What chemicals do I use for my hot tub?

What chemicals go in my tub?

Introduction– Congratulations on starting your journey into buying a hot tub! You may be here because you read our Hot Tub Pre-Purchase Guide, if not, you should totally go check that out. I will wait here, patiently. Yay, you are back! Let’s continue with the nitty-gritty. When you are looking to purchase a hot tub, you may encounter the two main systems that their water chemistry revolves around: Salt water and Chlorine/Bromine.

There  is something that we must clarify – DO NOT let anyone tell you that salt water hot tubs do not contain chemicals such as chlorine. All hot tubs require chemicals to have and maintain that crystal-clear water, more on that later.

Chlorine/Bromine hot tubs

                                              i.     Familiarity– If you have ever had a swimming pool, then you are already familiar with theChlorine/Bromine water care routine. This routine depends on four pillars: pH, alkalinity, water hardness, and sanitizer. If you aren’t familiar with this water care routine, don’t let these terms scare you off – the steps to take care of the water in your hot tub are straightforward. Your hot tub dealer will provide you with an orientation to get you started.

Saltwater hot tubs

                                              i.     The selling-point of saltwater systems is easier maintenance. Instead of adding chlorinating tablets or granules, you add salt to your hot tub! So, how does salt compare with chlorine? Is there really no need to add chlorine or bromine to your tub? Let’s put this debate to rest; the reason you won’t need to constantly add a sanitizer is because of a cartridge or cell that a saltwater system will have. These cells/carts cause reactions (electrolysis) with the salt and turns into chlorine.

                                            ii.     Do keep in mind that saltwater systems do tend to cost more than their traditional chlorine/bromine counterparts. Also, instead of purchasing a sanitizer, you’ll be buying bags of salt and cartridges/cells.    

·      Conclusion– You are still going to have to balance your hot tub’s water in regards to pH, alkalinity, and hardness – regardless of the system you choose to purchase. If you would like to learn what hot tub systems we have available, head over to our online shop.

‍