Water Maintenance Guide

Water Maintenance

It's Important to have clean water. Water maintenance is one of the least understood, but very important areas of spa ownership. your dealer can guide you through the process of achieving and maintaining perfect water in your spa, given your local use your spa, and how many people use it. Here is our suggested step-by-step program:

General Information:

There are three fundamental areas of water maintenance. They are (1) Water Filtration, (2) Water Sanitation, and (3) Chemical Balance/pH Control.

Although your spa's filter system is working several hours a day to remove particles from you water, it does not remove bacteria or viruses. Water sanitation is the responsibility of the spa owner. It can be achieved through the regular and periodic (daily, if necessary) addition of an approved sanitizer. The sanitizer will chmically control the bacteria and viruses present in the spa water. 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 will 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 and corrosion of metals, extend the life of the spa, and allow the sanitizer to work at maximum efficiency.

Methods For Testing The Spa Water:

Accurate water testing and analysis are an important part of effectively maintaining your spa water. To follow the Arctic Spas recommended program , you must have the ability to test for:

+ Total Alkalinity (TA)

+ Calcium Hardness (CH>

+ pH

+ Sanitizer

Although reagent liquid test kits provide the highest level of accuracy, Test Strips are the most 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.

IMPORTANT: Always read and carefully follow the directions included with the Test Kit or Test Strips to ensure the accuracy of the test results.

Hints For Successful Water Testing:

When using the reagent test kit:

+ Always take water samples 12"" - 18"" below the water surface.

+ Rinse the test cells before and after each use.

+ Do not dispose of test samples into the spa water

+ When adding drops of chemicals from the kit into the test block, hold the bottle vertically and add the drops slowly to be sure the correct quantity is used.

+ The reagents should be replaced on a yearly basis to maintain 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:

+ ALWAYS KEEP CHEMICALS OUT OF CHILDREN'S REACH.

+ Accurately measure the exact quantities specified, never more. Do not overdose your spa.

+ Store chemicals in a cool, dry, well ventilated place.

+ Always keep chemical containers closed 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.

+ Never smoke around chemicals. Some fumes can be highly flammable.

+ Don't store any chemicals in the spa equipment compartment.

Adding Chemicals to the Spa:

Most Chemicals (does not include any slow dissolving chemicals) can be added directly to the spa while the pump(s) is running on high speed, for a minimum of 10 minutes.

IMPORTANT WHEN USING BOOST OR REFRESH TREATMENT NOTE: After administering a super chlorinating treatment or non-chlorine shock to your spa, leave the cover open for a minimum of 20 minutes to allow the oxidizer gas to vent. A high concentration of trapped oxidizer gas, which may exist as a result of the shock treatment (not daily sanitation) may eventually cause discoloration or vinyl degradation to the bottom of the cover. This type of damage is considered chemical abuse and is not covered under warranty.

The Arctic Pure Water Maintenance Program:

Following the Arctic Pure water maintenance program will save you tie and frustration and ensure clear, clean spa water.

Remove Excess Minerals:

Most tap water has minerals such as Calcium, Copper, Iron, Manganese and Sodium in it, and the circulation of water can cause the erosion of metals from spa equipment which can present possible scaling and staining problems in your spa.

1. We recommend you add 50ml (1.5 ounces) of Arctic Pure Best Defense per 1000 liters (264 gallons) of water while filling your spa.

2. Also, as water evaporates from your spa and new water is added, the amount of dissolved minerals will increase. The spa water may eventually become ""hard"" (Calcium Hardness too high) enough to damage the heater by calcifing its surface. To protect against these problems add 15ml (1/2 ounce) per 1000 liters (264 gallons) of Arctic Pure Best Defense weekly.

Balance The Total Alkalinity (TA):

1. The recommended totally Alkalinity (TA) for your spa water is 125 - 150 PPM.

2. Total Alkalinity is a measure of the total levels of carbonates, bicarbonates, hydroxides, and other alkaline substances in the water. TA is referred to as the water's ""pH buffer"". In other words, it's a measure of the ability of the water to resist changes in pH level.

3. If the TA is too low, the pH level will fluctuate widely from high to low. Fluctuations in pH can cause corrosion or scaling of the spa components. Low TA can be corrected by adding Arctic Pure Perfect Balance.

4. If the Total Alkalinity is too high, the pH level will tend to be high and may be difficult to bring down. It can be lowered by using Arctic Pure Adjust Down.

5. Once the TA is balanced, it normally remains stable, although some sanitizers, and the addition of more water with a high or low alkalinity will raise or lower the TA reading of the water.

6. When the Total Alkalinity is within the recommended range, proceed to the next step.

Balance The Total Alkalinity (TA)

1. The recommended total Alkalinity (TA) for your spa water is 125 - 150 ppm.

2. Total Alkalinity is a measure of the total levels of carbonates, bicarbonates, hydroxides, and other alkaline substances in the water. TA is referred to as the water's ""pH buffer"". In other words, it's a measure of the ability of the water to resist changes in pH level.

3. If the TA is too low, the pH level will fluctuate widely from high to low. Fluctuations in pH can cause corrosion or scaling of the spa components. Low TA can be corrected by adding Arctic Pure Perfect Balance.

4. If the TA is too high, the pH level will tend to be high and my be difficult to bring down. It can be lowered by using Arctic Pure Adjust Down.

5. Once the TA is balanced, it normally remains stable, although some sanitizers, and the addition of more water with a high or low alkalinity will raise or lower the TA reading of the water.

6. When the Total Alkalinity is within the recommended range, proceed to the next step.

Balancing the pH

1. We recommended a slightly higher pH range for your spa water; 7.4-7.8.

2. The pH level is the measure of acidity and alkalinity. Values above 7 are alkaline; those below 7 are acidic. Maintaining the proper pH level is extremely important for:

+ Optimizing the effectiveness of the sanitizer.

+ Maintaining water that is comfortable for the user.

+ Preventing equipment deterioration.

3. If the spa water's pH level is too low, the following may result:

+ The sanitizer will dissipate rapidly.

+ The water may become irritation to spa users.

+the spa's equipment may corrode.

4. If the pH level is too high, the following may result:

+ The sanitizer is less effective.

+ Scale will form on the spa shell surface and the equipment.

+ The water may become cloudy.

If the pH is too high, it can be decreased by adding Arctic Pure Adjust Down to the spa water.

5. It is important to check the pH on a regular basis. The pH will be affected by the bather load, the addition of new water, the addition of various chemicals, and the type of sanitizer used.

6. When the pH is within the recommended range, proceed to the final step.

Calcium Hardness (CH)

1. Most spa manufacturers recommend a Calcium Hardness (CH) level for your spa of 150 - 200 PPM. HOWEVER, WE DO NOT RECOMMED ADDING CALCIUM TO YOUR SPA.

2. Calcium Hardness is a measure of the total amount of dissolved calcium in the water. It is believed that calcium helps control the corrosive nature of water. Calcium has two major problems in Hot Water Chemistry: (1) it has a tendency to precipitate (fall out of suspension in high temperatures and (2) high pH will cause calcium to precipitate. The problem with calcium falling out of suspension is that it collects on the heater and pump, and shortens it's life.

3. Any natural corrosiveness in the water can be combated by maintaining a slightly higher Total Alkalinity Level.

Sanitize The Spa

Sanitizer is extremely important for killing algae, bacteria and viruses, and preventing unwanted organisms for growing in the spa. At the same time, you don't want too high a sanizizer level, or it can irritate your skin, lungs and eyes.

1. Always maintain the sanitizer level in your spa at the recommended level for each type of sanitizer.

2. We recommend the following sanitizers:

+ Arctic Pure Sanitize C

+ Arctic Pure Sanitize B

+ Arctic Pure Peak Boost

+ Arctic Pure Spa Boost

Using Arctic Pure Sanitize C

1. Add puck to floating dispenser and open to 4.

2. Add two tablespoons of Arctic Pure Refresh per 1000 liters (256 gallons) of water.

3. Test the chlorine level. Once bromine reads within the ideal range urn tablet dispenser down to 1 - 2 (adjust as needed for bather load).

Using Arctic Pure Sanitize B

1. Add two pucks to floating dispenser and open to 7.

2. Add two tablespoons of Arctic Pure Refresh per 1000 liters (265 gallons) of water.

3. Test the bromine level. Once bromine reads within the ideal range turn tablet dispenser down to 2 or 3 (adjust as needed for bather load).

Important: Sanitize B & C are acidic and will decrease the Total Alkalinity. Regular testing and balancing of TA is extremely important with these products.

WEEKLY:

1. Add two pucks to floating dispenser and reset to previous setting (or as needed).

2. Add two tablespoons of Arctic Pure Refresh per 1000 liters (265 gallons) of water.

3. Wait at least one hour and add 15 ml (1/2 ounce) of Arctic Pure Best Defense per 1000 liters (265 gallons) of water.

Using Arctic Pure Peak Boost

1. Add 2 1/2 tablespoons of peak boost per 1000 liters (265 gallons) of water, to establish a bromide reserve.

2. Add two tablespoons of Refresh per 1000 liters (265 gallons).

3. Test the bromine level. Ensure bromine reads within the ideal range (adjust as needed for bather load).

Using Arctic Pure Boost

1. Add 1/2 a teaspoon of Boost per 1000 liters (265 gallons) of water.

2.Test the chlorine level. Ensure chlorine reads within the ideal fringe (adjust as needed for bather load).

WEEKLY:

1. Twice a week test and adjust Total Alkalinity, pH and chlorine or bromine levels.

2. Remove filter, rinse and allow to dry (exchange with extra filter if possible) every week for three weeks. On week 4, soak overnight in cartridge cleaner and rinse thoroughly.

3. Wait at least one hour and add 15 to 30 mo. per 100 liters of Prevent.

Supplementary Water Maintenance

Proper water sanitation and mineral balance are essential for a complete spa water maintenance program. Here are a couple of other optional water additives:

Arctic Pure Easy Clear

Some wastes left in the spa water may not be filterable and can result in cloudy, dull water. A clarifier attracts small particles together also they can be more easily filtered. We recommend adding 15ml (1/2 ounce) of Arctic Pure Easy Clear per 1000 liters (265 gallons) of water as needed.

Arctic Pure Foam Dissolve

Soap is introduced into the spa water from two sources: users' bodies, which retain a soap residual after showering, and swimming apparel, which retains soap after washing. Typically, soap will cause the spa water to foam when the jets are used. You will notice this if there are a large number of bathers.

Foam inhibitors can suppress foam, but cannot remove soap from the water. Soap is very difficult to remove from the water because soap is not oxidized by any chemical added to the spa. Only ozone can oxidize soap. Use a small amount (1/2 teaspoon)of Arctic pure Foam Dissolve when foam is present to help control foaming.