chlorine bromine hot tub

Chlorine or bromine? Choosing the best hot tub sanitizer

The best way to enjoy your hot tub is to make sure the water is clean and clear. And to do  that, you need sanitizer. Whether you use chlorine or bromine, the sanitizer removes the things you don’t want in your water. Without a sanitizer, it will be easier for bacteria and algae to grow in the warm water of your spa.

But should you choose chlorine or bromine as your hot tub sanitizer?

There are benefits for each product. However, it’s important to choose the best sanitizer for your hot tub’s filtration system. Master Spas hot tubs feature the EcoPur Charge, a mineral-based filtration system. The combination of natural occurring elements works best with chlorine to keep your hot tub water clean.

Why should you use chlorine in your spa? Keep reading to learn why it’s the best sanitizer for your hot tub.

chlorine hot tub
The best chlorine for your hot tub is sodium dichlor. In granule form, sprinkle them over the surface of the water after each use.

Using chlorine in a hot tub

Most people are familiar with chlorine as a component of popular household products, such as bleach. The products for cleaning not soaking. This type of chlorine is different, though, than what you put in your hot tub to sanitize the water.

Chlorine acts as an oxidizer, attacking contaminants and destroying them. While the chlorine is working, the chemical reaction will produce chloramines. These chloramines are what can give hot tub water a smell. 

However, the EcoPur system removes chloramines from the water and keeps the water smelling fresh.

When do you add chlorine? 

You should put chlorine in your hot tub at least once a week. However, some people prefer to add a small amount after each use. Finding the best water care routine will depend on how often and how many people use it. Chlorine levels should be between 1.5 and 3.0 ppm. 

Are there different types of chlorine?

There are different types of chlorine but not every product is best for hot tub owners. Master Spas recommends that owners use dichlor chlorine granules. Some pool and spa stores might sell tablets and floaters to make water care easier. However, you need to monitor your chlorine levels and remove the products from the water once your water is balanced. 

Beware: Using the wrong type of chlorine will do more than affect your water chemistry. It can damage the components of your spa.

chlorine bromine hot tub
The EcoPur Charge system requires less chemicals than other systems, making it gentler on skin. You will need less chlorine to keep the water clean. If you use bromine, it can stick to your swim suit and skin.

Is bromine OK for a hot tub?

An alternative chlorine, bromine can be used to keep hot tub water clean. 

However, bromine works differently than chlorine and is not the best choice for use with mineral systems. Bromine breaks up the particles in the water by ionizing the water. The chemical process produces a product called bromamines. 

Many people use bromine in their hot tub because they have sensitive skin; bromine can be less irritating. However, bromine takes longer to dissolve and can “stick” to swimwear. If you use bromine in your hot tub, you will need to rinse off your skin and swimsuit after getting out. 

When using bromine, you will need to let it build up so you have a “bromine reserve.” This reserve is essential for proper sanitation.

You will typically add bromine every few days, depending on how often you use your spa and how many people hop in.

When adding bromine to your spa water, aim for a level between 3 and 5 ppm.

clean water hot tub
A water care routine will help you keep the water clean and clear.

Choosing between chlorine and bromine for your hot tub

Sanitizer is one of the hot tub chemicals that are key to keeping your water clean, clear, and safe to use. Typically, you will add a sanitizer after each use so it can remove organics and keep water balanced. 

Chlorine and bromine are the most widely available, and most Master Spas retailers will carry them. But how do you pick between chlorine and bromine?

You should pick the product that works best with the filtration system. For While bromine can be a suitable alternative for those with sensitive skin, chlorine is best for Master Spas owners.

Benefits of chlorine

  • Works in conjunction with Master Spas’ EcoPur Charge Filtration System
  • Takes less time to balance water as it dissolves more quickly
  • Quickly kills contaminants in your hot tub water 
  • Less sensitive to sunlight. If you have an outdoor hot tub without a cover, you should use chlorine.

Create a backyard oasis

Hot tub maintenance does not have to be stressful or time consuming. With a Master Spas hot tub, you can enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy while using fewer hot tub chemicals like chlorine. Learn more about the EcoPur filtration system, which works with chlorine. Or, contact your local Master Spas retailer to learn more about spa ownership. Wondering how much a hot tub costs? You can request a quote here.