Hot Tub chemical advice

[NFATrustGuy]

I realize this is a bit off the forum's stated purpose, but you guys are usually full of ...knowledge... so I figure I'll ask.

I purchased a hot tub yesterday. It won't be delivered for about 3 weeks, but I'm trying to decide between a traditional chemical (chlorine) based system or a "natural" system. The chlorine system would be purchased through the dealer at least at the outset. A friend suggested claritywaterproducts.com for a natural system.

Normally I'm a big fan of the "better living through chemicals" concept, but the natural system claims to be much easier to use. Just dump a bottle in once every couple of months versus weekly testing and adjustment with the chemical system.

Any of you guys have an opinion?

[Coffee]

Thanks!

[Irving]

I don't think I've ever known a hottub owner who kept up weekly maintenance. I've not personally owned one though.

[def90]

I had a hot tub in a house I rented for a while.. There is no such thing as not having to test once a week unless you have a fully automated system that will cost you close to 10k..

There are two processes you are taking care of.. The first is chlorinating/bromiating the water so that nasty things don't grow and flourish in the water and the 2nd is just general cleaning, that sweat, body lotion and who knows what else has to go somewhere.

That said, I found a thing called a "Spa Frog" which was a small plastic perforated container that you put a bromine tablet in and adjust the opening size to alter the amount of bromine that is exposed to the water. The container stays in the spa and floats. After a few weeks of adjusting I was able to get it so that I wasn't adding chemicals all the time.

As far as the cleaning process goes you will still need to "shock" it on a regular basis.

[ChadAmberg]

Mine has the ozone system, so i just use a little bit of chlorine every couple days. Then again, growing up with full size pools, I like the smell of chlorine.

[Great-Kazoo]

Nothing is maintenance free, especially hot tubs / spas. I kept the ph balance and chlorine level to the low side on the 3 tubs we've owned. How you choose to maintain the tub is up to you.
It's also is governed by frequency of use by yourself and or other invitees. The easiest way to keep it clean[er] is require guest rinse (NO SOAP) prior to entering . Removing basic body oils and loose hair make it that much easier to keep the tub clean. Knowing the balance kept, means (for us anyway) no need to dose it before guest arrive. I added chemicals after they left, giving the tub a chance to cycle, filtering contents.

An ozinator is nice, but still requires chemical's added. You should keep an eye on it even if not used, since water evaporates. Allowing the water level to drop beyond X point can cause filtration and heating issues. Last thing one wants is a heater that craps out 2nd week of januarary, while you're on vacation .
Once you get the hang of it, it's not that big a deal to keep up.

[Wulf202]

I have had a pool/spa license for over 10 years and maintain them in commercial settings.

Skip chlorine and use bromine. It works much better in a spa.

Don't be afraid to dump water.

You do not need to use shock on a regular basis. I avoid it as the byproduct is cynaric acid

Pool chemicals are pretty forgiving but chlorine, pH, alkalinity, cynic acid are all necessary to monitor. After a month or two of learning you should spend no more than 15 minutes a week for light use.

[fportmen45]

Get that stuff that turns green, or whatever, when someone pees in it; that way you'll know who your friends really are.

[Irving]

Looks like the first thing you've learned is to not listen to me.

[Zundfolge]

You need to find this stuff called "Chernobly" ... it'll make for some interesting times in the ole hot tub :p

[Wulf202]

Get that stuff that turns green, or whatever, when someone pees in it; that way you'll know who your friends really are.

It's far easier to dose people with methyl blue.

[NFATrustGuy]

Thanks for the advice folks. Should be entertaining.