The sight of murky green water in your hot tub can make it seem like an unwelcome place, but the good news is that green spa water is surprisingly easy to treat. With the right steps, you can restore the balance of your hot tub and make it an inviting oasis once again. Let’s dive into the best ways to treat green hot tub water.
Understanding the Causes of Green Water
High Algae Levels
Algae in your hot tub water can give it a greenish hue. To prevent algae growth, make sure to regularly use a quality hot tub sanitizer. If algae is present, increase the chlorine or bromine levels in your spa.
Cloudy Water
Green hot tub water can also be caused by cloudy water, which can occur when tiny particles form. These particles can be caused by dirt and debris, makeup, or old water. To treat cloudy water, partially drain the tub and refill it with fresh water.
Low Sanitizer Levels
Low levels of chlorine or bromine are a common cause of green hot tub water. Be sure to test the sanitizer levels in your water daily and add more as needed. To quickly rid hot tub water of greenness, boost the sanitizer level for a few days until balance is restored.
Other Ways to Treat Green Water
Shock the Water
Shocking hot tub water is the best way to quickly treat and prevent green water. Use a non-chlorine shock oxidation treatment to oxidize and break down organic contaminants like algae, oils, and lotions, restoring the water balance and clarity quickly.
Deep Clean the Tub
If algae is the culprit, a full deep cleaning of your tub is essential. To thoroughly deep clean the tub, you may need to fully drain the water and scrub the surface with a hot tub brush and specialty cleaner. Refill the tub with fresh water and restore the chemical balance, and you’ll be enjoying your hot tub again in no time.
Cover Your Spa
Exposure to sources of dirt and debris such as dirt, leaves and pollen can also cause green hot tub water. Maintain a cover on your hot tub when not in use to help prevent negative particles from getting in.
Filter Regularly
Filtering the water in your hot tub on a regular basis is essential to keep your hot tub clean and clear. The frequency of filtering will depend on how often you use your spa.
People Also Asked
Why Is My Hot Tub Water Cloudy?
Hot tub water can become cloudy when tiny particles form. These particles can be caused by dirt and debris, makeup, or old water. To treat cloudy water, partially drain the tub and refill it with fresh water.
How Often Should You Shock a Hot Tub?
Hot tubs should be shocked weekly, or after heavy use, to ensure water clarity. The best way to quickly treat and prevent green water is by using a non-chlorine shock oxidation treatment.
Why Is My Hot Tub Water Brown?
Brown hot tub water is usually caused by iron or manganese in the water coming into the tub. Contact your local municipality or test your water if you suspect this as the cause.
Can Too Much Chlorine Cause Cloudy Water?
Yes, too much chlorine can cause cloudy water. Test the chlorine levels in your hot tub with a hot tub testing kit and adjust accordingly.
Can You Use Pool Chemicals in a Hot Tub?
No, pool chemicals such as chlorine or bromine should not be used in hot tubs. Hot tubs operate at a lower temperature, so require different chemicals than pools.
Final Thoughts
Green hot tub water is neither a rare nor an uncommon occurrence. Fortunately, with a few simple and effective steps, restoring the balance of your hot tub and making it an inviting oasis once again is easy. If you suspect your hot tub water is green, the best course of action is to test the water and follow the steps summarized here. With some diligence and care, you’ll be able to keep your hot tub water crystal clear.