You often soak in your hot tub for a soothing hot water massage therapy. But have you ever wondered about this cloudy water and bubbles forming in the water? Well, this murky water is called hot tub foam. In such a case, you need to service your hot tub.
This blog is your complete guide to foam in a hot tub. It explains the causes, common signs, how to get rid, and preventive measures for a hot tub foam.
Let’s explore more!
What is the foam in a hot tub?
A hot tub foam is a combination of water, air, and surfactants. Surfactants are molecules that reduce the surface tension of water and allow oils. sweat, cosmetics and water to mix. When the jets stir up this organic matter, it causes foaming.
What causes foam in a hot tub?
Here are the causes of hot tub foam:
Unbalanced Water Chemistry
Unbalanced pH and alkalinity can cause foaming. High levels of chlorine or bromine may also contribute to foam in the hot tub.
A buildup of Organic Matter
Organic matter like skin cells and sweat can accumulate in hot tubs. This buildup creates a breeding ground for foam.
Frequent Use
Using the hot tub often increases the chances of foam. More users mean more organic matter is introduced.
Spilled Drinks
Accidental spills from drinks can lead to unwanted foam. Sugars and other ingredients in beverages create bubbles.
Personal Care Products
Shampoos, soaps, and lotions can enter the hot tub water. These products often contain foaming agents that increase bubbles.
What are the signs of hot tub foam?
Here are the common signs that show your hot tub water is foamy:
- Lots of bubbles on the water’s surface
- Foam that doesn’t go away quickly
- Cloudy or murky water
- The water level rises suddenly from the foam
- Strange or foul odors coming from the water
- Foamy stuff around the edges of the tub
- Skin irritation after using the hot tub
- Trouble keeping water balanced (pH and alkalinity)
How to get rid of hot tub foam?
The following steps will help you remove foam from your hot tub:
Test Your Water
Test your hot tub water to check chemical levels. The ideal chemical levels for a hot tub are:
- pH:4 to 7.6
- Total Alkalinity: 100 to 150 ppm
- Chlorine: 1 to 3 ppm
- Bromine: 3 to 5 ppm
Use a Foam Remover
Foam removers help break down foamy bubbles. Simply add the recommended amount to your hot tub. This can quickly reduce foam levels.
Use a Vinegar and Baking Soda Mixture
Mix 1 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of baking soda for a natural solution. Pour this mixture into the hot tub while the jets are running. It helps to neutralize foam and clean the water.
Shock the Hot Tub
Shocking raises the chlorine levels of the water, breaks down organic matter and kills bacteria. Add about 1 pound of chlorine or non-chlorine shock per 10,000 gallons. Follow the package instructions for the right amount.
Use an Oxidizer
Oxidizers, like potassium monopersulfate, reduce foam and keep the water clear. You can add about 1 ounce of oxidizer per 100-gallon hot tub. Add it according to the package instructions while the jets are running.
Clean the Hot Tub Filter
A dirty filter can trap oils and organic matter which can cause foam formation. Remove the filter and rinse it thoroughly with a hose. After that, soak it in a filter cleaner for deeper cleaning.
Use Anti-Foam Hot Tub Chemicals
Anti-foam products are efficient at reducing foamy bubbles quickly. A 100-gallon hot tub usually needs 1 to 2 ounces of antifoam chemicals. Add the recommended dose when foam appears.
Use Fast-acting Plumbing Cleaner
Plumbing cleaners, such as CLR or Bio-Clean, eliminate residue that contributes to foam. Read the product instructions labeled on the packaging carefully. Add 1 cup to the hot tub and circulate it for 15-30 minutes.
Drain and Refill the Hot Tub
If the hot tub foam persists, the best option is to drain and refill it. This removes contaminants and old water. Clean the surfaces before refilling to prevent further issues. Test the new water for proper chemistry.
How do you prevent hot tub foaming in the future?
The following tips will help you prevent hot tub foam in the future:
- Regularly test water
- Clean the filter
- Shower before use
- Limit personal care products
- Keep your hair out of the water
- Use tennis balls (throw several tennis balls in the hot tub. They will absorb the organic matter and oils)
- Service your hot tub regularly
- Cover your hot tub
What is the best company to clean my hot tub foam?
Silverline Pools is the best company to service your hot tub. They have serviced thousands of people in the pool and hot tub industry. They are also experts at hot tub and spa installations in TN apart from cleaning and maintaining your hot tub.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much foam is normal in a hot tub?
There is no specific amount of foam that can be described as normal. Generally, a small amount of foam, a few bubbles or light froth, can occur during use.
Is hot tub foam dangerous?
No, hot tub foam is not hazardous to the occupants or the hot tub structure. However, it imbalances the water chemistry, which can cause problems in the long run.
Do bubbles indicate hot tub foam?
Yes, the formation of bubbles is the sign of hot tub foam. If bubbles linger on the surface and don’t dissipate quickly, then it is a strong indication of the foam.
Conclusion
A clean hot tub with balanced water chemistry gives you a safe and therapeutic hot water massage. However, the hot tub water can become cloudy due to body oils, cosmetic products, and uncleaned filters. This cloudy water is generally called hot tub foam.
Balancing water chemistry, shocking the hot tub water, using oxidizers, using anti-foam hot tub chemicals, and cleaning filters can eradicate hot tub foam.
Additionally, limiting personal care products, keeping your hair out of the water, and using tennis balls can help prevent hot tub foam in the future.
