalinity decreaser.
When the TA is balanced, it normally remains stable, although adding water with high or low alkalinity will raise or lower the TA level.
Balancing the pH
The pH level is the measure of the balance between acidity and alkalinity.
If the pH is too low, it can cause corrosion of metal fixtures and the heating element. Low pH can be corrected by adding a pH decreaser.
If the pH is too high, it can cause scaling by allowing metals or minerals to form deposits and stain spa surfaces. High pH can be corrected by adding a pH increaser
Balancing the Calcium Hardness
Calcium hardness (CH) is a measure of the total amount of dissolved calcium in the water. Calcium helps control the corrosive nature of the spa’s water and is why soft water is not recommended. The low calcium content of soft water is very corrosive to the equipment and can cause staining of the spa shell.
The recommended calcium hardness is 150 - 200 ppm..
If the CH is too low, add a calcium hardness increaser.
If the CH is too high, dilute the spa water with soft water.
When the CH is balanced, it normally remains stable, although adding soft water or very hard water will raise or lower the CH level.
Too alkaline, | 8.2 |
| |
8.0 | Need to lower the pH level | ||
causes scaling | |||
| 7.8 |
| |
| 7.6 |
| |
Ideal balance | 7.4 |
| |
| 7.2 |
| |
| 7.0 |
| |
Too acidic, | 6.8 | Need to raise the pH level | |
causes corrosion | |||
6.6 |
| ||
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Ideal Water Chemistry
Testing For: | Ideal Range (ppm) | |
| Minimum | Maximum |
Total Alkalinity | 80 | 120 |
Calcium Hardness | 150 | 200 |
pH | 7.2 | 7.6 |
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2011 Portable Spa
www.calspas.com | LTR20111000, Rev. D |
