How to Keep pH Levels From Fluctuating in a Spa

Proper pH levels prevents too acidic or too alkaline hot tub water.

While hot tubs offer relaxation and rejuvenation, a lot of work is necessary to maintain the spa's water. The pH represents the amount of hydrogen ions in the water. Improper pH levels can result in the hot tub water being too acidic or having too much alkaline. Fluctuating pH can result if other chemicals in the hot tub are at improper levels. Water alkalinity is typically the biggest factor that can alter pH levels. Testing the water periodically is necessary to maintain proper pH levels in the spa's water.

Things You'll Need

• Spa water test kit
• Alkalinity increaser
• Alkalinity decreaser
• PH increaser
• PH decreaser

Instructions

1. Dip the litmus strip from the spa water test kit into the water. Compare the test strip to the chart in the test kit. Proper pH levels should be from 7.2 to 7.8 in the water.

2. Adjust the alkalinity of the spa's water. Add either alkalinity increaser or decreaser (for hot tubs) to get the water's alkalinity to the recommended level of 80 to 100 ppm.

3. Add pH increaser or decreaser to achieve the proper pH levels for the spa's water.

4. Increase the filtration time of the hot tub. Increased filtration will help remove debris, bacteria or body oils that can break down the water's pH faster than normal.

5. Test your spa water after 24 hours. If the chemical levels have changed dramatically, take a water sample to your local hot tub supply shop and seek their recommendations for correcting water issues.

Tips & Warnings

• Creating a weekly or biweekly maintenance schedule can help you learn about your spa and ensure that water chemicals do not fluctuate too much. Improper water chemicals can cause problems in the spa.

References

• "The Ultimate Pool Maintenance Manual: Spas, Pools, Hot Tubs, Rockscapes and Other Water Features, 2nd Edition"; Terry Tamminen; 2000