Troubleshooting Guide

Sanitizers

Chemicals or equipment used to kill bacteria, viruses, algae, and mold. Sanitizers include chlorine, bromine, biguanide, ozone, ionization, mineral purifiers, salt chlorine generators, ultraviolet (UV) sanitizing, etc.

Scale Formation

Caused when the levels of dissolved calcium carbonate reach the maximum, based upon the actual water chemistry. Scale (calcium carbonate precipitate) shows up as a whitish coating on the underwater surfaces. If left untreated, it can cause problems with filtration and pool heating. Scale can occur, if the calcium hardness exceeds 400 PPM and the pool chemistry is not properly maintained. Scale can be controlled by lowering the calcium hardness level, lowering the pH towards 7.6, and lowering the total alkalinity towards 80 PPM.

Sequestering Agent

A class of chemical compounds that form a loose association with dissolved minerals such as calcium or magnesium. These chemicals help keep the minerals in solution, prevent scale formation and, over time, redissolve scale deposits. Sequestering is the preferred way to treat calcium problems.

Shock

Refers to the application of large quantities of bromine or hydrogen peroxide. Typically 5-10 times the normal dose is used, based upon actual conditions and needs. The purpose of this large dose is to break down the combined bromine, organic waste and contamination, and re-establish a positive level of Free Bromine.

Skimmer

The water-level device, in the spa wall, that aids in the removal of floating debris and serves as a filter intake.

Slime

Usually indicative of the presence of an algal or bacterial film and is likely due to inadequate sanitation and/or water circulation.

Soda Ash

(aka sodium carbonate) The chemical used to raise the pH of water and neutralize acid. Not the same chemical as sodium bicarbonate, sodium hydrogen carbonate or baking soda.

Sodium Bicarbonate

(aka sodium acid carbonate, sodium hydrogen carbonate, baking soda) The chemical used to raise the total alkalinity of the water. Creates a buffer and helps stabilize the pH in the ideal range. Not the same chemical as sodium carbonate or soda ash.

Sodium Bisulfate

(aka sodium hydrogen sulfate) Available as a pH reducer, this acidic, granular chemical is used to lower the pH and/or total alkalinity. Neutralizes the effects of high pH chemicals.

Sodium Bromide

Converts into active bromine sanitizer, when oxidized by the action of chlorine or non chlorine, monopersulfate shock. Typically, used to treat a variety of resistant or problematic conditions such as "pink" algae, water mold, slimes and yellow-mustard algae.

Sodium Carbonate

See soda ash

Soft Water

Water that is low in calcium and magnesium hardness. Such water can prove to be corrosive to masonry surfaces and underwater metal parts. The calcium hardness level can be raised, to the optimum range of 150-200 PPM, by the addition of appropriate amounts of a calcium hardness increaser (calcium chloride).

Spa Pack

The main control box that operates the electrical systems within the spa.