Should I Use Chlorine or Bromine in a Hot Tub?

Hot tub sanitizers are very confusing. At the heart of that confusion, though, is whether or not bromine or chlorine is best.
**** Get the Bromine Sanitizer and Chlorine Shock on Amazon that I recommend in this video:
Leisure Time Bromine Sanitizer - amzn.to/2XiqQXH
SpaGuard Enhanced Shock - amzn.to/36hQ8cI
In truth, both bromine and chlorine have their pros and cons. I prefer bromine for my sanitizer as it holds up better in hot water than chlorine. It's a tad more expensive, but you'll have to add it less often, making the cost difference negligible.
Ass an added bonus, you also don't get as strong of a chlorine odor with bromine.
Articles on my website that go deeper into this topic:
What’s the Difference Between Bromine and Chlorine? - hottubownerhq....
Can I Use Chlorine Shock in a Bromine Spa? - hottubownerhq....
How Soon After Adding Chlorine or Bromine Can I Use a Hot Tub? - hottubownerhq....
Is it Safe to Go in a Hot Tub with High Chlorine? - hottubownerhq....
The opinions stated on this channel are my opinions having owned, operated, fixed, and/or purchased hot tubs a total of 4 times. They should not, however, be considered professional advice on hot tub electrical systems, hot tub moving or installation, hot tub placement, or any other type of professional or legal advice.
If you need professional or legal advice, you should seek out a qualified professional in your area.
Some links contain what are called affiliate links. Affiliate links pay me a small commission if you purchase the product, but in no way increase the cost to you. It's just a nice way of saying thank you to me if you found my video helpful.
Hot Tub Owner HQ is owned and operated by Jeff Campbell/Middle Class Dad. Middle Class Dad is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

**** Get the Bromine Sanitizer and Chlorine Shock on Amazon that I recommend in this video: Leisure Time Bromine Sanitizer - amzn.to/2XiqQXH SpaGuard Enhanced Shock - amzn.to/36hQ8cI

[@josephcorrato5009]

I’m a long-time pool owner and have been under the understanding that the heavy chlorine smell comes from chloramines, which is an indication that there’s not enough free chlorine in the pool. Also, you keep using the term “salt water generator”. It’s actually a “chlorine generator” that turn salt into chlorine. I’m considering getting hot up and have found your videos very informative. It makes sense that bromine may be a better sanitizer for a hot tub because of its resistance to breaking down with the high heat. Thank you very much for making these excellent videos .👍

[@FaberOptime]

Good run down! Just one thing - I take my floater out during use, avoiding any bumping problems and lessening chemical exposure. ;)

[@gregfagan38]

take the "floater out of the tub" when you are in it, and put it back when your not using it. heh. Thumbs up! :)

[@ldzmn]

Take the floater out when you get in. Put it back in when you get out. Problem solved 😊

[@onetwo234]

Wow genius haha 😆

[@patjohn775]

Or just tie it to wall by filter

[@lennydelvecchio7716]

It literally says in the instruction book for my hot tub to take the floater out when using the tub. But it should be common sense.

[@rcroche1]

HI Jeff -- When you mentioned the salt systems, you implied that they were somehow different or distinct from Chloring or Bromine systems. I had a pool for 24 years and am not on my second hot tub. All three (1 pool, 2 tubs) were sanitized by salt water systems. The pool was a sodium chloride (NaCl) system that generated chlorine as needed to sanitize the water. The two tubs ran sodium bromide (NaBr) systems that generated bromine as needed to sanitize the water. Essentially, a salt water system is NOT a substitute for chlorine or bromine, but rather just another delivery system like your liquids, powders, or pucks. The chief advantage of the salt water systems (whether chlorine generating or bromine generating) is that they generate the sanitizer on-site as needed and they cost less annually to use (but more upfront to install). The two salt water spa systems I have experience with are in.clear (six year use on my first spa) and Genesis Blu (two months and counting on my new spa). I hope this helps. Love your videos. I'm working through them!!

[@yessem1982]

Extremely helpful for a novice such as myself! Thank you for this crisp well articulated tutorial! 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@lrc87290]

Chlorine smell is from cloromines. Which is from an improperly maintained pool or spa. You should never smell chlorine and your eyes should never burn in a properly Maintained pool. Subscribed

[@tylerwilliams1052]

There are thousands of vacation rentals in my city and owners that I know can't find a competent maintenance person. Im thinking about starting a maintenance business. Ill be studying these videos and thank you for putting them out

[@dennisgiffin3052]

I was itching like Hell all over my body after getting out of the tub. My chemicals were where they were supposed to be. I did however notice in the fine print of my spa manual, that it said "Never use compressed sanitizers even with a floater". I had been using a floater with Bromine tabs. Ruh Roh. So I decided to go strictly to granulated chlorine. INSTANT success. No more itching. I had found my issue. Not saying this is the correct answer for everybody, but it did work for me. Granular bromine may be OK as well (Can't substantiate). Just something about the compressed tabs DID NOT go well with my body.

[@southernbell7]

How is the chlorine granules working out? Does it keep your tub clean? Thanks

[@kdrose1122]

I have bromine in my hot tub and I am suffering with an itchy rash and even hives. Done been on steroids and ointment. I’m thinking it’s the bromine giving me the itch. We had a swimming pool and I didn’t itch with it. I guess I will switch to chlorine.

[@DumpsterDickRICK]

@@kdrose1122I’m switching to bromine because this exact reason with chlorine

[@eastmanresearch3143]

I use a del ozone and bromine w/ floater. I put 3 tabs of chlorox brominating tablets into the floater, I leave the floater into the filter housing area and take out the floater when we use the tub. My 2019 hot springs vangard has a salt water system as well, but I found the salt system not able to adequately do the job and my water would go bad in no time, plus the cost of expensive cartridges for the chlorinator would go every 3 months or so. So I ended up using ozone + bromine and I have a consistent 1-2ppm free bromine on the test strip and am very happy with it. I can leave the hot tub for a month without any maintenance in this combination without the water going bad. The 24hr circulation pump on the hot springs + a once a day 10 minute automatic clean cycle keeps this thing prestine. The ozone oxidizes bromides into free bromine continuously. I use MPS chlorine free shock after each use instead of dichlor.

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Good to know on the saltwater system. I've never tried one before. I haven't used ozone before either, so thanks for your insight on that too! - Jeff

[@eastmanresearch3143]

@@HotTubOwnerHQ Jeff, the ozone works with spent bromides to form free bromine again. I think ozone is the most underrated setup after using everything at this point to find the best method for literally maintenance free. There isn't another method where you can go on vacation for two weeks and not worry about it. I tried ozone without any residual sanitizer for 3 months (just used granulated chlorine upon each use) and this worked to keep the water looking good, however it forms a substance called chlorate where the ozone and chlorine react. This substance has a yellowish color that will build up on top of the water edge where the chlorine gas reacts with ozone gas and is also on the bottom screen where the circulation pump runs 24x7 . My hot tub cover is reallly well sealed when closed and thus it pretty much keeps everything in there. That's the only reason I switched to bromine thus far. The leisure time reserve you are using is dichlor or what is it exactly? I might switch over to that. I use a small mini-floater from home depot (HDX brand) to put the brominating tablets into. I try to keep at least 3 in there but can start the whole setup with six of them. I use about 1 tablet brominating per 50 gallons of water. My hot springs spa has 325 gallons. If you have hard water at all the chlorinators are going to have problems gumming up the electrode plates with calcium carbonate. My local hot springs dealer is sick of hearing from pissed customers where they spend hundreds in cartridges and get bad water if you are not checking it every 5 days. You can also add spa salt to the tub at a lower level and MPS will also create some free chlorine as well when you apply MPS shock. I think the bromine floater left in the filter compartment is doing the best job compared to any of the expensive methods by far. When you use ozone you can reduce the amount of both chlorine (.5ppm) and bromine (1ppm) as a residual to lower chemical levels. I don't think 1ppm of bromine is really much to worry about. I am going to use ozone + bromine going forward and the $350 chlorinator (freshwater salt system) is a damned waste. Ozone will react continuously with free chlorine and the two will eat each other up. I developed a small microcontroller board to turn on the ozone 30 minutes after the chlorinator runs a cycle, and thus you will get some hydroxyl radicals produced which is a strong oxidizer when the ozone reacts w/ chlorine. The saltwater system runs a timed schedule. I had this working quite well but I still had some chlorate (yellow substance) form and thus I gave up on the saltwater system (chlorine) in the tub. It's really only useful if you are home every day maintaining it.

[@Endeavor545]

I only use chlorine tablets and Clorox liquid for the shock. Been using this for years. It works extremely well, but don’t tell the chemical manufacturers😀

[@VinnySuccessJesusfam]

Hi jeff..me and my wife just bought a hot tub and your videos helped us alot..very informative and to the point...I just want to say thank you!

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Thanks, Vinny! Let me know if you have questions!

[@GreznykGaming]

Thanks! Just got a hot tub and didn’t realize I needed the oxidizer…. Was adding sodium bromide over and over, and the bromine test wasn’t increasing…. Ooops. Just added the shock and will see what the levels look like.

[@rockyesterline7942]

you awnsered my question on witch to use clorine or Bromine i will keep useing my Bromine that i have been using for years!! i like granuls !!

[@jamesholmes2816]

Thanks for the clarity ( pun intended😊)

[@danshane7856]

Just subscribed. The wife and I are looking to make our first hot tub purchase and i have found your videos very helpful.

[@00grandprixgtp]

I use a ozone and chlorine tabs my space saver filter system has a tab holder in it so it makes it nice no floater

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Nice!

[@SirGeraint]

I put my floater on a leash when I'm in the Spa and keeps it in the corner.

[@swn2727]

i do the same, works perfect

[@shannonkamp690]

This is the best video I have found. Short, sweet, and to the point. Also very informative!

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Thank you for the vote of confidence!

[@johnniven4039]

Very informative and well presented. Thanks for the feedback. I will consider your opinions for the purchase of our first hot tub next month.

[@0102460]

Really helpful. Liked and subscribed! Thanks for the run down.

[@Riggsveda]

Neither. Ecosmarte copper system has been my only sanitizing system for 20 years.

[@austenangell7819]

Really well-done video. Thank you

[@cherm6008]

Hi Jeff, stumbled upon your channel after being frustrated with my hot tub water.. We do not use much now in the summer and I am shocked how cloudy and how much chlorine I have to add 😳. Also, we drained and cleaned the weekend before Memorial Day and had clear water for a bout a week. I checked my water this morning and the total hardness is getting to the point when I will have to drain again only after 2 months. We have only used the hottub 5 or 6 times with only 2 people. (Our tub is J-335, 4-5 seater). I cannot tell you how frustrating it has been. I am t honking about either closing the hottub in summer, but before I go that drastic, I wanted to learn more about Bromine. Great video!

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Thanks, Cher! Sorry you're having this problem. It gets hot in summer where I live in Texas, so I always switch mine to "sleep mode" which helps keep the water temp low. Yours might only have "economy mode" which is similar. Also, if your water has high calcium, you might try adding Leisure Time Defender to your water - amzn.to/3jDQhO0 Lastly, you could also have a problem with biofilm buildup, so you might check out my video on that to see if you think that could be it - kzbin.info/www/bejne/bofblKWafq2nh9E Let me know if any of that helps! Jeff

[@59bartman]

Great presentation, very informative. thank you sir.

[@greatskytrollantidrama4473]

Pro tip folks, when opening this stuff, don't do it while reading it. There is dust, it REALLY sucks to catch a whiff.

[@illbeyou9242]

Hi - new hot tub owner here. The owner of the place where I bought my spa told me that bromine was bad for the spa equipment. He recommended using chlorine. I have not seen anything about bromine damaging spa equipment in any of the research I've done. Why would he say that?

[@agaur86]

Great video! Should one leave the spa cover closed or open after adding bromine/shock?

[@mcstews]

Always lid off. Chemicals will wreck the lid otherwise

[@Smokey0284]

You haven't seen liquid chlorine? It's the white bottles in the bright yellow totes. I used it for years with no issues. It would be the most cost effective way if you didn't have to buy 4 gallons at a time. I starts losing effectiveness after 3 months and you'd probably still be on your first gallon. I use dichlor now for convenience and that's what my new company prefers.

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

I haven't seen anything liquid chlorine designed for hot tubs, but I probably haven't looked either as I like my powdered chlorine shock.

[@Smokey0284]

@@HotTubOwnerHQ it's not marketed for spas. The main issues with liquid chlorine come from over dosing and failing to control the pH. I used it for years with no negative effects but for ease of use granular is better. In a pinch, though, a couple tablespoons of liquid chlorine won't hurt anything.

[@Crudo169]

can i switch from chlorine base to a bromine base? what should i be aware of?

[@gregpintler4846]

I was told that Bromine is hard on the pumps and plumbing of the hot tube/spa. Is that True ?

[@obregonfamily5]

Great video!! Thanks

[@sharonsmith3647]

Very informative!

[@robertbrazeau7049]

Is there a way that I can switch from bromine to chlorine in my hot tub without draining it?

[@dswesson]

nice work! thanks for the great content!

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Thanks for watching!

[@peterm.souzajr.2112]

do you have a guide on how to maintain a hot tub. from one fill ot the next drain and fill. (when to use shock, sanitizer, etc)

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Hi Peter Unfortunately not yet although I've thought about creating one! Thanks for the suggestion as it tells me I need to get that off the ground!

[@VicksWander]

Thanks

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Thank you!

[@tonyaction5284]

Great video and tips!!!!!!

[@jamespace2567]

Just get a floater that is attached to your filter

[@mikescuba1]

H Jeff, nice video, clear and well presented. However it hasn't answered what I'm looking for. We have just recently bought a hot tub. it's a 5 place. 1600 liters of water. I'm having difficulty getting the bromine level to rise. I have put over the last two weeks about 6 tablets in the floater that you don't like. But when I do a strip test it still shows my Bromine level as being too low. CAn you give me any advice on how many tables I should use or is there an instant Bromine increase remedy you could suggest. Many thanks.

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Hi Michael. I've actually grown to really like the floater. But it definitely took me a while to come around. 6 tablets should be plenty to bring the levels up and since it's a brand new hot tub you shouldn't have any issues with biofilm or other bacterial build up yet. You don't mention anything about the other chemical levels such as alkalinity or pH or calcium hardness. So I will assume those things are all pretty good. My first suggestion would be to try a different test strip. I know they seem basic enough, but different brands of test strips definitely perform better than others, in terms of overall accuracy. The one that I've used for a long time that I really like his by poolmaster. It's a 4-way test strip and I have always found it to be very accurate. And it's also got thousands of near Five Star reviews on Amazon so it clearly works for a lot of people. You don't say exactly how long you've owned it, but you should also be adding shock about once a week. I had about a quarter cup of chlorine-based shock once a week with my bromine tablets in the floater. So also make sure you're doing that. You don't necessarily have to use chlorine shock, I just find it gets the water a little cleaner and clearer.

[@NeilBWood]

Jeff, I've also had great success with bromine. Our new tub was delivered last week, but the guys who set it up for us, used chlorine and provided a plethora of other chemicals to adjust ph, shock, etc. I want to switch to bromine because I find it's easier and more effective. Can I do it now OR do I need to empty the tub and start over. Thank you - Neil in Hull, Mass.

[@GlennJanssen]

You shouldn't mix bromine and chlorine together. It could result in a dangerous chemical reaction. Drain and clean your hot tub, flush the lines and do a refill. I've heard you shouldn't even put the two on the shelve together since the fumes can combine and combust. No expert here, just what i've learned over the years.

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

I've never done the switch myself, but I have heard that it's better to drain it and refill it. However I think you could also be just fine by waiting about 5 days for the chlorine levels to just disappear on their own.

[@Woody54321]

@@GlennJanssen Yikes!! Thank you so much.

[@Woody54321]

@@HotTubOwnerHQ Thank you for your reply. Enjoy the tub.

[@khx73]

You can switch easily from Chlorine to Bromine without draining. Going the other way however, you would need to drain and rinse all the bromine away. Look up about the chemistry of bromine and chlorine sanitizers if you're interested. No need to worry about them blowing up in your cabinet.

[@mikebruno644]

I don’t think “reserve” is a sanitizer if used on its own. Description from Amazon

[@Franksinatra96]

Well I'd rather but Clorox bleach get you a double shot glass fill it up dump it in the spa turn the Jets on with 30 or 40min then get in you just have to know how much to put in there depending on the size of pool

[@Smokey0284]

Regular unscented chlorine bleach is 1/3 strength chlorine and should work fine.

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

I've never heard of just pouring household bleach into a hot tub (for sanitizer or shock). Have you actually done that?

[@Smokey0284]

@@HotTubOwnerHQ no. But in theory is the same as chlorine.

[@JessicaSantos-gb8ht]

Gracias!

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

De nada!

[@dianabergeron7499]

I’ve watched a few of your videos...you’re hot tub shell is white, but the water appears blue. Why? Our brand new Thermospa shell is white too. Just had the electrical hooked up and will clean it with vinegar/water as you suggested tomorrow then fill it. I wonder if our water will appear blue also.....

[@weboperationsvideo]

When you say you will use less Chlorine with an ozonator... is this something that shows up on a test strip? For ex when using ozonator, the test strip will display different data that causes you to use less chlorine. Or is this something you adjust for yourself?

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Great question! Ozone generators act like an oxidizer (like shock) and boost the sanitizer levels of whatever sanitizer you add (bromine or chlorine). So you would want to see normal levels on a test strip and add more if it's low. But in theory, you shouldn't have to add as much or as often as you would without the ozone.

[@kathybeach2195]

Why do the test strips have both? Do you ignore one if your using the other?

[@craigsmith4436]

In my experience, tablet floaters OVER SANITIZE spas every time. And your 'set-it and forget-it' comment with floaters is the problem. Weekly test strip, and adjust the dissolve rate window on the floater to maintain a 3-4 PPM sanitizer level. People who set and forget, are destroying their spas with 20 PPM. Not to mention, the mere use of floaters outright void the warranty on some spas. Sundance allows brom tabs but not chlor tabs. Watkins allows neither.

[@Green_Ninja1979]

If I started with Chlorine can I switch to Bromine or do I need to drain and start again? Thanks appreciate the help and videos.

[@davidwarner63]

What about a peroxide based sanitizer (such as Baquaspa)?

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Hi David I don't know that one and haven't used it, but it does have good reviews on Amazon. At $55 for a set, it's definitely a little pricier than regular chemicals. But for those with sensitive skin or who just don't like the chemical odors associated with chlorine or bromine, it does look like a good way to go. Let me know if you try it!

[@Smokey0284]

The non chlorine shocks/MPS are peroxide based. Best used for spot shock treatments especially in ozonated spas.

[@webcrawler3332]

I switched bromine this year and I put 3 tabs in a floater and they are gone within 5 days. I thought bromine was not supposed to breakdown so quickly ?

[@swn2727]

i use on a floater with a string on it and keep it out of the flow of the jets, jets will dissolve it quicker ...also some floaters have adjustments on it . mine does..i put 6 "one inch" tabs in mine , its 350 gallons but its adjust so it last 3-4 weeks

[@danbeuckelaers4038]

Another issue i am dealing with for so long, is how to find good information on checking your SPA Ozonator. Yes you find info on how to replace the Ozonator, injection valve and the anti return valve between the injector and ozonator, and that is were it stops. Before considering even replacing parts, i want to measure my water Ozon level to determine if there is an issue, and not start replacing because it is 1 year old. Now i have found strips from Sensafe Ozone in water that allows you to test for levels frm 0.0 till >0.5 in 50ml sample taken from the SPA. But what is the aim value for a SPA 1300lites, and is there temp compensation that needs to be calculated in. My god, why is it so difficult to get short good detailed info about this. Lots of frustration on that level...

[@laureltristan7960]

Great!

[@ericalong8412]

Is bromine better for someone with sensitive skin? I’m having a reaction from the chlorine.

[@jackieroyals3937]

I have an Intex portable spa . Have been using chlorine. Tabs. I’m getting bromine tablets next, how do I switch over, I heard there are toxic gases that can happen if there mixed together. How long should I wait between chlorine and bromine ??

[@esmeraldarocha8401]

Hi, new subscriber here. We just purchased a used tub from a dealership but they informed me the stereo isnt working, its not big deal as we have Bluetooth speakers we can take outside but I'm wondering if it is something that can be fixed. I did a KZbin search but couldn't find anything. Thoughts?

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Well I've never had a stereo in a hot tub before (like you I use a Bluetooth speaker). But any equipment in the hot tub can be replaced. My assumption is a waterproof faceplate is mounted on the outside of the shell with the guts of it on the inside. I would remove the side panel on the side where the faceplate is and see what the stereo looks like. If it's similar to a car stereo, which would be my assumption, then it's probably a fairly simple job to by a replacement that fits the same size opening and then figure out where the clips are holding it in and just replacing it. Chances are it's wired to the control box for power, so obviously cut the disconnect to the hot tub to ensure no current is flowing. If your town has a mobile car stereo installer, that could be an easy fix if you don't want to DIY. Otherwise, I'd probably just stick with the bluetooth and ask for a decent discount on the hot tub.

[@joemonday4559]

Hi Jeff. You mentioned in a recent comment using Bromine tablets now. Is this in place of the liquid Bromine you were using? If so, what is the reason for the switch?

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Hi Joe. I just find it's lower effort on my part and I don't spend as much as I was buying the liquid.

[@therenaissancelawnguy2425]

The tub I ordered has both ozone and UV systems I was told by the dealership that bromine will damage the UV system have you heard that thanks

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

I honestly don't know anything about UV systems, but I Googled the topic just now and reviewed a few different sites and could not verify that bromine didn't work with UV. But I would certainly go with what the manufacturer is telling you.

[@eastmanresearch3143]

Your UV system likely produces hydroxyl radicals, I wonder if it has something to do with the bromine not reacting with it, or maybe the bromine is a little more cloudy and does not allow the uv to adequately santiize the water. Some systems use both ozone and UV systems to create strong hydroxyl radicals and generally use chlorine as well. The Ace saltwater system used a diamond electrode in the salt system which will also generate hydroxyl radicals but those will also react with the salt system to wipe out a chlorine residual and customers had difficulty ever seeing free chlorine in the system. Many ace system owners were cranking the settings up all the way and would burn out the $1100 cell in a year. I personally like the way the salt water feels in the tub but have major concerns about long-term damage the salt might do to the plumbing, plastics and might act like a mini-sandblaster when going through the jets wearing the adjustment portions out. I now use both bromine in a floater in the filter area - on a 325 gallon hot tub you can start with six tablets in the floater on a fresh refill and a del ozone ozonator that runs 24x7 with the hot springs circ pump. After 5 days remove 1-2 tablets in there after you see up to a 5ppm reading leaving you 3-4 tablets. I keep the adjustment on the floater at 50%. Taking out the floater and letting it dry for an hour and then you can remove 1-2 of the small silver dollar sized tablets and put them back into your bromine jar. I use clorox brominating tablets and they are my favorite for this application. If you get too high of a residual of bromine, open the cover and run the clean cycle a few times within 3-4 hours to drop it a few ppm. I have also read that 10ppm bromine is much safer vs. chlorine at 10ppm, so even if you are at 5-8ppm bromine residual you can get in it for 20 minutes and that should also drop the ppm a few. With ozone I try to run 1-2ppm bromine residual. Even at 5-8ppm you can't really smell much odor at all w/ bromine. Many people claim that bromine is not as good for algae vs. chlorine, and if that's the case you can do a weekly shock w/ a liquid chlorine (dichlor) assuming you remove the bromine floater when you run the clean cycle so the two don't mix in the filter area.

[@sgarcia2710]

Can you do a video on how to maintain a hot tub equipped with ozone. Where I bought my hot tub (United spa) they said to only use bromine. I have been on top of it levels for the bromine are perfect but every thing else is non existent on the test strip. I have diabetes and been getting hot tub rash right after I get out. I take a shower right away but still get it. Nobody else is getting the hot tub rash but me. Please help with a video or suggestions

[@driftke70]

bromine has the ability to attatch to skin and clothes compared to chlorine. But in an ozone pool or spa your bromine levels can be much lower around 1ppm instead of usual 4 or 5 ppm. Check your levels and maybe let the bromine levels go down. If still having a rash just wait a while after a bromine dose and switch to chlorine at lower than normal rate too.

[@michaelmarzella5460]

Xanadu,

[@onellpacheco9576]

Nice work on the video - I'm having issues with white foamy water in my tub. Can explain what might cause this issue. I replaced/refilled the tub, but after about a month or so I have the same issue.

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Thanks for the comment. Because of all the comments I get, and my inability to answer them all in a timely manner, I answered yours in a video scheduled for 2/22/21. Please check it out and thanks for being here! - Jeff

[@MattCookOregon]

Great 📷

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Thanks!

[@MattCookOregon]

@@HotTubOwnerHQ My man. Gonna tune in now that I got my first tub!

[@danbeuckelaers4038]

Many thanks for this video. I own a CalSPA escape EC751LE 6persons, and am struggeling now for some time with water stability. I have to replace water after 1 week of heavy usage, and can not understand why. I am using proper Calcium-Alkalinity and Ph before using D chloor choque of 20grams. The SPA is provided with UV and ozonator which both have been replaced ???. It would be interesting to see your advice on what to add to the water after each heavy usage day. I am replacing filters every 7months, and cleaning them weekly. I am using choque before first usage, and use Renew 20G aftre each usage, but still then, already after 3 days water gets cloudy and start smelling after 4 days, resulting in having to drain, clean and refill. Any ideas ???

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

It sure sounds like you're having to do more than you should. I replace my filters about every 18 months, rinsing every 3 weeks and a deep clean every 3 months, and I change the water every 3 months also. I'm wondering if maybe chlorine levels don't read the same since you also have UV and Ozone?

[@danbeuckelaers4038]

Thanks for the info, in the mean time i did some research myself since the company did not do this during their visit. I checked the UV lamp, and saw no reflection light in the tubes. So i toke out the lamp from the UV holder, and yes, both filaments of the lamp were broken, so this was out of service for some time. I have replaced the lamp, and it seems better now. Although i still clean the filters on a weekly bases and need to shock every 4-5 days to keep it somewhat OK. I replace water every 3 months now and use tube clean before draining the SPA. I rince thoroughly, and bring Calcium and alkalinity on its proper levels before continuing. Remember that this is a spa installed in a Belgium vacation house for 10 people so its usage is on a much higher level then normal. I use all Leisure time products today, and will maybe see if i can order the SPAguard that you consult together with bromine sanitizer. Although my SPA is provided with UV and ozone, i should only be doing the shock part and nothing else as my sanitation "should" be handled by UV and ozon. I may still consider eventually to install the bromine system, but maybe better to buy a fully equiped salt system in the future... thank you

[@maverick5059]

Hey Jeff. I am new to the hot tub world. I use bromine for all the reasons you state; however, I'm confused about shock. I have seen some chlorine based shocks that claim it is not suitable for bromine. Ion Rx is one example. Can you really use chlorine shock w bromine? Are the non chlorine shocks effective? Currently my hot tub is getting a little cloudy, so I need a remedy. Can you help? Doesn't the chlorine shock produce the chlorine gas that you don't like? Thanks

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Hi Maverick The problem is there are several different types of chlorine. So I definitely wouldn't use one that said to not use with bromine. I would, however, check and make sure it's not just warning you about mixing the 2, as you don't want to mix the 2 together, or really even add them at the exact same time. I do use bromine tablets these days and I still use a chlorine shock as I feel it just gets the water cleaner than non-chlorine shock. Chlorine shock does smell, but I typically add it at the end of the week after getting out. So when I add it, it's likely going to be at least a day before I use it again and it will have dissipated by them. On a day-in-day-out basis, mine doesn't smell significantly. The shock I'm using right now (I try different ones to see what works better) is the Clorox Shock XtraBlue (amzn.to/2ZalMXf) Hope that helps! Jeff

[@jordanrhodes4807]

Do I need a special bromine test strip to test the levels in our spa? Our current strips only have chlorine levels. I think we are going to switch from chlorine to bromine because we can't seem to keep the Chlorine levels high enough

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Yes. Most recognize both, so if yours doesn't show bromine, I would get one that does. I love the Poolmaster ones (here they are on Amazon - amzn.to/3n52agU)

[@swn2727]

look at your test strips most read both

[@Nightstalkerusmc]

I've been a hot tub owner for about a year now, chlorine sanitizer, with non chlorine shock, Any harm in switching to Bromine? I assume just do a complete drain, clean and refill? Thanks

[@swn2727]

chlorine will completely dissipate , but best to drain and start from scratch , i still drain every few moths with proper treatment

[@FewcanJAM]

Hey Jeff. I heard somewhere that I need to prep my fresh water with Sodium Bromide before adding my bromine tablets. Any advice on that?

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Hi Jackson. I haven't heard that and certainly don't do that with mine. I do see where Leisure Time recommends it though. But I'm not sure why it would be necessary. Maybe because the tablets don't dissolve instantly, so if you're starting from scratch, and you got in right after, the sanitizer levels wouldn't be very high yet. But if it's brand new water, I'm not sure I'd be overly worried about it either.

[@shoreals]

Would you recommend sticking with just chlorine for airbnb usage? Or would bromine hold up to all the abuse from guests ie. not showering beforehand, potential food in the water etc.

[@swn2727]

use gasoline , works quicker for BNbs

[@andyabele3295]

I switched from chlorine to a bromine dispenser at my airbnb. Guests are typically using it from 2 to 5 days at a time, you can't shock the tub between each use, and the chlorine dissipates quickly. The bromine dispenser works much better at keeping it clean as you have a constant treatment taking place, even if the guests take it out when using it, as long as they put it back it when they're finished (provide them with instructions). An ozonator helps as well.

[@sharongrafelman3172]

Jeff - I really like your videos. I have several questions that I'll post here hoping it will make it easier for you to reply. I am a new hot tub owner and have been fighting getting it balances forever, and have experienced the hot tub rash. I've been following the advice of the place we bought the hot tub from, but still seem to be out of whack. Hopefully you can lead me out of the darkness, so here goes. Thanks. 1. Regarding bio film. My hot tub store recommends using Aqua Finesse in the tub. He says it dissolves bio film and reduces the need for chlorine. Are you familiar with this product, and if so, does it fight bio film? Does it make sense to you that this reduces the need for a 'normal' chlorine level? 2. I have been using chlorine. Can I switch to bromine and not damage my tub? 3. I seem to usually have low ph and high alkalinity. I have the combo 'ph/alkalinity down' chemical. If I put this in to lower alkalinity, doesn't that drive ph lower yet? I'm confused how this chemical works when the ph and alkalinity seem to need to move in the opposite directions. do you have a video on using this chemical and how to test the water? 4. Once I drain the tub, what product do you recommend using to clean the acrylic liner? If used the "oh yuk", is additional sanitizing needed?

[@garyg4959]

I have the same issue with high total alkalinity and low pH. I can't for the life of me figure out why I have this. It contradictory to be adding a ton of pH plus when I should be trying to lower the total alkalinity with pH minus.😢 Let me know if you figure this out! Thank you, Gary G

[@BlueLineLandWorks]

Do they make test strips for bromine so you know how much to add

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Most brands combine chlorine and bromine on one color scale, so just match up the color and you should be good. If yours doesn't say anything about bromine, I would switch to these from Poolmaster (they are the ones I use - amzn.to/3cA0KIP)

[@domingod4648]

I’ve been battling with cloudy water for the past few seasons. Just emptied tub again, cleaned it, new water. After adding bromine and my NON chlorine shock for a few weeks it’s back to cloudy water again. tested water with Strips, everything is perfect Ph, and alk. but cloudy still… I’ve maybe narrowed it down to the non chlorine shock I’m using or maybe it’s because I have a lot of jets? It’s a Arctic Spa Kodiak Epic Edition. Big 6 person tub. Any help as to why I’m still getting cloudy water??

[@swn2727]

air bubbles can make it cloudy, also when shocking don't run your jets full blast and leave the cover off ...see if that helps

[@swn2727]

also could be clothes etc you wear in the hot tub, I try to use the same pair and wash without soap or go nude

[@domingod4648]

@@swn2727 thanks! I believe I found the fix. Very true about leaving the cover wide open, I did start doing that. And just turned on pump1 (circulate) leaving the other 2 sets of jets OFF when shocking. And left the cover wide open for 2 full hours to let it go into the air. I also switched to a Chlorine shock as I’ve read that Non chlorine can not be as effective. I also now add a water clarifier during my weekly routine. And yes you are right, we wash our suits in the wash, but then rinse them off very well before going in , and also rinsing them well with just water after getting out. Chlorine shock and a water clarifier, cleared everything up.

[@mikeplyler3196]

👍

[@leifharmsen]

Not sure if I want to take hot tub advice from someone whose hot tub is so bright green it looks radioactive.

[@cindyhoefs1967]

I'm currently using chlorine but want to switch to bromine. do i need to drain and start over or can i just start using bromine ?

[@ericalong8412]

Yes and wipe the whole tub down after. Also my hot tub shop said to use something to flush the lines out before draining because chlorine and bromine is very dangerous when mixed together. It creates a gas. Hopefully this helps you.

[@MtnXfreeride]

Is bromine dangerous or not? I see Canada has banned it for hot tub use because the fumes cause cancer. I wonder if other countries will be banning it soon too

[@greatskytrollantidrama4473]

I can tell you this, do not open bromine near your face. I just broke the seal and the dust whiffed my left nostril. It's not fun, but it feels like I snorted ALL THE SWIMMING POOL.

[@davidschmid3949]

In my research I ran across a paper that I can't presently find, but it basically mirrored this statement I found on a Google search "Ozone combined with bromine can cause bromates to form in your water. Bromates are a suspected carcinogen in drinking water. Just how dangerous bromates are in a pool/spa situation is a matter of some debate." I have disabled my ozone generator until I can get more data about it

[@tomdick1777]

🙏

[@ZivaSila]

Active Oxygene wins.

[@JohnBlatt71]

Neither. H2O2 works better, is safer for your hot tub, and MUCH healthier for you.

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Thanks DRS. Is there a specific brand of product you like?

[@siddharthmehta31]

Hi Jeff, new hot owner. Question. We soak once a week. How much bromine to add per week and how much sock?

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Hi Siddharth. I would probably do 1/4 cup sanitizer weekly (maybe right after that week's soak), and then probably 1/8 cup shock every 8 or 9 days. Of course, check it with a test strip, but that should be pretty close to right.

[@MichaelFloyd072384]

This guy lost me when he said he’s never seen chlorine in a liquid.😂😂😂😂 this is his job and they sell it at Walmart and he’s never seen it in a liquid? GTFOHWTBS

[@debsbarra1130]

Good info for a beginner hot tub user like myself. One minor thing, man do you use your hands too much when talking! It was a little distracting to me, sorry.

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

Thanks for commenting! I answered your question in a new video I just shot, so look for that video to come out the week of 10/24/22! Thanks for being here! - Jeff

[@drummernoe]

How often do you add the shock to Reserve? I'm switching my chlorine to Reserve and the Leisure Time Renew shock this week.

[@HotTubOwnerHQ]

I add about a quarter cup of chlorine shock once a week.

[@jmatthews7228]

Pro tip from a pool pro…DO NOT use bromine and chlorine in tandem. Your spa is either bromine or chlorine….the chems can react and have a nasty reaction. Also, Over use of dichlor will result in high stabilizer levels. The free chlorine needs to be 7% of your stabilizer to work effectively. Every time you add stabilized chlorine to the spa or pool, youre essentially raising the cya or “stabilizer”, thus raising your free chlorine demand.

[@cheliospanama9786]

For the algorithm 🫶🏻🤩🥰💪🏼😁😎👌🥸🤓🥳🫡

[@MichaelFloyd072384]

This guy lost me when he said he’s never seen chlorine in a liquid.😂😂😂😂 this is his job and they sell it at Walmart and he’s never seen it in a liquid? GTFOHWTBS