Owning a saltwater spa pool can be a fantastic way to relax and unwind, but keeping it in top condition does require a bit of know-how. Don’t worry, though, maintaining your saltwater spa pool doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, with a few simple tips and regular care, you can keep your spa pool looking pristine and running smoothly all year round.
Whether you’re a seasoned spa owner or just starting out, this guide will help you understand the essentials of saltwater spa pool maintenance.
Understanding Your Saltwater Spa Pool
A saltwater spa pool combines the best of both worlds: the therapeutic benefits of a spa and the gentle, natural sanitising properties of saltwater. Unlike traditional chlorine spas, which require regular addition of chlorine, saltwater spas use a salt chlorinator to convert salt into chlorine. This results in softer, silkier water that’s kinder to your skin and eyes.
What is the difference between saltwater spa pools, saltwater spas, and saltwater hot tubs? While some of these terms are used interchangeably, let’s break them down:
- Saltwater spa pools typically refer to larger installations that can accommodate multiple people and are often designed for relaxation and hydrotherapy.
- Saltwater spas are similar but might be slightly smaller and more focused on therapeutic features like jets and ergonomic seating.
- Saltwater hot tubs are usually the smallest, portable units that are perfect for a cozy, personal soak.
Knowing the difference between these can help you choose the right saltwater spa or hot tub to install in your home.
Setting Up Your Saltwater Spa Pool
Setting up your saltwater spa pool correctly from the start is crucial for its long-term performance and your enjoyment.
- Find a level spot that can support the weight of the filled spa. Consider accessibility, privacy, and proximity to power sources.
- A concrete slab or reinforced deck is ideal. Ensure it’s level to avoid any strain on the spa’s structure.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. This often involves placing the spa, connecting the plumbing, and ensuring the electrical setup is safe and compliant with local regulations.
- Use a garden hose to fill the spa. Check for leaks and ensure the water level is appropriate.
- Refer to your spa’s manual for the correct amount of salt. Typically, for a swim spa of 5,000L you will need between 1,800 PPM- 2,000 PPM (Parts Per Million). However, you should always read the instructions on your salt before you add it to your water. If in doubt, always ask a professional! We are happy to help!
- Turn on the system and let it run to start the chlorination process. It may take a day or two for the salt to convert to chlorine fully.
One of the primary benefits of saltwater systems is their reduced reliance on harsh chemicals. This not only lessens the environmental impact but also simplifies water chemistry management. With fewer chemicals, spa owners experience less maintenance and can enjoy more time relaxing. Regularly testing the water and adding salt as needed helps maintain the correct salinity levels, preventing issues such as corrosion and ensuring that the spa water remains clean and balanced.
Regular Maintenance Tips for Saltwater Hot Tubs
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your saltwater hot tub or spa in tip-top shape. Two things you should keep in mind for your year-round maintenance include:
- Remember to clean! Regularly wiping down the spa’s surface helps prevent build-up of dirt, grime, and stains. Use a soft cloth or sponge with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. Pay special attention to the waterline where build-up is most likely to occur. This simple task can keep your spa looking fresh and inviting.
- Maintain your equipment! Your saltwater spa relies on several key pieces of equipment to function correctly. Regularly check the chlorinator cell for any signs of scaling or damage.
With higher usage, you might need to check and balance the water chemistry more frequently. Ensure the water level remains adequate as evaporation rates increase. Consider using a cover to keep debris out when not in use.
If you plan to use your spa less frequently, consider winterising your spa. This involves draining the water, cleaning the spa thoroughly, and covering it securely. If you’re still using it, ensure it’s properly insulated and monitor the water chemistry closely to prevent any issues from the cold weather.
Water Chemistry Management
Pay close attention to your spa water quality to ensure your water chemistry is balanced.
- Check Salt Levels! Regularly testing the salt levels is crucial to ensure your chlorinator can effectively produce chlorine. Use test strips or a digital metre to check the salt concentration in your spa. If the salt levels are too low, the chlorinator won’t be able to produce enough chlorine, leading to poor water quality. If too high, it can cause corrosion and other damage to the spa’s components.
- Keeping an eye on the water quality involves regularly testing for pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Aim for a pH level between 7.2 and 7.8.
Neglecting your spa’s water chemistry can lead to several unpleasant and costly issues. High pH levels can cause cloudy water, scaling on surfaces and equipment, and reduce the effectiveness of chlorine, making your spa unsanitary.
On the other hand, low pH levels can result in corrosive water that damages your spa’s surfaces, plumbing, and equipment, causing irritation to skin and eyes.
Excessive chlorine levels can bleach surfaces and swimsuits and cause a strong chlorine smell and skin irritation. Insufficient chlorine levels can lead to cloudy water, unpleasant odours, and algae growth, making the water unsafe.
High alkalinity can make balancing the pH difficult, causing scaling and cloudy water, while low alkalinity results in rapid pH fluctuations and corrosive water. High calcium hardness can cause scaling and clog pipes, while low calcium hardness leads to etching of the spa’s surfaces.
These issues not only affect the spa’s functionality and appearance but also detract from the overall enjoyment and safety of your spa experience.
Cleaning and Upkeep Your Saltwater Spa Pool
Keeping your saltwater spa pool clean and well-maintained is essential to ensure it remains a relaxing and hygienic retreat. Regular cleaning and upkeep not only extend the life of your spa but also enhance your overall experience.
Filter Maintenance
Filters play a crucial role in keeping your saltwater spa pool water clean by trapping dirt, debris, and other contaminants. There are three main types of filters used in spa pools: cartridge filters, sand filters, and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters.
Cartridge filters are the most common type of filters for spa pools. They are easy to maintain and can be cleaned by simply removing the cartridge and hosing it down every few weeks. Depending on usage, you might need to soak the cartridge in a filter cleaner solution every few months to remove oils and other buildup. It’s advisable to replace the cartridge annually.
Sanitising
Saltwater sanitizers are gentle yet effective. You can perform a shock treatment every 1-2 weeks to oxidise contaminants and maintain water clarity. This is a chemical that you can buy that breaks the contaminants away from the chlorine that they cling to. This process kills the bacteria and releases the chlorine back into the water.
Simply add a chlorine shock or non-chlorine oxidiser according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Removing Debris
Regularly skim the surface for leaves and debris, vacuum the bottom to remove dirt, and brush the sides to prevent algae growth. A few minutes each week can keep your spa looking clean and make the world of difference next time you jump in your saltwater spa.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best care, you might encounter some issues with your saltwater hot tub. These issues can range from broken equipment to water contaminants. Some of the water issues you can encounter include:
- Cloudy water: Check and balance pH, chlorine, and alkalinity. Clean or replace the filter.
- Foamy water: This can be due to oils, lotions, or detergents. Use a defoamer and remind users to rinse off before entering the spa.
- Algae growth: Brush the spa and shock the water. Ensure your sanitizer levels are adequate.
Need help with your saltwater spa issues? The best thing you can do is call our professional team at Northside Spa Repairs to come out and help you solve your issues, so you can get back to enjoying your hot tub.
Give Our Team a Call
For spa repairs, replacements or even for some expert advice, you can give our team a call!
Maintaining a saltwater spa pool offers several advantages over traditional hot tubs, making it a popular choice among spa owners. However, you don’t need to be daunted by the maintenance routine! With these simple tips and a regular maintenance routine, you can enjoy a clean, inviting spa all year round.
If you encounter any issues or need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experts at Northside Spa Repairs.