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How to clean up cloudy hot tub water

October 13, 2017

Olympic Hot Tub Frequently Asked QuestionsOctober 13, 2017 – When you own a hot tub, cloudy skies are not an issue. But cloudy water? That’s another story. The more your tub gets used, the greater the possibility your tub will be subjected to more “stuff” that can make the water cloudy. Here are a few suggestions to help you clear up this matter.

  • Stay on top of your sanitizer levels. A pre-soak check is a good idea, especially if you expect company. Use a test strip before your gathering. If it turns out extra sanitizer is needed, make sure you add it around two hours before your guests arrive so no one is bothered by it. If your hot tub has an ACE Salt System it’s not a bad idea to increase your Output Level a setting or two, to allow more sanitizing while you’re all soaking. (Don’t forget to readjust the level to your normal setting the next day.)
  • After you say your goodbyes, add an extra dose of your sanitizer and spa shock, then let your jets run from 30 to 45-minutes or more. This will stop any newly introduced bacteria from establishing itself in your tub, which can cause cloudiness. The next thing to do is give your filters a good cleaning.
  • While we’re on the subject, do you know how old your filters are? They need to be replenished regularly. If your tub has one filter you should change it at least every year or two. If you own a Hot Spring Spa with regular filters (three or more) the replacement cycle is every two to three years. If you happen to have Hot Spring’s exclusive Tri-X filter, the replacement interval is every 4-5 years. Regardless of the type of filters you have, they should be cleaned monthly with a good quality filter cleaner. Just hosing them off doesn’t cut it. This applies no matter how often you use your hot tub.
  • Make sure you check the Alkalinity and pH levels. They’re important to water clarity. If your alkalinity is too high it makes it tough to keep your water balanced and it can become cloudy. If the alkalinity readings reach 180 or more, your hot tub is going to need a fresh batch of water. If the pH is not neutral that can also cause cloudiness, especially if the pH gets too high. Often times you can solve a cloudy water issue just by correcting the alkalinity and pH levels.
  • You can clear things up with a clarifier if you add it to your water every week. SeaKlear’s Mighty Pods Toss & Go Clarifier will do wonders for your water. Just toss in a pod to keep your water crystal clear.
  • Check your hot tub’s ozone system. When working properly, the ozone protects your tub from contaminants and minimizes water care problems. Ozone systems normally last about three years. Don’t rely on the bubbles to tell you the system is working. You’ll see them even if there is no ozone present. Cleaning is necessary to keep the system in top shape. The recommended interval is twice a year. Is your system older than three years? It’s time for a new system.
  • Some hot tubs use a silver ion cartridge to aid in cleaning. They need to be replaced every four months, regardless of how much you use your hot tub. The silver ion cartridge keeps working all day, every day. The silver in the cartridge helps neutralize bacteria, and works in conjunction with your ozone system and water care products to make your hot tub water safe, healthy, and crystal clear. Sign up for our EverCare® Home Delivery Service, and we’ll ship your silver ion cartridge on a regular schedule, so you’ll always have it on hand when you need it. The shipping is free, plus you’ll save money on the cartridge.

Do you still have questions? Consider our Service Center your “go to” place for information and advice. Just give us a call. We’re always happy to help.