Hot Tub Maintenance: FAQs

1. How often should I clean my hot tub filters?

Hot tub filters need regular cleaning to maintain clean and clear water. BISHTA recommends the following cleaning schedule:

Weekly:

1. Turn off the hot tub power.
2. Remove the filter(s) and rinse with a garden hose, using a thumb or filter brush attachment to increase pressure. Never use a power washer.
3. Replace the filters and turn the power back on.

Monthly (Deep Clean):

1. Repeat steps 1-3 from the weekly cleaning.
2. Soak the filters in a specialist hot tub filter cleaning solution, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Rinse thoroughly, ensuring all debris and cleaning solution are removed.
4. Let the filters dry completely before replacing them in the hot tub.

2. Why is my hot tub water cloudy, and how do I fix it?

Cloudy water is usually caused by suspended particles too small to be caught by the filter. These particles can come from:

• Environmental debris: Dirt, grass, leaves brought in by bathers.
• Organic matter: Dead skin cells, body oils, sweat.
• Man-made contamination: Makeup, lotions, detergents.
• Low sanitiser levels: Insufficient sanitiser to combat contaminants.

To fix cloudy water:

• Test water chemistry: Ensure pH, alkalinity, and sanitiser levels are balanced.
• Shock dose the water: Use a non-chlorine shock, chlorine granules, or bromine granules to oxidise impurities.
• Check and clean filters: Clean filters weekly and replace them annually (or every two years if rotating two sets).
• Use a clarifier: To bind small particles together for easier filtration.

3. What causes foam in my hot tub, and how can I prevent it?

Foam is caused by a build-up of products and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in the water, especially when jets are running. To reduce foam:

• Shower before use: Remove contaminants from your body.
• Rinse bathing suits in plain water: Avoid detergents and fabric softeners.
• Use high-quality chemicals: As recommended by the manufacturer.
• Shock dose weekly: To break down TDS.
• Open the cover regularly: To allow the water to “breathe”.
• Maintain your hot tub: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for water changes, filter changes, etc.

To clear existing foam:

• Check water chemistry: Ensure alkalinity, pH, and sanitiser levels are balanced.
• Use a defoamer: Apply to the water surface and run the jets.
• Check and clean filters: Replace if necessary.
• Consider a full water change: If the problem persists.

4. What does it mean to “shock” a hot tub, and why is it important?

“Shocking” a hot tub refers to adding an oxidiser to the water. This is crucial for maintaining water quality and bather safety. Shocking:

• Removes unfilterable biological waste: Like body oils and lotions.
• Eradicates resistant bacteria: Ensuring effective sanitisation.
• Reactivates the sanitiser: Breaking down chloramines and bromamines, which can render the sanitiser less effective.

Without shocking, the water can become cloudy, smelly, and potentially harmful.

5. How often should I shock my hot tub?

It’s recommended to shock your hot tub at least once a week and after heavy use. This ensures the sanitiser remains effective and the water stays clean and clear.

6. My hot tub water went cloudy after shocking. Is that normal?

Cloudy water immediately after shocking is often normal and should clear within a few hours. However, it can also indicate:

• Use of pool shock: Pool shock is not formulated for hot tubs and can cause cloudiness.
• High pH and alkalinity: Shocking can cause carbonates and bicarbonates to precipitate out of solution.
• Hard water: High calcium levels can lead to cloudiness after shocking.
• Heavy bather load: Body oils and other contaminants can react with the shock, causing cloudiness.

7. How long should I wait to use my hot tub after shocking?

After using non-chlorine shock, you can typically use the hot tub within 10-15 minutes. After using chlorine shock, it may take up to 24 hours for the chlorine levels to decrease to a safe level for bathing. Always test your water before entering.

8. What is the ideal pH level for my hot tub water?

The ideal pH level for your hot tub water is between 7.2 and 7.4. This range ensures optimal sanitiser effectiveness, bather comfort, and equipment longevity. Regularly test your water’s pH and adjust it as needed using pH increaser or decreaser.