What is an Automatic Chlorinator?
Everything you need to know about automatic chlorinators and how the AutoChlorinator™ is different.
- What is an automatic chlorinator?
- An automatic chlorinator has a large reservoir of reserve chlorine (or bromine) tablets. The chlorinator slowly releases the chemical into the water over a long period of time by controlling the water flow over the tablets.
- Why would I want an automatic chlorinator?
- The main benefit of an auto chlorinator is to reduce maintenance. Because of their larger reservoir of treatment chemicals, they need to be filled less frequently than a typical chlorinator.
- How is the AutoChlorinator™ different than other automatic chlorinators?
- The AutoChlorinator™ differs from other automatic chlorinators because it doses exactly what your spa needs at any given time. Because other auto chlorinators are set manually (sometimes frustratingly), they treat your hot tub water more (or sometimes less) chemicals than necessary. For example, if you have just been in it, your hot tub will require more treatment than if it has sat untouched for a week. It can be frustrating trying to tune your chlorinator to the exact needs of your tub. The AutoChlorinator™ is different because it only doses the exact amount of treatment that your spa needs at that specific time. In addition, the AutoChlorinator™ does not require plumbing work from a technician – just throw it in and forget it!
- Do I still need to balance my hot tub if I have an automatic chlorinator?
- If your automatic chlorinator is correctly configured, your chlorine/bromine levels will be within the safe range. Getting the correct configuration can be difficult on most auto chlorinators, but the AutoChlorinator™ ensures your hot tub has the perfect sanitization levels at all times. The pH and alkalinity of your tub should be checked on a regular basis to enhance the effectiveness of your sanitizing treatment.
- How many chlorine tablets will fit in an automatic chlorinator?
- An automatic chlorinator usually holds about 9 3" chlorine pucks.
AutoChlorinator™ FAQ
- How do I know if my automatic chlorinator is working?
- You can verify your automatic chlorinator is working by testing your hot tub water with test strips or a test kit. If chlorine levels consistently stay within the recommended range (1-3 ppm for chlorine, 3-5 ppm for bromine) without manual dosing, your chlorinator is functioning properly. The AutoChlorinator™ also provides visual indicators to confirm operation and alert you when refills are needed.
- How do I install my automatic chlorinator?
- Most in-line automatic chlorinators require professional plumbing installation into your hot tub's circulation system. However, the AutoChlorinator™ is designed for effortless installation - simply place it in your hot tub water and it begins working immediately. No plumbing modifications, no technician visits, and no complicated setup procedures are required.
- How long will my automatic chlorinator last?
- Traditional automatic chlorinators typically last 3-5 years depending on usage and maintenance. The AutoChlorinator™ is built with durable, corrosion-resistant materials designed to withstand continuous exposure to hot tub chemicals and conditions. With proper care and regular refills, you can expect years of reliable automated water treatment.
- How often do I need to charge the battery in my automatic chlorinator?
- The AutoChlorinator™ features an efficient power system designed for extended operation. Battery life depends on usage frequency and water conditions, but typical charging intervals range from several weeks to months. The device provides low-battery notifications well in advance, ensuring uninterrupted operation. Simply recharge using the included charging cable when prompted.
- Do I still need to shock my hot tub if I have an automatic chlorinator?
- Yes, periodic shocking is still recommended even with an automatic chlorinator. Shocking helps eliminate organic contaminants, chloramines, and other compounds that regular chlorination cannot fully address. Heavy usage, storms, or after adding fresh water are good times to shock. However, the AutoChlorinator™ significantly reduces the frequency of shocking needed by maintaining consistent sanitizer levels and preventing contaminant buildup.
- Do I still need to balance my hot tub if I have an automatic chlorinator?
- Yes, maintaining proper pH and alkalinity levels is essential even with an automatic chlorinator. While the AutoChlorinator™ handles chlorine/bromine dosing automatically, water balance (pH 7.2-7.8, alkalinity 80-120 ppm) affects sanitizer effectiveness and protects your hot tub components. Test these parameters weekly and adjust as needed. Balanced water allows your AutoChlorinator™ to work more efficiently.
- What is the lifespan of an automatic hot tub chlorinator?
- The lifespan of an automatic hot tub chlorinator varies by type and quality. In-line chlorinators typically last 3-5 years before seals and components degrade. Floating chlorinators may last 2-4 years. The AutoChlorinator™ is engineered with premium materials resistant to chemical corrosion and UV exposure, providing reliable performance for many years with minimal maintenance beyond regular chemical refills.
- What is the best automatic hot tub chlorinator?
- The best automatic hot tub chlorinator depends on your needs. Traditional chlorinators dispense chemicals at a fixed rate, requiring manual adjustment and often resulting in over- or under-treatment. The AutoChlorinator™ stands out by intelligently dosing exactly what your hot tub needs in real-time based on actual water conditions. Combined with no-plumbing installation, 6-month refills, and vendor-neutral chemical compatibility, the AutoChlorinator™ offers the most convenient and effective automated hot tub water care solution available.