Owning a spa means taking care of its water to keep it clean, safe, and enjoyable. One stand-out option for easy care is the FROG system for hot tubs. This guide explains how it works, describes its components, and highlights how this efficient system can simplify maintenance while improving water quality and your overall soaking experience.
What Is the FROG Hot Tub System?
The FROG system refers to a collection of sanitizing options designed to simplify spa water care. At its core, the system uses pre-filled cartridges containing minerals and a unique form of chlorine called SmartChlor. For example, the FROG @ease system combines mineral technology and SmartChlor in an in-line or floating device.
With the FROG system, the goal is less manual dosing of sanitizer, fewer fluctuations in chemical levels, and a softer feel to the water. It still requires water balance and periodic monitoring, but it is meant to reduce the daily or weekly chemical chores.
How Does the System Work?
Understanding how the system works aids in deciding if it is right for your spa. The mechanism centers on mineral cartridges and SmartChlor cartridges. With the FROG @ease in-line system, you set a dial on the cartridge and insert it into the holder. The SmartChlor cartridge slowly releases chlorine while mineral cartridges release silver and limestone. The system monitors demand and automatically provides more free chlorine when needed.
In floating versions such as the FROG Serene system, the mineral and bromine cartridges simply float in the water and perform a similar sanitizing function. These systems claim to reduce sanitizer usage by up to 50 percent.
One stand-out feature is that the system maintains a low free chlorine level (around 0.5-1.0 ppm) compared to traditional methods. That leads to less smell, less bleaching of swimwear, and a gentler water quality for skin and surfaces.
The FROG Cartridge System
A key part of the FROG system is the FROG cartridge system. Mineral cartridges typically last up to four months;; SmartChlor cartridges up to four weeks in many cases.
For example, with FROG @ease, you replace the SmartChlor cartridge every three to four weeks and the mineral cartridge every four months or whenever the spa is drained and refilled. The system flips over or gives a visual cue when the cartridge is empty.
These cartridges simplify ownership by removing the need for daily dosing of granulated chlorine or bromine and reducing the frequency of shocking the water—some manufacturers claim shocking only once a month.
Benefits of Choosing This Sanitizing System
Using a hot tub sanitizing system, such as the FROG setup, brings a range of benefits over traditional chemical routines.
- Reduced chemical use: The system claims to cut down chlorine or bromine by up to 50 to 75 percent.
- Stable sanitizer level: Because SmartChlor is time-released and uses demand-based release, the free chlorine remains at a consistent level rather than large peaks and troughs.
- Friendlier water feel: With minerals, low chlorine residual, and soft water technology, users report less irritation to skin or eyes and less fading of swimwear.
- Ease of maintenance: Many owners say their weekly tasks are reduced. Cartridges replace multiple bottles of chemicals and dosing chores. Some note that for moderate usage, the system can be almost “set and forget”.
For those who own a larger swim spa or systems such as a dedicated unit like the Hydropool swim spa, compatibility with cartridge systems may vary, and proper sizing and usage matter for best results.
Limitations and Things to Be Aware Of
Although the FROG system has many advantages, there are a few areas to consider before making a decision.
First, the initial cost of cartridges and the system may be higher than basic chemical dosing. Also, heavy bather loads, frequent use, or large volumes may require more frequent cartridge changes than claimed. Some owners comment on the higher cost and still needing adjustments if usage jumps.
Second, standard test kits may not interpret the readings with these systems correctly. For example, with SmartChlor, the “total chlorine” reading may appear high because the cartridge reserve is included. Therefore, using system-specific test strips is important.
Third, every spa system is unique. The spa’s plumbing, size, insulation, cover, and usage all affect sanitizer demand. Using a high-quality cover, such as the Covana Evolution model, helps reduce chemical demand and improve overall water balance and performance.
Setting Up and Managing Your FROG System
Setting up the system properly is key to long-term performance. After filling your tub or after a drain and refill, you should test your source water, check hardness and metals, and make sure alkalinity, pH, and hardness are in range. Then install the cartridge system according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Once installed, turn the dial setting on the cartridge to match your usage level and insert it into its housing. Turn on circulation and wait for the system to begin distributing minerals and SmartChlor. Make sure the cover is on when not in use to reduce evaporation, heat loss, and chemical loss.
Weekly checks should include alkalinity, pH, and hardness. Cartridge systems reduce dosing chores, but they do not replace the basics of water chemistry. When water is used heavily for a weekend event, or there is heavy use, you may still need to apply a boost oxidizer or shock product.
Cartridge replacement schedule: SmartChlor every 3 to 4 weeks, mineral every 4 months or at refill. Always reset usage settings after a drain or refill. If water smells, looks cloudy, or sanitizer reading is off, check the cartridge setting or test the system with specialized strips.
Conclusion
The FROG system for hot tubs offers a simple, modern way to sanitize your spa. Using mineral and SmartChlor technology, it reduces sanitizer use, softens water, and simplifies maintenance. Knowing how the FROG system works helps ensure balanced water, reliable performance, and long-lasting comfort for your spa experience.
Ready to see if this system is right for you or for expert installation and servicing? Contact Spas of Colorado Springs today. As your spa specialist, we can recommend the best water care solution for your needs!