Hot tubs can be a great source of relaxation and enjoyment, but to ensure maximum comfort and safety, its important to keep them clean and free of bacteria.
Unfortunately, many hot tub owners are unaware of the bacteria that can accumulate in their tubs and are unsure of how to rid their tubs of it.
Luckily, there are a few simple tips and tricks that can help keep your hot tub healthy and bacteria-free.
In this article, well cover what hot tub bacteria is, how to sanitize your hot tub, what shock treatment is, the benefits of keeping a balanced pH level, why its important to keep the tub covered when not in use, how often you should clean your hot tub filter, and additional tips for hot tub maintenance.
Read on to learn more about keeping your hot tub bacteria-free!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
To get rid of hot tub bacteria, it is important to keep the hot tub clean and sanitized.
This can be done by regularly testing the water, adjusting the pH levels, and adding sanitizing chemicals such as chlorine or bromine.
It is also important to use a hot tub cover to keep out debris and contaminants, as well as shower before getting in the hot tub to avoid bringing in bacteria from the outside.
Finally, it is important to regularly drain and refill the hot tub to completely clean out any bacteria or contaminants.
What Is Hot Tub Bacteria?
Hot tub bacteria, also known as hot tub-related illness or hot tub folliculitis, is a skin infection that is caused by a variety of bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Legionella pneumophila.
These bacteria can thrive in hot tubs that are not properly cleaned and maintained, resulting in a high risk of infection.
Symptoms of hot tub bacteria include skin irritation, redness, swelling, and itching.
These symptoms can be mild or severe, depending on the type of bacteria and the individual’s immune system.
Hot tub bacteria can be dangerous, as it can spread to other people and cause serious illnesses if left untreated.
It is important to take steps to prevent the spread of hot tub bacteria, such as keeping the water clean and using the correct amounts of sanitizers and chemicals.
How to Sanitize Your Hot Tub
Sanitizing your hot tub is key to preventing bacteria build-up and ensuring your tub stays clean and safe.
The best way to do this is to use a sanitizing product designed specifically for hot tubs.
These products help to eliminate bacteria and algae, as well as reduce unpleasant odors.
When selecting a sanitizer, look for one that is compatible with chlorine or bromine, as these are the best options for hot tubs.
Before sanitizing, make sure that the pH level of the water is balanced.
When the pH level is too low or too high, sanitizers may not be as effective, so it is important to test the water and adjust the pH level as needed.
After balancing the pH level, add the sanitizing product to the hot tub and run the jets for a few minutes to distribute it evenly throughout the water.
Once the sanitizer has been added, keep the filter clean and check the water quality regularly.
You should also keep the hot tub covered when not in use and consider shocking the water periodically.
Shocking the water will help to break down any organic matter in the water, further reducing bacteria levels.
By following these steps, you can keep your hot tub free of bacteria and other contaminants.
Regular sanitizing, along with maintaining a balanced pH level, keeping the filter clean, and shocking the water periodically, is key to a safe and enjoyable hot tub experience.
What Is Shock Treatment?
Shock treatment is an important part of hot tub maintenance, and is a way to quickly reduce the number of bacteria and other contaminants in the hot tub water.
This process involves adding a large amount of chlorine or bromine to the water, which works to kill any bacteria present and oxidize any organic contaminants.
Shock treatment should be done on a regular basis, usually once a week, in order to keep the hot tub water safe and free of bacteria.
When shock treating, it is important to make sure that the chlorine or bromine levels are balanced and that the pH levels are in the proper range.
It is also important to make sure that the hot tub is completely emptied and refilled with fresh water after shock treatment, as this will help to remove any residual bacteria or contaminants.
Benefits of Keeping a Balanced pH Level
Maintaining a balanced pH level in your hot tub is essential for keeping it free of bacteria.
A balanced pH level creates an environment in which bacteria have a harder time surviving and reproducing.
This is why using chlorine or bromine to adjust the pH level of your hot tub is so important.
Not only does it help to keep bacteria at bay, but it also helps to keep the water clearer and to prevent corrosion of the hot tub’s components.
Additionally, a balanced pH level also helps to reduce the amount of chlorine or bromine needed to keep the water sanitized, making it more cost-effective.
By regularly testing and adjusting the pH level of your hot tub, you can be sure that you are doing your part to keep it free of bacteria.
Why Is It Important to Keep the Tub Covered When Not In Use?
Keeping the hot tub covered when not in use is an important part of keeping it clean and free of bacteria.
Not only does the cover keep dirt, debris, and other contaminants from entering the tub, but it also prevents evaporation, which can lead to an imbalance in the pH level of the water.
Evaporation can also cause the chlorine or bromine levels to decrease, making it easier for bacteria to thrive.
Additionally, the cover helps to keep the temperature of the water consistent, which can help to prevent bacteria from growing.
Finally, a cover can help to reduce the amount of energy needed to heat the water, which can save money in the long run.
How Often Should You Clean Your Hot Tub Filter?
When it comes to keeping your hot tub free from bacteria, a clean filter is essential.
Hot tub filters should be cleaned regularly to ensure that they are able to capture debris, bacteria, and contaminants from the water.
Depending on the frequency of use, the filter should be cleaned at least once a month.
However, if the hot tub is used often, it may need to be cleaned more frequently.
To clean the filter, you should first remove it from the hot tub and rinse it with low-pressure water.
You can then use a brush to gently scrub the filter and remove any debris.
It is important to be careful not to damage the filter during the cleaning process.
After scrubbing, the filter should be soaked in a strong filter cleaner for 10-15 minutes.
Finally, rinse the filter thoroughly with low-pressure water and allow it to dry before replacing it in the hot tub.
Regularly cleaning the filter of your hot tub is a key part of maintaining clean and bacteria-free water.
Taking care to clean the filter regularly will ensure that your hot tub is free of contaminants and bacteria, and will provide you with a safe and enjoyable experience.
Additional Tips for Hot Tub Maintenance
In addition to sanitizing the water, using chlorine or bromine to maintain a balanced pH level, and shocking the tub when necessary, there are some additional tips to keep in mind when it comes to hot tub maintenance.
First and foremost, it is important to keep the tub covered when not in use.
This prevents debris and other contaminants from entering the water.
It also helps to keep the water temperature consistent, as an uncovered hot tub may be more susceptible to extreme temperatures.
The cover should be securely fastened when not in use.
It is also important to clean the filter regularly.
Depending on the type of filter, this may mean taking it out and cleaning it with a garden hose and filter cleaner, or simply replacing the filter.
This will help keep the water clear and free of bacteria and other contaminants.
Finally, it is a good idea to test the water in your tub regularly.
There are test strips available that will help you determine the pH level, alkalinity, and calcium hardness of the water, as well as the amount of chlorine or bromine present.
This will help keep the water balanced and free of bacteria.
By following these tips, you can keep your hot tub safe and free of bacteria.
Regular cleaning and maintenance is essential for keeping your hot tub in good condition, and ensuring that it is free of bacteria.
Final Thoughts
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure your hot tub is safe and free of bacteria.
Sanitizing the water, using chlorine or bromine to maintain a balanced pH level, and shocking the tub when necessary are essential for keeping your hot tub clean.
Additionally, it is important to keep the tub covered when not in use, and to clean the filter regularly.
Doing all of these things will help you to maintain a healthy and bacteria-free hot tub environment.
Now that you know how to get rid of hot tub bacteria, you can start enjoying your hot tub with confidence.