BullFrog Spas Owner's Manual - page 24
Total Alkalinity (TA)
The measure of carbonates and bicarbonates in the water. Low TA can cause pH to be unstable causing
the water to be corrosive or scale forming to the spa and its equipment. To correct low TA, add a Total
Alkalinity Increaser. High TA can cause scale build-up, cloudy water, as well as other pH problems. If the
spa water has high TA, contact your authorized Bullfrog Portable Spa dealer.
Calcium Hardness (CH)
The measure of dissolved calcium in the water. Low CH (soft water) can stain the spa surface as well as
corrosion to the spa and its equipment. To correct low CH, add a Calcium Hardness Increaser. High CH
(hard water) can cause cloudy water as well as rough scale build-up on the spa surface and equipment.
If the spa water has high CH, contact your authorized Bullfrog Portable Spa dealer.
Stain and Scale Control
Stain and scale problems are common in hot water environments. To help prevent and control staining
and scaling, add a Stain & Scale Inhibitor.
Foam Control
Spa water that is polluted with body oils and lotions combined with high water temperatures, can cause
excessive surface foaming. For a temporary fix add a Foam Remover. The best way to control foam is to
super chlorinate the water; this will destroy the soap agents that normal levels of sanitizer will not. Add 2
tablespoons per 100 gallons.
Cloudy Water Prevention and Control
There are two basic reasons that spa water becomes cloudy. First, non-filterable liquid waste (e.g.
perspiration) have contaminated the water. To remove these substances, Super Sanitize the water.
Second, non-filterable micro-particulate waste (e.g. dust) has contaminated the water. To remove these
substances use a Water Clarifier.
Note: Names of spa chemicals will vary from one manufacturer to another. Please contact your
authorized Bullfrog Portable Spa dealer.
STARTING THE SPA WITH NEW WATER
1. Add the prescribed dose of Stain and Scale Inhibitor while filling the spa. This will provide the initial
protection against staining and scaling. Note: Do not use soft water unless the mineral content is
raised immediately.
2. Once the spa is filled, add the prescribed dose of Water Clarifier. This will clear the water of any
micro-particulates may be in the new water.
3. If possible, have your authorized Bullfrog Portable Spa dealer test the CH of your spa. Adjust as per
your dealers recommendations.
4. Test and adjust the TA. The TA should measure 125 to 150 Parts Per Million (PPM).
5. Test and adjust the pH. The pH should measure 7.4 to 7.6.
6. After the spa water has circulated for one hour, add ½ teaspoons of Granular Chlorine or 1 teaspoon
of Granular Bromine per each 200 gallons of spa water. After several hours, check sanitizer level and
adjust, if necessary, to the following:
Without Ozone
With Ozone
Chlorine Level
2.0 PPM
1.0 PPM
Bromine Level
3.0 PPM
2.0 PPM
7. Start-up water chemistry is now complete. However, it may take several days for the filter to
completely clear the water.
Important: Unless you have ozone, do not use the spa if the sanitizer level is below 1.0 PPM.
Bullfrog Spas Owner’s Manual
24