When it comes to keeping your hot tub clean and safe, there are a number of chemical measurements, including hot tub stabilizer, that need to be added regularly to ensure that the water remains sanitary. Warm hot tub water is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, germs and algae that are not only unpleasant but could pose a danger to both the hot tub’s users and the tub itself. For this reason, you will need to follow a chemical regimen recommended by the manufacturer of your spa.
In the article below, you will learn what hot tub stabilizer is along with other important chemicals that you will need to be familiar with in order to keep your hot tub water clean.
Chlorine and Hot Tub Stabilizers
Chlorine is one of the most common chemicals used to keep hot tub water clean. However, if used on its own, it quickly breaks down in the presence of sunlight. Because chlorine is so unstable in the presence of the sun, a hot tub stabilizer is needed to prevent its degradation. Hot tub stabilizers are usually composed of cyanuric acid which easily binds to chlorine molecules. These bonds make the chlorine much more stable and more effective at eliminating bacteria and germs. Hot tub stabilizers will also reduce the amount of chlorine needed to keep the water safe.
Hot Tub Stabilizer Variations
Hot tub stabilizers are found in both liquid and powder variations. It’s a good idea to talk with your hot tub dealer to see which type of stabilizer would work best with the model of hot tub you own. You’ll also want to check the temperature ratings of each kind of stabilizer to find out which one will work best for you. However, most hot tub stabilizers are quite flexible, and it typically comes down to user preference over which type to use.
Water Quality Tests
You will want to test your water quality at least once per week. If your hot tub experiences frequent use or an unusually large number of users over a short period of time you’ll probably want to up your testing frequency to twice a week. Not only will regular water tests allow you to keep on top of any changes in the quality of the water, but they will also ensure that you don’t end up with rapid changes that could harm the hot tub components or the skin and eyes of its users. The more a tub gets used, the higher the likelihood that the chemical composition of the water will change, so test according to the amount of use the tub is getting.
Alternative Cleaning Systems
Some people might be sensitive to chemicals such as chlorine. To that end, there are alternative cleaning systems, but none of the will completely eradicate the need for at least some chemical additives. One popular type of alternative systems is ozone generators. Ozone gas is injected into the water and acts as an oxidant which kills germs, bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Ozone generators will reduce the number of chemicals used in the hot tub, but it won’t completely replace them. Another alternative type of water cleaning system is UV ray sanitizers. Ultraviolet rays are passed through the water to alter the DNA of bacteria and viruses which renders them unable to reproduce. Such systems do not completely replace chemicals and they will still be needed to keep levels optimal.
Now that you know why hot tub stabilizers and other chemicals are so important, download a hot tub buyer’s guide to learn more about becoming a new spa owner.