HOT TUB SANITIZERS: CHLORINE VS. BROMINE

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Sanitization is a critical part of maintaining clean, safe, healthy water. After you decide to purchase a spa, you’ll need to decide which sanitizer is best for you. The two most common hot tub sanitizers are chlorine and bromine. They both do a great job, but there are a few key differences to be aware of. Read on, and you will be able to make the choice that is best for you.

CHLORINE PROS

  • Less expensive than bromine

  • Dissolves faster

  • Easier to adjust chlorine level

  • Gives the water a crisper, clearer look

CHLORINE CONS

  • More may be needed to keep the levels correct

  • May irritate sensitive skin

  • Presents a strong odor if too many chloramines are present in the water

  • Not as stable as bromine

BROMINE PROS

  • More stable at higher temperatures

  • Less irritating to the skin

  • Easier to maintain if using tabs

  • Milder odor

BROMINE CONS

  • Dissolves more slowly

  • About 30% more expensive

  • Water can look a little dull in comparison to chlorine

  • Not as reactive as chlorine, so it kills contaminants more slowly

As you can see, there are different advantages and disadvantages to both chlorine and bromine. Generally, chlorine is administered in granules and is less expensive than bromine, but you may need to use more to keep the chlorine levels in range. As the chlorine cleans and disinfects it forms compounds called chloramines which build up over time creating the all too familiar strong chlorine odor. Adding a shock treatment will clear them out of the water. Bromine is usually administered in tablet form and is used with a dispenser that floats on the surface of the water and slowly disperses bromine into the water. Bromine combines with the contaminants in the water and form compounds called bromamines. A shock treatment will return bromine to full strength, so it doesn’t need to be replenished as often as chlorine to keep levels in range. One of the most common reasons that people will choose bromine over chlorine is if sensitive skin is an issue because it is less irritating.

It’s also important to note that you can always change your mind and try both sanitizers! But whatever you do do not mix them in the same water. Your hot tub will need to be drained and refilled with fresh, clean water.

/ HAPPY SOAKING /