What Chemicals Do I Need for My Hot Tub?

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Hot Tub Owner HQ

Hot Tub Owner HQ

Күн бұрын

Should you use bromine or chlorine as your hot tub sanitizer? Should you use a chlorine shock or a non-chlorine shock? What about products for controlling foam or algae in your hot tub?
**** Get the Oh Yuk! Hot Tub Cleaner I mention on Amazon! CLICK HERE - amzn.to/3ckfRmt
In truth, there are a lot of products on the market, many of which you DON'T need (at least not on any regular basis). So here, we're looking at the most important chemicals you need to maintain your hot tub.
For more great content on hot tubs, make sure and check out my website Hot Tub Owner HQ - hottubownerhq....
That's an affiliate link which pays me a small commission if you buy it, but in no way increases the cost to you. It's a great way to support me and my channel so I can keep bringing you more great content!
Some posts on my website that go deeper into these topics are:
hottubownerhq....
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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.

Пікірлер: 248
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
**** Get the Oh Yuk! Hot Tub Cleaner I mention on Amazon! CLICK HERE - amzn.to/3ckfRmt
@bernardfresco8492
@bernardfresco8492 3 жыл бұрын
Currently unavailable. We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock.
@guitarpeot123
@guitarpeot123 2 жыл бұрын
This guy needs to be a teacher. He is straight to the point, makes it easy to understand.
@gretchengregory-luna3452
@gretchengregory-luna3452 Жыл бұрын
OMGGGGG 5 years now and FINALLY someone who I can understand when explaining how to own, maintain a hot tub. Seriously. 🤦🏼‍♀️ THANK YOUUUUU. I wish I found this channel years ago but better late than never
@truszko91
@truszko91 4 жыл бұрын
That intro resonated with me SO WELL! First-time home buyer with a hot tub. I have no idea what I'm doing. Google says 5 things, youtube contradicts Google 😱 your video helped SO much. Thank you!
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks, Rafal! I always appreciate constructive criticism, but it's so great when I hear about how much I was able to help.
@jaanaliaminzadah
@jaanaliaminzadah 3 жыл бұрын
In the same situation. My home came with one too
@MandyMooreFan14
@MandyMooreFan14 2 жыл бұрын
spent a evening watching hot tub videos, this is the best one.
@mrsparefox3704
@mrsparefox3704 2 жыл бұрын
For anyone new, here is a few more money saving tips. Don't buy alkalinity booster, ph up or ph down. Buy regular baking soda for alkalinity and if the ph is still low just aerate and for lowering the ph add muriatic acid. Muriatic acid will also lower alkalinity.
@goldengirls0125
@goldengirls0125 Жыл бұрын
Do you mean just run jets to aerate?
@mrsparefox3704
@mrsparefox3704 Жыл бұрын
@goldengirls0125 if your jets also blow air bubbles, then yes.
@goldengirls0125
@goldengirls0125 Жыл бұрын
@@mrsparefox3704 no I don’t have bubbles .
@Tripp_777
@Tripp_777 6 ай бұрын
+1 for baking soda... it works better and is cheaper
@Rideordie107
@Rideordie107 Ай бұрын
​@@Tripp_777how much baking soda?
@faithward2091
@faithward2091 Жыл бұрын
I am 86 yrs. old and I could understand him, I really gleamed a lot of information.
@imrindar
@imrindar 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for this. We're new hot tub owners; only seven more days until the electrician comes to install the new circuit and wire it up. Just a quick note on pH vs. alkalinity/acidity. pH is the negative log of the hydrogen ion activity (approximated closely enough by the hydrogen ion concentration). Acidity is it's own property and is defined as the amount of strong base needed to titrate a sample to a certain pH endpoint, typically 8.3. Alkalinity is a measure of the amount of strong acid required to titrate a sample to a certain pH endpoint, typically 4.2; the counterpart to acidity.
@gus.plus.g
@gus.plus.g 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you, I got more confused now 😅
@karimawahab5844
@karimawahab5844 2 жыл бұрын
Glad I came across you. I'm a new hot tub owner and been having cloudy water issues at well as chlorine issues. I add what is required and still the test strip is white, no changes 🤔
@360DieselDS
@360DieselDS 4 жыл бұрын
Awesome! Thank you! New spa owner here and this clears up a lot of confusion. Thank you so much for taking the time to do these videos!!
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 3 жыл бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
@airbnbinheels4718
@airbnbinheels4718 3 жыл бұрын
Yes thank God for him
@kilabeez0
@kilabeez0 3 жыл бұрын
For what it’s worth the link you posted is for the green bottle which is for jetted tubs. Not the blue bottle which is for hot tubs
@slydem2580
@slydem2580 4 жыл бұрын
Baking Soda increases the alkalinity of water and a little of ph, it does not reduce it ;)
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Correct! I have another video that goes deeper into that. I assume from your comment I must have messed that up in this one? I'll have to go back and watch. But baking soda is a great, inexpensive way to increase alkalinity (and as you noted, pH too, but it's less effective on that). Good catch!
@Smokey0284
@Smokey0284 4 жыл бұрын
Still hasn't been corrected
@deadair801
@deadair801 4 жыл бұрын
@@HotTubOwnerHQ isn't alkalinity the same thing as ph
@deadair801
@deadair801 4 жыл бұрын
Oh duh watch the whole video dumb dumb
@Smokey0284
@Smokey0284 4 жыл бұрын
@@deadair801 Nope
@cosmic1504
@cosmic1504 4 жыл бұрын
Just got my first hot tub. You’re videos are very helpful!
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Glad I could help! Thanks for being here! - Jeff
@angieburress7721
@angieburress7721 4 жыл бұрын
I got the Oh Yuk for my hot tub and jetted tub in my bathroom and it works great. Thanks Jeff for the info.
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Great! It works great for me (in, fact on the to-do list for this week!)
@r.bishop1127
@r.bishop1127 4 жыл бұрын
You seem very kind and know what you're talking about. I am a new spa owner and I am loving the info you provide. Subscribed and thank you!
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks, Rebecca!
@sherrymitchell1088
@sherrymitchell1088 3 жыл бұрын
Thx Jeff! Very informative and spoken in a simple and easy to understand way.
@scodavis
@scodavis Жыл бұрын
I really like your video. I did notice one oddity - you picked up Leisure Time Renew and said, "This is 100% Bromine". It's actually a non-chlorine shock (Potassium Peroxymonosulfate). That said - I really, really, really wish that your video existed before I got my hot tub, because you explained water chemistry in a way that was better than anyone else who I have come across. I will also make sure to use your affiliate link to buy Oh Yuk!
@wkmcelfish
@wkmcelfish 2 жыл бұрын
THANK you so much! you are a wonderful teacher and this is coming from a teacher.
@dancer4560
@dancer4560 Жыл бұрын
JUST WHAT I needed. Why did I not watch this years ago
@jameslawton3696
@jameslawton3696 3 жыл бұрын
Your putting out great content that is helpful to us noobs. Appreciate you taking the time to make these videos.
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 3 жыл бұрын
Glad you like them!
@jharms2529
@jharms2529 2 жыл бұрын
Jeff, What about a video on storage of chemicals? The Spa Down container says to not store with chlorine, or bromine.
@MrsLiz
@MrsLiz 4 жыл бұрын
Great tips Jeff! I'm looking into purchasing a hot tub, so I'm researching the amount of care needed. Thank you for all the info.
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks, Liz! You might really like this newer video I've done also on the 23 Most Important Things to Know Before Buying Your 1st Hot Tub - kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKiQhHaKj9Wpf7M Let me know if you have any questions! Jeff
@hectormenchaca1253
@hectormenchaca1253 2 жыл бұрын
The water pump has to be running all the time even if we not using it?? Thanks.
@jasminbrown1187
@jasminbrown1187 28 күн бұрын
Great information, thank you!
@balancedlifecoachingwithRARA
@balancedlifecoachingwithRARA Жыл бұрын
great video! thanks so much for making it to help educate and inform me and others!
@imdonewithtotalitarians7816
@imdonewithtotalitarians7816 Жыл бұрын
Swim spa almost installed and ready to fill. Your tips are on point in set up and going forward.
@stonecutter2
@stonecutter2 2 жыл бұрын
Quick tip - to raise alkalinity cheaply, use Baking Soda. Like the cheap stuff at the store. No need to buy a special bottle of Alkalinity Up or whatever, it's just cheap baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) inside.
@drdrew3
@drdrew3 2 жыл бұрын
Most every hot tub product sold in the retail store can be bought in generic chemical form elsewhere for a lower price. They try to conceal this with vague names like pH down but it’s just common dry acid repackaged and 4x the price
@Mohanad_Seventies
@Mohanad_Seventies Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the great analysis and explanation!
@irenethompson3137
@irenethompson3137 Жыл бұрын
Super Easy Install & Usage
@veralong4387
@veralong4387 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for making this simple and clear
@MariE-go7ol
@MariE-go7ol 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing all this knowledge!!! I really appreciate this! Getting ready to start the chemical mixture for the first time!
@FrankGerlackMrG
@FrankGerlackMrG Жыл бұрын
Great information; Thanks Jeff, please what is your take on the Spa Marval.
@donnaleake184
@donnaleake184 4 жыл бұрын
Can all these chemicals be used for an inflatable hot tub? I just purchased one, and have NO idea. I'm thankful I found your channel.
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Yes! An inflatable shouldn't be appreciably different from other kinds. Thanks for being here! I don't have a lot on my KZbin channel about inflatables since I don't have one to show (although I'm going to buy some in the spring to use for future videos). But I do have a lot on my website about inflatables in case any of those would help you - hottubownerhq.com/
@mstng50l
@mstng50l Жыл бұрын
This question is not necessarily about chemicals but have you ever seen a hot tub filter with small, thin, white colored fibers embedded in it. My local pool store had never seen it before. I have since picked up a new filter and did a drain, clean and refill of my hottub but I'm a little concerned about what that could have been. Thank you for your channel.
@bobrainy5324
@bobrainy5324 3 жыл бұрын
My girlfriends aunt gave us a Coleman blow up hot tub. Now I don't ever want to go without a hot tub again. Thank you for the vid, I needed the help.
@aka.sinfulreapersmomdeserm9289
@aka.sinfulreapersmomdeserm9289 3 жыл бұрын
I’m watching your videos because it’s informative and I’m learning about how to plan to buy a hot tub and have it affordable. Thanks. I’m in Ventura California
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for being here!
@renee2005
@renee2005 Ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing 😊
@patrickashley9548
@patrickashley9548 2 жыл бұрын
Great presentation! Thanks for creating!
@Thackula
@Thackula 3 жыл бұрын
Just bought our first hot tub, Great videos! Subscribed
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 3 жыл бұрын
Awesome! Thank you!
@deathwrenchcustom
@deathwrenchcustom 3 жыл бұрын
I like the simplicity of this video. As a new hot tub owner, I am very frustrated by my green water after trying to follow the instructions from the dealer. Getting info in KZbin or the internet is worse than Ford vs Chevy! If I had to do it over again I would never buy a spa from a dealer. Save thousands by learning first and buying from a private party. Pay to have it moved. Money in the bank. I'm a SUCKER.
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 3 жыл бұрын
Well we all are, but I'm glad I was able to help!
@deathwrenchcustom
@deathwrenchcustom 2 жыл бұрын
A year after that comment, I found my way back here because I'm chasing the balance... again... still... if my wife didn't like it so much, this thing would be GONE. It has caused 1000x more stress than it has alleviated.
@sevenwonders1717
@sevenwonders1717 3 жыл бұрын
Does the "Chemicals" Advice in this Video also apply to Inflatable Spas?
@leorosenstein472
@leorosenstein472 3 жыл бұрын
Great video. I have Bromine & Bromine Tablets. Do I need the tablets?
@theresasauli973
@theresasauli973 3 жыл бұрын
Thank-you Jeff for you’re insight and knowledgeable information.
@davidreed8924
@davidreed8924 8 ай бұрын
Very informative. Thank you
@tanyas9755
@tanyas9755 2 жыл бұрын
Great video. Very helpful and informative.
@craigweick3050
@craigweick3050 4 жыл бұрын
Seen a lot about variability or lack of accuracy among test strips. Any recommendations on test strip kits or pills tests?
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Hi Craig. I've definitely found variations between brands (which is why I tend to stick with 1). But I'm not sure how to gauge the accuracy of one over another other than going by reviews. The one I use is by Poolmaster and has almost 5,000 reviews and is almost 5-star. Here's the Amazon link if you want to check it out - amzn.to/315Hmw8 If you try one you think isn't accurate, I'd love to hear about it! Thanks Jeff
@ChimneyCakes
@ChimneyCakes 3 жыл бұрын
So I have to be a chemist to learn how to take care of these?
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 3 жыл бұрын
Honestly, it gets pretty easy and simple once you get in a groove. But it can be a little intimidating at first.
@Ryan-yi6su
@Ryan-yi6su 4 жыл бұрын
Can we buy pool chemicals at Walmart and save money Versus buying them at a specialty store if it's identical chemicals and concentrations?
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Yes! I typically get mine at Home Depot but sometimes Amazon, but if Walmart has what you need and isn't more expensive than Amazon, why not? I do not ever get mine at a Leslie's or other specialty dealer.
@KBradAdams
@KBradAdams Жыл бұрын
Love the videos you are my go to guy for hot tub videos now!!!! Subscribed and Liked! Curious your link to Oh Yuk shows a green bottle for Oh Yuk Jetted Tub Cleaner for Jet Tubs, Bathtubs, Whirlpools. Is that the color you use, I see they have a BLUE BOTTLE as well for hot tubs? Just want to make sure I get the correct one.
@mariaalbacea1
@mariaalbacea1 3 жыл бұрын
Man i love this it learned for the first time owner
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 3 жыл бұрын
Yeah!!
@mariaalbacea1
@mariaalbacea1 3 жыл бұрын
I want to ask if you hot tub just arrive and not using it until summer can you anti freeze during winter or not
@owenarnold7611
@owenarnold7611 13 күн бұрын
Aaaaannnnndddddd.....my first ever reading of my brand new J235 jacuzzi hot tub is alkalinity off the scale high, bromine in off the scale high, PH off the scale high. I used Jacuzzi PH deceeaser cautiously and after 4 hours of constant small top up every 30 minutes all readings are still off the scale high. It's Sunday and I'll call Jacuzzi tomorrow morning. But at the moment no one is getting into my hot tub as it's deemed unsafe.
@kimberlyhayes7716
@kimberlyhayes7716 Жыл бұрын
THANK YOU for this! It's much appreciated!!
@yumchips3899
@yumchips3899 3 жыл бұрын
That spa is lookin a little cloudy jeff 😏
@wildvik2130
@wildvik2130 4 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the video!!! Lots of great tips.
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much!
@michellebernard2015
@michellebernard2015 2 жыл бұрын
What about scale management or products for metals in the water?
@jrgordon1961
@jrgordon1961 3 жыл бұрын
Hi Jeff... Love the site and all of the great information. Have you done any videos on digital handheld water chemistry analyzers? I am curious if it is worth the money, and if they are even as accurate as conventional test strips, etc. Thank you Sir! John Gordon
@SmittySahn
@SmittySahn 4 жыл бұрын
Jeff, hi, I'm in P24 as well. I have some questions for you about hot tubs if you may or may not know, but you seem to certainly know more than I do for sure. : ) I have some videos on my channel about the inflatable hot tub we purchased almost 3 years ago. We did a setup and tents and all then had to move it to the garage for being too cold out. And now we're adding extra insulation to the tent and moving it back outside. The only thing I didn't do was take a sample of my water to a local pool shop. I got all the required chemicals and used the hot tub for over 2 years and then I started getting some black greasy stuff in my hot tub (my most recent video). I called the company and they said NOT to use bromine with their tubs because of PVC pipes...?? I think that's what he said. But anyway, I looked everywhere online and couldn't find anything saying I shouldn't use bromine. Even in all their manuals say nothing. I even found people online that said the same thing, the company said not to use bromine, but nowhere else does it say not to. I saved the hot tub but had to toss the pump, it's just shot, and doesn't work. I probably should have taken it apart to see what actually happened before tossing it, bad choice on my part there. It was just a greasy mess in the pipes I just tossed it without thinking. So I need to spend $350 on a new pump. I don't want to have to use chlorine in the hot tub. Any thoughts or ideas? Thanks
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Hi Jason. Every hot tub has PVC pipes, so if that's what they told you that doesn't make sense. I'm wondering if they meant the vinyl or whatever the hot tub itself is made out of? Either way though, I've never heard of bromine being bad for inflatable hot tubs, and generally speaking, chlorine is a little harsher than bromine. I don't think I would spend $350 on an inflatable hot tub pump when you could get a brand new one for not much more than that; especially if you're having issues with it anyway. Let me dig around a little and see if I can find any info to confirm if bromine is bad for inflatable hot tubs. But if you can't use bromine and don't want chlorine, you might look to see if you can convert to a salt water or ozone system. Both of those systems can be purchased and added fairly easily, I've just a little unfamiliar with integrating them into an inflatable. I'll let you know if I get confirmation about bromine and inflatables. Thanks Jeff
@SmittySahn
@SmittySahn 4 жыл бұрын
​@@HotTubOwnerHQ Thanks much for the reply. Could have been 'vinyl' and not pvc yes. I'll have to call them again and find out for sure. I looked to get an identical one (I paid about $400 for mine) and they are all unavailable on Amazon. (Possibly since they, Intex, is shut down and not shipping right now) On Intex's site they are about $650~$700 for a new one. I would hate to have to get all new chemicals too if I switch to chlorine too. I probably wouldn't have to switch all the chemicals, but I would need some new ones for sure. Yeah let me know what you can find out. I would hate to have to buy a new one, but if they aren't much more I guess it wouldn't hurt. That would just leave me with a perfectly good inflatable hot tub without a heater lol
@SmittySahn
@SmittySahn 4 жыл бұрын
@@HotTubOwnerHQ Jeff, Well I did one better... lol Went to a spa / hot tub show about a month ago that was close to where I live. I was just hoping to look and see what options were out there before buying a pump or a new inflatable one. The reps were clearly not interested in me since I only wanted to just ask a ton of questions. I thought they were there to answer questions, but I guess not, they wanted to know you were serious about buying one, then they would talk to you. It was for Getaway HotTubs. Wasn't one of the ones you listed when you listed off major companies. But after looking for about 2~3 hours and asking questions, I finally just broke down and got a hard shell hot tub (Bar Harbor SE) getawayhottubs.com/shop-hot-tubs/bar-harbor-se-5-person-hot-tub They say the "retail price" is $10,900 and I got it for the low low price of $5,600. Took about a month to get built and now they are going to be delivering it in the next few weeks. Just curious on your thoughts (good or bad) if it's not to bad, or I got ripped off.. lol It came with a step ladder and a cover as well. I'm going to make a video on the delivery and getting it set up, just like the inflatable hot tub videos I did.
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Hi Jason. Cool! Getaway looks to be the lower end line for Master Spa, which is what mine is, so it should be great. The ozone system sounds like a plus; let me know if that truly results in using less sanitizer and shock. I'm glad you didn't pay the normal price as that seems ridiculous for a plug-n-play hot tub, but $5,600, while a tad on the high side for those, isn't out of line; especially with the ozone system. Post a link here or send me the video of you setting it up! Cheers, Jeff
@SmittySahn
@SmittySahn 4 жыл бұрын
@@HotTubOwnerHQ Good to hear, thanks. I can't wait to use little to no chemicals. I'll certainly be making videos, I'll let you know how it goes. If the Ozone system works as described, ie. change filter and water once a year, and barely use any chemicals outside of just a little shock when you get out, it will be well worth the cost for me anyway. They just called me from MN to start the shipping process, basically finding out if we're ready for shipping and then they are just going to get me scheduled for shipment. It shouldn't be much longer now for delivery. I'll link to the videos once it gets here and I get it setup. (hopefully Getaway has a referral program...? lol)
@vinceagnes
@vinceagnes 3 жыл бұрын
You didn’t mention adjusting the total hardness of the spa. I have added calcium booster several times and I can’t get it higher than 100.
@jeremybomdeson6373
@jeremybomdeson6373 3 жыл бұрын
Nice videos! would like to see a testing and reading of the water
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 3 жыл бұрын
Coming soon! Thanks for the suggestion.
@48956l
@48956l 2 жыл бұрын
This was really helpful!
@MayEyePlayToo
@MayEyePlayToo 2 жыл бұрын
Hi Jeff, I'm about to purchase a cedar hot tub. Are there many noteworthy differences between wood and traditional Acrylic tubs that might be video worthy enough for you to comment on. More specifically, chemicals and maintenance. Thanks, Rick in Los Angeles
@cindyb5297
@cindyb5297 2 жыл бұрын
How do these chemicals affect grass when draining the tub?
@Jacqueline_R
@Jacqueline_R 2 жыл бұрын
Hi!! Love your videos! Im new at this. Im from Alaska, it's winter now. ( about 30 degrees F) Any cold weather, hot tub advice? ( was super fun filling up hot tub w garden house lol)
@SmartFamilyMoney
@SmartFamilyMoney 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for this useful video!
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks! I'm still learning here, but I appreciate your watching and commenting!
@miasma19
@miasma19 3 жыл бұрын
Great vid sir, i am a new spa owner, i have a question. Can i switch from chlorine sanitizer to bromine without changing the water? Thanks in advance
@johnfattal
@johnfattal Жыл бұрын
Thanks Jeff, loving your videos! I'm about to make the switch from Chlorine to Bromine (lower levels in addition to Aquafinesse) I've been reading that Sodium Bromide is needed to create a 'bromine bank' - is this accurate.
@Wendessa
@Wendessa 3 жыл бұрын
We are getting a hot tub from a family member that went untreated for 2-3 years but was still on the entire time. Should we get anything special for restarting?
@russ795
@russ795 2 жыл бұрын
How often should you shock and sanitize your hot tub water? First time owner here trying yo learn.
@theamandagashow3861
@theamandagashow3861 3 жыл бұрын
What's the difference between shock and sanitizer? And should I use a sequestering agent like metal free? And do all of these tips work with swim spas?
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 3 жыл бұрын
Sanitizer is something you add every few days to clean and purify the water. It is most commonly bromine (what I prefer) or chlorine, but there are some all-natural enzyme-based ones too. It can be powder, liquid or tablets in a floater (what I prefer these days). Shock is something you add every 7-10 days (depending on how often you use the hot tub) to reactivate the sanitizer. It is most often chlorine-based, but can be non-chlorine. I prefer chlorine shock with bromine tablets. If you know your water is high in iron or other metals (often the water will turn green for a few minutes after you add bromine or chlorine), then yes, I probably would add s product like Leisure Time's Metal Gone. Here's the Amazon link if you need it - amzn.to/2Jk77DN I also have a video coming out 11/30 that goes into the most common shock questions too that you may like.
@Tinyteacher1111
@Tinyteacher1111 4 жыл бұрын
Hi, I just found your channel, and I’m kind of a newbie to hot tubs. I bought a house a year ago with a 20 year-old Lifestyles Prodigy, and the owner left me all the Baquaspa products. Since it was used, I purged the lines about 4 or 5 times with Ahhsome. I also purchased expensive new filters, and test it frequently. All the levels say the water is fine; however, I have city well water, and a water softener in the house. I bought a water filter for the hose, but I keep getting a calcium deposits on the surfaces. It’s like chalk and you can write your name in it. I drain it every 4 months, and clean everything, but I don’t know how to get rid of this film. I was given a product that is a calcium hardener, but I don’t know what that’s for. I’m scared to use the hot tub, but it’s in great condition! I do have a backyard neighbor who is on city water, and I was thinking of asking her if I could pay her to fill up my hot tub with her hose. I also would really like pure water because I’ve had a compromised immune system and want a healing tub, if possible. I bought Aquafinnesse, but haven’t used it because I don’t know how to start up with it. I’m very discouraged. Any suggestions? Thank you so much!!!
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Hi Kathryn I have city water and it's still pretty high in calcium (although your water could definitely be higher). For starters, I use this product on Amazon - amzn.to/2ZrrVPI It both removes calcium deposits but it also helps prevent future ones. I use it every time I add new water. The other thing that occurred to be though was I wonder if, when you drain it, you clean it with a cleaner that's interacting with the chlorine when you fill it back up. Certain household cleaners do that, and do leave a sand-paper like white film on the acrylic shells that take months to wear off. If you think that's likely, maybe try something like white vinegar to clean the shell with, wipe down thoroughly after, and then even rinse with a hose and suck out with a wet dry vac before refilling.
@leonlindberg6280
@leonlindberg6280 3 жыл бұрын
I have the hot springs fresh water salt system what are your recommendations for chemicals on this hot tub
@reneepicard9863
@reneepicard9863 Жыл бұрын
I tried bromine it was great to start with but I continually break out with a rash. It's choline for me.
@dadkinson
@dadkinson 6 ай бұрын
pH scale measures both acidity (low pH) and alkalinity (high pH) so it's not really clear to me why alkalinity is measured separately on test strips and is also treated differently to pH.
@DadWisdomBites
@DadWisdomBites 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Jeff. Just got our first hot tub. The dealer is trying to sell us on the mineraluxe system but it seems incredibly expensive. I'm guessing those expensive cubes aren't worth it?
@kevinfurlotte39
@kevinfurlotte39 2 жыл бұрын
New owner also . Mineraluxe did not work with me. Had to switch to spa guard
@dillonmann6409
@dillonmann6409 3 жыл бұрын
You're great!!! Thanks for a quick simple an easy video with no BS! Subscribed!!
@ashlyncharlie1
@ashlyncharlie1 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks! Just got a hot tub. We are so confused and the water is more like a chemical bath :( ugh I feel like I should drain the hot tub and start all over.
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
If you added too much chlorine or bromine, just wait 2-3 days. The levels will dissipate quickly (even faster with the lid off and jets on). That's the good news. Even being heavy handed with the chemicals, it doesn't take long for the levels to drop and you can start fresh without draining. Just start small once the levels are low. You can always add more. For the average sized hot tub, start with, at most, 1/4 cup of sanitizer (can be chlorine or bromine, liquid, powder, or tablets in a floater). Don't add anything for pH or alkalinity unless the test strip indicates you need it. Then, after your 1st week of using it, add about 1/4 cup of shock (can be chlorine or non-chlorine). When you add the chemicals keep the lid off at least 10 minutes and run the jets. Wait 20-30 minutes and test again and adjust if needed. Once you've done it for a month or 2, you'll get a lot better at gauging what your water needs and it will go quickly.
@wendyatkin1
@wendyatkin1 4 ай бұрын
I know this is 4 years old, but can you please give a list of products. You show them quickly and I can even screenshoot it that fast.
@hdhamlin
@hdhamlin 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much.... Very helpful
@eddiedann4615
@eddiedann4615 4 жыл бұрын
I just got a tub this week. I plan to sub and follow you and your tips. Thank you.
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Great! I'm sure you'll have questions, so let me know if I can help. My website has a lot of stuff too - hottubownerhq.com/ Cheers, Jeff
@paulparker4059
@paulparker4059 2 жыл бұрын
how long do you run your jets when cleanning before emptying your tub
@tonyhughes3081
@tonyhughes3081 4 жыл бұрын
Should my chlorine level always be in the normal range when i test it? I add chlorine and shock a couple times a week because I'm using it about 5 days a week right now, i just got it recently :). But the test strips always indicate that the chlorine is gone the next day. Should I add more every time it shows low? Or do I assume the chlorine did its job and evaporated?
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Hi Tony. I mentioned in my other comment about possibly trying bromine which can take the heat a lot better than chlorine. You can still use chlorine shock with bromine sanitizer too. What you might try is to over-chlorinate it one day where the levels are higher than normal and see if that allows you to have 2-3 days of not having to do any major adjustments. Just make sure you don't soak in levels above the norm.
@janekrong7492
@janekrong7492 3 жыл бұрын
we have just taken an old hot tub from my parents that was old but like new, and had pumps replaced, filled up for first time. my husband shocked it, and it was running for a few days, then he mistakenly added baquacil algicide and we have foam like crazy. do we have to empty it or is there a solution that you know of? i thinks it's great to have your site!!!
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 3 жыл бұрын
In most cases you wouldn't have to drain it, just wait 4-10 days (depending on how bad it is). You could speed that up by using a net to manually scoop out the foam. Also make sure sanitizer, pH and alkalinity levels are decent too. But draining and refilling would be faster.
@keramiz3072
@keramiz3072 4 жыл бұрын
I thought baking soda raises alkalinity?
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
It does, so if I said that it lowers it in this video I must have goofed! Sorry!
@SlayerRunefrost
@SlayerRunefrost 2 жыл бұрын
Would love to use bromine instead of chlorine unfortunately, my skin has a bad reaction to it.
@ScubaSteve2423
@ScubaSteve2423 4 жыл бұрын
When refilling the hottub, do I need to add more than the recommended weekly maintenance amount of chemicals just because I'm starting it back up again or do I stick to the normal weekly amounts (eg the weekly maintenance amounts we were recommended: 1 scoop of shock, 4oz of silk balance, 4tbsp chlorine granules, and 4 chlorine tabs --- do I need to increase this amount when refilling it back up?)
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
I always rely on the test strip. But I don't see why you'd need more. I check it first with the test strip and then adjust. Chances are you might need less, since there won't be any perfumes, body oils, skin flakes, etc. But it all depends on the quality of the water from your hose.
@mined2out
@mined2out 4 жыл бұрын
Ph is the scale of acidity to alkalinity at 1 to 14 with 7 being neutral. Using ph and alkalinity is redundant and baking soda is an alkaline base so it increases alkalinity, not decreases it as you suggest. Chemistry 101 dude))
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
That's correct, so if I misspoke in this video, I'm sorry!
@joaquinkline3191
@joaquinkline3191 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks
@viatia28
@viatia28 3 жыл бұрын
Thank! We bought a spa, first we need to give shock dose of chlorine, that's fine for new spa but if after 2-3hours is all ok why we can use spa after 24 h. according to guide???
@adampaterson6784
@adampaterson6784 Жыл бұрын
If I use a submersible pump to drain my tub do I still need to use the drain spigot to remove whatever water is left in the plumbing?
@alortiz4798
@alortiz4798 3 жыл бұрын
FIRST! what should the test strips test for? Is hardness, stability? SECOND! Is it ok to first stabilize alkylinity and then PH? Are there chemicals for that? THIRD! Are phosphate removers important? FOURTH! should the pool be shocked before or after use?
@nadinekemp9283
@nadinekemp9283 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much
@johnedwards4715
@johnedwards4715 Жыл бұрын
Can you use liquid shock?
@bennyhill5775
@bennyhill5775 2 жыл бұрын
I snuck into your backyard last year when you & your family went on vacation, your hot tub was awesome, thanks for the community soak! PS, sorry about the poopy I left inside there.
@timwilson2568
@timwilson2568 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the advise. Bought a 3 year old Maxx spa. Just a two person holding 140 gallons. Heard of a product called Spa Marvel. Was wondering your thoughts on it. Suppose to be a product to maintain your water quality for up to 3 months. Also helps with water scum from forming around and on tub. Any thought welcome. Will be following your videos. Thanks
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks! I hadn't heard of that so I checked it out. The reviews are good and it does indeed seem like you could use a lot less sanitizer and potentially go up to 6 months in between water changes. I guess I'll have to order a bottle and test it out, but it looks great. If you try it, let me know. Here's the Amazon link in case anyone wants to check it out - amzn.to/31fj58a
@suzswett
@suzswett 3 жыл бұрын
what would be the cause of having a high PH and a good alkalinity? I have difficulty getting my PH to a good level. I use spa up
@jdt8826
@jdt8826 Жыл бұрын
Just subscribed to your awesome channel. I have a question I’m hoping you can help with. What are your thoughts on ozone and bromine? I’ve read that it creates bromines which is carcinogenic.
@melisafredrick8493
@melisafredrick8493 2 жыл бұрын
How do i lower the hardness in my hot tum. We have very hard well water .
@chevybossman1
@chevybossman1 4 жыл бұрын
My name is Ed, I have 2 questions for ya First question is when I turn on the jets some times there is little like yellowish flakes that come out. Is this calcium build up in my jets & pipes? Should I remove the jets & clean them. Or will that yuk do the trick. 2nd question. When adding the chemicals. Is it best to do the ph first then the alkalinity or the other way around. I usually do the ph first, then the alk, then the chlorine. Thanks for your help.
@HotTubOwnerHQ
@HotTubOwnerHQ 4 жыл бұрын
With the chemicals, I think if you're doing them at the exact same time it's not really crucial to do one before the other, but technically the alkalinity would come first and then the pH. And yes if you're seeing flakes when you turn the Jets on that probably is scale build-up. Oh yuk is really more design to get rid of bacteria and fungus and biofilm that's built up in your pipes more than calcium. So honestly I'm not sure it would do much. What I would use is a product from Leisure Time called Defender. It's designed to reduce the overall hardness of your water but also to get rid of scale buildup that may have already occurred. Here's the Amazon link to buy that if you're interested - amzn.to/2ZrrVPI
@Jacqueline_R
@Jacqueline_R 2 жыл бұрын
Can I just use more sanitizer to shock?
@monicagamez1700
@monicagamez1700 Жыл бұрын
What are the first two products
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