**** Get the floater and bromine tablets I use on Amazon - amzn.to/2BCmgNt and amzn.to/3acZXes **** Get the hot tub shock on Amazon I recommend in the video: amzn.to/3pqHe5j
3 Words: You killed it!!! The emotional part was finding out after over 20 years of having a tub, why now, all of the sudden my water insists on being cloudy with all the parameters being normal;. THAT was the price of admission. I will now use the chlorine shock from time to time.
Bro! Your channel is the best! I just recently bought a house with a hot tub and had to learn everything and anything quickly. Thank you for the simple explanations.
I have a cedar hot tub and am using bromine for 7 years and have never used shock. I have had no problems with it affecting the wood, nor any equipment issues.... FYI
I had never heard of bromine before we got our house that had a hot tub. I have a toddler, and it gives me peace of mind to use it. I know chlorine is safe, but I remember the burning eyes and extremely dry skin after swimming as a child and it was awful! Thank you for your tips!
I just recently acquired an intex inflatable hot tub for 4. Before I set up my hot tub I watched a few of your shows for guidance. I must say I appreciate your extensive & very thorough discussion regarding hot tube maintenance & use. My question IS (WHICH I HOPE YOU WILL ADDRESS): I saw one of your videos that advices NOT to alternate chlorine & bromine shock. I USE BROMINE IN MY HOT TUB AS YOU ADVISED. CAN I ALTERNATE BETWEEN CHLORINE SHOCK & NON-CHLORINE SHOCK? Sometimes I feel it needs an intensive shock then I use a chlorine shock. However, there are a lot of times that my water is still clean & clear but I just have to do a weekly shock maintenance & I was thinking of using a non-chlorine shock that way we can use hot tub right away .
We are NEW owners of a small hot tube (4 ppl), and your video was sooooo helpful. I found a video that helped me understand how to adjust the "feed setting" on a Life floating device and seeing it close up was extremely helpful - I didn't check to see if you have one for that, but that would be a great video, because the instructions DO NOT help the NEW-bees out there, or I might be one of the not so bright one's for sure. LOL. Thank you, again for your videos and helping me understand that I do not need a BUNCH of chemicals! I will check out your other videos to make sure I'm not missing something important on that note. I'm interested in ALL the products you use, as I am trusting your information vs the one's SELLING hot tubs.
If you routinely add chemicals without water testing you alternate between wasting chemicals and unsanitary levels. Additionally your equipment service life is shortened over time. That is why NOBODY recommends this practice
Btw your chlorine shock and typical chlorine are exactly the same (probably dichlor). Its just fine to have both chlorine and bromine (just like you do when you shock). However you have to be aware that the chlorine will prioritize converting your bromide bank to bromine. In fact your bromine tablets are actually a mix of chlorine and bromide. Basically its using chlorine to reactivate the bromine and also adding bromide to your bank. So in effect. You can always switch a chlorine tub to bromine but you cant go back without refilling. One bromine always bromine till a refill.
Thank for all the videos I am still waiting for my hot tub since November 2020 as they say they are waiting for parts from suppliers. But learning all there is to learn before I get it is a good thing.
Your video is exactly what i needed. I just drained my hot tub, scrubbed it, and filled it up again. The filter is soaking, so i haven't reinstalled it yet. Can I put bromine in the tub without the filter?
You've helped me a ton, I just switched to a bromine spa and really like it, I also find the color of the water seems a little bluer and clearer with bromine sani and chlorine shock. I typically shock after every two or three dips and is working great
Do bromine tablets have tri-clor as an ingredient? Does the ease of using tablets and a floater outweigh the risk of damage to the cover and pillows? Thanks
I use bromine in my inflatable Hot Tub and I'm very new to this. Is there a test strip you recommend? Also I get busy and get behind adding chemicals. Is bromine the most important one? Also what other chemicals should I be adding. I have the aquarius spa kit bromine it comes with clear it, stain prevent and foam away. I'm lost as to what chemicals I should be adding especially when my test strips are saying something is too low or too high. Thank you! Your videos are super informative.
If you have an 8 by 8 hot tub and you just did a refill. It's 500 gallons. I refilled mine about 5 days ago and did the initial non-chlorinated shock and I'm still getting zero levels for bromine. People singing to add sodium bromine to add a reserve first so that you already have a Reserve Bank of bromine. I've never had to do this before. My question is because originally I have one of those roaming floaters that has a long stick where you can stack the bromine tablets in there. I had it opened about a half of roaming tablet exposed in the water and I was getting zero levels. I did it so that there was about 1 1/2 to 2 bromine tablets exposed by unscrewing that and I'm still getting zero levels. Just yesterday I exposed it so 5 tablets are shown and then checked tonight and I'm still getting zero. My question is if you don't use the sodium bromine how long does it take for your hot tub to start building up that bank so that it registers that you have bromine in your hot tub? I may look at getting that sodium bromine. If you use that how quickly does that start registering with your Taylor test kit? Can you also use the sodium bromine if say maybe you were gone for a while and you were out of bromine and I have the low levels can you do the sodium bromine just to get it up real quick and and then also fill up more bromine tablets in the floater or if it's just a low level is it more recommended just to fill up more bromine tablets?
You are right on the floaters causing fewer interactions needed, but am afraid a bit that when the hot tub is not in the circulation mode (only 6h/day), it will create a cloud of Bromium around the floater ????
Very informative and helpful video. I have a question though…what can I do if my levels are too high? Bromine and PH both seem to be testing high. I have an inflatable hot tub. Help!!
Been going through the same since buying a hardshell hottub. Had a blow up one but they don't last and have to many issues. My ph is always going up now and the bromine tablets seems to be alot. I have to keep taking it out
hi .. i really appreciate putting these videos out .. thx ... and let me ask a quick question .. since i just bought my first portable tub ... im wondering is it allowed to put some epsom salt or anything like that into my water ?
Hi, thank you for the video, Just wondering if you know if a UV light cleaning system will effect the Bromine, Im thinking about switching from chorine.
Hi. Your video is super simple to follow and very thorough so thank you. I do have a question though: I have added spa shock and bromine tablets and when I get the water tested it still shows extremely low bromine levels. It’s a new second hand hot tub and I have 4 bromine tablets in at the moment that don’t seem to be dissolving. Any idea why they aren’t dissolving after 3-4 days? Thanks
Same here. Water is about a month old. I use the tub 1-2 times (1 hour) a week. I put in the recommend shock treatment (powder, same he uses) and the levels are really low. The filter is only about 4 months old and recently cleaned it well. I don't use tablets but will switch once my powder is out. OH and my PH is perfect which is very important.
Several reasons why the tablets dissolve too slowly. Most important that after you insert tablets and put the floater back in the hot tub that you hold it under water and turn upside down to get all the air out - without this step the design of some floaters inhibits adequate water flow. Other reasons are narrowly closed floater baffles or pumps not running long enough
Great channel, thx for all the great tips. i have an issue with my cushions turning black way to often, like yearly I'm having to replace them, at a cost of around 300 , I really appreciate any help. Thank you.
It’s not super convenient but it’s best practice to remove the pillow cushion after each use and rinse them. They materials that some manufacturers use just don’t stand up to chemical exposure but look good in the showroom
Hi Jeff. I really appreciate all your help. I have a hot spa and i would like to know, what kind of sanitizer, i have to buy in order to clean the filters.
Hi Jeff, hope you doing ok, I wanted to ask you if you would do a detailed video in the correct order on adding the chemicals at water change in the correct order as I can’t find any real answers, I absolutely love the channel, and I wanted to say thank you for taking the time to do them, from uk
@@georgeburchett5798 No. You adjust alkalinity first and then retest because it can throw off the pH early and also serves as the pH buffer. The standard order for addition is alkalinity then pH then sanitizer. Year after the first step because hot tubs is such a small water volume each addition effects the next
How do you take care of High phosphate levels 3000 + we used a phos remover and we literally rince our clothes and our bodies before every hot tub and cant get it down. We even have foam on the sides. Using Bromine tablets in a dispenser and shock
Hi Jeff I just moved into a house that came with a nice hot tub and we drained and refilled it and are using bromine. The confusion we get is if the bromine levels aren’t high enough does that mean we add shock or more bromine into the floater? I’m just confused when to add the shock. I understand to do it once per week and right after a big party but do I also add extra bromine tablets the next morning after a party and only keep 3 tablets in the floater the rest of the time? How often do you feel you have to check if you still have tablets to replace?
Hello Jeff...Lifesmart, my manufacturer, instructs NOT to use a Bromine floater, they say don't use "compressed" sanitizers at all which I guess would include chlorine also. Any thoughts as to why? Thanks for all the great info.
Since finishes are prone to damage when the foster bangs around when pumps are running so they advise against their use. But bromine tablets are the industry standard so that’s odd advice without explanation from the manufacturer - give them a call and ask why
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
Good morning Jeff and thank you for all of your videos they've been super helpful for me. I have a problem I need help with I bought my tub about 5 months ago filled it up with water put in the chlorine tabs and a shock tab into the floater I test with the test strips about once a week to make sure everything is copacetic but sometimes the pH is low so I use the granules pH up.. I make sure the jets are turned on to disperse the product and hopefully disintegrate it Then I had the need to drain the tub about a month and a half later and then I refilled the tub again did the exact same thing.. put in my chemicals.. I check every week but something different happened that didn't happen the first time when I filled the tub up There is this very fine gritty film over the entire tub every square inch on the inside It's not colored that I can see.. when I get in I feel like I'm just sitting on very very very fine sandpaper..I'm able to use my fingertips and some pressure and kind of rub it off but it's all right back there again in the spot that I rubbed it off Any ideas or suggestions? It's just so odd that I didn't do anything different from the first time that I filled it up.
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
Look at aqua clarity on RUclips ( you still use your sanitizer ) I think the guy who makes the product and does the videos covers the residue issue. It has something to do with the oils and stuff off our skin. 🤷♀️
Just switched to Bromine Tablets in the floater. I let the Chlorine work its way down to almost Zero. After starting the Bromine, it took a few days to get the levels up. I have an Artesian Spa with an Ozonator, UV light and mineral cartridge, maybe a little over kill. I could not get the chlorine to level out and stay in the correct range. I hope Bromine is the answer.
Could you make a video on what to do to your hot tub when on vacation? I’m going on vacation soon and I feel like a lot of people have the same question.
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
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
Can I use bromine in my floater with my Hot Springs Pulse salt water hot tub? I use it a lot and wanted to keep up with my sanitizing levels. Instead of adding chlorine during week just wanted a floater. I cannot find a floater for chlorine that works in hot tub. Thanks!
There is no such chemical reaction as “shocking the bromine”. With fresh water you simply need to establish a reservoir of bromine before levels can stabilize - that will happen gradually over several days using a floater. You can speed up the process by crushing a tablet into powder or using quick dissolve bromine granules from the spa store. Perhaps that is what you mean when you said “shocking” - your content isn’t clear on that
What is the rough surface on the walls and jet s ,is it the bromin .I use tablets ,and if it is the residue from the tablets (3 per week low use ) how to clean the walls etc ,without scrubbing
Honestly, since I've never owned one, I don't really know. I would tend to think though that when you start noticing radically different levels when you test the water, that's got to be a good sign that the Ozonator is no longer functioning as it should. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.
Hi, I recently set my chlorine levels right using chlorine granules, & then I placed 4 bromine tablets in a floater to preserve the sanitizer levels before I used it again. The floater was in the tub for about 15 minutes before I saw this video re: not mixing the two, so went & removed the floater immediately,. Do I need to drain the tub now or would that be an overreaction? Thanks
I have been using bromine since I saw your videos on it and love it. I have also been using the non chlorine shock but decided to try the chlorine shock since my water is going on it's 3rd month. Water is always clear and only my wife and I use the hot tub and I used it daily but only about 15 minutes and she uses it twice a week 15 or 20 minutes, I keep it at 106 so pretty hot. Anyway I noticed after I did the chlorine shock the bromine levels were super high? Is that because it reactivated the bromine or something? I actually waited a day to use it just curious why the levels went up? Thanks,
You comment about not liking what the water looks like (cloudy). What is causing cloudy water? Not enough bromine? I am not using a floater as we were told not to.
New hot tub owner here, help please! I use bromine tabs in a chem connect on my inflatable hot tub. Everything on my test strip is perfect except bromine is testing 0, the water is slightly greenish, i have never shocked it but it's only been set up for a few weeks. Why would it be reading 0 bromine every time, I never added excess amounts of bromine , what am I missing . Sorry to comment this on multiple videos but im at a loss and my family wants to use the hot tub
Hi Jeff this is our first time using bromine in the hot tub. We are using floater and Im having issues. #1 for the first 2 weeks test strips were showing no bromine even after shocking. I would open up the floater more each day and still zero bromine on the test strips. #2 week 3 shocked the tub and bromine went from 0 to max level shown on the test strip. Closed the floater leaving it about 1/8" open. After a few days the levels dropped to a safe level. Same thing happen to day low levels on the test strip then after shock max the strip will show. Am I doing somthing wrong? 5 1" bromine tablets have been desolved so far. Filled on 6/24/23 330 gallon tub Aquachek red test strips Clorox bromine Screw type floater Spaguard enhanced shock
You need two bromine products to start a bromine tub the tablets which you can put in a floater to maintain levels, and Sodium Bromide which when used with an oxidizer gives you the initial bromine levels and future "bromine bank" to shock the tub before the tablets have the chance to dissolve.
Hi Jeff I a new hot tub owner I added 3 bromine tabs to a floater yesterday and still not registering any sanitizer on the test strip. Is it bc they take a long time to dissolve? Should I crush one up and throw it in. I am using the pool master strips thanks
With new water you must first establish a bromine reservoir. The container usually has fine powder at the bottom you can use for a quick level. If not just shake the bottle until powder forms. Hot tub stores also sell small packets of quick dissolve bromine expressly for this purpose
Can you use a chlorine tester for bromine? If so, is there a conversion multiplier to use, what would the number be. I had a pool and just prefer the liquid tester to the strips Thank you so much!!
Yes. The same liquid test kits can be used for both chlorine and bromine. Just be sure you are reading the proper side of the color comparison guide for the correct scale - no conversion necessary. Most test strips slay test for both but again you need to check the correct row of colors
Do i need to add bromine granuals to get my bromine level up ? Ive been using bromine tabs and my test always reads 0 bromine, all other levels are perfect
We got an inflatable hot tub. I put bromine granules in at startup and tablets in the chem dispenser. There is an adjustment to the dispenser and you need to be sure it’s opened up all the way. Ours still doesn’t seem to put out enough bromine, so I supplement with granules. I might try using a floating chem dispenser.
We recently (2 weeks old) purchased a Cal Spa and have been using it atleast once a day. Recently my wife has been complaining about itching. I even took water samples to the shop and tested it and it came back perfect chemically. Any idea in resolving this issue. Also I have noticed after adding clarifier and after running I find a sticky white substance along the edge at the water line.
If your skin itches when all chemicals are in the recommended range then you have a sensitivity to a particular chemical. Hot tubs aren’t designed with DAILY use use in mind and that is too harsh for many people. Daily use also overwhelms the capacity of your sanitizer and filter. The scum line you describe is a combination of skin oils, body lotion, deodorant and dead cells. You can reduce it with enzymes and degreasing your filter. If you let it go too long then a partial water exchange is needed. The better solution for all the problems you are seeing is to cut down from DAILY use
I've switched from chlorine tablets to bromine, in my hot tub. On my bottle of bromine tablets, it says I should put 2 ounces of sodium bromide, in the fresh water, before putting my bromine tablets in. I don't have any sodium bromide, is this necessary?
So I added two pucks to my hot tub, did my test, everything else is where it supposed to be in terms of calcium hardness, alkalinity, but bromine will say 0.3-1.7, I’m trying to keep it between 2.0-6.0, if I add two more bromine tabs when it goes down to 1.0 it’ll jump up to like 9.2?
Hi I’m new to hot tubbing and have had my tub about one month. Could you give me any advice on using my spa frog in line system. I live in Northern Ireland. Find it hard to get a bromine reading on my dip sticks. Thanks.
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
So not sure what's going on with mine. I shocked it last night to hit the 10ppm. Today it's showing zero total chlorine and bromine. (I use bromine sanitizer and chlorine shock) I'm thinking of trying a sanitizer floater instead of the screw on that attaches to the water jet. I finally got my alkalinity correct. Just about have my ph correct. I'm wondering if I need a test trip that measures free bromine instead of free chlorine. Although the one I use now shows total chlorine and bromine and free chlorine. I keep getting completely different opinions on how much shock to put in here.
Hi. When you say "normal use" what does that look like? For my tube we have 1-3 people in it almost every night. And on the weekends there may be a couple more people one night if we have friends over. Based on you videos and a few other channels I think I may be in the above average use case. So I plan on using about 5 tabs a week. Then I will adjust accordingly.
Hot tubs don’t have the water capacity, filtration power or sanitizer reservoir for DAILY use. If you take the time to shower before entering it helps with this issue
Hi I am a new subscriber and new to hot tub ownership. In this video near the end you say "if the (bromine?) reading is low, then you just add a little more". Since you are using bromine tablets, would that be one or 1/2 or what amount? I would like to thank you for the work you are doing on this subject. Competent advise is somewhat rare. I think some people are more interested in chemical sales than they are good advice. When I had a pool years ago I eventually learned less is better as far as chemicals go. I learned 1st get the ph right then the others ..shock and chlorine can and will work better. I also only used one other chemical I liked, called "super blue" it made my water sparkle. That I really liked it worked wonders. I wonder if you have tried that in a hot tub? Thank You!!
Yes. For best results test twice a week for pH, alkalinity and sanitizer. All three must be in balance for healthy water and proper equipment operation
Hi Dan It will depend on whether you're using powder (1 day), liquid (a couple of hours), or tablets (a few days). But also remember that the water that you just put in isn't contaminated, so the need for it to be fully sanitized is pretty minimal. But if you're concerned, just toss in an ounce of shock and run the jets with the cover off and you'll be good to go in under an hour. But just to be safe, check the levels before you get in to make sure you didn't accidentally overdo it.
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
Since dichlor is the most common form of chlorine for shocking and sanitizing, is there really any need to wait if till levels are zero when switching to bromine?
Chlorine levels will be zero after just 3-4 days if no more added - even quicker if you leave the spa uncovered. Best to not mix chlorine and bromine according to the spa customer service rep
Keep the lid off, top off with fresh water and run the pump continuously on low. This will accelerate the bromine degradation. The quick way is a partial water exchange
Most test strips show both bromine and chlorine together on the same color scale. But I love the Poolmaster 4-way test strips on Amazon, and that's what I use all the time - amzn.to/3a5SPRI
Great video! After using the test strip, do you put all the chemicals that are low in at once or one at a time with the jets on, waiting 15 minutes after each one?
Hi I switched to Bromine last year after using Aquafinesse. I did some research online about starting up a Bromine system and I read several comments about creating a Bromine Bank by first adding Sodium Bromide then adding the Bromine Tabs in a floater and a weekly shock to reactivate the Bromine. Otherwise if you just rely on the Bromine tabs in the floater it could take a long time for the Bromine to reach the required level. My problem is I cannot find a supplier for Sodium Bromide plus here in Spain nor the UK. Some people say you can crush 2 Bromine tablets up and sprinkle the powder in the tub to create the Bromine Bank. My question is from a fresh water refill can you just Dichlor shock then Bromine tabs in the floater? Is it necessary to create a Bromine Bank first? Since using Bromine I have found that the overlay on the topside control panel has started to disintegrate and the foam seal between the panel and hot tub has started to swell and oozing out around the edges.
@@gstephengoss1 My hot tub came with the house when I moved, the previous owner was using Aquafinesse. I found that the Aquafinesse kit came with 2 bottles of the liquid and a small bottle of chlorine tablets but I found that using just 1 tablet a week in a floater, when all the tablets had gone there was still a full bottle of liquid left. So meaning you have to buy more tablets. You an use Bromine tablets instead. I had grease around the waterline but I don't think the previous owner ever cleaned out the pipe work. Aquafinesse here in Spain retails at 140 euros which they say will last you 3 to 4 months, you can source it for 120 euros if you shop around, but very expensive, hence why I switched to Bromine. With Aquafinesse you have to get your PH correct first then add the liquid and 1 chlorine tab once a week. I found that my PH was dropping to 6.2. I switched to Bromine, did a through pipe clean change water every 4 months and had no problems. I tub of Bromine tablets contains 48 tablets, 1 tablet a week. I also add 2 teaspoons of Dichlor each week and perfect water at a fraction of the price.
When I restart my spa with fresh water I just tip over the bottle of bromine tabs and let the fine powder dissolve into the spa. If there’s no powder at the bottom just shake it to break a little up. Then add the floater with 4-5 tablets and baffles wide open. Rub e the the pump often and within a day bromine levels are in range and stable. Works every time
Hold the floater under water and top it upside down to let the air pocket out - this will improve circulation and the tablets will dissolve much quicker
**** Get the floater and bromine tablets I use on Amazon - amzn.to/2BCmgNt and amzn.to/3acZXes
**** Get the hot tub shock on Amazon I recommend in the video: amzn.to/3pqHe5j
When I put chlorine shock in my bromine Water, it turns green in the beginning. Is that normal?
3 Words: You killed it!!! The emotional part was finding out after over 20 years of having a tub, why now, all of the sudden my water insists on being cloudy with all the parameters being normal;. THAT was the price of admission. I will now use the chlorine shock from time to time.
Bro! Your channel is the best! I just recently bought a house with a hot tub and had to learn everything and anything quickly. Thank you for the simple explanations.
I'm watching this because the house I'm buying has a hot tub and I have no clue how to maintain it haha
I have a cedar hot tub and am using bromine for 7 years and have never used shock. I have had no problems with it affecting the wood, nor any equipment issues.... FYI
So why are you watching this video
@@lildeanc Why do you care what I watch?????
@@dsheppard8492nobody cares about your opinion, that’s my point…
@@lildeanc I see,, but people like your rudeness.
I enjoyed this opinion and this comment! Everything helps
Very helpful. Thanks 'bro'. You're making life easier for a chemistry deficient new hot tub owner.
I had never heard of bromine before we got our house that had a hot tub. I have a toddler, and it gives me peace of mind to use it. I know chlorine is safe, but I remember the burning eyes and extremely dry skin after swimming as a child and it was awful! Thank you for your tips!
you say things in a way that everyone understands. Great videos
I just recently acquired an intex inflatable hot tub for 4. Before I set up my hot tub I watched a few of your shows for guidance. I must say I appreciate your extensive & very thorough discussion regarding hot tube maintenance & use. My question IS (WHICH I HOPE YOU WILL ADDRESS): I saw one of your videos that advices NOT to alternate chlorine & bromine shock. I USE BROMINE IN MY HOT TUB AS YOU ADVISED. CAN I ALTERNATE BETWEEN CHLORINE SHOCK & NON-CHLORINE SHOCK? Sometimes I feel it needs an intensive shock then I use a chlorine shock. However, there are a lot of times that my water is still clean & clear but I just have to do a weekly shock maintenance & I was thinking of using a non-chlorine shock that way we can use hot tub right away .
We are NEW owners of a small hot tube (4 ppl), and your video was sooooo helpful. I found a video that helped me understand how to adjust the "feed setting" on a Life floating device and seeing it close up was extremely helpful - I didn't check to see if you have one for that, but that would be a great video, because the instructions DO NOT help the NEW-bees out there, or I might be one of the not so bright one's for sure. LOL. Thank you, again for your videos and helping me understand that I do not need a BUNCH of chemicals! I will check out your other videos to make sure I'm not missing something important on that note. I'm interested in ALL the products you use, as I am trusting your information vs the one's SELLING hot tubs.
Thank you for helping me switch to bromine
Here ya go, "bro."👍
In the process of getting a hot tub and just trying to learn. Your video helped out immensely. Thanks.
Hi Jeff. As an owner for several years, I find your vids as refresher courses. Thank you
Glad you like them!
Thanks for the info! Very helpful to maintain our new inflatable hot tub! :)
Thanks Jeff for all of your great videos!
What steps do you take to build a bromine bank before adding tablets
Fantastic info! Had a pool for a couple years and could eventually add chems without even testing. New to spas so this helps a lot!
If you routinely add chemicals without water testing you alternate between wasting chemicals and unsanitary levels. Additionally your equipment service life is shortened over time. That is why NOBODY recommends this practice
Btw your chlorine shock and typical chlorine are exactly the same (probably dichlor). Its just fine to have both chlorine and bromine (just like you do when you shock). However you have to be aware that the chlorine will prioritize converting your bromide bank to bromine. In fact your bromine tablets are actually a mix of chlorine and bromide. Basically its using chlorine to reactivate the bromine and also adding bromide to your bank.
So in effect. You can always switch a chlorine tub to bromine but you cant go back without refilling. One bromine always bromine till a refill.
Don’t shock a bromine spa with concentrated chlorine. It is recommended to use NON-chlorine shock in a bromine spa
@@drdrew3 I keep hearing different theories on this? So can you not shock with Chlorine Shock? or can you?
Thank for all the videos I am still waiting for my hot tub since November 2020 as they say they are waiting for parts from suppliers. But learning all there is to learn before I get it is a good thing.
Sorry to hear that
Your video is exactly what i needed. I just drained my hot tub, scrubbed it, and filled it up again. The filter is soaking, so i haven't reinstalled it yet. Can I put bromine in the tub without the filter?
You've helped me a ton, I just switched to a bromine spa and really like it, I also find the color of the water seems a little bluer and clearer with bromine sani and chlorine shock. I typically shock after every two or three dips and is working great
Glad I could help!
Do bromine tablets have tri-clor as an ingredient? Does the ease of using tablets and a floater outweigh the risk of damage to the cover and pillows? Thanks
Awesome video! Just got my first hot tub and this tells me everything I needed to know! Thanks!
I use bromine in my inflatable Hot Tub and I'm very new to this. Is there a test strip you recommend? Also I get busy and get behind adding chemicals. Is bromine the most important one? Also what other chemicals should I be adding. I have the aquarius spa kit bromine it comes with clear it, stain prevent and foam away. I'm lost as to what chemicals I should be adding especially when my test strips are saying something is too low or too high.
Thank you! Your videos are super informative.
If you have an 8 by 8 hot tub and you just did a refill. It's 500 gallons. I refilled mine about 5 days ago and did the initial non-chlorinated shock and I'm still getting zero levels for bromine. People singing to add sodium bromine to add a reserve first so that you already have a Reserve Bank of bromine. I've never had to do this before.
My question is because originally I have one of those roaming floaters that has a long stick where you can stack the bromine tablets in there.
I had it opened about a half of roaming tablet exposed in the water and I was getting zero levels. I did it so that there was about 1 1/2 to 2 bromine tablets exposed by unscrewing that and I'm still getting zero levels. Just yesterday I exposed it so 5 tablets are shown and then checked tonight and I'm still getting zero.
My question is if you don't use the sodium bromine how long does it take for your hot tub to start building up that bank so that it registers that you have bromine in your hot tub?
I may look at getting that sodium bromine. If you use that how quickly does that start registering with your Taylor test kit?
Can you also use the sodium bromine if say maybe you were gone for a while and you were out of bromine and I have the low levels can you do the sodium bromine just to get it up real quick and and then also fill up more bromine tablets in the floater or if it's just a low level is it more recommended just to fill up more bromine tablets?
You are right on the floaters causing fewer interactions needed, but am afraid a bit that when the hot tub is not in the circulation mode (only 6h/day), it will create a cloud of Bromium around the floater ????
Thanks best 1 I’ve seen
great job on this video. Would like to know about clarifier also.
Very informative and helpful video. I have a question though…what can I do if my levels are too high? Bromine and PH both seem to be testing high. I have an inflatable hot tub.
Help!!
Been going through the same since buying a hardshell hottub. Had a blow up one but they don't last and have to many issues. My ph is always going up now and the bromine tablets seems to be alot. I have to keep taking it out
In general how often should I be adding bromine granules? Should I be testing the water every day or once a week?
hi .. i really appreciate putting these videos out .. thx ...
and let me ask a quick question .. since i just bought my first portable tub ... im wondering is it allowed to put some epsom salt or anything like that into my water ?
Hi, thank you for the video, Just wondering if you know if a UV light cleaning system will effect the Bromine, Im thinking about switching from chorine.
Hi. Your video is super simple to follow and very thorough so thank you. I do have a question though: I have added spa shock and bromine tablets and when I get the water tested it still shows extremely low bromine levels. It’s a new second hand hot tub and I have 4 bromine tablets in at the moment that don’t seem to be dissolving. Any idea why they aren’t dissolving after 3-4 days? Thanks
Same here. Water is about a month old. I use the tub 1-2 times (1 hour) a week. I put in the recommend shock treatment (powder, same he uses) and the levels are really low. The filter is only about 4 months old and recently cleaned it well. I don't use tablets but will switch once my powder is out. OH and my PH is perfect which is very important.
Several reasons why the tablets dissolve too slowly. Most important that after you insert tablets and put the floater back in the hot tub that you hold it under water and turn upside down to get all the air out - without this step the design of some floaters inhibits adequate water flow. Other reasons are narrowly closed floater baffles or pumps not running long enough
Great channel, thx for all the great tips. i have an issue with my cushions turning black way to often, like yearly I'm having to replace them, at a cost of around 300 , I really appreciate any help. Thank you.
It’s not super convenient but it’s best practice to remove the pillow cushion after each use and rinse them. They materials that some manufacturers use just don’t stand up to chemical exposure but look good in the showroom
Hi Jeff. I really appreciate all your help. I have a hot spa and i would like to know, what kind of sanitizer, i have to buy in order to clean the filters.
So when you do a shock with chlorine, do you need to wait a few days until the chlorine level will disappear before adding bromine?
Hi Jeff, hope you doing ok, I wanted to ask you if you would do a detailed video in the correct order on adding the chemicals at water change in the correct order as I can’t find any real answers, I absolutely love the channel, and I wanted to say thank you for taking the time to do them, from uk
The first thing is always get the ph correct. Out of range ph will keep any of the other chemicals from doing their job well.
@@georgeburchett5798 No. You adjust alkalinity first and then retest because it can throw off the pH early and also serves as the pH buffer. The standard order for addition is alkalinity then pH then sanitizer. Year after the first step because hot tubs is such a small water volume each addition effects the next
How do you take care of High phosphate levels 3000 + we used a phos remover and we literally rince our clothes and our bodies before every hot tub and cant get it down. We even have foam on the sides. Using Bromine tablets in a dispenser and shock
🇧🇪 belgium👍great video!!
What about bromide?
do I have to add anything after each use? Bromine floater and shock once a week?
Hi Jeff I just moved into a house that came with a nice hot tub and we drained and refilled it and are using bromine. The confusion we get is if the bromine levels aren’t high enough does that mean we add shock or more bromine into the floater? I’m just confused when to add the shock. I understand to do it once per week and right after a big party but do I also add extra bromine tablets the next morning after a party and only keep 3 tablets in the floater the rest of the time? How often do you feel you have to check if you still have tablets to replace?
Hello Jeff...Lifesmart, my manufacturer, instructs NOT to use a Bromine floater, they say don't use "compressed" sanitizers at all which I guess would include chlorine also. Any thoughts as to why? Thanks for all the great info.
Just got finished reading my manual and it says the same about compressed bromine and floaters. I'm so confused
Since finishes are prone to damage when the foster bangs around when pumps are running so they advise against their use. But bromine tablets are the industry standard so that’s odd advice without explanation from the manufacturer - give them a call and ask why
Great advice Jeff
Good morning, that was very informative on the bromine. I guess you try the Spa Marvel on your next drain.
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
Have you ever used Spa merval . In what do you think about it
Good morning Jeff and thank you for all of your videos they've been super helpful for me.
I have a problem I need help with
I bought my tub about 5 months ago filled it up with water put in the chlorine tabs and a shock tab into the floater I test with the test strips about once a week to make sure everything is copacetic but sometimes the pH is low so I use the granules pH up.. I make sure the jets are turned on to disperse the product and hopefully disintegrate it
Then I had the need to drain the tub about a month and a half later and then I refilled the tub again did the exact same thing.. put in my chemicals.. I check every week but something different happened that didn't happen the first time when I filled the tub up
There is this very fine gritty film over the entire tub every square inch on the inside
It's not colored that I can see..
when I get in I feel like I'm just sitting on very very very fine sandpaper..I'm able to use my fingertips and some pressure and kind of rub it off but it's all right back there again in the spot that I rubbed it off
Any ideas or suggestions?
It's just so odd that I didn't do anything different from the first time that I filled it up.
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
Look at aqua clarity on RUclips ( you still use your sanitizer ) I think the guy who makes the product and does the videos covers the residue issue. It has something to do with the oils and stuff off our skin. 🤷♀️
Just switched to Bromine Tablets in the floater. I let the Chlorine work its way down to almost Zero. After starting the Bromine, it took a few days to get the levels up. I have an Artesian Spa with an Ozonator, UV light and mineral cartridge, maybe a little over kill. I could not get the chlorine to level out and stay in the correct range. I hope Bromine is the answer.
It is easier to maintain a reservoir of sanitizer with bromine because it is much more heat tolerant than chlorine
Could you make a video on what to do to your hot tub when on vacation? I’m going on vacation soon and I feel like a lot of people have the same question.
I agree!
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
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
@@HotTubOwnerHQ You say you don’t have enough time to answer the question but still took the time to respond. So that means that you DO have the time
@@drdrew3 with a copy / paste answer that doesn't take much thought.
hi jeff, my bromine level on my test strip is high, is there a quick way of getting it down....thanks
Water exchange is the quick way = dilution
Can I use bromine in my floater with my Hot Springs Pulse salt water hot tub? I use it a lot and wanted to keep up with my sanitizing levels. Instead of adding chlorine during week just wanted a floater. I cannot find a floater for chlorine that works in hot tub. Thanks!
You need to shock fresh water to activate the Bromine... Do not keep adding looking for a level test
There is no such chemical reaction as “shocking the bromine”. With fresh water you simply need to establish a reservoir of bromine before levels can stabilize - that will happen gradually over several days using a floater. You can speed up the process by crushing a tablet into powder or using quick dissolve bromine granules from the spa store. Perhaps that is what you mean when you said “shocking” - your content isn’t clear on that
What is the rough surface on the walls and jet s ,is it the bromin .I use tablets ,and if it is the residue from the tablets (3 per week low use ) how to clean the walls etc ,without scrubbing
Can I use bromine tablets in an above ground Intex pool?
Jef, Thanks for the info. Here is another question for you. How do i check the functionality of my Ozonator ??
Honestly, since I've never owned one, I don't really know. I would tend to think though that when you start noticing radically different levels when you test the water, that's got to be a good sign that the Ozonator is no longer functioning as it should. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.
My tub has a chem connect, thats fine for bromine tabs instead of a floater??
Does bromine levels change when you shock it?
Ok, I think you answered this. Shock has chlorine in it so immediately after a shock it’s going to read high.
that was a very helpful video
Great job
I just got a new hot tub all levels on test strips are good however the leslies water test showed high phosphate
How can i check my spa for Bromine level with a chlorine aquachek stick
How do I get the silky feeling back my Bromine level is just right
I am having to shock my bromine hot tub (210 gallon) every day to keep it in balance... Can you over shock the water?
Hi, I recently set my chlorine levels right using chlorine granules, & then I placed 4 bromine tablets in a floater to preserve the sanitizer levels before I used it again. The floater was in the tub for about 15 minutes before I saw this video re: not mixing the two, so went & removed the floater immediately,. Do I need to drain the tub now or would that be an overreaction? Thanks
Drain it. Don't mix halogens.
Using Bromine Tablets... what do you use and how often do you Shock the water?
I have been using bromine since I saw your videos on it and love it. I have also been using the non chlorine shock but decided to try the chlorine shock since my water is going on it's 3rd month. Water is always clear and only my wife and I use the hot tub and I used it daily but only about 15 minutes and she uses it twice a week 15 or 20 minutes, I keep it at 106 so pretty hot. Anyway I noticed after I did the chlorine shock the bromine levels were super high? Is that because it reactivated the bromine or something? I actually waited a day to use it just curious why the levels went up? Thanks,
You comment about not liking what the water looks like (cloudy). What is causing cloudy water? Not enough bromine? I am not using a floater as we were told not to.
does the amount change with the size of the hot tub?
New hot tub owner here, help please! I use bromine tabs in a chem connect on my inflatable hot tub. Everything on my test strip is perfect except bromine is testing 0, the water is slightly greenish, i have never shocked it but it's only been set up for a few weeks. Why would it be reading 0 bromine every time, I never added excess amounts of bromine , what am I missing . Sorry to comment this on multiple videos but im at a loss and my family wants to use the hot tub
Hi Jeff this is our first time using bromine in the hot tub. We are using floater and Im having issues.
#1 for the first 2 weeks test strips were showing no bromine even after shocking.
I would open up the floater more each day and still zero bromine on the test strips.
#2 week 3 shocked the tub and bromine went from 0 to max level shown on the test strip. Closed the floater leaving it about 1/8" open. After a few days the levels dropped to a safe level.
Same thing happen to day low levels on the test strip then after shock max the strip will show.
Am I doing somthing wrong?
5 1" bromine tablets have been desolved so far.
Filled on 6/24/23
330 gallon tub
Aquachek red test strips
Clorox bromine
Screw type floater
Spaguard enhanced shock
You need two bromine products to start a bromine tub the tablets which you can put in a floater to maintain levels, and Sodium Bromide which when used with an oxidizer gives you the initial bromine levels and future
"bromine bank" to shock the tub before the tablets have the chance to dissolve.
Hi Jeff I a new hot tub owner I added 3 bromine tabs to a floater yesterday and still not registering any sanitizer on the test strip. Is it bc they take a long time to dissolve? Should I crush one up and throw it in. I am using the pool master strips thanks
With new water you must first establish a bromine reservoir. The container usually has fine powder at the bottom you can use for a quick level. If not just shake the bottle until powder forms. Hot tub stores also sell small packets of quick dissolve bromine expressly for this purpose
A question that wasn’t answered is there one need to take a shower after soaking in a bromine hot tub?
Can you use a chlorine tester for bromine?
If so, is there a conversion multiplier to use, what would the number be. I had a pool and just prefer the liquid tester to the strips Thank you so much!!
Yes. The same liquid test kits can be used for both chlorine and bromine. Just be sure you are reading the proper side of the color comparison guide for the correct scale - no conversion necessary. Most test strips slay test for both but again you need to check the correct row of colors
The heinsenberg of spas
Do i need to add bromine granuals to get my bromine level up ? Ive been using bromine tabs and my test always reads 0 bromine, all other levels are perfect
We got an inflatable hot tub. I put bromine granules in at startup and tablets in the chem dispenser. There is an adjustment to the dispenser and you need to be sure it’s opened up all the way. Ours still doesn’t seem to put out enough bromine, so I supplement with granules. I might try using a floating chem dispenser.
We recently (2 weeks old) purchased a Cal Spa and have been using it atleast once a day.
Recently my wife has been complaining about itching.
I even took water samples to the shop and tested it and it came back perfect chemically.
Any idea in resolving this issue. Also I have noticed after adding clarifier and after running I find a sticky white substance along the edge at the water line.
If your skin itches when all chemicals are in the recommended range then you have a sensitivity to a particular chemical. Hot tubs aren’t designed with DAILY use use in mind and that is too harsh for many people. Daily use also overwhelms the capacity of your sanitizer and filter. The scum line you describe is a combination of skin oils, body lotion, deodorant and dead cells. You can reduce it with enzymes and degreasing your filter. If you let it go too long then a partial water exchange is needed. The better solution for all the problems you are seeing is to cut down from DAILY use
I've switched from chlorine tablets to bromine, in my hot tub. On my bottle of bromine tablets, it says I should put 2 ounces of sodium bromide, in the fresh water, before putting my bromine tablets in. I don't have any sodium bromide, is this necessary?
Thanks!
Bromine tabs have a cholerine component in them, it's not 100% Bromine ?
So I added two pucks to my hot tub, did my test, everything else is where it supposed to be in terms of calcium hardness, alkalinity, but bromine will say 0.3-1.7, I’m trying to keep it between 2.0-6.0, if I add two more bromine tabs when it goes down to 1.0 it’ll jump up to like 9.2?
Hi I’m new to hot tubbing and have had my tub about one month. Could you give me any advice on using my spa frog in line system. I live in Northern Ireland. Find it hard to get a bromine reading on my dip sticks. Thanks.
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
@@HotTubOwnerHQ Thanks will do 👍
So not sure what's going on with mine. I shocked it last night to hit the 10ppm. Today it's showing zero total chlorine and bromine. (I use bromine sanitizer and chlorine shock) I'm thinking of trying a sanitizer floater instead of the screw on that attaches to the water jet. I finally got my alkalinity correct. Just about have my ph correct. I'm wondering if I need a test trip that measures free bromine instead of free chlorine. Although the one I use now shows total chlorine and bromine and free chlorine. I keep getting completely different opinions on how much shock to put in here.
Did you intentionally not mention the Bromine salt that you have to add to the tub when you initially fill it?
Is it important to take a shower after you use the hot tub that has bromine in it?
How I can clear the water?
I own 8 hot tubs I need to know where can I find the best products and best prices
Hi. When you say "normal use" what does that look like? For my tube we have 1-3 people in it almost every night. And on the weekends there may be a couple more people one night if we have friends over.
Based on you videos and a few other channels I think I may be in the above average use case. So I plan on using about 5 tabs a week. Then I will adjust accordingly.
Hot tubs don’t have the water capacity, filtration power or sanitizer reservoir for DAILY use. If you take the time to shower before entering it helps with this issue
Can I use bromine tablets in the floater if I use chlorine sanitizer powder once a week for my hot tub ?
You don't want to mix bromine and chlorine sanitizer, but if you mean chlorine shock; yes that works fine with bromine sanitizer.
Hi I am a new subscriber and new to hot tub ownership.
In this video near the end you say "if the (bromine?) reading is low, then you just add a little more". Since you are using bromine tablets, would that be one or 1/2 or what amount? I would like to thank you for the work you are doing on this subject. Competent advise is somewhat rare. I think some people are more interested in chemical sales than they are good advice. When I had a pool years ago I eventually learned less is better as far as chemicals go. I learned 1st get the ph right then the others ..shock and chlorine can and will work better. I also only used one other chemical I liked, called "super blue" it made my water sparkle. That I really liked it worked wonders. I wonder if you have tried that in a hot tub? Thank You!!
You add more bromine by opening up the baffles on the floater
When using bromine in my hot tub do I still have to keep an eye on the pH levels
Yes. For best results test twice a week for pH, alkalinity and sanitizer. All three must be in balance for healthy water and proper equipment operation
hey i need helo i got my hottub and I filled it up how long does it take for the bromine ppm go up to 3-5
Hi Dan
It will depend on whether you're using powder (1 day), liquid (a couple of hours), or tablets (a few days).
But also remember that the water that you just put in isn't contaminated, so the need for it to be fully sanitized is pretty minimal. But if you're concerned, just toss in an ounce of shock and run the jets with the cover off and you'll be good to go in under an hour.
But just to be safe, check the levels before you get in to make sure you didn't accidentally overdo it.
If i want to switch to bromine do I need to drain my tub or wait tell chlorine levels are pretty much gone then add the tablets?
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
Since dichlor is the most common form of chlorine for shocking and sanitizing, is there really any need to wait if till levels are zero when switching to bromine?
Chlorine levels will be zero after just 3-4 days if no more added - even quicker if you leave the spa uncovered. Best to not mix chlorine and bromine according to the spa customer service rep
What if your bromine is too high? what should we do?
Keep the lid off, top off with fresh water and run the pump continuously on low. This will accelerate the bromine degradation. The quick way is a partial water exchange
Thanks so much!
You're welcome!
I bought the bromine. Problem is, the bromine level drops everyday regardless of if it’s being used. Help!
Ok, but if I switch to Bromine, what test strips should i use???? Does bromine act as chlorine on a chlorine test strip?
Most test strips show both bromine and chlorine together on the same color scale. But I love the Poolmaster 4-way test strips on Amazon, and that's what I use all the time - amzn.to/3a5SPRI
Great video! After using the test strip, do you put all the chemicals that are low in at once or one at a time with the jets on, waiting 15 minutes after each one?
definitely wait, never add multi chems within 30 minutes of each.
Hi I switched to Bromine last year after using Aquafinesse. I did some research online about starting up a Bromine system and I read several comments about creating a Bromine Bank by first adding Sodium Bromide then adding the Bromine Tabs in a floater and a weekly shock to reactivate the Bromine. Otherwise if you just rely on the Bromine tabs in the floater it could take a long time for the Bromine to reach the required level. My problem is I cannot find a supplier for Sodium Bromide plus here in Spain nor the UK. Some people say you can crush 2 Bromine tablets up and sprinkle the powder in the tub to create the Bromine Bank. My question is from a fresh water refill can you just Dichlor shock then Bromine tabs in the floater? Is it necessary to create a Bromine Bank first? Since using Bromine I have found that the overlay on the topside control panel has started to disintegrate and the foam seal between the panel and hot tub has started to swell and oozing out around the edges.
Did you have a problem with the Aquafinesse?
@@gstephengoss1 My hot tub came with the house when I moved, the previous owner was using Aquafinesse. I found that the Aquafinesse kit came with 2 bottles of the liquid and a small bottle of chlorine tablets but I found that using just 1 tablet a week in a floater, when all the tablets had gone there was still a full bottle of liquid left. So meaning you have to buy more tablets. You an use Bromine tablets instead. I had grease around the waterline but I don't think the previous owner ever cleaned out the pipe work. Aquafinesse here in Spain retails at 140 euros which they say will last you 3 to 4 months, you can source it for 120 euros if you shop around, but very expensive, hence why I switched to Bromine. With Aquafinesse you have to get your PH correct first then add the liquid and 1 chlorine tab once a week. I found that my PH was dropping to 6.2. I switched to Bromine, did a through pipe clean change water every 4 months and had no problems. I tub of Bromine tablets contains 48 tablets, 1 tablet a week. I also add 2 teaspoons of Dichlor each week and perfect water at a fraction of the price.
When I restart my spa with fresh water I just tip over the bottle of bromine tabs and let the fine powder dissolve into the spa. If there’s no powder at the bottom just shake it to break a little up. Then add the floater with 4-5 tablets and baffles wide open. Rub e the the pump often and within a day bromine levels are in range and stable. Works every time
Hi Jeff I have 4 tablets on my hot tub spa but I could never see my bromine level goes up its always on the lowest color of strip
Hold the floater under water and top it upside down to let the air pocket out - this will improve circulation and the tablets will dissolve much quicker
What about bromine in a inflatable hot tub?