15
DO NOT DIVE.
WATER CHEMISTRY TERMS YOU SHOULD KNOW
BEFORE jUMPING INTO THE "SPA WATER MAINTENANCE",
HERE ARE SOME TERMS TO HELP YOU.
8. Sanitizers:
This is what kills the germs and bacteria that enter the water from the environment
and the human body.
A. Chlorine
1. Only one type is approved for spa use
a. Sodium dichlor which is granular, fast dissolving and pH neutral chlorine.
2. Chlorine is an immediate sanitizer.
B. Bromine
1. Two types of tablets.
a. Hydrotech
b. Lonza
2. Bromine is a slow dissolve chemical and may take a few days to develop a reserve or
reading in the water.
9. Total dissolved solids (TDS):
Materials that have been dissolved by the water. i.e. Like what hap-
pens when you put sugar in coffee or tea.
10. Useful life of water (in days):
Water should be drained at least once every 180 days. Useful life
may vary by usage and bather load.
11. Defoamer:
Foaming may be caused by body oils, cosmetics, lotions, surface cleaners, high pH
or algeacides as well as other organic materials. Low levels of calcium or sanitizer can also
cause foaming. Also, double rinse your bathing suits as they will hold residual soap after being
washed.
12. Calcium hardness:
Water that is too hard (over 250 ppm) can promote scale formation in com-
ponents and on spa surface. Water that is too low (below 180 ppm) may also shorten the life
of metal components on the spa.
NOTE: Always leave spa cover open for 15 min. after adding chemicals to prevent off gas
from damaging your spa cover, spa pillows, and other critical parts.