DOÕS AND DONÕTS
DO check your bromine chemical level prior to each use.
•DO change the SPA FROG® mineral cartridge every 4 months.
•DO test Total Alkalinity and pH weekly.
•DO use MPS for spas only, such as Hot Spring® MPS
•DO store all chemicals in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place.
•DON’T use sodium bromide or biguanides. These are an active sanitizer and will combine with the silver ions to inactivate them.
•DON’T use a water clarifier. Clarifiers will cause the spa water to become cloudy.
•DON’T use the FreshWaterAg+® silver ion purifier cartridge with SPA FROG.
BROMINE
A.Sanitizing chemicals, such as bromine, are oxidants that kill bacteria and viruses in the water. If you are using the SPA FROG system, the recommended bromine level for your spa water is 1.0 - 2.0 ppm. If you are not using the SPA FROG system, your bromine level should be between 3.0 - 5.0 ppm.
B.Watkins Manufacturing Corporation recommends the use of granulated bromine for sanitizing the water. Granulated bromine is preferred because it is totally soluble, dissolves quickly and is nearly pH neutral.
C.Maintaining the proper level of bromine during use is extremely important.
D.If the bromine level is too low, bacteria and viruses can grow rapidly in the warm water.
E.If the bromine level is too high, the water can cause discomfort to the user’s eyes, lungs and skin. Simply allow some time to pass.
F.When the bromine level is within the recommended range, the spa is ready to be enjoyed.
WARNING: There are several forms of stabilized chlorine available for use in spas and swimming pools and each form has specific chemical characteristics. It is extremely important that the one you choose is specifically designed for use in spas. Use of an incorrect product such as
IMPORTANT: Granulated chlorine (sodium dichlor) will degrade if stored improperly. We recommend purchasing chlorine in one, two, or five pound containers and storing it in a cool, dry place to maintain its potency.
SUPER CHLORINATION
Super Chlorination is designed to
When giving your water a super chlorination treatment, open the cover at least half way for twenty minutes to allow the chlorine gas to vent off. The high concentration of chlorine gas which may exist as a result of super chlorination (not daily sanitation) may eventually cause discoloration or degradation to the bottom of the cover, which would not be covered under the terms of your warranty.
WARNING: There are several froms of stabilizer chlorine available for use in spas and swimming pools. Each from has specific chemical characteristics. It is extremely important that the form you choose is specifically designed for use in spas. Use of an incorrect product such as tri-
chloro, which has a very low pH (2.6) dissolves too quickly in hot water resulting in extremely high levels of chlorine, and is designed for concrete or plaster swimming pools. WILL cause
damage to your spa. Use of a liquid, or any type of compressed bromine or clorine, acid, or any type of sanitizer which is not recommended by Watkins Manufacturing Corportation, WILL damage your spa and is specifically not covered under the terms of the limited warranty.
SUPPLEMENTAL WATER MAINTENANCE
Proper water sanitation and mineral balance (pH control) are absolutely essential for a complete spa water maintenance program. Here are three other popular water additives that are optional:
Mineral Deposit Inhibitors
As water evaporates from your spa and new water is added, the amount of dissolved minerals will increase. (Minimize evaporation by keeping the cover on the spa whenever possible.) The spa water may eventually become “hard” (Calcium Hardness too high) enough to damage the heater by calcifying its surface. Proper pH control can minimize this.
Normal soap
Occasionally, high iron or copper content in the water may produce green or brown stains on the spa. A mineral deposit inhibitor, such as Hot Spring® FreshWater® Stain and Scale Defense, may help to reduce these metals.
Water Quality and Maintenance Page 25
