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Glossary
Activator (Potassium Monopersulfate) - Also known as non-chlorine shock, it is a strong oxi-
dizer capable of eliminating contaminants from your spa. It is a non-chlorine chemical compound
often used for shock treatments in spas and pools. It is very popular for use in mineral purica-
tion systems.
Algae - Algae may form on your spa surfaces or it may bloom in suspension. We typically know
algae to be green, but it may also be yellow (mustard algae), black, blue-green or any shade in
between. It may form separate spots, or seem to grow in sheets. Pink algae, is not algae at all,
but a form of bacteria. Algae are living, breathing organisms that need warmth, sunlight and CO2
to thrive.
Bather Load - The number of individuals using a spa in a 24 hour period. This is the primary
source of bacterial and organic contamination.
Bromine Liquid Salts - In 2-Part Bromine, a compound called sodium bromide (Liquid Salts) is
rst introduced into the water. Sodium bromide is NOT a sanitizer by itself. To work as a sanitiz-
er the sodium bromide needs an oxidizer, such as monopersulfate, to activate it. The addition of
an oxidizer sets the bromide in motion, turning the bromide into the killing form of bromine. After
destroying bacteria, algae and other organisms, it can become bromide once again. The oxidizer
shocks the water and off-gases the physical waste. Adding additional oxidizer can start the pro-
cess all over, converting bromide into a sanitizer. This cycle can occur repeatedly.
Bromine Liquid Salts Advantages
• Does not create an offensive odor
• Is pH neutral
• If tub is not in use, no chemicals need to be added for up to 1 week
• Considered the most effective Bromine system on the market
Disadvantages
• Requires the use and knowledge of two separate chemicals
• Cannot be used with ThermoClear
Bromine Tablets - Bromine tablets are a combination of 70% bromide and 30% chlorine. Tablets
are inserted into a dispenser that oats in the water providing continuous coverage. As the tablet
dissolves, it releases the bromide and chlorine. The two work together immediately to produce
bromine, the active chemical used in sanitation.
Advantages
• Easy to use
• Scent of chlorine is reduced
Disadvantages
• Bromine can potentially bleach out the shell’s surface
• Odor of 30% chlorine still exists
• Tablets are not pH neutral
• Cannot be used with ThermoClear
Calcium - One of the principal elements making up the earth’s crust; its compounds, when
dissolved, make the water hard. The presence of calcium in water is a factor contributing to the
formation of scale.
Glossary
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