Pristine Blue Frequently Asked Questions

What is PristineBlue?

PristineBlue is a completely different form of spa sanitiser to Chlorine or Bromine. It sanitizes the spa water by destroying both algae and bacteria through the use of its unique copper based formula.

How does PristineBlue work?

The bactericidal properties of copper have been known for centuries. It is one of the reasons why, in the UK, our houses have copper water pipes and copper hot water storage tanks.  Some years ago, copper was tried in pools to control bacteria but this failed because the copper level could not be raised high enough to do the job without causing heavy staining to the pool equipment.  The technology has moved on significantly since then and by blending a unique proprietary base product (called ET3000) with copper salts, a biologically active structure is formed in which the copper ions are fully dissolved in the water.  The result is PristineBlue.

Once added to your spa water PristineBlue provides rapid, 100% disinfection by:

• Spreading rapidly throughout the spa water and pipe work.  (For the chemically minded, this is facilitated by the ions all being positively charged and so naturally repelling each other.)
• Killing the algae and bacteria on contact as they absorb the copper ions. Debris from this action is removed from the spa by the filtration system.

This process continues until all the copper solution is used up.  Fortnightly topping up of the PristineBlue to the required level keeps the disinfection process continuing safely.

What are the components of the Pristine Blue system?

PristineBlue is a complete hot tub water care system that comprises four essential and unique components that must be used together to convert and then keep your hot tub running with 100% safe and efficient disinfection.

The PristineBlue system comprises:

• PristineCheck - a hardness reducer to remove the calcium from your water before you start.
• PristineBlue - the copper based algae and bacteria inhibitor.
• PristinePower - a non-chlorine shock treatment to remove any non-filterable organic wastes.
• PristineClean - a scale formation and metal stain inhibitor

Can I use PristineBlue in any spa, old or new?

PristineBlue can be used in any spa, old or new, so long as it has an effective filtration system (removable/cleanable filters) and a means of providing water circulation through the filters for at least 4 hours a day.  We recommend the use of Spa Flush before you start using PristineBlue to remove  bio-film and calcium deposits from the plumbing and equipment without the use of harsh or toxic chemicals.

PristineBlue is not suitable for use in inflatable spas because the filtration systems are not good enough.

Can I use PristineBlue in a spa with water thats already got Chlorine or Bromine in it?

If the spa has just been filled with water and shocked then you can switch to PristineBlue.  For a spa that has had Chlorine or Bromine in it for a week or more then you must drain the spa first and refill it with fresh water before using PristineBlue.

Do I need to shock the spa water when using PristineBlue?

Yes you should shock the water after you've filled the spa and removed the hardness from the water, and before using PristineBlue, using a non-chlorine shock. PristinePower, supplied in the starter kit, is best.  When using PristineBlue, you should also shock water at least fortnightly with PristinePower to destroy organic wastes, body fats and oils that the filter is unable to remove.  This will help to keep the water crystal clear and ensure that you use less of the PristineBlue liquid.

How often should I clean the filters in the spa?

Your filters should be cleaned every 2 to 4 weeks depending on use, as with any other sanitizer. The best way to clean the filters is usually in your dishwasher, on a 50^oC wash cycle, with a proprietary powder filter cleaner poured into the soap dispenser.  If you don't have a dishwasher then soak the filter(s) in water in a clean bucket with the filter cleaner and rinse off.  Always dry the filters first before reinserting them in the tub.

How long will PristineBlue last in my tub?

Each 250 ml bottle of PristineBlue lasts 4-11 months, depending on the size of your spa.  The table below shows how long one bottle will last in your hot tub.

How often should I change the spa water?

Every 3 to 4 months, as with any other santizer system.  We recommend the use of Spa Flush at every water change to remove bio-film and other deposits from the plumbing and equipment without the use of harsh or toxic chemicals

Is it safe to drain the water onto the garden?

Yes, PristineBlue is environmentally friendly so will not damage your garden plants.

What happens if I overdose the spa with PristineBlue?

The most common signs that are occur when PristineBlue has been overdosed are consistently low or zero readings on the Copper Test Kit, cloudy or green tinted water and a blue colour in the filter.  To prevent an overdose, do not top up the Pristine Blue level to the measured amount more than every two weeks.  Double check your spa volume to make sure that you are adding the correct amount of PristineBlue.

Can I use aromatherapy products with PristineBlue?

Yes, crystals are best. Avoid liquid products.

What is Pristine Blues' shelf life?

PristineBlue stays active indefinitely and can be used from season to season if stored in a closed container above 0^oC. PristineClean and PristineCheck last indefinitely regardless of temperature.  PristinePower will be most effective if used within a year of purchase.

How can I clear up water thats cloudy?

Cloudy water can be caused by improper water balance, inadequate filtration or shocking, or excess calcium.  If you experience cloudy water, check the balance, try an extra shock treatment of PristinePower, clean the spa filters and increase the filtration time of your spa.

Can I use PristineBlue if my spa has an  ozonator?

Absolutely!  In fact, PristineBlue is a great complement to ozone sanitisers.  Ozone has a quick kill (and is only working when the fitration pump is running) but has a very short residual effect, allowing bacteria and algae to re-grow.  PristineBlues extremely long residual effect prevents algae and bacteria from returning to your water.