Getting a Grip on Calcium Hardness for Your Hot Tub
When it comes to making sure your hot tub is running properly and keeping it clean and healthy, it doesn’t take long to understand the importance of calcium hardness. It is one of the most important elements of hot tub maintenance, but how much do we really know about it? The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of what calcium hardness is and how you can ensure it is in the proper range.
What is Calcium Hardness?
Calcium hardness is a measure of the amount of calcium in the hot tub water. In a hot tub, calcium hardness levels should range from 150 to 400 ppm (parts per million). Neither too high nor too low, it should be within that range to keep your hot tub healthy and functioning properly.
Too Low Calcium Hardness Levels
Dangers of Low Calcium Hardness
When calcium hardness is too low, the spas equipment, surfaces and water can be damaged. Low calcium levels can strip the water of the natural oils that cause calcium to bond to the surfaces and lead to a more acidic water environment. This can lead to a very uncomfortable spa experience. Low calcium levels can also cause corrosion to the hot tub and can make it harder for the skin and eyes to handle, leading to dry skin, red eyes and a very uncomfortable experience.
Measuring Calcium Hardness
Testing calcium levels regularly is important in maintaining the right levels in your hot tub. There are several types of tests available, including test strips, chemical tests and electronic testers. The most reliable way to test calcium levels is by using a digital meter, but any test that can measure calcium will be beneficial. Keeping your calcium hardness level where it needs to be will cause fewer problems down the line.
Too High Calcium Hardness Levels
Dangers of High Calcium Hardness
High calcium levels can also cause damage to the hot tub and lead to an uncomfortable experience. When calcium accumulates too high in the hot tub, it can form deposits that can build up on surfaces, pumps and heater, as well as pipes and other equipment. These deposits can lead to clogged pipes and reduced water flow, as well as a decrease in hot tub performance.
Treating High Calcium Hardness
If calcium levels are too high, it is important to treat the water in the hot tub to avoid damage. You can use chelating agents, acid washes and even water softeners to reduce calcium build up and keep calcium levels in the recommended range.
People Also Ask
What happens if my hot tub has too high of calcium hardness?
If the calcium hardness is too high, the hot tub will experience a decrease in performance due to the buildup of deposits on surfaces, pumps and heater, as well as pipes and other equipment.
How often should calcium hardness be tested in a hot tub?
Calcium hardness in a hot tub should be tested regularly every two to three weeks.
What is the ideal range of calcium hardness for a hot tub?
The ideal range of calcium hardness for a hot tub is 150 to 400 ppm (parts per million).
Do I need to treat the water in my hot tub if calcium hardness is too high?
Yes, you should treat the water in your hot tub if the calcium hardness is too high. You can use chelating agents, acid washes and water softeners to reduce calcium buildup and keep calcium levels within the recommended range.
Can low calcium hardness levels damage my hot tub?
Yes, low calcium hardness levels can cause corrosion to the hot tub and strip the water of the natural oils that cause calcium to bond to the surfaces, leading to a more acidic water environment.
Final Words
It is vital to be aware of the importance of calcium hardness in your hot tub and how to ensure it is in the right levels. Too high or too low calcium levels can cause your hot tub to become damaged and can create an unpleasant experience. Testing regularly and treating the water when needed are important to keep your hot tub functioning properly and to maintain a healthy water environment.