How To Avoid Future Hot Tub Problems

In the best ways

Did you know that the average American will spend more than two years in a hot tub? While this may be fun and relaxing, it can also lead to some significant health problems down the road with proper hot tub maintenance.

To avoid future issues as a hot tub owner, you must prevent the buildup of sediment or biofilm in your hot tub. O-Care can help, but it will help if you understand why deposition can occur and why it can happen to the best of us. A sanitizer can only kill sediment buildup or biofilm bacteria. Sanitizer is a collective word for different kinds of bacterial killers.

Why preventative care is the best hot tub maintenance

Maintaining your hot tub water is one of the most important things you can do to ensure its longevity and performance. Following a preventative maintenance plan can avoid many common problems and keep your hot tub running smoothly for years to come.

Here are some of the many benefits you can expect with proper hot tub maintenance:

  • Your hot tub will last longer
  • You’ll avoid common problems
  • Your hot tub will run more smoothly
  • You’ll be able to relax in your hot tub worry-free
  • You’ll feel good knowing you’re taking care of your investment
  • You’ll enjoy your hot tub more

Why or how can I have a hot tub with contamination?

We will give you two extreme examples, so you’ll understand that it can happen to the best of us

I’ve got a brand new hot tub, so how could it be contaminated?

A new hot tub can have contamination because most spas are water tested, and there will always be residue left. The hot tub can be left in storage or a container for a while, and bacteria can form when the residue water is left standing still.

I’m super clean, so why would I have contamination in my hot tub?

No matter how well you treat your hot tub, you will always add organic value like skin cells, hair products, and sand to the water. Suppose, for some reason, you have not been able to get rid of these organics, and they’ve been able to attach to surfaces like your hot tub cover. In that case, you could have a contamination issue like sediment buildup, biofilm in the system, or a hot tub filter.

If you have a severe problem and the hot tub needs a deep cleaning, please go to this page. This information on this page will try to explain how to avoid future problems.

How to avoid future issues with my hot tub water?

Always ensure the levels are OK and never leave the levels out of sync for too long. Biofilm (bacteria) will otherwise get the chance to form. Another reason might be that you are not using certain chemicals correctly. All substances have different PROS and CONS; you can read about them here.

What problems can we solve by learning more about your hot tub chemistry and sanitizer?

Every hot tub needs a regular dose of sanitizer to keep it clean and healthy. If you don’t add enough, bacteria will grow and could make you sick. If you add too much, it can harm your equipment and shorten the life of your tub.

Many other problems can arise, and here is the list that you need to take a look at

  • The Hot Tub itch (pseudomonas aeruginosa, the bacteria that causes “hot tub itch”)
  • Rashes on the skin
  • Breathing problems
  • Flakes in the water because of sediment buildup (biofilm)
  • Cloudy water
  • Green water
  • No chlorine reading on test strips
  • Smelly water

Let’s look at how best to kill bacteria and what the different sanitizers are doing.

The most common sanitizers/oxidizers currently used are

  • Chlorine
  • Bromine
  • Biguanide
  • Non-Chlorine Shock (Monopersulfate / MPS)

If you want to learn more, we will explain everything about the different types of sanitizers here.

We are going to start with chlorine for two reasons

  1. It’s the most commonly used.
  2. There are three different types, and if you do not use them correctly, it will cause a problem.
  3. If you use chlorine, you NEED TO KNOW THIS.

Types of Chlorine

This is one of the most common problems the O-Care app can’t fix, as it has everything to do with the type of chlorine you are using.

There are five different types of chlorine, 3 of which are used to keep your hot tub clean:

  • Calcium Hypochlorite
  • Dichlor (Stabilized Chlorine Powder that contains Cyanuric acid)
  • Trichlor (Stabilized Chlorine Tablets that contain Cyanuric acid)

Calcium Hypochlorite

Calcium hypochlorite is a chemical compound that can be used to clean bathtubs. When dissolved in water, it releases chlorine, a powerful disinfectant. It also has bleaching properties, so it can help to remove stains from the tub.

In addition, calcium hypochlorite is relatively inexpensive and easy to find. However, it is essential to use caution when handling this chemical, as it can be harmful if inhaled or ingested.

Dichlor

Dichlor is a powerful chemical that is often used to clean bathtubs. However, it is vital to use dichlor carefully, as it can be toxic if ingested. When using dichlor to clean a bathtub, follow the instructions on the label and wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from fumes.

In addition, be sure to ventilate the bathroom well before using dichlor. Once you have finished cleaning with dichlor, rinse the tub thoroughly with water. Taking these precautions can safely use dichlor to keep your bathtub clean and sparkling.

Trichlor

Trichlor is the most expensive type of chlorine but is also the most effective. Trichlor is used for both pool sanitization and water treatment. It is less corrosive than calcium hypochlorite and does not damage pool equipment as easily. However, trichlor can be challenging to find and is poisonous if ingested.

Now that you know a little bit more about the three main types of chlorine, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your needs.

What is Stabilized Chlorine (Di chlorine / Tri chlorine)?

The industry calls it stabilized chlorine because it includes cyanuric acid. This substance makes chlorine last longer, especially when exposed to sunlight however is a downside. Too much of it will slow down the bacteria-killing time. For that reason, don’t shock the water with stabilized chlorine, and make sure never to use too much in a hot tub as it is better suited for pools.

The only way to eliminate Cyanuric Acid (CYA) in a hot tub is by replacing the water. To test the amount or level of Cyanuric Acid (CYA) in a hot tub, you can buy test strips on the market that test CYA. Sometimes they call this measurement STABILIZER, but it is the same thing. If you use stabilized chlorine that always contains Cyanuric Acid (CYA), be sure only to use small amounts in a hot tub, and do not shock with stabilized chlorine.

How to Sanitize your Hot Tub with Shock?

Pro tip

The best way to shock the water is with MPS or non-chlorine Shock. This will help oxidize organics in your hot tub and ensure that chlorine has all its resources for removing anyamines on skin cells – which can cause allergies! You should add about 30 grams of persulfate Advocate 30 minutes before using whichever type suits you better: if it’s just going down during an already scheduled session, then go ahead.

  • Calcium Hypochlorite
  • Dichlor (Stabilized Chlorine Powder that contains Cyanuric acid)
  • Trichlor (Stabilized Chlorine Tablets that contain Cyanuric acid)
  • Cyanuric Acid slows down bacterial kill time‍

The graph below shows the effect of high cyanuric acid levels on bacterial kill time. Too much cyanuric acid can cause problems fast.

The time delay effect of cyanuric acid on killing pseudomonas (bacteria) at different chlorine levels

Using a combination of Chlorine and Non-Chlorine Shock

If you use a stabilized chlorine type, it will be dichlor or trichlor. If you are happy with what you have been using, there is no direct reason to change; however, if you need some advice, we’re delighted to help. We would advise you to use a combination of 2 different sanitizers, chlorine (stabilized or non-stabilized) and NONchlorine Shock (a.k.a. MPS (Monopersulfate)).

Add around 30 grams of 1.2 Ounces of MPS after using the hot tub. This will assist the chlorine in doing a better job because MPS is a strong oxidizer. If chlorine has some help from the MPS, it does not need to use its oxidizing properties, and it will be able to sanitize the water better.

Sanitizer Amount Depends On These Factors

The amount of sanitizer you need to use can change from situation to situation and for many reasons such as:

  • The volume of the hot tub
  • The weather
  • The intensity of usage
  • How do you use the hot tub (do you shower before getting into the water, does your hair go in the water, do you have sunscreen or other oils on your skin, etc.)

So always test the hot tub water.

Water chemistry should follow the parameters pictured on the image.

Recommended Weekly Hot Tub Maintenance Schedule

A hot tub can be a great addition to any home, providing a relaxing escape at the end of a long day. However, keeping your hot tub water clean and well-maintained is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here is a recommended weekly maintenance schedule for your hot tub:

Following a simple schedule can help prolong your hot tub’s life and ensure that it remains a safe and enjoyable place to relax.

O-Care works in conjunction with many sanitizers for easy spa maintenance

Many different sanitizers will work fine in conjunction with O-Care. O-Care Spa Care is the Best Compliment for Your Hot Tub sanitizers. Hot tubs are a great way to relax after a long day or entertain guests, but they require upkeep to maintain cleanliness. Chemical sanitizers are one way to keep hot tubs clean, but they can be harsh on both skin and the environment.

O-Care hot tub sanitizers offer a safe and gentle alternative that is also effective in preventing and removing sediment. O-Care is made with natural ingredients and is pH neutral, making it easy to balance water chemistry. It is also soft on the skin and leaves no chemical smells behind. For the best results, use O-Care and other hot tub chemicals.

FAQs about Common Hot Tub Problems & Maintenance

What are common problems with hot tubs?

Hot tubs can often develop problems due to incorrect maintenance or using the wrong chemicals. Some common issues are algae growth, bacteria buildup, and clogged filters. Algae make the bottom of the tub cloudy, the bacterial growth causes skin problems, while the clogged pores restrict water flow and the effectiveness of sanitizers.

How do I troubleshoot my hot tub?
What is the life expectancy of a hot tub?
Why won't my hot tub heat up?
What is regular maintenance on a hot tub?
What do you put in a hot tub after every use?

After every use, it is essential to drain the hot tub’s water and clean it thoroughly. You should also add fresh water and chemicals to maintain proper pH levels. It is also a good idea to check the filter and jets to ensure they are clean and in good condition.

What chemicals are needed to maintain a hot tub?
Do hot tubs need to be checked daily?
How often should a spa be drained and refilled?

Wrapping up preventative maintenance for hot tub problems

If you’re in the market for a hot tub, it’s essential to know what regular maintenance entails. In this blog post, we’ve outlined some of the most common tasks that must be carried out regularly to keep your hot tub running smoothly.

It is important to remember that safety should always be your top priority when using a hot tub, so be sure to inspect your hot tub for any leaks or cracks in the cover before use.

If you have further questions about maintaining your hot tub, don’t hesitate to contact us or visit your local dealer for more information.