Keeping Spa Water Clean and Safe

Although the pool may get less use throughout the winter, in ground or above ground spas use can increase as the weather cools down.  Because of the warmer temperature of the spa, it’s important to follow some simple maintenance and cleaning guidelines to keep bacteria to a minimum and maintain the proper chemical balance.

You will need to use a spa sanitizer regularly to keep the water clean.  There are several different options available, including chlorine, bromine, baquaspa and minerals.  In addition, you’ll want to have a Spa Shock product on hand as well.  This product will work quickly to sanitize your spa and kill bacteria after heavy use.  To ensure that your sanitizing products work correctly, you’ll want to keep the pH of the spa water at 7.4 to 7.6.  Maintain your alkalinity at 100 ppm to 150 ppm.  The chemicals needed are readily available and inexpensive to keep on hand.  Depending on what type of spa you have, adding calcium may help protect your spa’s surface and prevent deterioration from soft water.

A pool supply professional can help you determine how often to use the basic chemicals based on what type of spa you have and how much it is used.  Regularly testing your water and looking for any trouble signs such as cloudy or discolored water, a ring around the spa tub or white deposit build-up will ensure that family and friends can enjoy a healthy and relaxing soak in your spa any time.