Can I Use My Waters Natural Qualities, Rather Than Chemicals?

[dee]

Okay, after my first frustrating month of owning my hot tub I refilled and balanced everything (after having my water tested by the dealer, so I knew exactly how much to add) When I refilled my spa, before balancing the PH or TA, I had them tested--naturally my well water before adding chemicals was TA and PH high.

So everything was balanced, I left the water level as low as I could so I didn't lose any water due to overflow when using the tub.

I use SPA life chemicals, and a bromine system where you build the "bank" with brominating tablets.

Today I shocked the hot tub for the first time since my initial fill. Then I tested the TA and PH. my readings according to the test strips showed that the PH was a little high, and the TA appeared a little on the low side. And of course my bromine was fine, a little on the high side if anything.

So--I added a little water thinking that since my TA is naturally high this would raise it a bit (I know that this will also raise the PH) . I also added my 25g of PH minus just after adding the water.

I am then going to retest in a little while after letting it circulate. My guess is I may have to add a little more PH minus.

Does this make sense? I figured my other option was to add the PH minus, but then I would also have to add buffer (to raise TA). Should I be using my readings and taking advantage of my waters natural chemistry before adding chemicals, or does it make no difference either way.

Any advice would be appreciated since I am really trying hard to get it right.