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3D-2a. Spa Water Chemistry
Maintaining safe water conditions in a spa can only be done by regular water changes and the proper addition of sanitizing chemicals. Kits are available from your local pool supply dealer for making the various tests for mineral content. One of these kits will detect copper in the system. This is usually a warning that corrosion is taking place, possibly due to a low pH value combined with other chemistry problems. The condition can be corrected by changing the spa water and closely monitoring the pH factor and chemical properties of the water (see Table 6).
4.Before entering the spa or hot tub, users should check the water temperature with an accurate thermometer; spa or hot tub thermostats may err in regulating water temperatures by as much as 4F° (2C°).
5.Persons with medical history of heart disease, circulatory problems, diabetes or blood pressure problems should obtain their physician's advice before using a spa or hot tub.
6.Persons taking medications which induce drowsiness, such as tranquilizers, antihistamines, or anticoagulants should not use spas or hot tubs.
3D-2b. Water Changing
Waterpik Technologies recommends changing of spa water every 60 days if usage is light and every 30 days during heavy usage. Be sure to stabilize the water chemistry after every water change.
3D-2c. Corrosion
The corrosive action of pool/spa water is increased by the following:
1.Low pH - acidity
2.Low Total Alkalinity - bicarbonates
3.Low Calcium hardness - soft water
NOTE: Waterpik Technologies does not warrant heat exchangers damaged by corrosive water.
3D-2d. Testing
Waterpik Technologies recommends that spa owners purchase a test kit and use it regularly. A minimum kit is one which will measure chlorine and pH levels.
The pool/spa owner will find it helpful to have a qualified professional technician perform more extensive chemical testing and water changing on a regular basis.
3E. Spa/Hot Tub Safety Rules
The following "Safety Rules for Hot Tubs," recommended by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission should be observed when using the spa:
1.Spa or hot tub water temperature should never exceed 104°F (40°C). A temperature of 100°F (38°C) is considered safe for a healthy adult. Special caution is suggested for young children.
2.Drinking of alcoholic beverages before or during spa or hot tub use can cause drowsiness which could lead to unconsciousness and subsequently result in drowning.
3.Pregnant women beware! Soaking in water above 102°F (39°C) can cause fetal damage during the first three months of pregnancy (resulting in the birth of a
Prolonged immersion in hot water can induce hyperthermia. Hyperthermia occurs when the internal body temperature reaches a level several degrees above the normal body temperature of 98.6°F (37°C). Symptoms include dizziness, fainting, drowsiness, lethargy, and an increase in the internal body temperature.
The effects of hyperthermia include:
•Unawareness of impending hazard
•Failure to perceive heat
•Failure to recognize need to leave spa
•Physical inability to leave spa
•Fetal damage in pregnant women
•Unconsciousness resulting in a danger of drowning
3F. Swimming Pool Energy Savings Tips
Waterpik Technologies suggests the following to help conserve fuel and minimize the cost of operating your pool heater without sacrificing comfort.
1.Set the heater temperature control no higher than 78°F (26°C). The American Red Cross maintains that the healthiest water temperature for swimming is 78°F (26°C) is. Be certain you are using an accurate pool thermometer, because a variance of 4 degrees, from 78 to 82°F (26 to 28°C) will use as much as 40% more gas.
2.Carefully monitor the water temperature of your pool in the summer time, because heater usage can be reduced due to warmer air temperatures.
3.Find the proper setting on the pool heater temperature control and use the locking ring to discourage further adjustments.
4.Set the filter time clock to start the pump no earlier than 6:00 AM during the pool heating season. This is the time when nightly heat loss stabilizes.
5.If the pool is only going to be used on weekends, reduce the heater temperature control setting by 8 or 10 degrees during the week. It should be reset to the 78°F (26°C) level before expected usage, keeping in mind to allow enough lead time for the water to reach the desired temperature.
