Hot tub care typically involves the use of various chemicals to maintain water cleanliness, balance, and sanitation. The specific chemicals needed may vary on wood hot tubs, water volume, and the local water conditions. Always test the conditions of your hot tubs water with a test strip or testing kit before adding chemicals. Here are some common chemicals that will be used for your Cedarwood Spa:
Chlorine: Chlorine is a widely used sanitizer that helps kill bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms in the water. It comes in various forms, such as chlorine granules, chlorine tablets, or chlorine sticks. While bromine can be used, we recommend chlorine on our hot tubs as it is less harmful to the all wood interior than bromine.
Non-Chlorine Shock: Non-chlorine shock is used to oxidize and eliminate organic contaminants in the water. It helps maintain water clarity and refreshes the effectiveness of chlorine. Since our tubs come with ozone generators, non-chlorine shock is not strictly necessary. However it can be useful to have on hand to add to the tub after heavy use to more rapidly break down organic contaminants.
pH Up and Down: These chemicals are used to adjust the pH level of the water. pH up (sodium carbonate) raises the pH level, while pH down (sodium bisulfate) lowers it. Proper pH balance ensures the effectiveness of sanitizers and comfort for bathers.
Alkalinity Increaser: Alkalinity increaser (sodium bicarbonate) is used to raise the total alkalinity of the water. Proper alkalinity levels help stabilize the pH and prevent pH fluctuations.
Calcium Increaser: Calcium increaser (calcium chloride) is used to raise the calcium hardness level in the water. Appropriate calcium hardness helps prevent water from becoming corrosive and damaging the hot tub components.
Stain and Scale Control: These chemicals help prevent the buildup of scale and stains caused by minerals in the water. They are especially useful in areas with hard water.
Defoamer: Defoamers are used to reduce and eliminate foam that may develop in the hot tub water due to certain products or environmental factors. Foaming should be very rare on properly cared for water. However, certain conditions can cause foaming such as high amounts of soaps in the water, high amounts of oils, and chlorine or ozone reacting with some contaminants in the water.
Enzyme Clarifiers: Enzyme clarifiers help break down oils, lotions, and other organic contaminants in the water, improving water clarity and reducing the need for chemical treatment.
Mineral Purifiers: Some hot tubs use mineral cartridges that release minerals (such as silver or copper) into the water, which act as natural sanitizers, reducing the need for chlorine. A good option for mineral purifiers is a product called Nature2. It dispenses ionized silver into the water from a cartridge that fits inside the filter. It lasts up to 4 months and makes basic water care easy!
Regular testing of the water is necessary to maintain proper water balance and ensure the chemicals are working effectively. Always store hot tub chemicals safely and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
Spa chemicals can be purchased from local spa/pool retailers, Amazon, or SpaDepot.com