The Importance of Following Proper Chemical Procedures
Adding chemicals to your spa can seem a little overwhelming, particularly if you are new to the hot tub game. However, if you follow some basic rules when adding them, it can become a routine in no time and make water maintenance easier and far less stressful.
Step 1: Keep the Water Circulating
Before adding any chemicals, make sure your pump and jets are running. Circulating the water allows chemicals to mix evenly, ensuring they work effectively throughout your spa.
Why You Should Leave the Spa Cover Off
Certain chemicals, like shock and chlorine, need to off-gas as they circulate. Closing the cover too soon can trap these chemicals, potentially damaging the underside of your spa cover. Always leave your cover off for at least 15-20 minutes after adding chemicals.
Turn Off Air Blowers and Jets With Air Injection
If your spa has air valves or blowers, turn them off before adding chemicals. The air combines with water to increase jet pressure and bubbles, but it can also cause some chemicals to oxidize too quickly, reducing their effectiveness.
- Keep the pump and jets running; this will allow the particles to mix properly in the water
- Leave the cover off because some chemicals (such as shock and chlorine) need to circulate, and they can then oxidize. If you close the cover too soon after adding certain chemicals, you can actually damage the underside of the cover. Give your spa at least 15-20 minutes to off-gas after adding any chemicals before closing the lid.
Step 2: Test Your Water Before Adding Chemicals
Testing your water with test strips is a good idea before adding chemicals. This way, you have a baseline to start from. Knowing the pH and alkalinity level will help you balance your chemicals properly and ensure your sanitizer and shock are working most effectively.
Pre-Measure Your Chemicals for Accuracy
Also, having the chemicals pre-measured before introducing them to the water will ensure you are not wasting chemicals or adding too much. This will make water maintenance easier and save you money in the long run. Read the instructions on the bottle to ensure you are adding the correct amount.
Step 3: Follow a Consistent Chemical Routine
By keeping the pump running, turning off air injection, testing your water first, and measuring chemicals accurately, adding chemicals becomes a simple, repeatable part of your hot tub maintenance. Consistency helps maintain balanced water and reduces the risk of cloudy or unsafe water.
Enjoy Your Spa Worry-Free
Following some simple rules can help to take the stress out of water maintenance and make adding chemicals just part of your hot tub routine, allowing you and your family to just sit back and enjoy your spa worry-free.