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Pool Nation Podcast Innovation

E-298 Pool Nation Podcast Hot Tub & Spa Chemistry Masterclass: Why Pool Pros Get It Wrong (Hot Water

πŸ“… April 27, 2026 ⏱️ 1:23:00 🎀 Edgar de Jesus, John JJ Flawless, Zach Nicholas, Robbie Walker, Michael Viegas

Chapters

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  • 0:00
    Welcome and Introductions
    The hosts Edgar de Jesus, John JJ Flawless, and Zach Nicholas introduce themselves and guests Robbie Walker and Michael Viegas from Solenis, setting the stage for a deep dive into hot tub and spa chemistry.
  • 3:14
    Evolution of Spas & Cold Plunges
    The discussion covers the historical evolution of spas from ancient soaking baths to modern, advanced systems, including the emerging trend of cold plunges and their unique chemical considerations.
  • 3:42
    Hot Water Chemistry Differences
    The guests explain the three main reasons spa chemistry behaves differently from pools: increased dissolution rates, microdosing, and the constant pH battle due to aeration.
  • 4:58
    Sanitizers and Borates
    A detailed look at the three main EPA-registered sanitizers for spas (chlorine, bromine, biguanide) and the benefits of using borates for pH stability and water quality.
  • 5:52
    Sanitation, Oxidation, Biofilm
    The importance of measurable sanitizer residuals, shocking for oxidation, and the pervasive problem of biofilm in spa plumbing, emphasizing regular draining and purging.
  • 6:41
    Supplements and Water Treatment
    Discussion on supplemental treatments like ozone, UV, AOPs, enzymes, clarifiers, and mineral sanitizers, and their roles in assisting primary sanitizers for optimal water quality.

Speakers

E
Edgar de Jesus
Host
J
John JJ Flawless
Host
Z
Zach Nicholas
Host
R
Robbie Walker
Regional Sales Manager for Solenis
M
Michael Viegas
Regional Manager for Solenis (Western States)

Key Takeaways

✦

Always maintain a measurable sanitizer residual in spa water, preferably on the higher end of the recommended range (2-5 ppm) due to higher bather loads and warm temperatures.

✦

Balance water chemistry (alkalinity, pH, calcium hardness) before adding any sanitizers to prevent damage to spa components and ensure sanitizer effectiveness.

✦

Utilize bromine in hot tubs for its superior stability and effectiveness in warmer temperatures and wider pH ranges compared to chlorine.

✦

Proactively use supplemental treatments like enzymes, clarifiers, and metal/scale preventatives to reduce chemical consumption, improve water clarity, and extend the life of spa components.

✦

Educate homeowners on the 'human juice' factor and the importance of shocking after heavy use, as well as the need for regular draining, purging, and chemical cleaning of filters (every 90-120 days).

✦

Understand that cold plunges require different product dissolution rates, with liquid sanitizers often preferred due to the slower dissolution in freezing water.

✦

Recognize that foam in a hot tub indicates a problem, not a natural occurrence; investigate and address the root cause, which could range from chemical imbalance to biofilm.

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