How Do I Get Rid of Bacteria in My Hot Tub

Regularly sanitize your water using chlorine, bromine, or an alternative sanitizer like a mineral system. Shock the water weekly and maintain proper sanitizer levels.

Signs of Bacteria in Your Hot Tub

Bacteria aren’t always visible, but they often leave clues behind. Look for these warning signs:

• Cloudy or slimy water: A clear indication of bacterial growth.

• Unpleasant odors: A musty or rotten smell could mean bacteria are present.

• Foamy or scummy water: Bacteria, body oils, and soap residues can create buildup.

• Skin or eye irritation: If you notice itching, redness, or rashes after using the hot tub, bacteria could be to blame.

If you experience any of these issues, it’s time to take action.

Steps to Eliminate Bacteria From Your Hot Tub

1. Test Your Water

Before treating bacteria, test your water chemistry to identify imbalances.

• Use a test strip or digital tester to check pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels.

• Ideal sanitizer levels:

• Chlorine: 3-5 ppm

• Bromine: 4-6 ppm

• pH: 7.2-7.8

If your sanitizer levels are too low, bacteria can multiply rapidly.

2. Shock the Water

Shocking the hot tub kills bacteria by raising sanitizer levels quickly.

• Use chlorine shock if you have a chlorine or bromine system.

• Non-chlorine shock works for spas using alternative sanitizers.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct dosage.

• Run the jets for at least 30 minutes after adding shock.

Shocking should be done weekly or after heavy use.

3. Drain and Deep Clean the Hot Tub

If bacteria persist, a full drain and deep clean may be necessary.

• Turn off the power to prevent damage to the pump and heater.

• Use a plumbing line cleaner to break down bacteria hiding in pipes.

• Scrub the shell with a hot tub cleaner or a vinegar-water mix.

• Rinse thoroughly before refilling the tub with fresh water.

4. Clean and Replace the Filter

A dirty or clogged filter can harbor bacteria.

• Rinse the filter weekly with a garden hose.

• Use a filter cleaner once a month to remove buildup.

• Replace the filter every 12-24 months, depending on usage.

5. Maintain Proper Water Balance

Balanced water prevents bacteria from returning.

• Sanitizer levels: Keep chlorine or bromine within recommended ranges.

• pH levels: Maintain 7.2-7.8 to prevent bacterial growth.

• Alkalinity: Stay between 80-120 ppm for stable water chemistry.

Regular testing and adjustments ensure safe, clean water.

How to Prevent Bacteria From Coming Back

Once your hot tub is clean, follow these tips to keep bacteria away:

• Shower before use: Rinsing off lotions and oils reduces contaminants.

• Keep the cover clean: Wipe it down weekly to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.

• Sanitize regularly: Maintain proper chlorine or bromine levels at all times.

• Run the jets daily: Circulating the water helps prevent stagnation.

• Drain and refill every 3-4 months: Fresh water reduces bacterial growth.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your hot tub continues to have bacterial issues despite regular maintenance, it may be time to call a professional. A service technician can inspect the plumbing, heater, and filters to rule out hidden problems.

By staying proactive with maintenance and water care, you can keep your hot tub bacteria-free and safe for relaxation.