Clearing up cloudy hot tub water is straightforward when you know how to properly approach it and have the right chemicals to do so. Below, we will outline the most common causes of cloudy hot tub water and provide tips on clearing it up. Here’s what you need to know!
Most Common Reasons for Hot Tub Water Turning Cloudy
While cloudy hot tub water may not seem like a big deal, it can actually be a sign of water issues. Cloudy water is often the result of high levels of bacteria and other contaminants in the water, which should be addressed before people use the water. Knowing why your hot tub water turned cloudy in the first place can help you decide the best ways to fix it.
There are a few different reasons why your hot tub water might become cloudy. It could be due to poor filtration, high levels of calcium or other minerals in the water, or even just a build-up of dirt and debris. Let’s take a closer look at each of these potential causes:
Improper pH levels
One of the most common causes of cloudy hot tub water is improper pH levels. Your hot tub’s pH levels should be between 7.2 and 7.6. If the pH level is too low, it can cause the water to become acidic, which can lead to cloudy water. Conversely, if the pH level is too high, it can make the water alkaline, which can also cause cloudy water.
Substances Residue
Another common cause of cloudy water is the build-up of substances, such as oils, lotions, and creams. When you get into your hot tub, these substances can mix with the water and make it murky.
Filter Problems
Your hot tub’s filter is responsible for removing dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the water. If the filter is dirty or not working properly, it can cause the water to become cloudy.
Heavy Hot Tub Use
If you or your family use the hot tub frequently, it can cause the water to become cloudy more quickly. Heavy hot tub use also means the filter needs to be cleaned more often to prevent cloudy water.
How To Clear Up Cloudy Hot Tub Water
Now that we’ve gone over some of the most common reasons why your hot tub water might turn cloudy, let’s take a look at how you can clear it up. Here are a few tips:
1. Test and adjust the pH levels
The first thing you should do if your hot tub water is cloudy is testing the pH levels. You can use a testing kit or testing strips to determine the pH levels, so you can add chemicals to adjust it as needed.
2. Clean the filter
As we mentioned before, a dirty or clogged filter is often to blame for cloudy hot tub water. Be sure to clean or replace the filter as needed to ensure that it’s working properly.
3. Shock the hot tub
Shocking the hot tub is another effective way to clear up cloudy water. This involves adding a high level of chlorine or other types of sanitizer to the water, which will kill any bacteria or contaminants that might be causing the problem. For more information about hot tub chemicals and how to use them, contact your local hot tub dealer.
4. Drain and refill the hot tub
In some cases, the only way to clear up cloudy hot tub water is to drain it and start fresh. This is a bit of a hassle if you’re in a rush, but it’s often the best way to ensure that your hot tub water is clean and clear.
Cloudy hot tub water can be unpleasant, and it can usually be a sign of some serious water issues. However, it’s often not as difficult to fix as you might think. By following the tips above, you can clear up your cloudy hot tub water and get back to enjoying all the benefits your hot tub has to offer. You can download our free buyer’s guide to learn more about choosing the perfect hot tub for your home.