Your Pool and Spa Chemicals Are NOT the Same
If you are one of the lucky ones out there who own both a pool and a hot tub, we know that the struggle is real when it comes to organizing and keeping track of your chemicals and additives. While digging around your storage space and analyzing chemical ingredients, it might seem that having two types of each chemical is redundant and unnecessary. Can’t you scrap the doubles and keep one type to use in both your pool and hot tub? Well, the answer is 100%…NO!!
Pools -vs- Hot Tub
The difference between chemicals lies in the fundamental differences between your pool and spa. There are many differences between the two that can cause chemicals to create a sharp spike or drop in your water chemistry. With these spikes/drops come unpleasant results.
Size
Size is the first and easiest difference between a spa and a pool. Pools are considerably larger and need more concentrated chemicals to effectively clean and treat the water. On the other hand, hot tubs are smaller in size and need a diluted chemical compound to maintain proper water chemistry.
Temperature
Pool water temperatures typically run between 78-82 degrees. A Hot tub’s temperature is usually between 95-120 degrees Fahrenheit. With hotter temperatures, your hot tub may experience unexpected and erratic pH imbalances.
Jets -vs- No Jets
Water circulation is essential to keeping your water clean and clear. A hot tub’s water is constantly being circulated which means chemicals are easily dispersed. This requires a hot tub to have a less concentrated chemical compound. Pools have much more stagnant water and require a higher concentration of chemicals.
Water Evaporation
Both your pool and hot tub experience water evaporation. However, your pool experiences evaporation at a and much slower rate and therefore needs a stronger, more efficient chemical to maintain the water chemistry. Water in a hot tub evaporates quickly because of the higher temperature and needs less chemicals to get the job done.
Water Usage
More water means a larger buffer when it comes to balanced water. A swimming pool has a greater capacity to hold water and retain chemicals, which means the water is easier to maintain. The reduced water usage in a hot tub makes it more vulnerable to dramatic changes in pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels.
Bottom line…
The list of differences between a pool and hot tub is much more than just the temperature and size. To the untrained eye, the chemical options may seem very similar and interchangeable. However, there are many differences when it comes to your pool and spa water chemistry. Remember, always read the instructions for your chemicals (both pool and spa) to make sure you are using them correctly.
If you have a question about the proper running of your pool or spa, stop by our Fayetteville or Lumberton location anytime to check out our products, purchase chemicals for your pool/hot tub, or get a specific question answered by one of our experts. Visit us online at www.parnellpoolandspa.com or take a look at our Facebook page.
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