Startup sequence?

[BNMac]

New fill after flushing away the old... But I still have questions. After cleaning & flushing; this I know:
Add new water (60° starting temp)
Install clean filter
Add Metal Gon
Add Brom-start
Add Calcium hardener if it's low (from the well, it's 100, it should be 250)
Test for Alk, PH, Bromine.  Adjust with Spa-up or Spa-down.
Enjoy when temp is 102°.

Now my questions:
Should the new water be added, then brought to temp (at least 80°) before any chemicals are added?
Should the new water be shocked before first use?
How long should I wait between the steps above?

Over the history of owning a tub, I've always had trouble getting a Bromine response above 1 (with exceptions, of course); it should be 3 to 4.  I have the feeder set to 4 openings.  

We have a full time recirc and O3 (Ozone) so it's never been too concerning, but I believe there something I should be doing to get a better number.

Tanks, and Soak On!

[Hottubber1]

It sounds like you have it down pat. I would wait until the water temp hits 80, then add your Metal Gone, wait 1/2 hour then test for Alkalinity and adjust it. Once this is in line, you can then add your other chemicals, one at a time.
Remember this,... Alkalinity First. If your Alkalinity is balanced, everything else is easier to control.
Enjoy your soak.

Hottubber1

[BNMac]

Thanks for the response; I was beginning to think no one would reply.

I've come to the conclusion through experience the process is as follows:
Add water, filter.  Swap filter with a clean one when water reaches 80°. 
Add calcium hardness to bring value to 250ish.  (our starting value is always 100)
Wait...
Balance Alkalinity
Wait...
Blah blah blah

I'd always fought the alk and ph numbers with the hardness at 100, once I bring the hardness up to 200-300, then the alk and ph numbers are easier to pull into line. 

After our dump/clean/fill last week, so far I've been able to maintain a bromine response of 4-5... first time ever!  And the water is a verrry pale blue.

Thank you!

[hottubdan]

You do want to shock after putting your bromine in the water.  It is to activate the bromine.