Why your hot tub water is foamy and what to do about it

We all know Hot tubs are a great way to relax and unwind after a long day, but there is nothing more unpleasant than getting into a hot tub with foamy water. 

Foamy water in hot tubs is a common issue that can be caused by a number of factors. In this article, we'll explore why hot tubs get foamy water and what can be done about it. 

There are several reasons why hot tubs can develop foamy water, including:

• Detergents and Soaps - Detergents and soaps from bathing suits, lotions, shampoos, and other personal care products can create foam in hot tubs.

• Alkalinity and pH Levels - If the alkalinity or pH levels in your hot tub are too high, it can cause the water to become foamy.

• High Calcium Levels - Hard water with high calcium levels can contribute to foamy water.

• Dirty Filters - If your hot tub filters are not cleaned regularly, they can become clogged with dirt and debris, leading to foamy water.

• Contaminated Water - If the water in your hot tub is contaminated with bacteria or other contaminants, it can cause the water to become foamy.

• Reduce the Use of Detergents and Soaps - Encourage hot tub users to rinse off before getting into the hot tub and to limit the use of soaps and detergents.

• Maintain Proper Alkalinity and pH Levels - Test the alkalinity and pH levels of your hot tub regularly and adjust them as needed.

• Use a Defoamer - Defoamers are chemicals designed to break up foam in hot tubs. They can be purchased at hot tub supply stores and added directly to the water.

• Clean Filters Regularly - Clean your hot tub filters regularly to prevent clogging and improve water quality.

• Drain and Refill the Hot Tub - If the water in your hot tub is contaminated, it may be necessary to drain and refill the hot tub.

To clean your filters properly, follow these steps:

• Soak your filters in a spa filter cleaner.
• Remove all debris from the filters, including any debris in the filter pleats.
• Thoroughly rinse the filters, preferably with a pressure washer. This helps ensure all debris is completely removed. If you don’t have a pressure washer, head to a coin-operated car wash to spray them. Then reinstall the filters.
• Shock the hot tub water according to directions on the shock’s package, then wait at least 24 hours.

Ultimately, however, you’ll probably want to use a hot tub defoamer method that will eliminate the foamy hot tub water permanently. So follow these steps as a permanent solution.

• Shock the water according to package instructions, then wait at least 24 hours.
• If there’s still foam in the hot tub, rinse the filters thoroughly with fresh water, shock the spa again, and wait 24 more hours.
• Repeat step two as many times as needed to rid your spa of foam.
• Also, consider adding a spa water conditioning product such as Spa Marvel Water Treatment & Conditioner. This can help to reduce and eliminate detergent-based foaming while decreasing the amount of chemicals needed to maintain your spa water.

Finally, there is a faster and easier permanent spa defoamer solution. Just drain and refill your hot tub to enjoy a fresh, foam-free start. This method is cheaper, too!

Foamy water in hot tubs can be an unpleasant and frustrating problem, but with proper maintenance and care, it can be prevented and treated. By taking the steps outlined in this article, you can keep your hot tub water clean, clear, and free of foam, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable hot tub experience. 

No problem, the friendly experts at The Hot Tub People have got you covered. 

You can visit us in store at 494 The Parkway, Peterborough, ON. 

Contact us online via thehottubpeople.com or give us a call at  705-768-8827. 

We're here to help you find the hot tub of your dreams.