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Total Alkalinity
- The ability of the spa water to resist changes in pH. The “buffering” capacity of
the water. Additions of Sodium Bicarbonate will increase the levels, expressed in ppm. Additions
of Sodium Bisulfate decrease Alkalinity levels. Acceptable measurements range from 80 – 120.
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
- Is a measurement of the total amount of minerals, residue, and
other particles that cannot be oxidized from the water and remain. When water evaporates, dis-
solved salts, minerals, etc. are left behind. These levels of dissolved solids increase in the spa as
water evaporates over time. Tubs that have a high TDS level means that the water is over satu-
rated and cannot receive any more chemicals. TDS should never be higher than 3000 ppm. The
water needs to be drained at this point, and the tub cleaned and refilled.
Water Hardness
- A characteristic of natural water due to the presence of dissolved calcium
and magnesium; water hardness is responsible for most scale formations. Hardness is usually
expressed in parts per million. The ideal range for Water Hardness is 100-250 ppm, though 250-
400 is acceptable. Soft water in spa will cause instant foaming and staining of water and shell.
Water with low hardness is highly corrosive, causing significant damage to any metal. Water will
dissolve other minerals rapidly until it gets to saturation point. Large, coarse soft-water scale will
form as a result. Hardness levels can be brought up by using Liquid Calcium. Water that has
hardness that is too high, can cause excessive scale formation. Water may also become cloudy
or slightly discolored hardness levels can only be reduced by using an in-home water treatment
system or removing water from the tub, and adding distilled water.
Weir
- The device in a skimmer that controls the amount of water coming into the skimmer, and
keeps debris inside, otherwise known as a “flapper-gate.”
Winterizing
- The procedure of preparing spas for freezing weather, in cold climates when the
spa will not be operated. May include draining and cleaning the shell, and opening connections
to release water from plumbing and heaters. Most people continue to heat and operate their spas
in winter; for them, winterizing is not necessary if appropriate measures are taken to prevent
freeze-up.
Glossary
Summary of Contents for Atlantis Genesis 200
Page 1: ...ThermoSpas Genesis Series Owner s Manual Safety Maintenance and Technical Information...
Page 5: ...Spa Measurements Chart 45 Water Capacity Chart 46...
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