When it comes to maintenance for a spa pool or swim spa, we often concentrate on the usual suspects: pH levels, chlorine, filters, and general cleanliness. However, one of the most significant factors influencing your spa water balance is entirely beyond your control, the weather. Understanding this link can empower you as a spa pool owner, giving you more awareness and making you better prepared for the challenges that weather can bring to your spa.
Failure to maintain the water balance in your spa can lead to a range of issues, from skin irritation to equipment damage. Understanding the connection between the weather and your spa pool’s water balance will help you avoid these problems and make sure of a cleaner, healthier, and much more efficient spa pool.
Sun Exposure & UV Rays: Sanitiser Breakdown
Bright, sunny days may be perfect for a soak, but UV rays can degrade sanitiser quickly, especially in chlorine-based systems. UV exposure actually breaks down free chlorine, causing it to dissipate quite a bit faster, reducing its ability to fight off bacteria and algae.
What to watch out for:
- Rapid drop in chlorine or bromine levels
- Cloudy or green-tinted water due to algae growth
- More frequent need for sanitiser top-ups
How to protect your spa:
- Use a UV-resistant thermal spa cover from Jet Spas to block sunlight when the spa’s not in use.
- Consider using a chlorine stabiliser (cyanuric acid) in your spa water, particularly in outdoor spas.
- Test water every 2–3 days during summer, and dose sanitiser immediately after use.
Jet Spas Tip: Our premium insulated spa covers not only reduce any heat loss but also minimise UV exposure, extending the life of your spa pool’s water.
Rainfall & Storms: pH Swings and Contamination
Rain can bring a host of unwanted changes to your spa pool. Not only does it dilute chemical levels, but it also tends to be slightly acidic, lowering pH and total alkalinity. On top of this, runoff and airborne debris can introduce organic contaminants that demand more sanitiser so it can break down.
Signs of rainwater imbalance:
- pH levels below 7.2
- Cloudy or foamy water
- Organic matter floating on the surface
- More frequent filter clogging
How to respond:
- Test and rebalance water immediately after heavy rainfall.
- Add pH increaser or alkalinity buffer as needed.
- Use a spa shock treatment (non-chlorine or chlorine-based) to re-sanitise the water.
- Ensure your spa cover is secure during wet weather and storms.
Wind & Dust: Increased Debris and Sanitiser Demand
Windy conditions blow in dust, pollen, leaves, and insects, all of which can increase the total dissolved solids (TDS) in your spa. This not only uses up the sanitiser but can also cause your spa pool to have filter blockages and foamy water.
What to look for:
- Foam forming on the surface
- Clogged filters and poor jet flow
- Sudden drop in chlorine or bromine levels
How to reduce wind impact:
- Install windbreaks or fencing to reduce debris blowing into the spa.
- Skim your spa pool daily during windy periods.
- Rinse or clean filters weekly.
- Consider using a spa blanket underneath your main cover for extra protection.
Temperature Swings: Sanitiser Efficiency and Comfort
Temperature affects more than just how your spa feels, it also changes how your chemicals behave. In warm water, sanitiser is consumed much more quickly. In cold water, sanitiser is less effective, and bacteria can become more resilient. Therefore, sudden temperature shifts can also affect your spa’s pH, calcium hardness, and overall water stability.
Preventative care:
- Keep your spa heater calibrated and check the water temperature on a daily basis.
- Use a spa thermal blanket to stabilise water temperature.
- Check sanitiser levels more often in extreme weather conditions.
- Use Jet Spas-approved balancing chemicals to maintain water equilibrium.
Did you know? Our spas are built with energy-efficient insulation, helping regulate water temperature with minimal fluctuation, saving you money and stress.
Humidity & Evaporation: Mineral Concentration and Water Loss
Humidity can also affect how much your spa pool’s water evaporates. In dry, breezy weather, you may notice much faster water loss, which concentrates the dissolved minerals and chemicals. This can cause calcium scale buildup, foamy water, and, in turn, cause itchy skin if it’s left unchecked.
Keep evaporation under control:
- Maintain a consistent water level (refill as needed).
- Test water hardness monthly and add Jet Spas Hardness Decreaser if required.
- Use anti-foam treatments to counteract residue buildup.
Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead of the Weather
By understanding how the weather impacts your water balance and taking a proactive approach to chemical care and protection, you’re not just reacting to the weather, you’re actually taking control. You’re taking responsibility for your spa’s health and ensuring a longer-lasting, enjoyable spa experience.
Jet Spas is here to provide you with the high-quality covers, spa chemicals, heat pumps, and expert advice you need to maintain your spa. Whether you’re prepping for summer sunshine or bracing for a winter storm, we’re here to give you the confidence that comes with knowing you’re using the best products to keep your spa water healthy.
Nationwide Delivery and Easy Setup
At Jet Spas, we understand that convenience is important. That’s why we offer nationwide delivery. Our delivery service includes bringing the spa to your home and setting it up, making sure it’s ready to go as soon as it arrives. And with our 12 months interest-free financing options through GEM or QCard, owning a spa pool or swim spa is more accessible than ever.
Auckland | Hamilton | Tauranga | Whakatāne | Rotorua | Taupō | Gisborne | New Plymouth | Napier | Hastings | Whanganui | Palmerston North | Wellington and more
We have a range of spa pools including other sizes of swim spas including the Romeo swim spa and smaller sized pools such as the Cessna spa pool.
Contact us at Jet Spas today for water testing kits, premium covers, and chemical bundles. Our team is here to help you keep your spa water healthy and your spa experience enjoyable.
