Is your hot tub water murky green and slimy to touch? Is there an unsightly build-up of fuzzy green growth? If it looks like it’s in full Incredible Hulk mode, then you have an algae problem! Not to worry! In this article, we unveil what causes this rootless seaweed to bloom, how to get rid of it and prevent it from returning. Read on for more.
What Causes Hot Tub Algae?
While algae rarely makes an appearance in a well-maintained or covered hot tub, its presence is definitely unwelcome. Some of the main causes of hot tub algae include:
Daily Exposure to Sunlight
Like plants, algae needs sunlight to grow, and if you give it an inch, it will almost certainly take a mile. Leaving your hot tub uncovered after each use is just asking for trouble.
Low Sanitization & Bad Filtration
Want sparkling water that’s free from harmful bacteria? Get into the habit of changing the water and ensuring proper circulation.
Chemical Imbalance
Your water becomes chemically imbalanced when your pH and total alkalinity are not within the acceptable range.
How to Get Rid of Hot Tub Algae
Did you know that there are over 20,000 types of algae in existence? However, there are three types that can commonly occur in spa water: green, mustard, and black. Of the three, green algae, is the most common and is relatively easy to treat. Typical treatment for all three includes:
Draining and refilling
Make sure to drain the hot tub completely, wipe down the interior shell and clean your filters. Doing this on a regular basis (every 6-8 weeks) will save you time and chemical costs in the long run.
Shock Treat the Water
Shocking or super-sanitizing your hot tub water involves adding a high quantity of Chlorine, Bromine or non-Chlorine to break down the contaminants in the water. You can shock dose the hot tub yourself or seek the help of a professional.
Add a Hot Tub Algaecide
Use a non-foaming spa algaecide that kills and prevents all types of algae and slime growth, following the dosage on the bottle. Throughout the process, continually circulate the water to allow the chemicals to flow throughout the entire body of water.
How to Prevent Hot Tub Algae
Prevention is better than the cure, says the old adage, and with that in mind, we recommend the following:
- Keep your hot tub covered when it’s not in use
- Ensure filters are cleaned and replaced on a regular basis
- Keep sanitizer levels in the right range depending on the type of sanitizer you use
- Keep your alkalinity between 100 and 150 ppm (parts per million)
- Keep your pH between 7.4 and 7.6
Hot Tub Service and Repair in Kitchener and Waterloo
Did you find this article useful? Are you in need of hot tub service or hot tub repair in Kitchener or Waterloo? Avoid preventable repairs to your Sundance® Spa hot tub with regular hot tub maintenance. Contact Sundance Spas Kitchener Waterloo today!
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