I'm probably like a lot of other owners (not here, but in general) - we bought the tub, used it a lot at the beginning, & now rarely go in it. Maybe once every 2 weeks.
So some questions.....
We use chlorine, but I never dose regularly. Typically about 2 tbsp once per week. Also MPS about once per month. Will also give about 1 tbsp & leave cover off for about an hour before using & add 1 TSP after use before covering.
Water seems just fine. Other than no chlorine, always tests (with kit or strips) with good levels of pH, hardness, etc. No funk, slime, foam, floaties or anything. Strong vinyl smell when opened, but I guess that should be expected from the covers & pillows staying closed up all the time. Water gets changed about every 5 months.
Is this ok to continue or should I be using a lower maintenance type sanitizer with such infrequent usage and poor upkeep routine? If so, what?
No ozone BTW. Tub is Leisure Bay Flores, about 500 gal I think.
Also, the side panel that faces south (gets full NC sun all the time) is fading & warping. The side panels are pretty much big pieces of plywood with what seem to be a pressed wood slat pattern exterior. I'm thinking I should just cut & stain new panels all around - would look nicer, but I think the sun & elements would still take their toll. It's not real bad, but I'm sure will only get worse. By "warped" i mean bowed in, probably about 3" or so. The stain is faded a lot though on that side - looks "ashy".