Is Cloudy Hot Tub Water Safe?
Is Cloudy Hot Tub Water Safe?
After your hot tub has been used for a while or perhaps after a hot tub party, you may notice that the water looks cloudy. While some people may wonder if cloudy hot tub water is safe and if they can skip cleaning for another day, the answer is no. The water in your hot tubshould always be sanitary and crystal clear. If it isn’t, it means that there is a problem.
Cloudy water is typically the result of either a chemical imbalance or the result of bacterial growth. In the article below, we will explain what causes cloudy water, why it isn’t safe and what steps you can take to eliminate it.
What Causes Cloudy Hot Tub Water?
There are a number of factors which can contribute to cloudy water in your hot tub. The most common culprits are:
Bathers:Although it can be unpleasant to think about what exactly causes cloudy hot tub water, it often is a result of bathers. As people use plenty of skin products such as lotions, shampoo, sunscreens and more, these will transfer into the water. Our skin also gets a buildup of dead skin cells which also get into the water as well as hair.
Air Contaminants:In addition to the human factor, air contaminants also contribute to cloudy water. Pollen, algae, and seeds are often in the air and can fall into an uncovered hot tub. Over time, these particles can build up and be a cause of cloudy water.
Bacteria Growth: It is well known that microorganisms and bacteria love moisture and even more so when heat is involved. If not regularly cleaned, hot tubs offer the perfect environment for certain bacteria to thrive such as biofilm. This is a slimy substance that will form and cause the water to appear cloudy.
Filter Problems: Your hot tub filter may be partly to blame. If not properly installed in your hot tub or has not been well maintained it will not be adequate filtering your water and keeping it clean.
Water Chemistry:The water in your hot tub needs a certain mix of chemicals to stay clean and clear. The pH level of the water is what measures how alkaline or acidic the water is, and the ideal pH level is around 7.8 percent. Calcium and other minerals form what is called scale and when the amount of scale accumulates, the water becomes more alkaline and as a result, cloudy.
How to Eliminate Cloudy Water
If you have discovered that your hot tub water is cloudy, it is time to take action. Your first step should be testing the water with proper water test strips. This will determine the pH and alkalinity balance levels and guide you on what steps to take next. If the pH is relatively normal, you may only need to add shock to your hot tub water to correct. If your cloudy water situation is more serious, your you keep having to shock the water over and over, it is time to drain, clean and refills the tub.
Keeping Water Clean
Your best defense against cloudy water is trying to keep it as clean as possible in the first place. Always follow the recommended cleaning and maintenance schedule that your dealer advises. Use water test strips regularly and drain and refill your tub and least every 60-90 days.
If you consistently use a fitted cover when the hot tub is not in use, use the right water chemicals and sanitizers and keep your water filters clean, your water should stay clean and clear.
To learn more about hot tub maintenance, download our hot tub buyers guide.
