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
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!
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.
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 🤔
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.
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!
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 - ruclips.net/video/zw-SCTZpvIQ/видео.html Let me know if you have any questions! Jeff
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!
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.
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
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.
Any thoughts on Frog@ease floating chlorine blue and grey ball? I was told I do not need to shock my hot tub with chlorine since I am using these and was told it was bad to mix a regular Chlorine shock with the frog @ease system? Is that correct? I was going to go to Bromine but decided I might as well use the frog system and then eventually go to bromine when I do a water change.
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.
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
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 RUclips 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.
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.
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?
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?)
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
Yes! An inflatable shouldn't be appreciably different from other kinds. Thanks for being here! I don't have a lot on my RUclips 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/
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???
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.
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.
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
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
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
@@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
@@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.
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
@@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)
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
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
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)
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!!!
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.
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.
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
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
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
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?
Hello, Newbie here and we are lost, we bought a preowned hot tun for 5 and are getting closer we are doing a privacy wall so its taking some time but after that what are the main steps to fill,clean,sanitize ? since it it pre owed someone said to buy a new filter , so once i buy the new filter what are my to go products ? I get headaches with bleach please link me any steps I need to do before its safe for us before we soak in the water ( we have a water filtration system that also filters the outdoor water) Thank you so much
Hi Rosa. I would definitely change the filter, and not knowing how it was maintained, I would probably also do a biofilm cleanout before using. That's an extra step, and would set you back a day from using it, and mean 1 extra filling up, but I would do it just in case there's any lingering bacteria. Here's my video which walks you through that - ruclips.net/video/8VxcrdIHtQo/видео.html
Hi Jeff, I have just realized that if I turn my hot tub off at night, It's stil showing 31 degrees the next morning, Am i ok to just turn it on and wait for it to come upto set temperature or is it dangerous ?? (It was turned off by mistake)
Hey Jeff, great video. I have an intex vinyl spa that I am developing slimy walls. I check my water levels constantly, but I can't figure out why this is happening. I'm getting tired of draining and cleaning and refilling. Any advice?
Hmmm . . sounds like you are changing the water regularly, so if the chlorine, pH and alkalinity are typically all good, my thoughts would be dirty filter, biofilm buildup in the pipes and equipment, or maybe heavy lotion/perfume use by some of the users? I'll also assume you keep it covered when not in use too. Lastly, just make sure you clean it really thoroughly and then rinse it really thoroughly the next time you drain it. If you haven't seen my video on getting rid of biofilm, that could be worth watching - ruclips.net/video/8VxcrdIHtQo/видео.html Hope that helps! Jeff
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?
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.
Hi I’m currently using chlorine for sanitizers if I switch to bromine can I just start using it or should I replace the water 1st your help would be appreciated cheers
Hi Nigel. Great question. It's recommended that you drain and start fresh. However, since chlorine breaks down quickly in both heat and sun, I also think you could just let it goes 4-5 days, and periodically take the cover off when it's sunny, and by the end of the time period, the chlorine should be just about gone.
Hi Steven. If you do want to switch from one to the other, either do it the next time you drain it, or let it go several days from the last time you added anything, and then switch. Draining is ideal though.
HELP! I have no choice but to use soft water for my hot tub. The hot tub came with the house as did the water softener. I had the water tested at a local spa dealer and was told the calcium is too low. I have a Quebec Canadian Spa that holds 900 L/238 gallons of water. I have watched all the videos I could find on the subject. I have added HT+ (calcium cloride) 20 grams/0.7 ounces at a time for a total of 160 grams/ approx 5.6 ounces and the calcium hardness is still low. What do I do? I have watched your video on this and you make it seem so easy. Please explain how to specifically add the calcium. Step by step. Perhaps I am doing something wrong. I am just broadcasting the flakes in the water and letting the water circulate 30 minutes the turning on the jets for 30 min and letting sit for 4-8 hours then repeat. Nothing is getting it past the 100pps reading on the test strip ( Aqua plus test strips) It is my first hot tub. I have a hot tub I cannot use and I am getting frustrated. I am limited to chemicals on Amazon France as that is were I am living. I appreciate any help or suggestions that you might be able to give. I have been doing this for 4 days now and just want to be able to enjoy my new space.
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.
**** Get the Oh Yuk! Hot Tub Cleaner I mention on Amazon! CLICK HERE - amzn.to/3ckfRmt
Currently unavailable.
We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock.
This guy needs to be a teacher. He is straight to the point, makes it easy to understand.
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
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!
Thanks, Rafal! I always appreciate constructive criticism, but it's so great when I hear about how much I was able to help.
In the same situation. My home came with one too
spent a evening watching hot tub videos, this is the best one.
I am 86 yrs. old and I could understand him, I really gleamed a lot of information.
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.
Do you mean just run jets to aerate?
@goldengirls0125 if your jets also blow air bubbles, then yes.
@@mrsparefox3704 no I don’t have bubbles .
+1 for baking soda... it works better and is cheaper
@@Tripp_777how much baking soda?
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 🤔
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.
Thank you, I got more confused now 😅
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!!
Glad it was helpful!
Yes thank God for him
I got the Oh Yuk for my hot tub and jetted tub in my bathroom and it works great. Thanks Jeff for the info.
Great! It works great for me (in, fact on the to-do list for this week!)
THANK you so much! you are a wonderful teacher and this is coming from a teacher.
Baking Soda increases the alkalinity of water and a little of ph, it does not reduce it ;)
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!
Still hasn't been corrected
@@HotTubOwnerHQ isn't alkalinity the same thing as ph
Oh duh watch the whole video dumb dumb
@@deadair801 Nope
JUST WHAT I needed. Why did I not watch this years ago
great video! thanks so much for making it to help educate and inform me and others!
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!
Thanks, Rebecca!
Just got my first hot tub. You’re videos are very helpful!
Glad I could help! Thanks for being here! - Jeff
Thanks for the great analysis and explanation!
Thx Jeff! Very informative and spoken in a simple and easy to understand way.
Super Easy Install & Usage
The water pump has to be running all the time even if we not using it?? Thanks.
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.
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 - ruclips.net/video/zw-SCTZpvIQ/видео.html
Let me know if you have any questions!
Jeff
Great video. I have Bromine & Bromine Tablets. Do I need the tablets?
Thank you for sharing all this knowledge!!! I really appreciate this! Getting ready to start the chemical mixture for the first time!
Thanks Jeff Cambell
Great information; Thanks Jeff, please what is your take on the Spa Marval.
Your putting out great content that is helpful to us noobs. Appreciate you taking the time to make these videos.
Glad you like them!
Great presentation! Thanks for creating!
Thanks for making this simple and clear
I have the hot springs fresh water salt system what are your recommendations for chemicals on this hot tub
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!
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
Great information, thank you!
Does the "Chemicals" Advice in this Video also apply to Inflatable Spas?
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?
Thank-you Jeff for you’re insight and knowledgeable information.
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.
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
Thanks for sharing 😊
Great video. Very helpful and informative.
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.
Any thoughts on Frog@ease floating chlorine blue and grey ball? I was told I do not need to shock my hot tub with chlorine since I am using these and was told it was bad to mix a regular Chlorine shock with the frog @ease system? Is that correct? I was going to go to Bromine but decided I might as well use the frog system and then eventually go to bromine when I do a water change.
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.
Just bought our first hot tub, Great videos! Subscribed
Awesome! Thank you!
What about scale management or products for metals in the water?
Seen a lot about variability or lack of accuracy among test strips. Any recommendations on test strip kits or pills tests?
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
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 RUclips 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.
Well we all are, but I'm glad I was able to help!
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.
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?
How do i lower the hardness in my hot tum. We have very hard well water .
Very informative. Thank you
THANK YOU for this! It's much appreciated!!
This was really helpful!
Swim spa almost installed and ready to fill. Your tips are on point in set up and going forward.
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?)
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.
Can you use liquid shock?
Can we buy pool chemicals at Walmart and save money
Versus buying them at a specialty store if it's identical chemicals and concentrations?
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.
how long do you run your jets when cleanning before emptying your tub
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?
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.
Thank you for the video!!! Lots of great tips.
Thank you so much!
I seem to use alot of test strips, is this normal or through time will i use less? First time hottub owner.
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.
Jeff, What about a video on storage of chemicals? The Spa Down container says to not store with chlorine, or bromine.
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
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.
Yes! An inflatable shouldn't be appreciably different from other kinds. Thanks for being here! I don't have a lot on my RUclips 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/
What are the first two products
can i use baking soda instead of ph up?
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???
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.
I tried bromine it was great to start with but I continually break out with a rash. It's choline for me.
So I have to be a chemist to learn how to take care of these?
Honestly, it gets pretty easy and simple once you get in a groove. But it can be a little intimidating at first.
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.
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
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
Thanks for being here!
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
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
@@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
@@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.
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
@@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)
4:43 Correction, baking soda raises alkalinity (it does not lower it).
Correct! If I said it lowers it in the video I must have goofed up! Sorry!
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
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
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)
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!!!
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.
Man i love this it learned for the first time owner
Yeah!!
I want to ask if you hot tub just arrive and not using it until summer can you anti freeze during winter or not
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.
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
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
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
Can I just use more sanitizer to shock?
Hi we just got the hottub and I put my chemicals in and now my water is a bit milky in colour, what do you think it is?
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?
New owner also . Mineraluxe did not work with me. Had to switch to spa guard
Hello, Newbie here and we are lost, we bought a preowned hot tun for 5 and are getting closer we are doing a privacy wall so its taking some time but after that what are the main steps to fill,clean,sanitize ? since it it pre owed someone said to buy a new filter , so once i buy the new filter what are my to go products ? I get headaches with bleach please link me any steps I need to do before its safe for us before we soak in the water ( we have a water filtration system that also filters the outdoor water) Thank you so much
Hi Rosa. I would definitely change the filter, and not knowing how it was maintained, I would probably also do a biofilm cleanout before using. That's an extra step, and would set you back a day from using it, and mean 1 extra filling up, but I would do it just in case there's any lingering bacteria. Here's my video which walks you through that - ruclips.net/video/8VxcrdIHtQo/видео.html
Hi Jeff, I have just realized that if I turn my hot tub off at night, It's stil showing 31 degrees the next morning, Am i ok to just turn it on and wait for it to come upto set temperature or is it dangerous ?? (It was turned off by mistake)
How do these chemicals affect grass when draining the tub?
What if I have hard well water?
Hey Jeff, great video. I have an intex vinyl spa that I am developing slimy walls. I check my water levels constantly, but I can't figure out why this is happening. I'm getting tired of draining and cleaning and refilling. Any advice?
Hmmm . . sounds like you are changing the water regularly, so if the chlorine, pH and alkalinity are typically all good, my thoughts would be dirty filter, biofilm buildup in the pipes and equipment, or maybe heavy lotion/perfume use by some of the users?
I'll also assume you keep it covered when not in use too.
Lastly, just make sure you clean it really thoroughly and then rinse it really thoroughly the next time you drain it.
If you haven't seen my video on getting rid of biofilm, that could be worth watching - ruclips.net/video/8VxcrdIHtQo/видео.html
Hope that helps!
Jeff
Thank you very much.... Very helpful
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?
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.
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.
Do you have ozone generators on your hot tub
Hi I’m currently using chlorine for sanitizers if I switch to bromine can I just start using it or should I replace the water 1st your help would be appreciated cheers
Hi Nigel. Great question. It's recommended that you drain and start fresh. However, since chlorine breaks down quickly in both heat and sun, I also think you could just let it goes 4-5 days, and periodically take the cover off when it's sunny, and by the end of the time period, the chlorine should be just about gone.
I'm new to this. When I switch from chlorine tabs to Bromine tabs. Do I have to drain the water a start with fresh water?
Yes you need to drain and start over I believe.... Bromine and Chlorine don't mix
Hi Steven. If you do want to switch from one to the other, either do it the next time you drain it, or let it go several days from the last time you added anything, and then switch.
Draining is ideal though.
How often should you shock and sanitize your hot tub water? First time owner here trying yo learn.
Thanks for this useful video!
Thanks! I'm still learning here, but I appreciate your watching and commenting!
HELP! I have no choice but to use soft water for my hot tub. The hot tub came with the house as did the water softener. I had the water tested at a local spa dealer and was told the calcium is too low. I have a Quebec Canadian Spa that holds 900 L/238 gallons of water. I have watched all the videos I could find on the subject. I have added HT+ (calcium cloride) 20 grams/0.7 ounces at a time for a total of 160 grams/ approx 5.6 ounces and the calcium hardness is still low. What do I do? I have watched your video on this and you make it seem so easy. Please explain how to specifically add the calcium. Step by step. Perhaps I am doing something wrong. I am just broadcasting the flakes in the water and letting the water circulate 30 minutes the turning on the jets for 30 min and letting sit for 4-8 hours then repeat. Nothing is getting it past the 100pps reading on the test strip ( Aqua plus test strips) It is my first hot tub. I have a hot tub I cannot use and I am getting frustrated. I am limited to chemicals on Amazon France as that is were I am living. I appreciate any help or suggestions that you might be able to give. I have been doing this for 4 days now and just want to be able to enjoy my new space.
Thank you so much
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.