• Home
• Hot Tub and Pool Chemicals - Filters - Liners
• Shop Hot Tub Swim Spa Watercare supplies by type
• Hot Tub - Swim spa -Pool Shock Products

Hot Tub - Swim spa -Pool Shock Products

Hot Tub & Spa Shock Treatments — Chlorinating and Non-Chlorinating

Keep your hot tub water clean, clear, and safe with the right shock treatment. Western Tub and Pool carries both chlorinating and non-chlorinating shock products to suit every spa system and every maintenance routine.

[Shop and order at Western Tub and Pool]

Why shocking your spa matters

Every time you use your hot tub, your water collects body oils, perspiration, cosmetics, and other organic compounds. Left untreated, these contaminants irritate skin, burn eyes, and create unpleasant odors. Shocking your spa — also called oxidizing — breaks down and removes these compounds, restoring water clarity and comfort.

Shocking is not just for when something goes wrong. It should be part of your regular weekly maintenance routine.

Two types of shock — which one is right for you?

Chlorinating Shock

Best for: Chlorine and bromine sanitizing systems

Chlorinating shock (sodium dichloro-s-triazinetrione, or "Dichlor") delivers a powerful, fast-acting treatment that sanitizes and oxidizes in one step. It helps eliminate bacteria, remove organic contaminants, and restore water clarity quickly.

• Works with chlorine and bromine systems
• Fast-dissolving formula
• Available in 2 lb and 6 lb sizes
• Typical dosage: 3 tablespoons per 500 gallons, applied weekly
• pH-buffered to protect your water balance
• Features a built-in clarifier to support your filtration system

Non-Chlorinating Shock (MPS — Potassium Monopersulfate)

Best for: Ozone, ionization, and silver-ion sanitizing systems

Non-chlorinating shock oxidizes organic waste without raising your chlorine residual — making it the preferred choice for spas using ozone generators or ionizers. It is gentler on your system and allows you to re-enter your spa as soon as 15 minutes after treatment (provided sanitizer levels are within recommended range).

• Does not raise chlorine residual
• Ideal for ionization and ozone systems
• Can also be used alongside chlorine or bromine systems
• Typical dosage: 1–2 oz (weight) per 250 gallons after each use, or once weekly if unused
• Quick-dissolving and easy to apply

Not sure which shock is right for your spa? Call us at 1-855-248-0777 or email fixmytub@gmail.com — we are happy to help.

Compatible sanitizing systems

Our shock products are suitable for use with the following spa sanitizing systems:

• Chlorine systems
• Bromine systems
• Ozone systems
• Ionization / silver-ion systems (non-chlorinating shock recommended)

Not sure what system your spa uses? Check your owner's manual, browse our online catalogue, or give us a call — we will point you in the right direction.

Step-by-step: How to shock your hot tub

Follow these steps for safe, effective results every time:

Step 1: Test and balance your water

Before adding any shock product, test your spa water and adjust pH to between 7.2 and 7.6. Balanced water ensures the shock treatment works effectively.

Step 2: Make sure your spa is not in use

Always apply shock when bathers are out of the spa.

Step 3: Measure your dosage

• Chlorinating shock: 3 tablespoons per 500 gallons
• Non-chlorinating shock (MPS): 1–2 oz (weight) per 250 gallons

Step 4: Apply directly to the water

With the pump running, broadcast the full treatment dosage across the water's surface. Do not add shock through a skimmer or any automatic dispensing device.

Step 5: Run the pump and wait

Allow the pump to circulate the water. Wait at least 15 minutes before re-entering the spa, and always confirm that sanitizer levels are within the recommended range before soaking.

Step 6: Shock regularly

Treat your spa at least once per week. Apply additional treatments after periods of heavy use, significant rainfall, or whenever water appears cloudy.

Available sizes and product details

For a full list of available products, sizes, and pricing, visit our online catalogue or contact our team directly.

Which hot tubs and spas use shock treatments?

Shock treatments are recommended for virtually all residential and commercial hot tubs and spas, regardless of brand or model. This includes, but is not limited to, spas using the following sanitizing systems:

• Chlorine-based systems — use chlorinating or non-chlorinating shock
• Bromine-based systems — use chlorinating or non-chlorinating shock
• Ozone systems — use non-chlorinating shock (MPS preferred)
• Ionization / silver-ion systems — use non-chlorinating shock (MPS preferred)

For model-specific recommendations — including popular brands such as Hot Spring, Caldera, Jacuzzi, Sundance, Arctic Spas, and more — check our online catalogue or call us at 1-855-248-0777. Our team can confirm the right product for your specific hot tub or spa model.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I shock my hot tub?

At minimum, once per week. If your spa sees heavy use, add an extra treatment after each soak session. Non-chlorinating shock is well-suited for after-soak use since it oxidizes waste without over-loading your sanitizer levels.

Can I get into my spa right after adding shock?

For most products, you should wait at least 15 minutes after applying shock before re-entering — and only after confirming that your free chlorine or bromine levels are within the safe range recommended on the product label. When using non-chlorinating MPS shock, wait a minimum of 20 minutes.

Can I use both chlorinating and non-chlorinating shock?

Yes. Many spa owners use non-chlorinating shock after each use and reserve chlorinating shock for their weekly deep treatment. This approach manages bather waste efficiently while keeping sanitizer levels balanced.

Will shock affect my spa's pH balance?

Chlorinating shock (Enhanced Shock) is pH-buffered, meaning it is formulated to minimize changes to your water's pH. Non-chlorinating shock (MPS) can be mildly acidic, so it is a good idea to re-test and adjust your pH after application if needed.

I'm not sure which product is right for my spa. What should I do?

Contact our team — we offer free home tutorials for hot tub, swim spa, and pool water care. We will visit your home, review your system, and walk you through the best maintenance routine for your specific setup.

Where can I see the full product catalogue?

Browse our full range of shock products, water balancers, sanitizers, and accessories online, or call us to request a catalogue. We carry products suitable for every system, budget, and maintenance need.

New to hot tub maintenance? We come to you.

Western Tub and Pool offers tutorials for hot tub, swim spa, and pool owners. Whether you are a first-time owner or just looking for a refresher, our team will walk you through water care best practices

Water care does not have to be complicated. We make it easy.

Shop and order at Western Tub and Pool

Ready to stock up on shock treatments or have a question about your specific spa or pool? Our team is here to help.

Call us: 1-855-248-0777
Email us: fixmytub@gmail.com