Getting a new Jacuzzi 355 spa in a couple weeks and have been hearing about many new ways to maintain the water. Just wanted to hear what others have actually been using and been happy with.

This spa will not have an ozone generator and I'm hearing that chlorine is a better way to go than bromine. I used a bromine floater in my last tub.

I have the stainless steel (coated) jets and have heard that these may be hard to keep looking new if the balance is not maintained perfectly.

I've heard that the best way to use chlorine is to add after using the spa.

I've heard good things about some type of silver ion gizmo.

I received a Leisure Time care kit with my last spa that recommended the whole routine of Shock, Defender, Spa Bight and Clear.... blah blah blah... and was wondering if this routine is still recommended. I'll be talking to my dealer as well.... just wanted to hear what you all have had success with.

Also looking for a good trusted site for buying the chemicals. I've used Hot Tub Works in the past.

Thanks,
Steve

I like granular chlorine. For that size spa use about 1 teaspoon daily. If not used daily add some every 3 days. STAY AWAY FROM ANY TYPE OF TABLET - they are acidic.
The Silver Ion Cartridge reduces your chlorine usage to about half. You need to replace this cartridge every 4 months. I find it more cost effective to just use chlorine.
As far as the stainless - keeping your pH, alkalinity and hardness balanced will prevent any problems.

Basically to start test the water and balance the Alkalinity, pH and hardness. Then add chlorine and maybe a non-chlorine shock. Put the chemicals in the filter area and run the jets 30 minutes.

Have fun - the 355 is a good spa.

Thanks. Is there really any need to add Defender at "fill up", then Bright and Clear and SHOCK periodically? Thanks, Steve " title="Cool" />

I don't know what defender is.
Shock weekly with a non-chlorine shock.
Bright & Clear I believe is a clarifier. I would use this as needed. Usually if you have cloudy water it is a low sanitizer condition.

Word to the wise.... Keep it simple. Use a quality titration kit rather than strips for testing and you will eventually go on auto-pilot once you learn the new tub. I buy my chemicals - dichlor granules, dry acid, and liquid shock when they are on sale. A co-worker tells me she spends about $400+ a year on her tub. Me? Less than $70 including a scumball in the filter housing. Nothing fancy and the water is soft, clear, and clean and changed quarterly.

Happy tubing.
AGE