Episode
E-298 Pool Nation Podcast Hot Tub & Spa Chemistry Masterclass: Why Pool Pros Get It Wrong (Hot Water, Biofilm, Bromine & Cold Plunges Explained)
- Podcast
- Pool Nation Podcast
- Published
- Apr 27, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 4979
- Processing state
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Summary
In Episode 298 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar and Zac are joined by industry experts Robbie Walker and Michael Viegas from Solenis to break down one of the most misunderstood areas in the pool industry — spa, hot tub, and cold plunge water chemistry. If you’ve ever treated a spa like a pool… this episode will change everything. We dive deep into: Why hot water chemistry behaves completely differently The truth about biofilm, bacteria, and “human juice” in spas The real differences between chlorine, bromine, and biguanide systems How aeration, temperature, and bather load destroy your chemistry Why your sanitizer disappears overnight The rise of cold plunges and wellness systems And how pool pros can turn spas into a profitable service category This is a must-listen for pool service pros, repair techs, and anyone looking to level up their understanding of water chemistry — especially in smaller bodies of water like spas and hot tubs. 👉 Bottom line: If you're not treating spas differently, you're doing it wrong. ⏱️ Podcast Timestamps 00:00 – Intro: Welcome to Pool Nation Podcast02:30 – Meet the Guests: Robbie Walker & Michael Viegas (Solenis) 06:45 – Why Spa Chemistry is NOT Pool Chemistry10:20 – History of Spas: From Romans to Modern Hot Tubs15:30 – The Rise of Cold Plunges & Wellness Trends20:10 – The 3 Biggest Differences in Spa Water Chemistry25:40 – Bather Load: The Truth About “Human Juice”30:15 – Chlorine vs Bromine vs Biguanide (What Actually Works Best)38:20 – Why Your Sanitizer Disappears in Hot Water42:10 – Aeration, Jets & pH Drift Explained47:30 – Shocking & Oxidation: What You SHOULD Be Doing52:45 – Biofilm: The Hidden Problem in Every Spa58:10 – Drain, Purge & Refill: The Right Maintenance Schedule1:03:20 – Enzymes, Borates & Sup…