Getting a new spa is always exciting, but new spa owners may often be confused when it comes to spa chemicals and find them daunting to learn about. The good news is that despite how intimidating they may seem, using spa chemicals is straightforward and easy to manage once you learn how. We’ve created the Ultimate Beginner’s Guide for you to learn everything you need to know about spa chemicals, from which spa chemicals you need, how long they last, how to use spa chemicals safely and more.  

Which Spa Chemicals do I need?

When it comes to which chemicals you need to treat your spa, the ones you need to use will change depending on your water quality. The first step in treating your spa water is to balance it, which means you will need to use a testing strip to measure the pH and alkalinity. Using two chemicals – a alkalinity increaser and pH decreaser, also known as alkalinity up and pH down. Adjust the water balance bit by bit and wait 20 minutes to re-test the water. Unbalanced spa water can damage your spa pumps and heaters, so it’s essential to keep a close eye on it. Other options outside of testing strips include a liquid test kit or even taking a water sample to your local pool and spa store and asking them to test it for you.  

Sanitiser is the next step, which may simply be in a bottle labelled ‘sanitiser’ but also take the form of Chlorine or Chlorine-Free products. Depending on which sanitiser you have, there will be different instructions on the packaging for how much to use, so follow the recommended dosage/1,000 litres of spa water. To calculate this, find your spa literage by checking your spa model spec sheet. Depending on how often you use your spa, a weekly shock treatment is recommended for ultimate sanitation – particularly if your spa water starts looking cloudy.   Other chemicals you may find necessary include Calcium Hardener, Spa Shock and Water Clarifier.  

Are Spa Chemicals Safe?   

Many worry about the safety of using spa chemicals, especially when it comes to things like skin and eye irritation (and sometimes even respiratory problems). Still, the vital thing to remember is that spa chemicals are absolutely necessary and enable us to use our spas safely. Without them, our spas would be breeding grounds for all sorts of bacteria. They may pose a danger only when they are handled incorrectly or recklessly, so it’s important to take precautions like keeping them out of reach of children and avoiding direct contact with skin. When used properly, the benefits of using spa chemicals far outweigh the risks, so be sure to follow all the product’s instructions carefully when it comes to storing, using and handling the chemicals.  

How long do Spa Chemicals last?   

While spa chemicals can expire, they have a decent shelf life of anywhere between 3 to 5 years. Remember to read the packaging carefully for specific instructions and store them correctly to ensure you get the longest life out of them. Remember that for many products, the longer you store them, the lower they drop in efficacy.  

How to use Spa Chemicals  

Before beginning, ensure that your spa jets are turned off, including all air/blower jets. A filtration/Circulation pump is important to be running to circulate the water. Wear rubber gloves for safety and, using a testing strip, test the water by holding the strip at least 10cm under the water for 2-4 seconds. Once you have an idea of the amount of pH down and/or alkalinity up you will need, pre-measure out the amounts and first add them into a half-full bucket of spa water. Adding small quantities at a time and using a stirrer, eventually pour the dissolved bucket mixture into the spa with the pump and filter operating. Wait 20 minutes before re-testing the water, and adjust as necessary. Once your water is balanced, repeat the process, starting with a testing strip for sanitiser levels.  

Need to stock up on your spa care needs? We have a full range of spa chemicals and supplies to keep your spa in tip top shape. Shop now!