To properly maintain your pool or spa, you'll need a few core chemicals:

• Chlorine or bromine (for sanitizing)
• pH Increaser and decreaser (to balance water acidity)
• Alkalinity increaser (to stabilize pH)
• Calcium hardness increaser (to protect surfaces and equipment)
• Shock treatments (to break down contaminants)
• Algaecides (to prevent algae growth)
• Clarifiers or flocculants (to clear cloudy water)

These essentials work together to keep your water clean, balanced, and safe for swimmers.

You should test your pool or spa water at least 2–3 times per week—or daily during heavy usage or extreme temperatures. Regular testing helps catch imbalances before they become bigger issues. pH, chlorine/bromine levels, alkalinity, and calcium hardness should be monitored closely, and adjusted as needed using the proper chemicals.

While many chemicals serve the same purpose, not all pool chemicals are spa-safe. Spas operate at higher temperatures, which can affect chemical reactions and concentrations. Always check the product label—many brands offer formulations specifically made for spas to ensure proper dosage and safe use in smaller volumes of water.

Store chemicals in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area—out of direct sunlight and away from children and pets. Keep chemicals in their original containers with labels intact. Never mix different chemicals together, even if they’re similar, and avoid storing liquid and dry products on the same shelf to prevent accidental reactions.