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As our knowledge has increased with experience in the operation
and maintenance of spas/hot tubs and therapeutic pools, it
has become very obvious that these installations are different
from small swimming pools and cannot be operated successfully
as such. Physically, biologically and chemically, they must
be treated differently from swimming pools because they present
a number of unifque maintenance problems. These problems are:
- high water temperature
- increased water velocity & turbulence
- heavy bather load
- excessive water evaporation
- rapid increase of dissolved solids such as mineral salts
organic chemicals, etc. in the water
- people wastes
- excessive foaming
These problems make it essential to follow a consistent program
of maintenance so as to achive clear, sanitary water free
of bad odours and eyeburn. In general, the successful operation
of spas and hot tubs depends upon proper physical operation
of the installation, chemical treatment of the water and biological
control (sanitation, shock treatment, and algae control)
- If it is difficult or impossible to obtain an adequate
bromine reading, additional dosages of ENHANCE and ACTIVATE
may be required. In some cases excessive splashout or water
loss evidenced by frequent additions of make-up water can
result in the need for more chemicals. Except for the nightly
dose of ACTIVATE which remains unchanged, the addition of
ENHANCE and ACTIVATE should be based on the results of the
bromine test kit reading.
- Maintenance of proper pH (7.4 - 7.8) is much more critical
in spa water than in swimming pool water. Many spa owners
and operators fail to check their pH regularly. Test for
pH every time you test for bromine - at least once a day.
Be sure the pH reading never falls below 7.4. Spa water
can be very corrosive and, if the pH is too low, it will
cause substantial equipment damage.
- Always turn the aerator off before adding any chemicals;
but keep the filter on.
- Run the aerator only when the spa is actually in use;
but, if possible, run the filter 24 hours a day.
- Place a cover over the spa at night. This will conserve
heat, decrease loss of chemicals, and reduce evaporation.
- The best method of adding ACTIVATE is with a feeder synchronized
with a timer. Dosing with ACTIVATE whether through a feeder
or by hand, should be done periodically during the day,
preferably wihen the spa is not in use. The most important
addition of ACTIVATE is at the end of the day to shock the
water. Never fail to do this.
- Frequent replacement of one-fourth to one-half the water
in the spa usually results in less chemical use and a better
water quality. If this is done periodically, there should
be no need to empty the spa/hot tub completely.
- Because the heavy loads in spas result in an excessive
accumulation of body wastes, body oils, and other contaminants,
filter runs may become short and filter media, whether sand,
DE or cartridge, will become dirty in a short time. Filters,
therefore, must be cleaned regularly and often with FILTER-CLEANSE
so that they will operate efficiently at all times.
- Foaming, sudsing or frothing of spa/hot tub water can
be prevented and eliminated by squirting a small amount
of FOAM-OUT on the surface of the water when the spa is
in operation. Do not over-do it.
Never use more than one-half teaspoonful at a time.
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