Are you struggling with raising alkalinity in hot tub? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many hot tub owners face the challenge of maintaining the perfect water balance, and alkalinity plays a crucial role in this.
Hence, aim for an alkalinity level of 80-120 ppm to maintain balanced and comfortable water. Now, the million-dollar question: how do you do it?
Keep reading to find out!
Understanding pH Levels and Total Alkalinity
Surprisingly, total alkalinity and pH are often measured together in terms of hot tub water care.
Both of these are closely related to measuring acidity and the concentration of hydrogen ions. Still, they are distinguished by their characteristics.
Here is the explanation:
What are pH levels?
pH stands for “power of hydrogen.” It’s basically the parameter used to measure the concentration of hydrogen ions.
To understand the solution for water, including acidic states, pH scales work as a path. For that, there is a designated numeric identifier.
The scale for high pH and low pH starts from 0 to 14. To make it neutral, ensure a pH of 7. However, mixing hot tub chemicals with water influences the acidic or alkaline substance.
For example, if the hot tub’s pH is 9, the acidic level is 10 times more than the basic pH and 100 times more basic than pure water, compared to pH level 8.
What is Total Alkalinity?
Total alkalinity (TA level) defines the concentration of hydroxides, bicarbonates, carbonates, and other alkaloids in hot tub water.
That is, it’s for identifying how well the water can neutralize the acids or buffer. Furthermore, without alkalinity, the pH of your hot tub can fluctuate.
Measuring a high or low total alkalinity level in your hot tub is completely different from pH ranges. Alkalinity is measured in parts per million (ppm). The alkalinity range for the best measurement of ppm should lie between 80 and 120.
5 Simple Steps to Raising Alkalinity in Hot Tub
Maintaining the right alkalinity in your hot tub is key to enjoying a soothing, relaxing soak without worrying about water quality.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you keep your hot tub’s alkalinity in check:
1. Test Your Hot Tub’s Water
Before you add anything to your hot tub, it’s important to know where you’re starting. Grab a test strip and dip it into the water.
This will give you a quick read on the current alkalinity level. Ideally, you want it between 80-120 ppm (parts per million). If it’s too low, you need to take action.
2. Add an Alkalinity Increaser
Once you’ve identified the need for adjustment, it’s time to add an alkalinity increaser. These products are specifically designed to boost the alkalinity of your hot tub water.
Measure the recommended amount based on your hot tub’s size and current alkalinity level, then sprinkle it evenly across the water surface.
3. Turn on Hot Tub Pumps
Next, turn on your hot tub’s pumps. This helps to evenly distribute the alkalinity increaser throughout the water, ensuring it gets mixed in properly. Let the pumps run for at least 15-20 minutes to make sure everything is thoroughly circulated.
4. Turn off the Pumps
After letting the water circulate, turn off the pumps. Give the water a little time to settle. This is a great opportunity to check out the other features of your hot tub or simply relax for a bit.
5. Re-test the pH Level of the Hot Tub
Finally, it’s time to re-test the water. Use a fresh test strip to check the alkalinity and pH levels. If the alkalinity is within the 80-120 ppm range and the pH is balanced, you’re all set.
If not, you might need to repeat the process or make further adjustments.
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How to Test and Raise Alkalinity in a Natural Way?
You can adopt a natural way to test and raise alkalinity to avoid dry and harsh chemicals, including potential damage.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Locate the spa jet and turn it off.
- Use a water test strip to find out the pH level.
- Use 1 table of baking soda per 100 gallons of water.
- Now turn the spa jet on.
- Let the water circulate properly.
- Wait at least 3 to 4 hours to check and retest the pH level.
- Use more baking soda to raise the pH level.
Is A Hot Tub With High Alkalinity Harmful?
When your hot tube water has high alkalinity, it can cause some serious issues. Besides damaging your hot tub, it can also affect your body. Such as the following:
Makes Sanitizer Useless: High alkalinity makes sanitizer useless, which makes your hot tub into a hub of bacteria. Besides, it becomes a disgusting color with a green shade as well.
Build-up of Scale: The hot tub builds up the scale by taking advantage of its high alkalinity. It causes different skin issues, especially spa folliculitis, itching, and dry skin.
Waste of Money: Because of the high alkalinity, you need to use extra sanitizing chemicals that can cut your pocket.
Furthermore, you might need to incur some unplanned maintenance cost when total alkalinity affect the life of hot tub filter, pipes, etc.
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Wrapping Up
Maintaining the right alkalinity in your hot tub doesn’t have to be a complex task.
With these easy-to-follow steps on raising alkalinity in hot tub, you’ll be able to keep your spa water balanced, crystal clear, and ready for a relaxing soak anytime.
Remember, a little regular maintenance goes a long way in preserving the health and enjoyment of your hot tub. Happy soaking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to lower alkalinity without lowering pH?
Use 3.5 ounces of sodium bisulfate to lower the TA to 1,000 gallons. On the other hand, for 500 gallons, use 1.75 ounces of sodium bisulfate to lower alkalinity by ten ppm.
What happens if alkalinity is too high in a hot tub?
High alkalinity in the hot tub creates different problems. Such as it can make different sanitizer substances like bromine and chlorine useless. Besides, it can make the scale-building process much faster and create foam and cloudy water.
Can I use baking soda instead of an alkalinity increaser?
Yes, baking soda is commonly used to raise alkalinity and pH. All you need to do is add this substance to the solution. However, it can be dangerous without knowing the level of alkalinity and pH. So, make sure to follow the instructions properly.
Is it safe to put baking soda in a hot tub?
They are a super safe chemical to use. You can directly use them in the tub and easily buy them from the local grocery store.
