Everything You Need to Know About Maintaining Crystal Clear Water in Your Lazy Spa
Lazy Spa hot tubs are a great way to relax and unwind, but proper water treatment and maintenance are crucial for a safe and enjoyable soaking experience. Neglecting water treatment can lead to bacterial growth, algae buildup, and other potential health hazards.
This complete guide to hot tub chemicals & water treatment will cover everything you need to know about maintaining your Lazy Spa to keep your water clean, clear, and safe.
From chlorine and bromine to pH balancing and shock treatments, we’ll explore the chemicals and best practices for maintaining your hot tub water.
Hot Tub Water Chemistry Basics
To maintain a healthy and safe hot tub environment, it is essential to understand the basics of water chemistry. The key components of hot tub water chemistry include pH levels, total alkalinity, and chlorine levels.
pH level refers to the acidity or alkalinity of the water, with a range of 0-14. A pH level between 7.2-7.8 is ideal for hot tubs as it helps to maintain the efficiency of sanitisers and prevent skin irritation. Total alkalinity refers to the ability of the water to resist changes in pH levels and should be maintained between 80-120 parts per million (ppm).
Chlorine levels refer to chlorine used to sanitize the water and eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants. The ideal range for chlorine levels is between 3-5 ppm.
Understanding the ideal range for each chemical component is important for maintaining a healthy and safe hot tub environment. Neglecting water chemistry can lead to imbalances that can cause skin irritation, damage to the hot tub, and even health risks.
Common Chemicals Used in Hot Tub Water Treatment
Hot tub water treatment involves using various chemicals to maintain clean and safe water for soaking. The most common hot tub water treatment chemicals are:
- Chlorine – Chlorine is a powerful sanitiser commonly used in hot tub water treatment. It helps to kill bacteria and other harmful organisms in the water. Chlorine is available in granular or tablet form and should be added to the water regularly to maintain the proper levels. It’s important to note that chlorine can cause skin irritation and a strong odour, so it’s important to use it in moderation.
- Bromine – Bromine is another sanitiser commonly used in hot tub water treatment. It’s less harsh than chlorine and has no strong odour, making it a popular alternative for sensitive skin. Like chlorine, bromine is available in granular or tablet form and should be added to the water regularly to maintain the proper levels.
- pH Adjusters – pH measures the acidity or alkalinity of the water. The ideal pH range for hot tub water is between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH is too high or too low, it can cause problems with the effectiveness of the sanitisers and lead to skin irritation. Up or down pH adjusters can be added to the water to maintain the proper pH level.
- Water Clarifiers – Water clarifiers help to remove small particles and debris from the water, making it clearer and more pleasant to soak in. They work by coagulating the particles together so that they can be easily filtered out. Water clarifiers are available in liquid or tablet form and should be added to the water as needed.
Understanding the functions and proper usage of these common hot tub water treatment chemicals allows you to maintain a safe and enjoyable soaking experience in your Lazy Spa hot tub.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hot Tub Water Maintenance
To keep your Lazy Spa hot tub water clean and balanced, follow these steps:
- Test the water regularly: Use test strips or a water testing kit to measure the pH levels, total alkalinity, and sanitiser (chlorine or bromine). Test the water at least once weekly or more often if the hot tub is used frequently.
- Adjust the chemical levels: Use pH adjusters, alkalinity increasers, and sanitisers to maintain the proper balance of chemicals in the water. Follow the instructions on the product labels carefully and adjust the levels as needed.
- Manage hot tub water during frequent use: If the hot tub is used often or by many people, increase the sanitiser levels accordingly. Test the water before and after use to maintain the proper chemical balance.
- Manage hot tub water during heavy rain: After a heavy rainstorm, test the water and adjust the chemical levels to restore the proper balance.
- Clean the filters: Regularly clean the filters to keep the water flowing properly and remove debris or particles. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on removing, cleaning, and replacing the filters.
- Drain and refill the water: Depending on usage and chemical levels, drain and refill the water in the hot tub every 2-4 months. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to drain and refill the water properly.
Following these steps, you can ensure that your Lazy Spa hot tub water remains clean, balanced, and safe for all users.
Troubleshooting Hot Tub Water Issues
Even with regular maintenance and proper water treatment, hot tub owners may encounter issues with their water. In this section, we will provide solutions to common hot tub water issues and suggest when it may be necessary to seek professional help.
Cloudy water is a common issue that hot tub owners may face. Various factors, including high pH levels, high total alkalinity levels, or a build-up of bacteria, can cause this. To solve this issue, first, test the water to identify any imbalances. Adjust the chemical levels accordingly and consider using a water clarifier to help clear the water. If the issue persists, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional help.
Algae growth is another common issue that can occur in hot tubs. A lack of proper sanitiser levels in the water typically causes this. To treat this issue, first, shock the water with a high dose of chlorine or other sanitisers. Brush the tub’s sides to remove any visible algae, and then run the filtration system for several hours. If the problem persists, seek professional help.
Chemical imbalances can also cause issues with hot tub water. High pH levels can cause skin irritation, while low pH levels can damage the hot tub components. High total alkalinity levels can make it difficult to adjust pH levels, while low total alkalinity can cause corrosion. To solve chemical imbalances, test the water and adjust chemical levels accordingly. It may take some time to achieve the proper balance, so be patient and retest the water regularly.
If troubleshooting these issues does not solve the problem, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional help. It may be necessary to drain and refill the water or replace the hot tub components. By proactively addressing issues as they arise, owners can ensure that their Lazy Spa hot tub remains a safe and enjoyable place to relax and unwind.
It is important to note that the advice provided for Lazy Spa hot tub maintenance and care is also applicable to other makes of inflatable hot tubs and home spas. Whether you own a CosySpa, Bestway Hot Tubs, Mspa, CleverSpa, or any other brand, regular maintenance and care are necessary to ensure the longevity and performance of your hot tub. Following the advice and tips, you can troubleshoot and resolve common issues with your hot tub, regardless of the brand.
Recommended Hot Tub Water Treatment Products
This section will review some popular and effective hot tub water treatment products. These products help maintain clean and balanced water in your Lazy Spa hot tub.
- Chlorine tablets – Chlorine tablets are a popular and effective way to sanitize hot tub water. They dissolve slowly, releasing chlorine into the water to kill bacteria and other harmful organisms. Recommended products include Clearwater CH0018 1kg Multifunction Mini Tablets and Blue Horizons Multifunctional 20g Chlorine Tablets.
- Bromine granules – Bromine granules are another effective sanitiser option for hot tub water. They release bromine into the water, killing bacteria and other harmful organisms. Recommended products include AquaSPArkle Spa Bromine Granules and Blue Horizons Bromine Granules.
- pH adjusters – pH levels are important to hot tub water chemistry. pH adjusters can be used to raise or lower the pH level as needed. Recommended products include Clearwater pH Plus and Clearwater pH Minus.
- Water clarifiers – Water clarifiers can help keep hot tub water clear and free of particles. They work by causing small particles to clump together, making removing them easier for the filter. Recommended products include Clearwater Spa Clarifier and Blue Horizons Spa Instant Klear.
When choosing hot tub water treatment products, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use them in the recommended amounts. Also, be aware of any potential allergic reactions or skin irritations that may occur. If you are unsure which products to use, consult a professional or contact the manufacturer’s customer support.
In conclusion, proper hot tub water treatment and maintenance are essential for keeping your Lazy Spa hot tub clean and safe.
Neglecting water treatment can lead to various problems, including skin irritation, cloudy water, and bacterial growth.
Following the step-by-step guide and utilizing recommended hot tub water treatment products, owners can keep their water balanced, clear, and safe.
Remember to test the water regularly, adjust chemical levels as needed, clean filters and drain/refill the water regularly. With proper maintenance, your Lazy Spa hot tub can provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience for years.
Did we cover everything for you in our complete guide to hot tub chemicals & water treatment – let us know any questions in the comments.
Related Lazy Spa & Hot Tub Articles/Links:
- “How to Choose the Perfect Lazy Spa Hot Tub for Your Home“
- “Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Lazy Spa Hot Tub in Top Shape“
- “Troubleshooting Common Lazy Spa Hot Tub Issues and Solutions“
- “How to Choose the Perfect Lazy Spa For your Home“
- “Top Lazy Spa Accessories for the Perfect Spa Experience“
- “Lazy Spa or Hard Shell Jacuzzi – Which is right for you?“
- “Comprehensive Guide Lay Z Spa Hot Tubs And Their Features”
