top of page

Hot Tub Water Testing Basics

Updated: Nov 12, 2024



Testing your hot tub water is essential to keep it clean, safe, and comfortable. Regular water checks help you maintain the right chemical balance, prevent cloudy water, and protect your hot tub equipment from damage. Here’s a simple guide on how to test and manage your water chemistry effectively.


1. Why Regular Testing Matters

Hot tub water can easily become imbalanced due to frequent use, weather changes, and other factors. By testing the water regularly, you can ensure:

Comfortable soaking experience without skin or eye irritation.

Clear, inviting water free of bacteria and algae.

Longer-lasting equipment by preventing scale buildup or corrosion.


2. What You’ll Need

You can use one of the following testing methods:

Test Strips: Quick and easy to use, ideal for most hot tub owners.

Liquid Test Kits: More accurate but require careful measuring.

Digital Testers: Highly accurate but generally more expensive.


3. Key Chemical Levels to Test

a)   pH Level (Ideal range: 7.2 - 7.8)

pH measures the water’s acidity. Low pH (acidic) can damage your equipment and irritate skin, while high pH (basic) can make sanitizers less effective.

Adjust using pH increaser or decrease products as needed.


b)  Total Alkalinity (TA) (Ideal range: 80 - 120 ppm)

Alkalinity stabilizes the pH level, preventing drastic changes. Low TA makes pH levels fluctuate, while high TA makes it harder to adjust the ph.

Use an alkalinity increaser if needed to bring TA into range.


c)   Sanitizer Level (Chlorine/Bromine)

Chlorine (3-5 ppm) or Bromine (3-5 ppm) keeps water free of harmful bacteria.

Ensure sanitizer levels are within range, adding the right amount of chlorine or bromine as needed.


4. How to Test Your Water

Testing should be done 2-3 times a week, or more frequently if the hot tub is heavily used.

Dip the test strip or liquid test tool into the water as per the instructions.

Hold it still for the required time (usually 15-30 seconds for test strips).

Compare the colour results on the strip with the colour chart on the bottle or kit.

Record your results and adjust chemicals accordingly.


5. Tips for Success

Keep Testing Supplies Fresh: Test strips and liquid kits can expire, so check the date on the bottle.

Run Your Pump: Make sure the water is circulating before testing for the most accurate reading.

Store Chemicals Safely: Keep all testing supplies and chemicals in a dry, cool area, away from direct sunlight.


Need Help?

If you’re unsure about testing your hot tub water or adjusting chemicals, we provide all the testing chemicals to keep your spa in top condition. Contact us at sundancespasspain.com. Our team is here to help you maintain a safe, enjoyable spa experience!

Comments


bottom of page