I personally have the Coleman Saluspa Ibiza with the classic Bestway pump. However, most of all the hotub brands are the exact same so this review goes for ALL of them. Here's my brutally honest review of my inflatable hot tub.
Thank you so much for making this clear and concise video. The best one I’ve seen on how to take care of my inflatable spa. I appreciated the information about setting the timer schedule. That’s going to save me a lot of money. I was running it constantly. Thank you
@@donaldwilkie5807 If you leave it plugged in, it does have an antifreeze function where it will periodically run the heater to keep the water above freezing
How many bromine tablets do you use? I filled my hot tub yesterday and it was full around 8:30-9:00pm. The temperature was roughly 65sh° and I turned it on to start heating and dropped 1 bromine tablet inside a floater. Today when I looked at it around 6:30-7:00pm, the temperature was already at 97°. I just dropped another 1.5 bromine tablets directly into the tub, hit the "bubbles" for a few mins to kinda kick the tablets around and get the water moving a little bit. I didn't check the levels of anything with a test strip. I just dropped them in, lol. Is that okay?!? I was also wondering if it's necessary to add any other chemicals other than bromine? I mean, I know it's highly recommended, but can I just use bromine and get away with it being okay??
Could mean a couple of things. But more than likely, unplug the unit for about 15 minutes and then plug it back in. Make sure the filter is installed correctly and nothing is obstructing the water flow
Just got an inflatable spa for Father's Day. Your videos have been VERY helpful. Thanks! Quick question (I hope). Spa is at a second home. While we are away (usually a week or so at a time) my plan was to lower the temperature to 80 or so and leave the filter running. After watching your video I'm rethinking that. Would you recommend turning the spa off when we leave and just deal with getting the spa back in working order each time we return?
I would recommend checking your bromide tablets before you leave to make sure they are in good order, turning off the heater but leaving filtration on the entire time you're gone. Otherwise you could come back to a scummy tub and you'll have to do a water replacement.
Great video! Just put mine up! Had a huge shock when I put in the shock to start. It turned the water dark rust colored! Found out we have a lot of metal in our water. I've got that cleared up, but now my PH is very high. I keep adding PH decreaser but feel like I'm adding a lot. Any idea why it is so high? My alkalinity is good.
Finally got my PH right! Thank you for answering my question. I found out that running the bubbles and jets raises the PH and can make the chemicals not work right. Took a lot to find that. So now when I add them, I premix them with a little water from the spa and only turn them on when I add them to the water for about a min. I ❤ this hot tub!
These videos are Great!!! Just received my spa and still in box. The Costco one from this year - 2022. Doing my homework as I wait to set up. I should turn off jets and heater each time after use? Must the heater be turned on or can this double as a cooling station on uber hot days? Any basic daily or so “do’s” to keep water fresh even if not using. Basic chem maintenance I guess is what I’m looking for. Or just do it based on test strips? Thanks.
I love this question. We live in an area that gets pretty hot in the spring in summer. During those months, I just turn the heater off completely. On a hot day the water stays above 90 degrees even in the evening and that's warm enough for us. With the heat off, you can use it for a quick cooling off dunk on hotter days. You can operate the filtration independently of the heater and as long as the spa is going to be in use, I recommend the filtration to be running. Daily routine: -Wake up in the morning and turn on the filtration (heater too if it's Fall or winter) -Do a chemical check about 3 hours before use and balance water accordingly -Use spa -Shut off the filtration (heater if it's on) once finished using the spa repeat for the next day We use our spa pretty frequently so that's generally the routine I follow. Below is my video on chemical maintenance. Please let me know if you have any further questions. Thanks and enjoy the spa! ua-cam.com/video/Ju0EUXN4ZyQ/v-deo.html
Hello I have a 80 gallon Hudson Bay 1 person spa I cant get the chemicals right Can you recommend the Easiest fastest low maintenance chemical program??? It does have the built in ozone Thank you so much ~~
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric Thank you so much I will get the bottle instead of packets so correct amount is put in. It also recommends use with sanitizer. In your opinion would you use the floating bromine tab holder and if so for the 80 gal should I split the tablet in half?? I have had such a hard time with figuring out chemicals with this size spa !! (Ended up with chemical burn on chest/neck so Ive bee afraid to use it ever since) Really appreciate your help !!
Do you keep your chemical dispenser (with 2-3 brominating tablets in there) while using the spa? I just read in my manual "NOTE: Remove the chemical dispenser from spa when the spa is in use." I thought it would be okay to leave 2-3 brominating tablets in there while using the spa
I check my chlorine levels before I use the spa. As long as they are still in the normal range, it's all good and you can leave it in. I leave it on while using my spa
That's what I thought.. I'm going to leave mine in as well. Just got it filled today on 4/20 and heating now, it's in mid 60's degrees. I wish there was a salt water system option, had that on my last two above ground pools (with Sand Filter), and I was always able to have the water balanced at all times, crystal clear water always. No filter to constantly buy/replace, just replace the pool filter sand every 5 years.
One question, will it hurt the hot tub for me to keep the pump running without a filter for a couple of hours? I have ordered a new filter however I bought some filter cleaner to clean this one for now until I get a new one. So I will not have the filter in the hot tub for a few hours but I wanted to keep the temperature up until I put the Clean filter back in.
Thank you! I have learned a lot about managing my new hot tub from your videos! I’m sorry if I missed this in this video, but do you also add the spa shock regularly, say once per week for regular sanitizing regardless of the test strips? About a tablespoon at that time too?
Hey, thank you for this video!!!! Just a quick question: Did you end up needing to use the anti foam or did the new filter do the trick! Thank you sir!
Great Video Eric, since I have the same inflatable now and have had for about 2 months I had a problem with light green cloudy water, I use Chlorine tablets and for PH been using Baking Soda, my numbers have been within range and I leave the filter on daily and only use the hot tub 2-3 times a week max, i had to drain it however days ago as the green water just got worse, am i missing something?
Green water typically means algae growth which isn't good. You can try using a scumbug when you're not in the tub. These helped me a lot. amzn.to/40DkvWS
Hey. So I finally got patio finished and the spa set up. Yeaaa!! I’ve put in the bromine tablets and the spa is going. Test strips seem to show low calcium. I’ve been looking for answers for this but thought you might have some insight. Thanks.
I purchased all of the other items. No calcium. So you’re thinking it’s not a big deal if the calcium is always low - which I imagine it will be. Better it low than too high?
@@ettahoyt8045 if you're going to do water changes at least every 4 to 6 months and keep your water generally balanced, I don't think it will be an issue. The water you used to fill the tub, is it going through a water softener?
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric , no. No softener. I’m in the DC/Maryland area and figure I’ll have to take down by November at the latest to beat any freezing temps. Maybe I’ll skip it for this season but get it for next season when I’ll have more time to use.
Is there a video that shows how to empty the spa? As mentioned in my previous question - I’m waiting to set up spa. Having some work done on back patio. Plan B is to set spa up on my carport which is covered. Is it worth it to set up on carport to be able to enjoy now and once patio is done - just empty and set it up back there? I’m missing some great weather days. I was already halfway thinking to set up on carport anyway. Easier access. I figure water isn’t ALL that costly. Thoughts? Thanks.
Heeey. Thanks for thie video. Just set mine up today. Question: what does stability mean and how do you change it? Couldnt really find that in this video Thankss :)
@@sevenoaksbrewing it depends on what the test strip is testing. If it's referring to pH then you need to adjust that accordingly. If it's referring to chlorine or bromine then that needs to be adjusted accordingly
Hi Eric, love your spa videos, they are super helpful. I just purchased the Bestway SaluSpa Miami, seems to be very similar to yours. Question about chemicals, is a water clarifier needed? You didn’t mention it but it seems to be a pretty popular product. Here’s a link to one - Clorox Spa Water Clarifier, 16-Ounce 59016CSP Thanks for all the helpful info
Yes, it can be useful but it's not required. Basically it will clear up your water if it's cloudy by binding to debris so it gets filtered out. Generally if your water is balanced though, it shouldn't be too cloudy if at all.
That one is tough. You could try leaving it uncovered and turn on the jets for a few hours to see if it helps. Otherwise you can use some Alkinity down
@@ellawinn9331 is there anything under the pump inhibiting airflow? Lift up the pump and check under it. Also make sure the intake at the top is also clear
So Spa Clarifier basically takes care of cloudy water. It's a chemical that binds to debris so that it can be filtered. Is it essential, no, not really, but it can be helpful at times
Take your filter off and spray it off a couple times a week... will last for months and won't end up looking like that nasty scum thing you took off your spa...smh
yes you can. In fact a lot of spa shops will sell scented epsom salts to put in your hot tub. Just make sure the jets are running so they fully dissolve
@@simplysimplemobiledetailin529 that's not true at all. There many spas including this one that are. Just have to make sure it desolves fully, which is really easy if you have the jets on
Thank you for all your videos, they/you have really been so helpful to our first time with a hot tub. We have the St Moritz '21 model too. My question/problem is, we are having to clean the filter every 2 days. The pump shuts down and beeps, we clean and/or change the filter, which is pretty dirty and it goes fine again but only for the next 48 hours or so. We test and adjust water cleanliness daily. Can you help or advise us with this please?
If you've got heavy lotion users in the family, this can contribute to the filter getting clogged. Every 48 hours doesn't seem right though. What filters are you using?
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric We don't use lotion at all and it's only me and hubby using it. We're clean going in too, after showering, maybe a little soap residue is all. I do tend to shower more than hubby though lol. We use Bestway pleated filters bought direct from Bestway. It has been a pain and working out expensive. Only had it for about 6 weeks and have gone through as many filters. I do wash them out aswell but sometimes the dirt won't budge. Have now ordered a purpose filter cleaner hose attachment. Thanks for your reply.
@@megapint1499 a filter getting so dirty in a couple days that it shuts down the pump is very strange. I'd suspect that something isn't right. You might try a different brand filter. I use these, amzn.to/3RhsiUC
In regards to Chlor Brite Spa Shock, I thought I read that you should NOT use a chlorine base shock when using brominating tablets (or bromine based shock when using chlorinating tablets). Is it okay to mix the two? Since I'm using brominating tablets in the chemical dispenser, I purchased some Leisure Time Sodium Bromide that can get the bromine reserve up to the desired level. Leisure Time states "Sodium Bromide before adding the tabs, this helps you achieve your bromine reading." Also, I purchased test strips specifically for bromine from Leisure Time (they have two different test strips, one for Chlorine based and one for bromine based).
You can mix the two and it really shouldn't be an issue. It's really all about water testing. In reality, you really shouldn't mix the two but the fear is that it's really easy to over chlorinate your water. If you're sparing with it, it should be fine. The bromine specific test strips are a good buy though. The test strips I use, technically work for both but I'll likely swap over to bromine test strips as well. Sounds like you've got the right stuff. You're not having issues balancing your water, are you?
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric I just filled the the spa yesterday (4/20/2022 - this is the latest version from Costco purchased in 2022). I wanted to wait until the water temp was >95 degrees for testing which I did starting in the morning of 4/21/2022.. I'll update here soon with results
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric So, not in balance. I've tested about 7 times (yesterday and today) with the 4-Way Bromine Test Strips. After adding 1 TSP + 2 tsp of LT Sodium Bromide, readings were: [TBr | Alk | pH | CH] 2 ppm | 80 ppm | 8.4 |100-200 Added 1/2 tsp of LT Spa Down, testing again about an hour later and pH was still around 8.4. However, TBr (Bromine) was around 5 ppm now. We decided to get in. I was for just over an hour, she was for 1 hour 45 minutes. The air jets were more powerful that I thought they were going to be and the massage effect works. I think they should have an option to lower the air jets level at least an option for 50% but would be great for a 3-5 steps in there). We/she kept re-starting the air jets every 30 minutes. Also, once she got out, I noticed the water level had dropped to just over minimum (I filled right to the center of the min/max lines). More water spilled out than I thought, those jets are powerful - and there were two of us. For the first hour, it was able to maintain a water temp of >95 degrees (outside temp 47). After nearly two hours, it was around 91. Our spa is under a recently purchased gazebo (with side curtains) on our deck (which I did reinforce) I saw what I thought was some calcium scaling once we were both out but that didn't make sense with the lower (CH) reading, definitely under 250, more like between 100-200. It may have been something on her skin, she uses lots of lotion and has many tattoos. We'll see. I decided to retest and was surprised to see no bromine detected, zero. I had to go to Costco anyways, Walmart is close. So I covered the spa and off I went. I purchased the HTH Spa Test Strips. Once home, retested with the HTH Spa Test strips and the same thing, no bromine detected. However, pH had dropped to 7.6. Ideal range. I added about 12 gallons of hot water to bring the spa level back to the middle of the min/max range. Later, I'll test again but may have to add some more LT Sodium Bromide. I do have qty. 2 of their Bromine tablets in the chemical dispense but that won't show up on the tests for days. The HTH Spa test strips have the combo Chlorine / Bromine tests, I noticed their Bromine number/range is little different from the Leisure Time Bromine Test Strips. Odd that my bromine levels are not even detected after first use, nearly 2 hours. My pools wouldn't have such sudden changes but of course this small body of water will be different. Do you see such swings of bromine level with use?
Second question- is it ok to leave the tub and pump in the open in the patio. I dont have any cover for the patio. . Summer can get to 95-98 degree and winter really cold .
As long as the spa is covered, it's fine to leave in the open in those temperatures. On the really hot days, I'd turn the heater portion off though. The heat pump can overheat, if it's constantly running in direct sunlight. On 100 degree day with no heater running, my water gets to about 95 degrees.
Just take the cover off and leave the jets on for a good bit. The level should go down after a few hours. I'd test the water after two hours or so and then every hour after that
@@americanjewell5962 did you replace the water you drained to dilute the water in the spa? I just use a bucket to remove/replace water, I don't use the drain unless I want to drain the entire spa. I like to go slow on the chlorine / bromine, so if the directions show you would need 3 TSP of shock (for this Spa), I'd probably be starting out close to 2 TSP, wait a few hours and retest.
Hi Eric, ONE more question for you, this stuff is so confusing to a hot tub novice! Im using bromine tablets instead of chlorine, can I put chlorine Shock in my spa or do I have to use a non-chlorine Shock?? Thx again man
You can use either one. It's much easier to over chlorinate if you use bromine tablets with chlorine shock. Generally, they don't want you to mix and match, but make sure you watch your chlorine levels and you should be fine
Inside the hot tub there is the little blower bag and then the thing u put the tabs into and then there is a small plastic thing attached to the spa half way up the inside wall….what is this?
Hi Eric. Once the hot tub is at the desired temperature, do I switch it off and it will maintain the temperature? Or do I need to let it run all the time.
Once the water has reached the desired temperature you will see the heat button turn green. This indicates that the heater is off, but the filtration is still running. You can leave it like this and it will maintain the temperature. Alternatively you can shut off both the heat and filtration periodically, to give the pump a break
The strangest thing! I have worked for a few days to try to get all of the levels where they should be so the chlorine level is good the alkalinity level is good but The pH level is still low and I have put a total of about 6 tablespoons of PH over the last few days and it just will not come up to where it needs to be. Also the hardness will not come up but I’m not really sure what to do about that. That of course is the TH. Any suggestions?
You can add calcium chloride or water hardener for spas if you really want to raise the hardness level. For the pH level you might try desolving the powder ins. Pitcher of spa water first and then add it to the spa to see if that's raises the overall pH. It could be getting filtered out before it fully desolves
Eric, This is more or less a two part question. 1. If I wanted to make my spa saltwater, is it as simple as adding the correct amount of pure spa/pool salt in relation to the 177 gallon capacity or so of the spa or is more equipment required to do this? 2. If I did do salt water, do you know if I would still follow the same testing procedures as fresh water systems?
You would need a device like this, to convert it to a salt water hot tub www.amazon.com/dp/B01KQUVJH6/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_undefined?linkCode=ml2&tag=problemsol0fa-20 2. There are also special salt water test stores that are a bit different
Alkalinity up and pH up are two different things. Although alkalinity up will also raise pH. It will just do it more gradually. Yes, raising pH means the pH number will increase
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Hot Tub Video Playlist
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Wow! Best video I have watched to explain spa maintenance! Thank you so much !!
First time spa owner. THANK YOU!!!Your instructions were straight forward and to the point. Have a great new year
The hair flip at 3:34 made ME drip everywhere. I’m a straight man
I personally have the Coleman Saluspa Ibiza with the classic Bestway pump. However, most of all the hotub brands are the exact same so this review goes for ALL of them. Here's my brutally honest review of my inflatable hot tub.
Thank you so much for making this clear and concise video. The best one I’ve seen on how to take care of my inflatable spa. I appreciated the information about setting the timer schedule. That’s going to save me a lot of money. I was running it constantly. Thank you
Any idea on why mine still doesn’t heat? I’ve followed everything
Thank you for the great video. I just purchased one and have not put it up.
Can you list how much of the chemicals you use for your size hot tub, thank you for the video 👌👌👍👍
The cheapest per-filter brand on Amazon seems to be KGC, which also ship quick with Prime.
Thanks!
You bet!
Great video now I need to transfer everything to litres and chlorine. Thanks from the UK 🇬🇧
Great video my only worry is I live in central NY the snow capital lol not sure how the cold will affect it I guess we will see again ty
@@donaldwilkie5807 If you leave it plugged in, it does have an antifreeze function where it will periodically run the heater to keep the water above freezing
Thank you sir, for the spa maintenance intel.
Great information I needed to know. I’ve had mine for about a month. Thanks so much!!!!!!!
BTW, the Leisure Time Brom Tabs fit perfect in this spa's chemical dispenser, no need to break them into smaller pieces.
Nice, I'll be purchasing those
How many bromine tablets do you use? I filled my hot tub yesterday and it was full around 8:30-9:00pm. The temperature was roughly 65sh° and I turned it on to start heating and dropped 1 bromine tablet inside a floater.
Today when I looked at it around 6:30-7:00pm, the temperature was already at 97°. I just dropped another 1.5 bromine tablets directly into the tub, hit the "bubbles" for a few mins to kinda kick the tablets around and get the water moving a little bit. I didn't check the levels of anything with a test strip. I just dropped them in, lol. Is that okay?!?
I was also wondering if it's necessary to add any other chemicals other than bromine? I mean, I know it's highly recommended, but can I just use bromine and get away with it being okay??
thanks for your video, very helpful. How did you convert ounces to tablespoons/teaspoons when adding granule chemicals? thanks so much!!
Great videos. Thank you! Just a question on why it says Eo2 after I clean the filter and reset it. Just turns on the off again?
Could mean a couple of things. But more than likely, unplug the unit for about 15 minutes and then plug it back in. Make sure the filter is installed correctly and nothing is obstructing the water flow
Just got an inflatable spa for Father's Day. Your videos have been VERY helpful. Thanks! Quick question (I hope). Spa is at a second home. While we are away (usually a week or so at a time) my plan was to lower the temperature to 80 or so and leave the filter running. After watching your video I'm rethinking that. Would you recommend turning the spa off when we leave and just deal with getting the spa back in working order each time we return?
I would recommend checking your bromide tablets before you leave to make sure they are in good order, turning off the heater but leaving filtration on the entire time you're gone. Otherwise you could come back to a scummy tub and you'll have to do a water replacement.
Super helpful! Thanks so much for all these videos. It has helped a lot!
Great videos and thank you my bromine levels really low and I still smell strong chlorine odor I don't know what to do can you help
Leave the cover off and run the jets for 45 minutes to an hour. The smell should go away
Great video! Just put mine up! Had a huge shock when I put in the shock to start. It turned the water dark rust colored! Found out we have a lot of metal in our water. I've got that cleared up, but now my PH is very high. I keep adding PH decreaser but feel like I'm adding a lot. Any idea why it is so high? My alkalinity is good.
Not sure. You might leave it uncovered and run the jets for a couple hours to see if it reduces it at all
Finally got my PH right! Thank you for answering my question. I found out that running the bubbles and jets raises the PH and can make the chemicals not work right. Took a lot to find that. So now when I add them, I premix them with a little water from the spa and only turn them on when I add them to the water for about a min. I ❤ this hot tub!
Super great videos….love them all❤
These videos are Great!!! Just received my spa and still in box. The Costco one from this year - 2022. Doing my homework as I wait to set up. I should turn off jets and heater each time after use? Must the heater be turned on or can this double as a cooling station on uber hot days? Any basic daily or so “do’s” to keep water fresh even if not using. Basic chem maintenance I guess is what I’m looking for. Or just do it based on test strips? Thanks.
I love this question. We live in an area that gets pretty hot in the spring in summer. During those months, I just turn the heater off completely. On a hot day the water stays above 90 degrees even in the evening and that's warm enough for us. With the heat off, you can use it for a quick cooling off dunk on hotter days. You can operate the filtration independently of the heater and as long as the spa is going to be in use, I recommend the filtration to be running.
Daily routine:
-Wake up in the morning and turn on the filtration (heater too if it's Fall or winter)
-Do a chemical check about 3 hours before use and balance water accordingly
-Use spa
-Shut off the filtration (heater if it's on) once finished using the spa
repeat for the next day
We use our spa pretty frequently so that's generally the routine I follow. Below is my video on chemical maintenance. Please let me know if you have any further questions. Thanks and enjoy the spa!
ua-cam.com/video/Ju0EUXN4ZyQ/v-deo.html
Hello I have a 80 gallon Hudson Bay 1 person spa I cant get the chemicals right Can you recommend the Easiest fastest low maintenance chemical program??? It does have the built in ozone Thank you so much ~~
I think the easiest for something like that would be an all in one pack, like this.
amzn.to/4bw1OJ3
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric Thank you so much I will get the bottle instead of packets so correct amount is put in. It also recommends use with sanitizer. In your opinion would you use the floating bromine tab holder and if so for the 80 gal should I split the tablet in half?? I have had such a hard time with figuring out chemicals with this size spa !! (Ended up with chemical burn on chest/neck so Ive bee afraid to use it ever since) Really appreciate your help !!
When changing out the filter and chemconnect, should the spa be turned off?
It doesn't have to be
Do you keep your chemical dispenser (with 2-3 brominating tablets in there) while using the spa?
I just read in my manual "NOTE: Remove the chemical dispenser from spa when the spa is in use."
I thought it would be okay to leave 2-3 brominating tablets in there while using the spa
I check my chlorine levels before I use the spa. As long as they are still in the normal range, it's all good and you can leave it in. I leave it on while using my spa
That's what I thought.. I'm going to leave mine in as well. Just got it filled today on 4/20 and heating now, it's in mid 60's degrees.
I wish there was a salt water system option, had that on my last two above ground pools (with Sand Filter), and I was always able to have the water balanced at all times, crystal clear water always. No filter to constantly buy/replace, just replace the pool filter sand every 5 years.
How to reduse your clorine? My alk was really high, how to reduce?
Leave the hot tub uncovered and run the jets for an hour or two
Thank you for videos. I think in other video you said the heat doesn’t have to be on is that correct? Tia
ua-cam.com/users/shorts71xWnNaBuVU?feature=share
One question, will it hurt the hot tub for me to keep the pump running without a filter for a couple of hours? I have ordered a new filter however I bought some filter cleaner to clean this one for now until I get a new one. So I will not have the filter in the hot tub for a few hours but I wanted to keep the temperature up until I put the Clean filter back in.
Nope, it won't hurt it as long as there isn't a abundance of debris in there
Ok awesome. Thanks so much!!!
Your videos are super helpful!!!
Thank you for the comment, glad it helped!
Very informative!! Thank you!
can i leave my heater and filtration on at all times
You can. I like to give mine a little bit of a break occasionally, but yes you should be able to
Thanks do I need to blow up the bottom of my Moritz hot tub.? It looks like it has something in the bottom that needs to be blown up.
The bottom is a pad and shouldn't need to be blown up
Thank you
Thank you! I have learned a lot about managing my new hot tub from your videos! I’m sorry if I missed this in this video, but do you also add the spa shock regularly, say once per week for regular sanitizing regardless of the test strips? About a tablespoon at that time too?
Generally you only use spa shock if you chlorine levels drop too low. The chemical dispenser should take care of this on its own though
Hey, thank you for this video!!!! Just a quick question: Did you end up needing to use the anti foam or did the new filter do the trick!
Thank you sir!
Sometimes you need anti foamer if you have heavy lotion users in the household
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric Thanks Eric! Appreciate it!
Great Video Eric, since I have the same inflatable now and have had for about 2 months I had a problem with light green cloudy water, I use Chlorine tablets and for PH been using Baking Soda, my numbers have been within range and I leave the filter on daily and only use the hot tub 2-3 times a week max, i had to drain it however days ago as the green water just got worse, am i missing something?
Green water typically means algae growth which isn't good. You can try using a scumbug when you're not in the tub. These helped me a lot.
amzn.to/40DkvWS
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric funny you said that, just put one in the newly filled tub :) have 25 more of em to use if they get too dirty!
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric Does the Bromide not control algae?
@@jeremymartin8674 it does, but sometimes you can still get some scum around the waterline. Just depends on the water in your area
Hey. So I finally got patio finished and the spa set up. Yeaaa!! I’ve put in the bromine tablets and the spa is going. Test strips seem to show low calcium. I’ve been looking for answers for this but thought you might have some insight. Thanks.
You can try a Calcium increaser. But, since it's a small body of water and not going through that many pipes this isn't a huge issue.
amzn.to/3JlgZYS
Thanks for the quick reply!!
I purchased all of the other items. No calcium. So you’re thinking it’s not a big deal if the calcium is always low - which I imagine it will be. Better it low than too high?
@@ettahoyt8045 if you're going to do water changes at least every 4 to 6 months and keep your water generally balanced, I don't think it will be an issue.
The water you used to fill the tub, is it going through a water softener?
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric , no. No softener. I’m in the DC/Maryland area and figure I’ll have to take down by November at the latest to beat any freezing temps. Maybe I’ll skip it for this season but get it for next season when I’ll have more time to use.
Is there a video that shows how to empty the spa? As mentioned in my previous question - I’m waiting to set up spa. Having some work done on back patio. Plan B is to set spa up on my carport which is covered. Is it worth it to set up on carport to be able to enjoy now and once patio is done - just empty and set it up back there? I’m missing some great weather days. I was already halfway thinking to set up on carport anyway. Easier access. I figure water isn’t ALL that costly. Thoughts? Thanks.
Do you know how one would make it salt water?
You would use a system like this. As far as specifics, I don't know yet because I haven't done the conversion myself, yet.
amzn.to/3VrjnCM
You are a godsend! Thank you
Heeey. Thanks for thie video.
Just set mine up today.
Question: what does stability mean and how do you change it? Couldnt really find that in this video
Thankss :)
Stability is how much cyanuric acid you have un your tub. This basically helps the bromine or chlorine keep your water clean
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric How do you adjust stability?
@@sevenoaksbrewing it depends on what the test strip is testing. If it's referring to pH then you need to adjust that accordingly. If it's referring to chlorine or bromine then that needs to be adjusted accordingly
Hi Eric, love your spa videos, they are super helpful. I just purchased the Bestway SaluSpa Miami, seems to be very similar to yours. Question about chemicals, is a water clarifier needed? You didn’t mention it but it seems to be a pretty popular product. Here’s a link to one - Clorox Spa Water Clarifier, 16-Ounce 59016CSP Thanks for all the helpful info
Yes, it can be useful but it's not required. Basically it will clear up your water if it's cloudy by binding to debris so it gets filtered out. Generally if your water is balanced though, it shouldn't be too cloudy if at all.
My Alkalinity is over 240 How do I bring that down? Thanks
That one is tough. You could try leaving it uncovered and turn on the jets for a few hours to see if it helps. Otherwise you can use some Alkinity down
This was so helpful. Thank you.
Can you tell me why only half the jets are working on my Coleman hot tub
Usually if only half are working, if means there's a blockage somewhere. Is it the jets furthest from the pump that are not working?
Yes it is
@@ellawinn9331 is there anything under the pump inhibiting airflow? Lift up the pump and check under it. Also make sure the intake at the top is also clear
You should be able to feel the tube inside the liner, try squeezing it, make sure it's not twisted inside
I've seen Spa Clarifier on the shelves. What exactly is that and do I need it?
So Spa Clarifier basically takes care of cloudy water. It's a chemical that binds to debris so that it can be filtered. Is it essential, no, not really, but it can be helpful at times
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric thank you
Hi! I’m new to the this hot tub thing so I’ve got a question, instead of chlorine can you use a salt water system?
Yes, you can use a saltwater system
Hi there so I tried everything and it still doesnt heat… what am I doing wrong ??
Are you getting an error message? Does the pump power on? What LEDs are on?
Can you use Chlorine and Bromine together?
It's not recommended because it's very easy to over chlorinate, but as long as you keep and eye on the chlorine levels, you can
Thank you!!! Very helpful.
Thanks, very well explained.
Also, do you clean filter weekly? How often does it need cleaned.
Depends on how often the hot tub is used. I typically clean mine twice a month and replace it every 3 to 4 months
Take your filter off and spray it off a couple times a week... will last for months and won't end up looking like that nasty scum thing you took off your spa...smh
one question- can you put epson salt in the inflatable tub. I hear it is good to have epsom salt and soak. Can you please provide your opinion?
yes you can. In fact a lot of spa shops will sell scented epsom salts to put in your hot tub. Just make sure the jets are running so they fully dissolve
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric thank you very much
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric I see a local spa shop commercial that states they’re the only company that makes a spa that is epsom salt safe 🤔🤔🤔
@@simplysimplemobiledetailin529 that's not true at all. There many spas including this one that are. Just have to make sure it desolves fully, which is really easy if you have the jets on
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric thanks for the clarification! 🤓😎
Thank you for all your videos, they/you have really been so helpful to our first time with a hot tub. We have the St Moritz '21 model too.
My question/problem is, we are having to clean the filter every 2 days. The pump shuts down and beeps, we clean and/or change the filter, which is pretty dirty and it goes fine again but only for the next 48 hours or so.
We test and adjust water cleanliness daily.
Can you help or advise us with this please?
If you've got heavy lotion users in the family, this can contribute to the filter getting clogged. Every 48 hours doesn't seem right though. What filters are you using?
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric We don't use lotion at all and it's only me and hubby using it. We're clean going in too, after showering, maybe a little soap residue is all. I do tend to shower more than hubby though lol.
We use Bestway pleated filters bought direct from Bestway. It has been a pain and working out expensive. Only had it for about 6 weeks and have gone through as many filters. I do wash them out aswell but sometimes the dirt won't budge. Have now ordered a purpose filter cleaner hose attachment.
Thanks for your reply.
@@megapint1499 a filter getting so dirty in a couple days that it shuts down the pump is very strange. I'd suspect that something isn't right. You might try a different brand filter. I use these, amzn.to/3RhsiUC
In regards to Chlor Brite Spa Shock, I thought I read that you should NOT use a chlorine base shock when using brominating tablets (or bromine based shock when using chlorinating tablets).
Is it okay to mix the two?
Since I'm using brominating tablets in the chemical dispenser, I purchased some Leisure Time Sodium Bromide that can get the bromine reserve up to the desired level. Leisure Time states "Sodium Bromide before adding the tabs, this helps you achieve your bromine reading."
Also, I purchased test strips specifically for bromine from Leisure Time (they have two different test strips, one for Chlorine based and one for bromine based).
You can mix the two and it really shouldn't be an issue. It's really all about water testing. In reality, you really shouldn't mix the two but the fear is that it's really easy to over chlorinate your water. If you're sparing with it, it should be fine. The bromine specific test strips are a good buy though. The test strips I use, technically work for both but I'll likely swap over to bromine test strips as well. Sounds like you've got the right stuff. You're not having issues balancing your water, are you?
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric I just filled the the spa yesterday (4/20/2022 - this is the latest version from Costco purchased in 2022). I wanted to wait until the water temp was >95 degrees for testing which I did starting in the morning of 4/21/2022.. I'll update here soon with results
@@THESoulPimp Nice, yeah let me know how it goes
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric So, not in balance. I've tested about 7 times (yesterday and today) with the 4-Way Bromine Test Strips.
After adding 1 TSP + 2 tsp of LT Sodium Bromide, readings were: [TBr | Alk | pH | CH] 2 ppm | 80 ppm | 8.4 |100-200
Added 1/2 tsp of LT Spa Down, testing again about an hour later and pH was still around 8.4. However, TBr (Bromine) was around 5 ppm now.
We decided to get in. I was for just over an hour, she was for 1 hour 45 minutes. The air jets were more powerful that I thought they were going to be and the massage effect works. I think they should have an option to lower the air jets level at least an option for 50% but would be great for a 3-5 steps in there). We/she kept re-starting the air jets every 30 minutes.
Also, once she got out, I noticed the water level had dropped to just over minimum (I filled right to the center of the min/max lines). More water spilled out than I thought, those jets are powerful - and there were two of us. For the first hour, it was able to maintain a water temp of >95 degrees (outside temp 47). After nearly two hours, it was around 91. Our spa is under a recently purchased gazebo (with side curtains) on our deck (which I did reinforce)
I saw what I thought was some calcium scaling once we were both out but that didn't make sense with the lower (CH) reading, definitely under 250, more like between 100-200. It may have been something on her skin, she uses lots of lotion and has many tattoos. We'll see.
I decided to retest and was surprised to see no bromine detected, zero. I had to go to Costco anyways, Walmart is close. So I covered the spa and off I went. I purchased the HTH Spa Test Strips.
Once home, retested with the HTH Spa Test strips and the same thing, no bromine detected. However, pH had dropped to 7.6. Ideal range.
I added about 12 gallons of hot water to bring the spa level back to the middle of the min/max range. Later, I'll test again but may have to add some more LT Sodium Bromide. I do have qty. 2 of their Bromine tablets in the chemical dispense but that won't show up on the tests for days.
The HTH Spa test strips have the combo Chlorine / Bromine tests, I noticed their Bromine number/range is little different from the Leisure Time Bromine Test Strips.
Odd that my bromine levels are not even detected after first use, nearly 2 hours. My pools wouldn't have such sudden changes but of course this small body of water will be different.
Do you see such swings of bromine level with use?
and I need to raise my Calcium Hardness, apparently there is a product for that.
Chem levels for spa
Second question- is it ok to leave the tub and pump in the open in the patio. I dont have any cover for the patio. . Summer can get to 95-98 degree and winter really cold .
As long as the spa is covered, it's fine to leave in the open in those temperatures. On the really hot days, I'd turn the heater portion off though. The heat pump can overheat, if it's constantly running in direct sunlight. On 100 degree day with no heater running, my water gets to about 95 degrees.
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric so no problem in pump and control panel getting rain?
@@grenjith No, it should be fine in the rain
Thank you Eric
Tip: use a pitcher and mix chemicals and water from spa in pitcher and then put into spa.
That's actually a damn good idea. Thanks
Help I put to much shock in my spa how do I reduce the level of chlorine.?
Just take the cover off and leave the jets on for a good bit. The level should go down after a few hours. I'd test the water after two hours or so and then every hour after that
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric thank you will do it is on a covered porch
If you want quick, you can remove a few gallons of water and replace that water.
@@THESoulPimp I did drain it to the lower line but it was not enough so I will wait till tomorrow and see if it has come down thank you for your reply
@@americanjewell5962 did you replace the water you drained to dilute the water in the spa? I just use a bucket to remove/replace water, I don't use the drain unless I want to drain the entire spa.
I like to go slow on the chlorine / bromine, so if the directions show you would need 3 TSP of shock (for this Spa), I'd probably be starting out close to 2 TSP, wait a few hours and retest.
How often should I test?
@@kellibrisbaneharster I test before use
Hi Eric, ONE more question for you, this stuff is so confusing to a hot tub novice! Im using bromine tablets instead of chlorine, can I put chlorine Shock in my spa or do I have to use a non-chlorine Shock?? Thx again man
You can use either one. It's much easier to over chlorinate if you use bromine tablets with chlorine shock. Generally, they don't want you to mix and match, but make sure you watch your chlorine levels and you should be fine
Inside the hot tub there is the little blower bag and then the thing u put the tabs into and then there is a small plastic thing attached to the spa half way up the inside wall….what is this?
Gonna need a picture or something. Not sure what you're referring to. Contact me on Instagram and I might be able to help
Thanks Eric!!!
Hi Eric. Once the hot tub is at the desired temperature, do I switch it off and it will maintain the temperature? Or do I need to let it run all the time.
Once the water has reached the desired temperature you will see the heat button turn green. This indicates that the heater is off, but the filtration is still running. You can leave it like this and it will maintain the temperature. Alternatively you can shut off both the heat and filtration periodically, to give the pump a break
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric thank you very much. does it hve a lot of impact with respect to energy consumption.
@@grenjith it takes a bit more energy to heat back up from very low temps than it does to maintain a warm temp.
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric thank you.
The strangest thing! I have worked for a few days to try to get all of the levels where they should be so the chlorine level is good the alkalinity level is good but The pH level is still low and I have put a total of about 6 tablespoons of PH over the last few days and it just will not come up to where it needs to be. Also the hardness will not come up but I’m not really sure what to do about that. That of course is the TH. Any suggestions?
You can add calcium chloride or water hardener for spas if you really want to raise the hardness level. For the pH level you might try desolving the powder ins. Pitcher of spa water first and then add it to the spa to see if that's raises the overall pH. It could be getting filtered out before it fully desolves
Ok thanks again!
Eric,
This is more or less a two part question.
1. If I wanted to make my spa saltwater, is it as simple as adding the correct amount of pure spa/pool salt in relation to the 177 gallon capacity or so of the spa or is more equipment required to do this?
2. If I did do salt water, do you know if I would still follow the same testing procedures as fresh water systems?
You would need a device like this, to convert it to a salt water hot tub
www.amazon.com/dp/B01KQUVJH6/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_undefined?linkCode=ml2&tag=problemsol0fa-20
2. There are also special salt water test stores that are a bit different
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric Im guessing it is more effective to just keep it fresh water more or less?
@@amoffitt I've heard good things about salt water conversions but haven't done it myself just yet
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric Thanks for the info. I will see what I can research on the salt water part of things.
Great vid 👍👍
Is PhUp same as alkalinity increaser? One more question when they say phUp is it like you get a higher number of ph -e.g. going up. E.g 5 going to 6?
Alkalinity up and pH up are two different things. Although alkalinity up will also raise pH. It will just do it more gradually. Yes, raising pH means the pH number will increase
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric thank you. Do you need phUp and alkalinity increaser. Will one won’t serve the purpose
@@grenjith I'd go with alkalinity up as it's a little easier to control
@@ProblemSolvedwithEric thank you for being so helpful.
How long do you leave the filter function running?
I turn mine off in the evening after we soak and then back on in the morning
It should run at least 4-8 hours. Always run an hour or two after usage. I mostly run ours in non peak hours
Very helpful!
Great video brother..... instructions suck...your was more help
Never mind. Found this video
Bromine is a forever chemical. Chlorine is better for the environment. A lot better.
True!