Owner`s manual

Pathogen: A microorganism such as bacterium that cause disease.
pH: The measure of the spa water’s acidity and alkalinity. The recommended pH for the spa water is 7.2 to 7.8. Below 7.0 (considered neutral), the spa water is too
acidic and can damage the heating system. Above 7.8, the water is too alkaline and can result in cloudy water, and scale formation on the shell and heater.
ppm: The abbreviation of “parts per million”, the standard measurement of chemical concentration in water. Identical to mg/l (milligrams per liter).
Reagent: A chemical material in liquid, powder, or tablet form for use in chemical testing.
Sanitizer: Sanitizers are added and maintained at recommended residuals to protect bathers against pathogenic organisms which can cause disease and infection in
spa water.
Scale: Rough calcium-bearing deposits that can coat spa surfaces, heaters, plumbing lines and clog filters. Generally, scaling is caused by mineral content combined
with high pH. Additionally, scale forms more readily at higher water temperatures.
Shock Treatment: Also known as “super-chlorination” when chlorine is used. Shock treatment is a process of adding significant doses of a quick dissolving sanitizer
(sodium dichlor is recommended) to oxidize non-filterable organic waste and to remove chloramines and bromamines.
Total Alkalinity: The amount of bicarbonates, carbonates, and hydroxides present in spa water. Proper total alkalinity is important for pH control. If the TA is too high, the
pH is difficult to adjust. If the TA is too low, the pH will be difficult to hold at the proper level. The desired range of TA in spa water is 80 to 180 ppm.
GENERAL INFORMATION
THE THREE FUNDAMENTAL AREAS OF WATER MAINTENANCE:
Water Filtration•
Chemical Balance/pH Control•
Water Sanitation•
Water sanitation is the responsibility of the spa owner. To properly sanitize the spa, Watkins highly recommends the SPA FROG
®
water care system. This system will
chemically control the bacteria and viruses present in the fill water or introduced during use of the spa. Bacteria and viruses can grow quickly in undersanitized spa water.
The water’s chemical balance and pH control are also the responsibility of the spa owner. You’ll have to add chemicals to maintain proper levels of Total Alkalinity
(TA), Calcium Hardness (CH) and pH. Proper water balance and pH control will minimize scale buildup, extend the life of the spa, and allow the sanitizer to work at an
optimum level.
METHODS FOR TESTING THE SPA WATER
Accurate water testing and analysis is an important part of effectively managing your spa water. You must have the ability to test for:
• Total Alkalinity (TA)
• Calcium Hardness (CH)
• pH
• Sanitizer
Two types of testing methods are recognized and recommended by Watkins Manufacturing Corporation:
1. The Reagent Test Kit is a method which provides a high level of accuracy. The reagents come in either liquid or tablet form.
2. Test Strips are a convenient testing method used by many spa owners. Keep in mind that test strips are susceptible to heat and moisture contamination, which will
result in inaccurate readings.
Always read and carefully follow the directions included with the Test Kit or Test Strips to ensure the accuracy of the test results.
BASIC CHEMICAL SAFETY
When using chemicals, read the labels carefully and follow directions precisely. Though chemicals protect you and your spa when used correctly, they can be hazardous
in concentrated form. Always observe the following guidelines:
• Allow only a responsible person to handle spa chemicals. KEEP THEM OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.
• Accurately measure the exact quantities specified, never more. Do not overdose your spa.
• Handle all containers with care. Store in a cool, dry, well ventilated place.
• Always replace the caps on their proper containers when not in use.
• Don’t inhale fumes or allow chemicals to come in contact with your eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash your hands immediately after use.
• Follow the emergency advice on the product label in case of accidental contact, or if the chemical is swallowed. Call a doctor or the local Poison Control Center.
If a doctor is needed, take the product container along with you so that the substance can be identified.
• Don’t let chemicals get on surrounding surfaces or landscaping.
• Don’t use a vacuum cleaner to clean up chemical spills.
• Never smoke around chemicals. Some fumes can be highly flammable.
• Don’t store any chemicals in the spa equipment compartment.
WATER QUALITY AND MAINTENANCE
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