Startup Procedures

Startup procedures vary with each spa type. For Baja and Nordic Spas, additional information can be found at our store.
Follow these steps each time you re-fill your spa:

1. Read the instruction manual provided with your spa.
2. Before filling a fiberglass or plastic spa for the first time, clean the surface with an all-purpose cleaner.
3. Fill the spa with fresh water to the proper level. Do not use soft water since it tends to foam. In spas with a sealed filtration system, remember to open the air relief on the filter housing.
4. Start the circulation system and allow it to run 20 minutes before starting any chemical testing. Initially your spa should be run continuously until your water is clear. Then, if your spa has a filtration timer, set it to operate 6 to 8 hours a day. The most beneficial schedule is 4 hours on, 8 hours off, 4 hours on, 8 hours off.
5. Add Metal Protector according to label directions.
6. Use a system-specific test kit to determine pH and total alkalinity. If the total alkalinity is not within the acceptable range of 100‒150 ppm, then adjust as follows: If low, add pH/Alkalinity Up, 1 ounce at a time. If high, add pH/Alkalinity Down, 1 ounce at a time. See us with any questions.
7. Retest for pH if you have adjusted alkalinity. If pH is not in the 7.2‒7.8 range, add pH/Alkalinity Up or pH/Alkalinity Down, 1/2 ounce at a time, to bring the pH within the desired range. See us with any questions.
8. Add the sanitizer of your choice (spa bromine or spa chlorine, Bauqa spa, Brilliance) according to the label instructions to obtain proper sanitizer levels.
9. If on Nature 2, please follow the instructions given with your purchase.
10. If foam develops, use only enough defoamer to eliminate the foam. Do not overdose.