New to the FROG @Ease system, or just swapped hot tubs and inherited one? Here's exactly how to use SmartChlor cartridges — setup, replacement, testing, and the mistakes that trip up most first-timers.
What SmartChlor is (and why it's different)
SmartChlor is a self-regulating chlorine cartridge made by King Technology for the FROG @Ease sanitizing system. Instead of dumping chlorine in all at once, it releases a low, steady dose and automatically replenishes as demand rises — so your water holds a consistent 0.5–1.0 ppm instead of spiking and crashing. It's also CYA-free, meaning no cyanuric acid buildup over time.
Step 1: Set up the mineral cartridge first
The @Ease system uses two cartridges: a blue mineral cartridge (lasts a full 4 months) and the SmartChlor cartridge (lasts 3–4 weeks). Insert the mineral cartridge into the bottom of the floating system, and the SmartChlor cartridge into the top. Snap the halves together.
Step 2: Set the dial and float it
Set the SmartChlor cartridge dial to the setting matching your hot tub's size (check the numbers printed on the cartridge — the system covers spas up to 600 gallons). Place it in the water and let it float. That's the whole job: no measuring, no handling loose chemicals.
Step 3: Know the flip signal
When a SmartChlor cartridge is empty, the whole system flips upside down in the water. That's your replace signal — no guesswork. Swap in a fresh cartridge from your SmartChlor 3-pack and reset the dial. The mineral cartridge stays in for 4 months regardless of how many SmartChlor cartridges you go through.
Step 4: Test with the right strips
This is the step most people get wrong: standard test strips misread SmartChlor water. Because SmartChlor holds chlorine at a deliberately low level, regular strips will tell you your chlorine is dangerously low when it's exactly where it should be. Use FROG @Ease test strips, which are calibrated for the system's chemistry.
Step 5: Shock once a week (or after heavy use)
Add a non-chlorine (MPS) shock weekly and after parties or heavy soaking. This keeps the water clear and lets the low-chlorine system do its job.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Judging by regular test strips — they'll read "low" by design; use @Ease strips
- Leaving a flipped cartridge floating for weeks — the flip means chlorine has stopped; replace promptly
- Tossing the mineral cartridge with every SmartChlor swap — minerals last 4 months, chlorine lasts 3–4 weeks
- Running non-genuine cartridges — fit and dosing are designed as a system
Stock up once, cover the season
Most hot tub owners go through a SmartChlor cartridge every 3–4 weeks. Our Spa Frog @Ease Season Kit bundles a SmartChlor 3-pack with @Ease test strips — about three months of water care, with free shipping included. You can browse every genuine refill in our FROG Cartridges & Refills collection.
Works with any spa running the @Ease system — Sundance, Marquis, Caldera, Artesian, Hot Spring, and Bullfrog Spas (which come factory-equipped with @Ease In-Line).
