Troubleshooting for water problems

Troubleshooting water problems in the hot tub: how to get crystal-clear water

A private hot tub in the garden - the epitome of luxury and relaxation. But what should you do if the water suddenly becomes cloudy, green or foaming? Don't worry: even with optimal water care, problems can occur from time to time.

This article will help you to identify and resolve the most common water problems in your hot tub so that you can always enjoy untroubled hours in your hot tub.

Cloudy water: causes and solutions

Cloudy water can be caused by a variety of factors, including body oils, lotions, dead algae particles, limescale deposits or unbalanced water chemistry.

Solutions for cloudy water:

  • Check water levels: Test pH and alkalinity and adjust as needed.

  • Ensure disinfection: Use sufficient disinfectant to kill bacteria and algae.

  • Check calcium levels: A high calcium content can cause turbidity. Adjust this accordingly.

  • Use water clarifier: Special agents bind microscopic particles that the filter cannot capture. Only use products that are suitable for whirlpools.

  • Empty and clean the whirlpool tub: If none of the measures help, drain the hot tub, clean the tub, remove limescale deposits, rinse the jets and clean the filter.


Green water: algae or copper?

Green water in the hot tub can have two main causes: Algae or copper.

Green water due to copper:

Light green water with no slimy residue indicates copper in the water.

Possible sources of copper:

  • Algaecides designed for pools.

  • Copper pipes in the house.

  • Well water with high copper content.

  • Hard water.

Solutions:

  • Adjust pH value: Adjust the pH value correctly.

  • Use flocculant: Bind copper particles with a flocculant.

  • Empty and refill the spa: If the copper content remains high, replace the water.

  • Use a bag filter: Filter the fill water to remove metals.

Green water due to algae:

Slimy coating on the waterline or walls indicates algae.

Causes of algae growth:

  • Disinfectant level too low.

  • Insufficient filtration.

  • Uncovered whirlpool tub.

  • High bath load.

Solutions:

  • Increase the disinfectant level: Ensure that sufficient disinfectant is available.

  • Carry out shock treatment: This helps to kill algae. Then stabilize the water chemistry.

  • Use algaecide: Existing algae can be killed and future growth prevented.

  • Empty and clean the hot tub: If the infestation is severe, you should clean the tub and replace the water.


Foam in the whirlpool tub: causes and solutions

Foam may look attractive, but it is a sign of impurities in the water.

Causes of foam formation:

  • Personal care products such as lotions and cosmetics.

  • Spilled drinks.

  • Inferior water care products.

  • High TDS value (Total Dissolved Solids), which indicates the total amount of dissolved substances in the water.

Solutions:

  • Anti-foam agents: These remove foam quickly, but do not solve the underlying problem.

  • Drain and clean the spa: Remove impurities and refill the hot tub.

  • Measure the TDS value: Check the TDS value with a measuring device. High values indicate contamination.

  • Use a bag filter: Filter the filling water to reduce dissolved substances.

  • Shower off before bathing: Reduce residues from personal care products.

  • Use high-quality chemicals: Go for quality products for water care.


Other water problems in the hot tub

Limescale deposits:

Recognizable by rough, crusty deposits on the walls.

Causes:

  • Hard water.

  • High calcium hardness.

  • High pH value or high alkalinity.

Solutions:

  • Lower the pH value to around 7.0.

  • Increase the filter run time.

  • Remove the deposits after 24-48 hours with a cloth.

White flakes:

White flakes in the water may indicate limescale or white water mold.

Differentiation:

  • Limescale: Not sticky.

  • White water mold: Sticky and tough.

Solutions:

  • Lime: Adjust the pH to 7.0-7.5 and clean the filter.

  • White water mold: Drain and clean the spa, perform shock treatments and refill.

Chlorine blockage:

A sudden increase in chlorine demand is known as chlorine lockout.

Causes:

  • High bath load.

  • Impurities in the water.

Solutions:

  • Carry out shock treatment: Reduces the chlorine requirement.

  • Clean the whirlpool tub thoroughly: Remove impurities from the filter system and jets.

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