Hot Tub Chemical Troubleshooting

The chemicals you add to your spa are of utmost importance to keeping your spa clean and you safe. There are a myriad of different issues that can happen chemically in your hot tub, and we’ve listed a slew of them below. Take a look...

Black Murky Water

Caused by buildup of organic debris and algae.

Shock the hot tub with non-chlorine shock to keep the water clean and clear of soaps, oils, and organic materials.

Grime at Water Level

Ring around the tub is caused by oils in the skin, perfumes, organic materials and other components.

Remove existing scum that is not eaten by the shock with SpaBoss descummer. Wipe away the current gunk on the underside of the cover with a vinegar and water equal parts solution.

Foamy Spa

Foaming is caused by deodorant, makeup, body oils and detergents.

Minimize and prevent foam by using a small amount of a defoamer product. To prevent foam rinse off before using the hot tub and minimize washing swimming suits.

Smells Like Chlorine

Chlorine has combined and destroyed organic materials and debris in your hot tub.

Often when the smell of chlorine is high the first thing to do is test the chlorine. If your hot tub registers almost no chlorine inside that means it is working and you can add more. If the tub smells like chlorine and the chlorine level tests high; wait until chlorine level goes down before using.

Spa Water Smells Bad

Contaminants and other organic materials may be soiling your water.

Highly recommended that you shock the water with an organic and safe non-chlorine shock. Follow up by using Chlorine to regulate the cleanliness of your spa easily.

Cloudy Water

Caused by buildup of organic debris and algae.

Shock the hot tub with non-chlorine shock to keep the water clean and clear of soaps, oils, and organic materials.

Water Irritates Eyes and Skin

Too high or low pH levels is often the cause, or a high chlorine level.

It is recommended that you monitor your pH and chlorine levels with test strips. Add and adjust accordingly.

Water has Chalky, White Scale Deposits

Calcium deposits have developed.

Use a stain & scale product like Prevent II on a weekly basis to prevent this from happening.
To remove calcium deposits drain and refill hot tub and use a cleaner like Pro Line Jet Cleaner. Wipe remaining residue with a sponge or towel. Refill hot tub using a pre-filter and follow startup procedures.

Hot Tub Smells Musty

The pH is too low.

The pH has lowered to such a degree that the organic materials have begun to take over in the hot humid environment. Use test strips to test pH level and adjust to between 7.2 - 7.8. After pH is in ideal range use chlor-aid or shock to assist in the process of removing organic material.

Additional questions? Contact Us!