A unique form of chlorine dioxide, which is capable of penetrating and dispersing biofilms, the major breeding ground for pathogenic bacteria. Chlorine dioxide will kill legionella pneumophilia, cryptosporidium, Pseudomonas aerinosa and mycobacterium species, and other pathogens commonly found in hot tubs.
A biofilm can be defined as a physiologically co-ordinated community of bacteria and other micro-organisms, embedded in a protective glycocalyx with trapped organic and inorganic debris, which adhere to surfaces in aqueous environments. A glycocalyx sugary or sweet covering) refers to any polysaccharide - containing material outside a bacterial cell wall that enables microbial cells to bind to each other and then adhere to any surface (internal spa pipe-work). A "Biofilm" rarely exceeds 1mm thickness and is usually colourless, and therefore, invisible to the naked eye.
Once a biofilm has formed, the embeded micr-organisms multiply because of the variety of nutrient sources available within the water. New cells attach to each other as well as extending laterally across the surface and this creates a a "woven matrix colony" in which other organisms can develop. This matrix is often refered to as slime and with perfect temperature conditions that exist in hot tubs and spas rapid microbial proliferation quickly forms a visible and sticky growth.
Problems associated with biofilms should be insignificant in a well designed and managed hot tub with an adequate disinfectant residual, a pH value maintained at the recommended level, and an appropriate cleaning/maintenance regime. However, if allowed to accumulate, biofilms that build up to form laden slime on surfaces such as pipes, can be very difficult to remove, because they resist high levels of chlorine or bromine.
Biofilms are thought to play an important role in harbouring and providing an ideal habitat in which legioella and other pathogenic bacteria may grow. Outbreaks of folliculitis (a red rash which involves infection of the hair follicules) caused by P. aeruginosa, as well as respitory diseases such as 'hot tub lung'.
Apply product to tub when not in use. Remove any filter cartridges and soft headrests that maybe fitted.
Volume to be treated between 1– 2cubic metres
Loosen grime/grease from waterline surfaces using surface cleaner.
Ensure tub operating at normal chlorine/bromine levels along with standard pH level.
Switch off spa at isolator.
Wearing protective gloves administer one sachet into the hot tub via cartridge filter housing or skimmer basket. If unsure how to apply please consult us on 01746 710475.
Tablets should take 15 minutes to dissolve – water will turn yellow.
Switch spa on at isolator. Restart circulation pump and allow spa to run for 15 - 30 minutes and then switch off. Leave system off for a period of at least 1 hour to soak, but no more than 12 hours.
Restart pump. In cases of heavy contamination a second treatment maybe necessary. (Look for debris returning to spa on restart of pump).
Leave to circulate for at least 30 minutes.
Dump water.
Refill spa and bring up to standard operating levels. |
