Many hot tub owners wonder if it’s a good idea to use an ozonator for their spa. Since ozone is a natural oxidizer it’s typically a good choice as it can break down bodily fluids and a variety of chemicals that may find their way into the water. These include things such as such as makeup, deodorant, hair spray, soap, cologne, body lotion, perfume, suntan lotion, hand cream, urine, and saliva. Ozone can help kill a variety of viruses, germs, and bacteria when it’s used in combination with your regular hot tub sanitizer as well as oxidize organic contaminants. This will result in a better and cleaner quality of water compared to using just bromine and/or chlorine.
When used in a hot tub, an ozonator splits oxygen molecules via corona discharge or ultraviolet light to produce ozone. The process enables the ozonator to provide you with cleaner and clearer water and it allows bromine and chlorine to be reused continuously as it enhances their effectiveness. This enables hot tub owners to use fewer sanitizers in the water which can save both money and time. In addition, a hot-tub ozonator is environmentally safe since the amount of ozone produced is quite insignificant. Ozone is safe when it’s dissolved in the water and an excessive amount of ozone can be quickly converted back into oxygen.
The pros and cons of ozonators
Ozone is able to break down many harmful chemicals as well as destroy microorganisms. Dissolved solids are clumped together which makes them easier to remove from the water through the tub’s filter cartridge. However, while it creates clean, clear water the ozone can cut down on the life of the underside vinyl of your hot tub cover. Other than that, it’ won’t affect any equipment. The best way to get around this problem is to place a floating blanket between the water and cover as it will create an effective barrier as well as save energy.
Just about all newer-model hot tubs and spas are built ozone-ready, which makes replacing or adding an ozonator a rather simple task. If you’re not sure if the hot tub can use an ozonator you should be able to find out by checking the owner’s manual. As long as you have a power supply and the room then you shouldn’t have a problem. When installing an ozonator is recommended that you drain the tub and refill it with fresh water it will be easier for the ozonator to maintain its purity. Your sanitizing system will then allow you to balance the tub’s water chemistry
Hot tubs which are ozone-ready generally cone with a small ozone jet with an air port and water port which is located near the bottom. The jet will simply be used as a water jet if there isn’t an ozonator. An ozonator will come with an installation kit and it can be installed by following the written instructions and diagrams. If you feel you can’t install it you can always seek help from a hot-tub professional.
UV or CD ozonator?
Since there are two different styles of hot-tub ozonators, which are ultraviolet (UV)and corona discharge (CD), you’ll need to decide which type you prefer. Many hot tub owners are opting for CD models since UV ozonators use more energy. In general, CD technology is more up to date and effective and will usually have a longer life as well as save you money. They fit most tubs due to their compact design and you won’t need to replace any bulbs, chips and/or cartridges.
For more specific information and a demonstration of a hot-tub ozonator contact us today to speak to one of our hot tub experts that can discuss the benefits of adding an ozonator to your hot tub. We also have locations across Ontario.
