Why Your Water Matters
We have all been there…you lift up your hot tub cover, and the water looks a little…off! Greenish, cloudy, or maybe your nose is suddenly bombarded with an odor that is less than desirable. When this happens, make sure to have your spa test strips handy because things are about to get interesting.
Water Balance Is KEY!
The majority of hot tub problems stem from water that is not correctly balanced. In fact, sanitation and water balance are the most important part of keeping your spa water sparkly clean (next to proper filter cleaning). However, before you can begin haphazardly adding chemicals to your spa, it is crucial to know the exact chemicals to add and in what amounts.
At Parnell Pool and Spa, we recommend testing your water at least once a week to ensure your pH and alkalinity levels are balanced. If your spa gets a lot of use, it may be best practice to test more frequently. We also recommend that you take a sample of your water to a professional each month for a more accurate reading…more information on that soon!
Step One: Test Your Water
Testing your water is the first step to understanding your chemical levels and zeroing in on any potential contaminants or issues. To do this, you need to have hot tub test strips. Test strips are usually the less expensive way to get a relatively accurate reading of your hot tub water. At Parnell, we recommend using the BioGuard 5 Way Test Stip. These test strips measure total bromine, free chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and total hardness.
To use a test strip:
- Collect a water sample
- Dip the strip into the water and quickly remove it
- Hold the test stip still for 15 seconds (Don’t shake the test strip)
- Compare the strip to the guide on the package by matching the colors
- Balance the water accordingly
How To Collect a Water Sample
At Parnell Pool & Spa, we understand that obtaining an accurate reading of your water chemistry is a great preventative measure to keeping your spa healthy all year long. In fact, we offer free water tests at each of our store locations so that you can have the most accurate water chemistry reading possible. To collect a water sample, follow these steps.
- Make sure the water has been circulating for a minimum of 12-24 hours at Spring opening and a minimum of 6 hours during the pool season.
- Grab a water sample bottle.
- Collect your water sample, making sure you reach down to your elbow (or about 18 inches).
- Fill up the entire bottle. It’s better to have excess sample water than not enough.
- Bring the sample to your local BioGuard water-test center, Parnell Pool & Spa. For the best results, make sure the sample is no more than two days old, in a closed container, and stays at room temperature prior to being brought in for a water test. The sooner the water is tested, the more accurate the results.
Need help?
If you have a question about the proper running of your 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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