Hot Tub Maintenance: FAQs

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

Regular filter cleaning is essential for maintaining clear water. BISHTA recommends the following schedule:

Weekly:

1. Turn off the hot tub power.
2. Remove the filter(s) and rinse thoroughly with a garden hose using a thumb or filter brush for extra 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 to remove all debris and cleaning solution.
4. Allow the filters to dry completely before placing them back in the hot tub.

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

Cloudy water is typically caused by particles too small for the filter to capture. These particles may come from:

• Environmental Debris: Dirt, grass, and leaves carried in by bathers.
• Organic Matter: Dead skin cells, body oils, and sweat.
• Man-made Contamination: Makeup, lotions, and detergents.
• Low Sanitiser Levels: Insufficient sanitiser allows contaminants to build up.

To clear cloudy water:

• Test Water Chemistry: Balance pH, alkalinity, and sanitiser levels.
• Shock Dose the Water: Use 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: Binds small particles, making them easier for the filter to capture.

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

Foam usually results from a build-up of products and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), especially when jets are active. To reduce foam:

• Shower Before Use: Rinse off contaminants.
• Rinse Bathing Suits in Plain Water: Avoid detergents and fabric softeners.
• Use High-Quality Chemicals: As recommended by the manufacturer.
• Shock Dose Weekly: Helps break down TDS.
• Open the Cover Regularly: Allows water to “breathe”.
• Maintain Regular Maintenance: Follow manufacturer instructions for water changes and filter replacements.

To clear existing foam:

• Check Water Chemistry: Balance alkalinity, pH, and sanitiser levels.
• 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” involves adding an oxidiser to the water to maintain quality and ensure bather safety. Shocking:

• Removes Unfilterable Biological Waste: Such as body oils and lotions.
• Eradicates Resistant Bacteria: Ensures thorough sanitisation.
• Reactivates the Sanitiser: Breaks down chloramines and bromamines, which can reduce sanitiser effectiveness.

Without shocking, water can become cloudy, develop an odour, and potentially become unsafe.

5. How often should I shock my hot tub?

Shock your hot tub at least once a week and after heavy use to keep the sanitiser effective and maintain clear water.

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

Cloudiness after shocking is often normal and should clear within a few hours. However, it could indicate:

• Use of Pool Shock: Not suitable for hot tubs and may cause cloudiness.
• High pH and Alkalinity: Shocking may precipitate carbonates and bicarbonates.
• Hard Water: High calcium levels can cause cloudiness after shocking.
• Heavy Bather Load: Body oils and other contaminants reacting with the shock.

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. For chlorine shock, wait up to 24 hours for chlorine levels to return to a safe range. Always test the water before entering.

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

The ideal pH for hot tub water is between 7.2 and 7.4. This range optimises sanitiser effectiveness, enhances bather comfort, and protects equipment. Regularly test and adjust as needed using pH increasers or decreasers.