Keep Testing – Keep Control – Keep Safe
Keep Testing – Keep Control – Keep Safe
Why Do I Have To Test My Hot Tubs Water?
Why Do I Have To Test My Hot Tubs Water?
Congratulations! On your new Spa or Hot Tub we are sure that it will give you hours of fun and enjoyment. To ensure that your tub is kept in ‘tiptop’ condition and everyone using it is kept safe it will be necessary to test and treat the water. We are often asked why do I need to test and what should I be measuring. We hope that the following guide will help:
So why do you need to Test?
- Make sure it is safe
- Make sure it is comfortable
- Make sure there is enough chemicals
- Make sure it does not cause damage to the tub surfaces or fittings
What should you be testing for?
It is advisable to carry out testing frequently throughout the day. As the volume of water is relatively small conditions within it can change rapidly. The water should ALWAYS be tested before the first use of each day. If you don’t test how do you know the water is safe and whether you need to add any chemicals.
You should consider testing the following:
Disinfectant: This can be either chlorine or bromine. Your supplier should advise the levels needed. The disinfectant sanitises the water by ‘killing’ bacteria and neutralising waste products. It is essential that this is tested frequently to ensure sufficient disinfectant is present especially during heavy or continuous use when it can be rapidly used up.
pH: This is a measure of how acidic or alkaline the water is. Normally you would be looking for a level of between 7.0 – 7.6. Poor pH control can make the water uncomfortable for bathers, damage the tub and fittings and prevent the disinfectant working correctly
It is advisable to test disinfectant and pH several times a day and always together (see our sheet on pH for reasons).
Total Alkalinity: This is the amount of alkaline salts in the water and acts as a ‘buffer’. As pure water has little buffering capacity, alkalinity is needed to prevent wild changes in water conditions when chemicals are added.
Hardness: All water contains hardness and the levels vary depending on your location and the source water. Soft water can be prone to ‘foaming’ where as hard water can lead to scaling and damage to surfaces.
It is advisable to test Total Alkalinity, Hardness and Cyanuric Acid
How do I test?
There are lots of test systems available and whichever one you select it is important that you understand how it works and that you are able to read the tests. We would recommend that you use a tablet-based system as:
- These are easier to read and colours do not run into each other
- The tablets are individually sealed so you know the last test is as good as the first
- You will be using the same test chemistries as used by the professionals
- Important readings such as disinfectant and pH are easier to quantify
- They tell you only what you need to know
Remember the more testing you do the safer the water, the better it will be for tub and the more control you will have on chemical use. In addition, it will give you peace of mind that the water is safe for your family and friends to use.
Typical chlorine / bromine (by calculation) and pH test kit.
Take the hassle out of getting your test kit or refill packs. Order online and get them delivered directly to your home.
Would you prefer to head down to your local pool or hot tub shop? If so we've listed some of our preferred suppliers for you. Take a look and see if there is a shop local to you.
The Lovibond® Compact Pool Test Kit enables you to measure accurately the key parameters of chlorine, pH and bromine easily and accurately ensuring your water is safe for all users. Suitable for all pool and hot tubs.
The Scuba II takes testing to the next level as the meter gives a digital readout taking away the need to compare colours. This handheld unit is easy to use and will measure chlorine (free and total), bromine, pH plus total alkalinity and cyanuric acid making it a must for all pool and hot tub users.
A firm favourite with pool users for many years the Lovibond® Pooltester gives accurate readings for chlorine and pH. The large blocks means colour matching is easier for enhanced user confidence.
If you are running low on tablets then our re-fill packs will be just what you need. Available for all of our test kits these handy packs will ensure you can keep on top of your water testing.
