Below you'll find a list of common water chemistry issues and their solutions.

These are general recommendations. Please note that water chemistry can vary greatly based on many different variables, including the quality of the water within your county that you fill the tub with. 

If you find you need further help please email support@plunge.com.  

Algae Growth

• Issue: Green, yellow, or black algae present in the water.
• Cause: Low chlorine or oxidizer levels, poor circulation, high phosphates, or poor water balance (pH, Alk, San).
• Solution:
  • Shock the pool with chlorine (Sirona Replenish) or a non-chlorine (Sirona Oxidizer) shock treatment.
  • Brush the affected areas and use an algaecide.
  • Maintain proper chlorine or oxidizer levels and balance water chemistry (pH, Alk, San) to prevent future growth.

pH Imbalance

• Issue: pH levels are too high (alkaline) or too low (acidic). Please refer to the table below for a breakdown of proper levels. 
• Cause: Addition of chemicals, debris, bather load, or fresh water can alter pH levels. 
• Solution:
  • To lower pH: Add 1 TBSP of Sirona Spa Down and let the water circulate for an hour. If the pH is still high, repeat. 
  • To raise pH: Test the water with a test strip and based on the table below add the appropriate amount of Sirona Spa Up. Then let the water circulate for at least 2 hours before use. 

High Alkalinity

• Issue: Total Alkalinity (TA) is above the recommended levels. Please refer to the tables below for recommended levels. 
• Cause: Overuse of alkaline products like sodium bicarbonate or filling the tub with high alkaline water.
• Solution:
  • Add 1 TBSP of Sirona Spa Down and let the water circulate for an hour. Test the water again and if the alkalinity is still high, repeat.

Cloudy Water

• Issue: Water appears murky or cloudy.
• Cause: Poor filtration, high amounts of organic material, imbalanced water chemistry, or algae.
• Solution:
  • Check and clean the filter system.
  • Adjust pH and alkalinity to correct levels (test and use the table below) with Spa Up or Spa Down as needed.
  • Shock the water if needed, to eliminate contaminants.

Foamy Water

• Issue: Excessive foam formation on the water surface.
• Cause: High organic material, lotions, or soap residue from swimmers.
• Solution:
  • Empty and refill the tub and educate anyone using the Plunge to rinse off before entering.
  • Shock the pool or spa to break down organic contaminants.
  • Use a defoamer to reduce foam.

Waterline Formation

• Issue: Waterline forming 
• Cause: High amounts of organic material, lotions, or body oils from Plungers. Pollen, dirt, debris getting into the water. 
• Solution:
  • Use a sponge to clean off the waterline as needed. 
  • Use Sirona Waterline Control upon initial fill to reduce the waterline formation. 
  • Educate anyone using the Plunge to rinse off before entering.
  • Keep the spa cover on when not in use to reduce dirt and debris getting into the tub. 
  • Change the filter monthly. (Residential)