A hot tub is a wonderful luxury that more and more people are able to indulge in, but they do require some maintenance and hot tub chemicals are an important part of keeping that hot tub clean and nicely maintained.
Hot tubs chemicals vary and one can purchase them separately or as a complete hot tub spa chemical kit. Chemicals for hot tubs include sanitizers, an important part of keeping a hot tub clean. One hot tub chemical used to sanitize is chlorine, which is available in tablets or in granules that are specifically made for hot tubs.
Another chemical is Bromine, which is used in a hot tub by way of tablets, nuggets or granules. Sodium Bromide is a form that must be activated with oxidizers like chlorine shock. Bromine is often chosen over chlorine, as it is an effective sanitizer that does not gas off at temperatures that are above 98 degrees. It also does not produce as many odors as chlorine. The chemical Bromine works within a broad range of pH levels and is usually dispersed through floating feeders or through a cartridge system.
For a sanitizer that is not chlorine or a Bromine product Biguanide can be used in hot tubs as it will kill bacteria by attacking its cell wall. It uses an oxidizer that is hydrogen peroxide based and burns off organic material to keep the hot tub water clear. The Biguanide system does not produce as many odors as either Chlorine or Bromine nor will it gas off at high spa temperatures.
A chemical free hot tub is an option, but these generally require more cost up front, entail electricity which can void hot tub warranties, and often necessitate more maintenance than chemicals.
Hot tub chemicals are an important part of keeping the tub sanitary and clear, so any hot tub owner needs to be aware of what chemicals they need to maintain their hot tub properly.