Replies

1. 
   CombatRescue | Oct 10, 2003 07:51pm | #1

   Lots of info on the web.  Try this (mind the wrap):

   http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&q=spa+tub+softened+water+problems

2. 
   DavidThomas | Oct 11, 2003 12:33am | #2

   Softened water has had 2+ ions (Calcium especially) replaced with 1+ ions (sodium in the form of NaCl).  That's why you recharge the softener with salt.  The water tastes a bit saltier but dissolves soap better and doesn't leave calcium deposits on your pipes and fixtures.

   Any spa is going to get a bunch of NaCl because you'll sweat several pints per hour into it.  Months later, you'll be soaking in something that is 97% tap water and 3% sweat but try not to think about it.

   So, I'd use softened.  The NaCl is going to get in the water regardless (and isn't a problem except for rusting mild steel components which should not have been used anyway), but allowing the calcium into the spa might allow a bit of it to deposit.  Not much though, because the same water is there for a month or two.  Whereas in a sink or shower or dishwasher, new water carrying new calcium (if unsoftened) goes through every day and a lot more will be deposited.

   Chemically,  (Well, actually chemical engineeringially),

   David Thomas   Overlooking Cook Inlet in Kenai, Alaska
1. 
   JohnSprung | Oct 14, 2003 03:31am | #5

   How about this --

   Get the water test kit you're going to use, and test samples of the softened and unsoftened water.  Go with the one that comes closest to the pH and total alkalinity you need.

   -- J.S.

3. 
   marv | Oct 14, 2003 12:00am | #3

   Depends on the Spa.  My Hot Srpings spa says "definetly do not use soft water"

   You get out of life what you put into it......minus taxes.

   Marv

4. 
   WayneL5 | Oct 14, 2003 02:04am | #4

   Sounds like Hot Springs definitely has a reason.  I'd contact them to find out why.