What does shock dosing your hot tub actually do?
- Removing organic matter from the hot tub. After periods of heavy use, your hot tub water may well be saturated with organic matter. ...
- Removing harmful bacteria and algae from the water. ...
- Removing bromamines and chloramines. ...
- Reactivating bromine. ...
What is the best shock for a hot tub?
What is Shock Treatment? Shocking a spa means applying an ample dose of chlorine (sodium dichlor) or non-chlorine shock (potassium monopersulfate or MPS). One purpose of this treatment is to break-down organic waste contaminants which cause odor and cloudy water. After treatment, water quality and clarity is often completely restored.
How do you shock a hot tub?
Dec 06, 2011 · We carry Proteam Multi Magic Shock for our Dichlor shock, as well as Proteam Sodium Dichlor and Spa Pure Granular Chlorine.This shock can be used with bromine, chlorine, Nature 2, and Frog systems.Water problems or not, at Hot Tub Warehouse we recommend using a shock treatment at least once a week, and more for tubs that are used daily to maintain the …
How often should you shock a hot tub?
Shocking your hot tub removes Chloramines and Bromamines. These unsavory characters are molecules formed by organic waste (nitrogen and ammonia) meeting the contents of your pool sanitizer. This releases a particular odor- if you’ve ever been to a pool that stank very badly of chlorine, most likely it was in need of a shock.
Do I really need to shock my hot tub?
Spa shock is an oxidizer that is used to destroy organic contaminants that have been able to escape normal daily sanitation. Oxidation involves the transfer of electrons, and when hot tub water contaminants or pathogens are oxidized, they lose electrons, and quickly expire, or cease to exist. Today's blog post is all about shocking a spa or hot tub.
When should you shock your hot tub?
once a weekGenerally it is recommended that you shock your hot tub once a week – more often if it's seeing heavy use. If your levels are all good, but the water is a bit cloudy or doesn't quite smell right, it's time for a shock. You should also shock the tub if you haven't used it for an extended period of time.Jan 20, 2017
What does shock a hot tub mean?
The main purpose of spa shock is to break-down organic waste contaminants which cause bad odors and cloudy or foamy hot tub water. It does this by oxidizing the water, which is the process of rapidly removing the outer electrons from contaminants in the water that the spa shock comes in contact with.
Is spa shock the same as chlorine?
Is Spa Shock the same as Chlorine? Sodium dichlor shock is a form of chlorine and can act as both sanitiser and shock treatment. If you're using a chlorine-free shock product like MPS (potassium peroxy-monosulphate), then this will not have any chlorine in it.
Should I shock my hot tub after every use?
Dead skin and other elements like hair may end up dropping in the hot tub, leaving the tub in a mess. It is essential to shock the hot tub frequently – at least once every week. It is important to use Chlorine shocks as well as non-Chlorine shocks.Oct 26, 2020
Can you put too much shock in a hot tub?
The bottom line is that over-shocking is possible, but being responsible with your chemicals and timing will help you to avoid it as often as possible!Feb 6, 2021
Is Spa shock necessary?
The main reason anyone shocks their hot tub is to clean the water, but it also helps to clear cloudy water. Other reasons to shock your hot tub include: To kill bacteria – Chlorine based shock treatments are designed to sanitise the hot tub water and ensure it is safe for bathers.Feb 21, 2019
Can I add chlorine and shock at the same time?
It Should Not Be Done Together This is because when you mix chlorine and algaecide together, it renders both of them useless. Hence, you should first shock the pool and wait for the chlorine levels to fall below 5 PPM.Jan 22, 2020
Can you add shock and chlorine at the same time to a hot tub?
Adding chlorine besides the shock can increase the chlorine content in the water which can make the entire shocking process useless. Hence, it is better if you don't use the shock and chlorine at the same time. The best time to add chlorine to the pool water is after you have shocked the pool.Jan 22, 2020
Non-Chlorine Shock
For non-chlorine shock, we recommend either Spa Pure Spa Oxidizing Shock or ProTeam Spa Oxidizing Shock. Both of these are an oxygen-based shock referred to as a monopersulfate compound (MPS). They are widely used and preferred because they have very little to no chemical odor.
Dichlor Shock
Dichlor shock is also commonly referred to as chlorine shock, as it is made of a form of chlorine, sodium dichlor, often not used as a primary shock occasional use can be very good to clear up water problems.
How does chlorine shock work?
A chlorine granular shock is comprised mainly of chlorine in high concentration. It works by spiking the chlorine hard and fast. It is ideal for killing bacteria, after heavy usage and after refilling your hot tub to give the chlorine sanitizer a head start.
How to test hot tub water before adding shock?
Test your hot tub water before adding the shock. A balanced hot tub will be way more receptive to a shock and exponentially more effective. Ensure that the pH is between 7.2 and 7.6 because oxidizers work more effectively in a low pH environment. The hot tub cover should be removed and kept off for at least 30 minutes after adding the shock.
What are the different types of shocks in a hot tub?
Types of Hot Tub Shock. There are 2 types of hot tub shock, chlorine and non-chlorine shock and they are very different. There is no best shock that is ideal for all situations but each one is very good for specific circumstances that we'll go over.
How long does it take to shock a hot tub?
The amount of time it takes will vary on the size of your tub and how much shock you used, it can take between 15 minutes and several hours for a chlorine shock. If you used a non-chlorine hot tub shock you won't have to wait very long after shocking to use your hot tube because it doesn't actually sanitize the water.
How long to wait to test chlorine in hot tub?
It should be a 15-20 minute wait but always read the label on the shock manufacturers packaging for safety recommendations. The fastest way to test the chlorine in your hot tub is to use a chlorine test strip. You will get an instant result so you will know with confidence that its safe to enjoy your hot tub again.
What is organic sanitizer?
The term organic contaminants is a nice way of referring to sweat, urine, dead skin and anything else that a person brings with them into the water. The hot tub sanitizer can handle a moderate level of organics but when you get a high bather load, the sanitizer can fall behind. This is where a hot tub shock comes in really handy to give the sanitizer a boost to get back on track.
What is a pool test kit?
A complete pool or hot tub test kit is something that every hot tub or pool owner should have on hand. It may take a bit of time to learn how to use the testing equipment but it becomes second nature after a few times.
What is hot tub shock?
From a chemical standpoint, hot tub shock is an oxidizer. An oxidizer is a chemical that causes impurities to lose electrons, and that causes them to break down quickly. These are in powdered or liquid form and can come in various chemical composition: chlorine in granular form, non-chlorine salts, or liquid chlorine.
Why is it important to shock a hot tub?
Shocking, and for more extreme cases, draining and shocking, will help to get safe and clear water. Shocking your Tub eradicates bacteria. If your haven’t frequently used your hottub, left it uncovered and exposed to the sunshine or haven’t been sanitizing correctly- your bathers are at risk of bacteria exposure.
How long does it take for a chlorine shock to clear?
Be cautious while putting shock into the water. After NON-CHLORINE shock wait 10-15 minutes before entering. After chlorine shock it can take up to 24 hours to clear. Therefore it is recommended to use non-chlorine shock. It is always recommended to test with a PH strip again before entering.
Why is shocking important?
To conclude: Shocking is important for maintaining clear water and guaranteeing the safety of your bathers. These chemicals remove and eradicate unsavory molecules and give your non-chlorine sanitizer a boost in doing its job. It can also help eliminate the need to drain and refill your tub.
How long should you wait to use shock?
You must wait 10-15 minutes before entering the tub after application, and of course, PH testing is always a good idea.
How to stop a hot tub from releasing chemicals?
This is an important step as it allows the chemical reaction to release into the air rather than to circulate around the enclosure. Apply safety gloves while handling shock. Check that your tub's PH is between 7.2 and 7.6 (balanced or neutral PH). Turn on your pumps, but keep the air off.
What is the PH of a tub?
Check that your tub's PH is between 7.2 and 7.6 (balanced or neutral PH). Turn on your pumps, but keep the air off. This will allow for calm water that is not too turbid. Choose your dose of shock according to the package and label. Be cautious while putting shock into the water.
What is a hot tub shock?
What is Hot tub Shock? Hot tub shocks are made from a powdered form of oxidizer, either a form of granular chlorine, non-chlorine potassium sulfate salts or liquid chlorine (bleach). When using a biguanide sanitizer system (Aqua Silk), the spa shock is made of liquid hydrogen peroxide, which can not be used in a bromine or chlorine treated spa/hot ...
Why do spas shock?
There are 3 main reasons to shock a spa: 1. To destroy excessive contaminants in a hot tub after use by several people, 2. To reactivate bromide ions into active bromine, and 3. To kill algae, bacteria, viruses and pathogens that may escape your normal daily sanitation chemical.
What happens when hot tub water is oxidized?
Oxidation involves the transfer of electrons, and when hot tub water contaminants or pathogens are oxidized, they lose electrons, and quickly expire, or cease to exist. Today's blog post is all about shocking a spa or hot tub. What, how, when and why a spa or hot tub is shocked. A shocking topic to be sure!
Is spa shock dangerous?
Spa Shocks are dangerous - if mixed with any other chemical, or allowed to become moist, or contaminated with dirt or debris, it has the ability to produce noxious fumes, catch fire or explode. Yes, spa shock can be extremely hazardous, and must be stored in a cool, dry location, safely out of the reach of children.
Is there such a thing as bromine shock?
There is no such thing as bromine shock, although many people confuse bromide ions with spa shock. Bromides (aka Bromine Boosters or Reserve) are used sparingly to boost the 'bromide bank', which is reactivated into bromine by using chlorine granules, or MPS (aka non-chlorine shock).
What is the best hot tub shock?
Dichlor shock. The most active ingredient in many hot tub shock formulas. It can be added right into the water, depending on the instructions on your package. It is stabilized and will be okay in the heat. Make sure you shock at night, so the sun does not overheat the hot tub water. Lithium Hypochlorite.
Why is it important to shock a hot tub?
It is important to shock your hot tub consistently and to also keep it nice and sanitized. Without this, the water can get gross and murky looking, and no one will want to use the hot tub.
How often should I shock my hot tub?
Should I Shock My Hot Tub? All hot tub owners need to shock their hot tub once a week. Additional shock can also be added after extra heavy use. Shock both revitalizes the sanitizer in the water, but it also removes chloramines or bromamines which can render the sanitizer inert.
Which is better for hot tub: chlorine or bromine?
Either one is great for cleaning or sanitizing it. However, chlorine is not great in the heat of your hot tub and breaks down faster. So while it’s cheaper, you will find you are adding it more frequently. Bromine is better to use overall as it holds up to the heat better.
What happens when you shock a hot tub?
Well, when you shock a hot tub, you are removing organic matter from the water and reactivating the sanitizer. Whereas sanitizing removes just bacteria and viruses. Therefore, it is important to do both for your hot tub, to keep it clean and working properly.
Is chlorine shock better than non chlorine shock?
Chlorine shock does a better job of cleaning the water than non-chlorine shock. But some people find it too harsh on the skin. My personal preference is bromine sanitizer tablets in a floater and powdered chlorine shock. So, you have a new hot tub and it is nice and relaxing, not to mention very warm in the winter.
Can you use liquid bleach in a hot tub?
Unfortunately, they’re not 100% correct. While you can use liquid bleach in a hot tub , you must use it in a certain way. So make sure you read this recent article before pouring in the Chlorox.
How to shock a hot tub?
How to shock you hot tub step-by-step guide 1 First you will need to adjust your pH levels of your hot tub water to between 7.4 and 7,6 and have the cover off to perform the shock so your hot tub is ‘open’. 2 Then, while the circulation pump is running, you should turn off the air to the jets to ensure that your hot tub water has movement without the extreme force of the jets. It is also a good tip to ensure children and pets are out of the way and that you have rubber gloves and goggles ready at hand for when you are applying the shock. 3 Now comes one of the preparation and application processes that is not to be rushed. After consulting your shock treatment instructions, you will need to measure out the correct level of shock treatment to correspond with the water total that is currently in your hot tub. 4 Once you have the correct level of shock you should apply it to the water, using gloves and goggles to avoid risk to your hands and eyes from the chemicals, with utmost care. Naturally, if any of the shock treatment is dropped on the surface or exterior of the hot tub or on the ground then you should make every effort to clear it up immediately.
How to adjust hot tub water pH?
First you will need to adjust your pH levels of your hot tub water to between 7.4 and 7,6 and have the cover off to perform the shock so your hot tub is ‘open’. Then, while the circulation pump is running, you should turn off the air to the jets to ensure that your hot tub water has movement without the extreme force of the jets.
What to do if hot tub water is deteriorating?
If you suspect that your hot tub water quality is deteriorating then a shock treatment may be necessary. It is much better to act responsibly than to be faced with murky or contaminated water when all you want to do is relax and enjoy top quality hydrotherapy.
Can chlorine shock be used for water?
Chlorine shock treatments. Chlorine-based shock treatments will combine oxidizers and disinfectants but can tend to be harsher treatments for your water, and could cause corrosion issues, so that it may be the case that they are used periodically. They are most preferable when you are conducting a complete water change or as part ...
Can you use non chlorine shock on a weekly basis?
Non-chlorine shock treatments. Non-chlorine shock treatments, on the other hand, can be used more regularly, on a weekly basis for example, as this process can maintain your clean water, but be aware this process will not disinfect it.
Is shock treatment part of water maintenance?
As a general routine the shock treatment process should be part of a responsible owner’s water maintenance process. It is best practice to become proficient in the shock process to ensure it is an easy routine that you can always be capable of getting to grips with and performing yourself. First you will need to adjust your pH levels ...
What happens if you leave hot tub water untreated?
If left untreated, hot tub water will become unsanitary; bacteria and other microorganisms can grow in the water. Minerals can build up as well, eventually harming internal systems or causing unsightly scale or residue to appear on the hot tub’s shell.
Why is chlorine needed in water?
Because chlorine dissipates quickly in water and needs to be replaced, this type of system requires more chlorine overall to maintain a constant residual amount for sanitation.
How long does a freshwater salt system last?
With this method, the FreshWater® Salt System can keep the water in your hot tub fresh and clean for up to a year of normal use**—far longer than other systems can.
Why do people have hot tubs?
Owning a hot tub can work wonders for your quality of life. Being able to soak in warm, soothing waters a few steps from your back door opens up a world of wellness benefits—from relaxing massages to improved sleep to more opportunities for family time. In order to enjoy these benefits, choose a water care system that ensures your water is always hot and ready.
What is the last part of hot tub water care?
The last portion of hot tub water care you’ll want to keep in mind is the maintenance of your filtration system . While sanitizers and shock products reduce bacterial growth and destroy small amounts of contamination, larger foreign objects—such as pine needles, pollen, or leaves—must be filtered out.
What should hot tub water be free of?
Water should be free of metals (iron, copper, and manganese) and low in calcium hardness. Your local dealer can help you test your local tap water before you get started. You’ll find in this hot tub water treatment guide introductions to the various water care systems and the maintenance involved.
What are 5 way test strips used for?
Used at varying frequencies in hot tubs that are treated by ozone, in-line chlorine sanitizers, chlorine generators, and manual chlorine addition—5-way test strips help you monitor your chlorine, bromine, pH, alkalinity, and total water hardness. These are the basic test strips used regularly in many hot tubs.
