When you come home from a long day, the first thing on your mind might be to have a nice soak in your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub.
As you head into your hot tub, the last thing you want to see is cloudy or foamy hot tub water.
How does this happen, and what do you do?
There’s no need to panic. Cloudy and foamy hot tub water happens from time to time, and it is completely treatable.
Crystal Clear or Cloudy and Foamy Hot Tub Water?
Even if you take the necessary precautions, the water in your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub can become cloudy.
It’s often difficult to pin down the exact cause of foamy hot tub water because it could be any number of things, such as:
- Suspended insoluble particles
- Dead algae
- Organic debris
- Poor filtration caused by dirty hot tub filters
- Frequent usage
- Poor water chemistry
After you’ve discovered that your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub water is cloudy or foamy, your first step should be to check the filters. Cleaning them and even soaking them overnight in a filter cleaner may resolve your problem, or you might need to replace them altogether, depending on how long you’ve had them.
As a general rule of thumb, you should be:
- Rinsing your filters weekly
- Cleaning your filters monthly
- Replacing your filters yearly
Your next step should be to check all of your levels. If the levels of the water are off, that could be the cause of your cloudy water. You will want to check and correct any issues with the levels of the water balance, PH, and sanitizer.
If the water still appears cloudy, it’s time for a shock. Shocking the water with a non-chlorine shock can be very effective for cloudy or foamy hot tub water. Done correctly with brand-new or freshly cleaned filters can do wonders for your foamy hot tub water. If the shock doesn’t clear it up, a clarifier will work to clump together any particles and filter them accordingly.
If all of these techniques are done properly, and your hot tub water is still cloudy, your last option is to empty the spa. This should be done several times throughout the year anyways to keep your hot tub in working condition. Emptying the spa will eliminate any contaminants existing within the current water.
Not Quite a Bubble Bath…
Although similar in looks to bubbles in a bathtub, foamy hot tub water is not a sign of cleanliness. A buildup of foam on the surface of the hot tub water is usually due to a reaction between the alkalinity of the water and any oils brought into the tub.
These oils can be brought into the water from a variety of things:
- Deodorant
- Make-up
- Detergents
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Lotion
- Hair products
If you find foamy hot tub water, the first technique you should try is using an all-natural enzyme solution. Enzymes will speed along the removal process of organic contaminants.
This will help to balance the water and prevent the initial reaction that causes the foam in the first place.
A quick-fix solution is to use an anti-foam product. Anti-foam products are not a preventative solution and shouldn’t be used frequently. Once you have cleared up the existing foam, it’s important to stay on top of the cleanliness of your hot tub and do your best to prevent future contaminants.
If these techniques fail, your last resort should be to completely flush and then drain the hot tub.
A Clean Future
Goodbye foamy hot tub water – and hello to a refreshingly clean spa expeirence!
Now that your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub water is clean, it’s important to take preventative steps. You can keep your hot tub clean by sticking to a routine cleaning schedule and draining the water several times a year. Prevent contaminants from entering your hot tub by getting rid of them before entry.
By showering or rinsing off before you enter the tub, you can remove bodily and cosmetic oils so that they do not contaminate your spa.
If you have any questions about cloudy or foamy hot tub water or the products used to treat it, you can contact our experts at Jacuzzi Hot Tubs of Southeastern PA.
Frequently Asked Questions: Hot Tub Water, Care and Foam
Question 1: How Much Water to Fill a Hot Tub?
Determining the right amount of water to fill a hot tub is essential for optimal performance and maintenance. If you’re planning to change the water in your spa following an experience with foamy hot tub water, there are a few things that you should keep in mind.
Here are the key steps and considerations:
Consult Your Hot Tub Manual
Always start by checking the owner’s manual for specific recommendations on water capacity for your particular model. This guide provides the most accurate details regarding the amount of water your hot tube requires.
Check for Water Level Indicators
Most hot tubs come with marked indicators along the interior that show the ideal water level. Ensure the water reaches just at these markers but does not exceed them to avoid overflow when occupants enter.
Consider the Size and Shape of Your Hot Tub
Generally, water volume depends on the size and shape of your hot tub. Typically, a standard hot tub holds between 300 to 500 gallons of water. Round tubs might need fewer gallons than rectangular ones due to their design.
Account for Displacement
Remember that the volume of the people getting into the hot tub will displace the water. A good rule of thumb is to initially fill the tub slightly lower than the recommended level and adjust as necessary once all occupants are inside.
Adjust After Initial Fill
After filling your hot tub for the first time, turn on the jets and heater to see how the water flows. You may need to add or remove some water based on the water circulation and jet performance.
With the right approach to draining, cleaning and filling your spa, you can help to prevent foamy hot tub water altogether!
Question 2: How to Adjust the Alkalinity in a Hot Tub?
Maintaining the correct alkalinity level in your hot tub is crucial for ensuring water balance, preventing pH fluctuations, reducing the risk of foamy hot tub water, and avoiding scale buildup. Below, find a step-by-step guide to help you adjust the alkalinity in your hot tub, whether it needs increasing or decreasing.
Testing Alkalinity
Start by using a reliable test kit or test strips to check the current level of alkalinity in your hot tub. Most manufacturers recommend keeping alkalinity within 80 to 120 parts per million (ppm). Consult with your hot tub manual to verify the ideal range for your specific model.
Increasing Alkalinity
If your test shows below 80 ppm, you’ll need to increase the alkalinity:
- Select an Appropriate Alkalinity Increaser: Purchase a product specifically designed to increase alkalinity in hot tubs, often labeled as alkalinity increaser or pH increaser.
- Determine Appropriate Dosage: Follow the guidelines on the product label, taking into account your hot tub’s water volume.
- Apply the Increaser: While the hot tub’s circulation system is active, add the alkalinity increaser near the jets or skimmer to help distribute it evenly.
- Allow Circulation: Let the system circulate the treated water for a few hours before you retest the alkalinity.
Decreasing Alkalinity
For alkalinity levels above 120 ppm, you’ll need to lower them:
- Dilution Method: One natural method is to partially drain the hot tub and refill it with fresh water, which dilutes the high alkaline content.
- Use an Alkalinity Reducer: You can also use a commercial pH decreaser or alkalinity reducer. Ensure that it is suitable for hot tub use.
- Determine the Required Dosage: Check the label for dosage instructions that match your hot tub’s size.
- Application: Add the reducer near the jets or skimmer while the hot tub is circulating.
- Circulate and Retest: Let the water circulate for several hours, then test the alkalinity again.
Regular Maintenance
After correcting the alkalinity, it is essential to retest it regularly—at least bi-weekly or weekly if the tub is used frequently. This helps maintain the perfect water balance and ensures a safe and enjoyable hot tub experience.
By following these steps, you can effectively manage and maintain the alkalinity levels in your hot tub, ensuring optimal functionality and longevity of your spa system.
Question 3: How Does Foamy Hot Tub Water Happen?
Foamy hot tub water can occur due to several factors, most of which are related to contaminants in the water. Here are the common causes:
Soap and Detergent Residue:
If bathers enter the hot tub without rinsing off properly, soaps, shampoos, and detergents from swimsuits can enter the water. These products can create foam when the water is agitated.
Body Oils and Lotions:
Natural body oils, sunscreen, and lotions can accumulate in the water, especially if the tub is frequently used. These substances can also contribute to foam formation.
Low Calcium Hardness:
Water that is too soft (low in calcium) can lead to foaming. The water needs a certain level of calcium to maintain balance, and without it, foaming can occur more easily.
High Total Dissolved Solids (TDS):
Over time, the accumulation of dissolved substances like salts, minerals, and chemicals can increase the TDS level. High TDS can lead to foamy hot tub water.
Contaminants and Organic Matter:
Dirt, dust, and organic matter introduced by users or the environment can contribute to foaming. This is especially common in hot tubs that are not regularly cleaned or maintained.
Use of Low-Quality Chemicals:
Some cheaper hot tub chemicals or additives might not dissolve completely or might leave residues that cause foam.
Preventive Measures:
- Regular Maintenance: Clean the hot tub regularly, including the filters, to prevent the buildup of contaminants.
- Proper Water Balance: Ensure the water chemistry is balanced, particularly the pH, calcium hardness, and sanitizer levels.
- Rinse Before Entering: Encourage bathers to shower before using the hot tub to minimize the introduction of soaps and oils.
- Use Anti-Foam Products: If foam does occur, anti-foam agents can help to break it down temporarily, but it’s important to address the underlying cause.
By maintaining proper hygiene and water chemistry, you can minimize the chances of foamy water in your hot tub.
Question 4: What Are DIYs to Help Prevent Foamy Hot Tub Water?
Preventing foamy hot tub water can be done using some simple DIY methods. Here are a few strategies you can try at home:
Rinse Swimsuits Thoroughly
Always rinse swimsuits in clean water after washing them to remove any residual detergent. You can even soak them in a mixture of water and a little white vinegar to neutralize any leftover soap. This prevents soap from entering the hot tub – resulting in the opposite of foamy hot tub water, which is crystal-clear!
Shower Before Use
Install an outdoor shower or a simple hose setup near your hot tub. Encourage everyone to rinse off before entering the tub. This helps remove oils, lotions, and dirt that can cause foaming.
Use a Tennis Ball
Throw a couple of clean tennis balls into the hot tub. The fibers on the tennis ball can absorb oils and lotions from the water, reducing the chances of foam.
Keep the Hot Tub Covered
Always keep the hot tub covered when not in use. This prevents debris, dust, and organic matter from entering the water, which can contribute to foam. You can make a custom cover using a tarp and bungee cords if you don’t have a standard one.
Regularly Clean the Filters
Soak your hot tub filters in a mixture of water and filter cleaner every few weeks. This helps dissolve oils and dirt trapped in the filters, preventing them from contributing to foam.
By incorporating these DIY methods into your regular hot tub maintenance routine, you can significantly reduce the chances of foamy hot tub water, keeping your hot tub clean and enjoyable!
