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MAINTENANCE
Water Chemistry
Disinfecting (continued)
return to the 2.0 to 5.0 ppm range before using the spa again. Do not install a rigid cover during this procedure until the disinfectant level is back to normal. High concentra- tions of chlorine or bromine will damage metallic plated finishes if the cover is in place.
Balancing pH:
For good hygiene and longevity, maintain the pH of your spa water according to the instructions provided. pH is the measure to determine if the spa water is too acid (low pH) or too alkaline or basic (high pH). The ideal range for spa water is 7.2 to 7.6 pH. For excessive acidity (below 7.2 pH) add soda ash or sodium bicarbonate to the spa water. For excessive alkalinity (above 7.6 pH) add dry acid to the spa water. Caution: Refer to the spa chemical manufacturer’s instructions for the initial amount of chemicals to add for the gallonage of your spa. Low pH can cause equipment damage, as acidic water will dissolve metals, while high pH
can cause scale or calcium deposits to build up in the system or on the shell. After adding chemicals, run the filter system for at least 30 minutes before testing water quality again for accurate readings.
Balancing Total Alkalinity:
Total alkalinity is the measure of base materials in the water. The recommended range for total alkalinity is be- tween 80 ppm and 150 ppm. If the chemistry of the water is not within this range, you will have difficulty adjusting your pH level, which will affect your adjustments for the proper amount of free available chlorine. If the alkalinity of your spa water is high, it is advisable to drain the water from the spa and begin the balancing process over again. Purge and sanitize your spa (according to instructions in “Equip- ment
WATER QUALITY DEFINITIONS
pH: A chemical term used in expressing relative acid- | mended because it often tends to form calcium depos- | |
ity or alkalinity in numeric values with 7.0 usually | its on heater parts and plumbing fittings and leaves an | |
regarded as neutral, and for purposes of this manual, | unattractive film on the spa at the water line. | |
indicating pure water. From 7 to 0 indicates increasing | Sodium Hypochlorite: A liquid chlorine product | |
acidity, and 7 to 14 indicates alkalinity. | that is inexpensive and effective but not recommended | |
PPM: Parts per million. | because the liquid is readily spilled onto the spa or a | |
surrounding area, causing permanent damage. | ||
Free Chlorine: Chlorine that has not combined with | Total Alkalinity: The measure of amount of alka- | |
other chemicals and that is available to destroy bacte- | line materials (such as carbonates, bicarbonates and | |
hydroxides) in the water. High alkalinity inhibits the | ||
ria in the spa water. | ||
effectiveness of chemicals to change the pH. If the | ||
TriChlor: A form of chlorine used in pool or spa water | ||
alkalinity of your spa water is high (above 150 ppm), it | ||
treatment; usually supplied in tablet form. Not recom- | is advisable to drain the water from the spa and begin | |
mended because of its higher acidic nature and slow | the balancing process over again. Low total alkalinity | |
dissolving action. Prolonged contact with the spa shell | (below 60 ppm) could be corrosive and damage your | |
may bleach or permanently mark the shell. | spa system. | |
Sodium DiChlor: The type of chlorine that is | Superchlorination: (also referred to as "shock | |
recommended for spa use, as it is available in fast | treatment") The addition of an | |
dissolving granular form. It is neither excessively acid | disinfectant to kill any bacteria or algae that might have | |
nor alkaline in character and does not readily dissipate | become resistant to normal levels of disinfectant. | |
in higher water temperatures. |
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Calcium Hypochlorite: A granular chlorine prod- |
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uct that is inexpensive and effective but not recom- |
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