1. pH Level
- Definition: A measure of how acidic or basic the water is.
- Ideal Range: 7.2 – 7.8.
- Importance: Keeps water comfortable and prevents damage to the hot tub and its components.
2. Alkalinity
- Definition: The water’s ability to neutralize acids.
- Ideal Range: 80 – 120 ppm.
- Importance: Stabilizes pH levels and prevents fluctuations.
3. Sanitizer
- Definition: Chemicals used to kill bacteria and other contaminants.
- Common Types: Chlorine, Bromine.
- Importance: Keeps the water safe and clean.
4. Shock Treatment
- Definition: A high dose of chemicals used to quickly sanitize the water.
- Frequency: Weekly or after heavy use.
- Importance: Breaks down organic contaminants and restores clarity.
5. Calcium Hardness
- Definition: The amount of dissolved calcium in the water.
- Ideal Range: 150 – 250 ppm.
- Importance: Prevents corrosion or scaling on hot tub surfaces and equipment.
6. Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
- Definition: The total amount of dissolved substances in the water.
- Ideal Range: Below 1500 ppm.
- Importance: High TDS can affect water clarity and sanitizer effectiveness.
7. Filtration
- Definition: The process of removing particles and debris from the water.
- Components: Filters (cartridge, sand, or diatomaceous earth).
- Maintenance: Clean or replace filters regularly to ensure effective filtration.
8. Jets
- Definition: Outlets that push water back into the hot tub for massage effects.
- Maintenance: Ensure jets are clean and not clogged to maintain proper function.
9. Cover
- Definition: A lid used to cover the hot tub when not in use.
- Importance: Keeps debris out, maintains water temperature, and reduces chemical use.
10. Circulation Pump
- Definition: A pump that continuously moves water through the filter and heater.
- Importance: Helps maintain water cleanliness and temperature.
11. Heater
- Definition: A device that heats the water to the desired temperature.
- Maintenance: Regular checks to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
12. Ozonator
- Definition: A device that produces ozone to help sanitize the water.
- Importance: Reduces the amount of chemicals needed and improves water quality.
13. Balancers
- Definition: Chemicals used to adjust pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels.
- Common Types: pH increaser/decreaser, alkalinity increaser, calcium increaser.
14. Scum Line
- Definition: A buildup of oils and debris at the waterline.
- Prevention: Regular cleaning and use of enzyme products.
15. Draining and Refilling
- Frequency: Every 3-4 months, or as needed.
- Importance: Prevents buildup of TDS and refreshes the water quality.
16. Test Strips
- Definition: Strips used to measure chemical levels in the water.
- Usage: Dip in water and compare colors to a chart for pH, alkalinity, sanitizer, etc.
17. Spa Blanket
- Definition: A floating cover that sits on the water surface under the main cover.
- Purpose: Additional insulation and helps retain heat.