Hot Tub Ozone

Ozone is a word people are typically familiar with, but mostly as it refers to our atmosphere; it probably isn’t something you immediately associate with hot tub usage. Those of you “in the know” may realize that hot tub ozone is a form of sanitizer that can be utilized in your spa at home.

 

BASICS OF OZONE, OZONATORS, & OXIDATION

Ozone is a form of oxygen that is created when electrical energy breaks apart an ordinary oxygen molecule. This creates a chemical reaction, the end product of which is ozone.

Ozone is often referred to as an energetic oxygen and can be a powerful tool in the oxidation of water contaminants. It’s been utilized in the hot tub community through the use of ozonators, products that generate ozone for the water.

Oxidation happens when an ozone molecule collides with the molecules of any manner of organic material that may have gotten into the water either by lack of proper sanitation or just washed off from a typical hot tub bather. One of the benefits of using an ozonator is that the only byproduct after neutralizing the contaminants is oxygen. It reduces your need to use heavy amounts of other chemicals for sanitation while destroying bacteria, reducing unpleasant odors, and prolonging the life of your equipment.

Ozonators replicates the natural oxidation process that exists in nature and introduces ozone to the water in a safe and measured manner. When used in addition to a sanitizer like bromine or chlorine, it will mean less need for high levels of chemicals to keep the water clean. Ozone boosts the performance of the sanitizers you do use.

In addition, ozone breaks down bacteria, chemicals, and helps clump together other solids so that they can be easily filtered out of the water, making the water cleaner and easier to sanitize.

 

OZONE USE 

One big question people typically have is whether or not ozone will save them money. Yes! Ozone usage reduces the amount of sanitizer you use in your water, which will eventually pay for the cost of an ozonator. A typical ozone user will consume up to 60-90% less bromine per year. You will need to shock your hot tub less because ozone is an automatic, daily, non-chlorine shock.

Ozone is compatible with other purification systems like Cleanwater Blue, Nature2 mineral purifiers, and the Spa Frog. Because ozone prevents calcium build up in the water, many users remark that it makes the water feel better on their skin.

In order for your ozonator to be effective, you will need to run it for 4-6 hours per day. You can program it to run for 2-3 hours every half day or can run the cycle all at once. Ozone is a strong oxidizer, but it doesn’t last long in the water—thus the need for the need to be continuously replenished.

Most new hot tubs are considered ozonator ready, meaning that a new ozonator is very easy to install. Some models even come with one, so make sure you check with your dealer or consult your owner’s manual.

 

CHOOSING AN OZONATOR

There are a few criteria when you choose an ozonator. First, note your spas gallon capacity. The bigger the tub, the more powerful of an ozonator you will need. Second, sanitation level. If your hot tub is being used by several people multiple times a week, pick an ozonator that has a powerful sanitation output. You’ll also need to establish what your electrical requirements are. Ozone units come with a variety of voltage options, so be familiar with what kind of voltage cord you need to hook up your ozonator before purchasing.

Ozonators typically need replacing every 2-3 years, sometimes earlier if you’re a heavy hot tub user. If you find that it isn’t functioning properly, it probably needs replacing. It might bubble, but if you find that it’s not distributing the way it should and you’ve had it a few years, it’s most likely time to replace it.

Ozone is great. It boosts your sanitation while saving you money. It’s safe for the environment because the byproduct after use is regular ol’ oxygen. It is pH natural and will not affect your water chemistry balance. If you haven’t already, given an ozonator a try. If you have one already, tell us what you love about yours!