Re: how to use BBB method
If you are talking about a hot tub this advice is incorrect.
1. Do not use test strips, they are not dependable. Get a Taylor K-2006 test kit
2. while the advice about adjusting TA and pH is basically correct there is a bit more to it than that.
3. You also need to make sure the CH is at least 130-150 ppm since it will help lessen foaming. Test strips cannot test calcium hardness, they only test total hardness.
4. BEFoRE you add bleach you have to get the CYA up to between 20-30 ppm. This is most easily accomplished by using dichlor to chlorinate until you have added enough dichlor to add between 25-30 ppm of chlorine in total to the spa (but not all at once.). Use the dichlor for your daily chlorination until the total amount of dichlor to add this amount of chlorine to your spa has been used and THEN switch to bleach.
For example, in a 300 gal spa 2 oz of dichlor will add 28 ppm chlorine and 25 ppm CYA. Howver, you will only be adding about 1-2 teaspoons of dichlor at a time to maintain your FC level unless you are shocking the water.
Chlorine and pH should be checked before each use and TA weekly, CH and CYA monthly.
Retired pool store and commercial pool maintenance guy.
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