Every day, bacteria and other contaminants can find their way into your spa water. Proper circulation will help prevent these contaminants from becoming problems.

Most spa problems are caused by poor filtration. A filter that's operating properly helps keep the water clean by capturing the hair, oils, and cosmetics that wash off when people use the spa. When the filter is dirty or clogged, all this debris remains in the water. Typically you should clean the filter every four to six weeks with SpaGuard Filter Cleaner and Degreaser.

Regular draining and refilling is a normal part of spa maintenance. Over time, the water absorbs and dissolves minerals, chemicals, and other soluble material. Water could look dull, become foamy, and develop an odor.

This section will help you identify and correct typical problems for spas. When in doubt, however, bring us a pint of spa water for a free analysis.

Colored Water/Metals
Copper may erode or corrode from the spa's circulation system and dissolve into the water due to high velocity and/or low pH, low total alkalinity, and low calcium hardness. This can show up as green or greenish-blue water. The source or make-up water may also contain metals such as iron, copper, or manganese. To prevent these from depositing out on the spa's surface and causing ugly stains, use SpaGuard Stain and Scale Control.

Stains
Stains are usually caused by metals in the water as listed above. SpaGuard Stain and Scale Control may lighten or remove fresh stains. Prevent stains before they occur by adding SpaGuard Stain and Scale Control weekly.

Scale
Rough, sandpaper-like deposits can coat spa walls, clog circulation and filtration systems and plug heaters. Scale is a result of excess dissolved calcium in the water. It becomes unstable in solution because of high pH in hot water and precipitates out as calcium carbonate. Use SpaGuard Stain and Scale Control on a weekly basis to prevent scaling and cloudy water. Maintain pH between 7.2 and 7.6; total alkalinity between 125 and 150ppm; and calcium hardness between 100 and 200 ppm. To test the levels, use the three-way test strips or bring a water sample to 21st Century Pools & Spas.

Foaming
Foaming is fairly common due to agitation and the presence of lotion, cosmetics, and other substances. Use SpaGuard Anti-Foam to eliminate existing foam from the spa surface.