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Spa & Hot Tub Water Chemistry 101

  1. Carefully read the manufacturer’s directions before using and know your spa’s gallonage for proper chemical treatment.

  2. Do not fill with water that exceeds 104oF.  This may cause damage to the finish or equipment.  After proper installation, fill spa to the recommended depth.

  3. Open all valves for proper water flow.  Inspect all plumbing and equipment for leaks.  Improper installation, use, or chemical treatment can result in heater failure and will void warranty.

  4. Keep the heater thermostat at a constant setting, increasing or reducing slightly until ideal temperature has been reached, but never over 104oF.

  5. Check and adjust water conditions.  You must maintain proper chemical balance to ensure safe sanitary conditions and to prevent your spa from becoming a breeding place for bacteria. How you can do this:

    • A. Test the pH every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and maintain pH between 7.2 and 7.6. If the pH is above 7.6 use Leisure Time Spa Down or if the pH is below 7.2, use Leisure Time Spa Up.  Improper pH can damage spa finish, equipment, chlorine loss, and cause eye irritation.  Use dosage according to manufacturer’s label.

    • B. Test the Alkalinity every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and maintain between 80 ppm to 120 ppm.  If alkalinity is above 120 ppm use Leisure Time Spa Down, or Swimway pH Minus. If alkalinity is below 80 ppm, use Leisure Time Spa Up or Swimway pH Up. Use dosage according to manufacturer’s label.

    • C. Test Chlorine/Bromine every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to maintain proper sanitizer level.  Adjust if necessary using Leisure Time Spa 56 Chlorine/Brominating Disinfectant. It’s recommended in Endorol spas to use a chlorine sanitizer.  Chlorine levels should be maintained at 3 ppm and bromine at 3 ppm (0.5 ppm and ozone residual when using the Spa Mineral Purifier).  Typically two or three bathers in an average spa with 103o temperature will consume all the chlorine or bromine sanitizer in about twenty minutes.  Prolonged or heavy use may require additional chlorine or bromine to maintain safe sanitary conditions.

    • D. On Friday, and after each water change, shock water with Leisure Time Renew, Swimway non-chlorine shock, or a similar product. If using an Ozone system you may also use Leisure Time Renew Tabs.

    • E. On Wednesday, use Leisure Time Spa Enzyme, Natural Chemistry Spa Perfect or Swimway Natural Enzyme or a natural enzyme formula to naturally biodegrade the organics that enter the spa, like body oils or cosmetics.  This will eliminate water line rings and act as a continuous filter cleaner, eliminating periodic soaking with chemicals.  

      Note:  Improper pH levels will cause early corrosion to your heating element and power pack, which is not covered under any manufacturer’s warranty.  If using Silver Ion Purifier or a Nature 2 Purifier, refer to Spa Owners Manual for specific instructions on chemical care and cartridge replacement.

  6. Drain your spa once every 3-4 months depending on its size, location and the frequency of use.  To remove stains, use baking soda on a non-scratch pad and scale on the spa finish. Use an automotive rubbing compound for very stubborn stains.

  7. Clean filter and cartridge periodically and according to manufacturer’s instructions.  To service the filter, turn off the power, remove the lid, remove the filter cartridge, and wash out with water.  Use a quality non-sudsing detergent such as Leisure Time Filter Clean or Swimway Filter Clean and rinse thoroughly.  Reinstall filter and turn the unit back on. Keep a spare cartridge so that you can deliver a good cleaning and drying.