Complete guide to maintaining your spa water

Regular maintenance of your spa water is essential to ensure a pleasant and safe bathing experience. Poorly maintained water can not only be unpleasant but can also damage your spa components and pose health risks.

Understanding water parameters

Maintaining quality water relies on balancing several chemical parameters. The pH should be maintained between 7.2 and 7.8 to ensure bather comfort and treatment product effectiveness. A pH that is too low makes the water corrosive, while a pH that is too high promotes scale deposits.

Total alkalinity (TA) acts as a buffer for pH and should be between 80 and 120 ppm. Stable alkalinity prevents sudden pH fluctuations. Calcium hardness should be maintained between 150 and 250 ppm to protect equipment.

Choosing your sanitizer

Chlorine and bromine are the two main sanitizers used in spas. Chlorine is effective and economical but can be irritating for sensitive skin. Bromine is gentler, remains effective at higher pH levels, and does not produce a strong odor. For a spa, bromine is generally recommended.

Bromine levels should be maintained between 3 and 5 ppm, while chlorine should be between 1 and 3 ppm. Test your water at least twice a week using test strips or a liquid test kit.

Weekly maintenance routine

Each week, you should test and adjust pH and alkalinity, check sanitizer levels, clean the waterline with a suitable cleaner, and rinse filters with clear water. Monthly, perform a deep cleaning of filters with a degreasing product and check the overall condition of your spa.

When to change the water?

It is recommended to drain and refill your spa every 3 to 4 months, depending on usage frequency. Before refilling, clean the plumbing with a purge product to eliminate biofilms accumulated in the pipes.

At SP International, we offer a complete range of chemical products and maintenance accessories to help you keep your spa in perfect condition. Feel free to browse our chemical shop or contact us for personalized advice.