10 Most Frequently Asked Questions by Hot Tub Owners

1. How Do I Lower Alkalinity in My Hot Tub?

Maintaining an ideal level of alkalinity is vital for a safe and comfortable hot tub. Signs your alkalinity is too high include a green hue, a cloudy appearance, and calcium build-up or flakes.

How to Lower Alkalinity in Your Hot Tub Naturally

Lowering the alkalinity of your hot tub can be done easily using an acid solution specifically made for hot tubs. Make sure to follow directions carefully and wear the proper PPE when using these chemicals.

Alternatively, vinegar is an effective natural solution to high alkalinity. Start by adding a litre of white household vinegar and circulate the water. If needed, add more vinegar in litre increments until you get the desired alkalinity reading.

2. How Should I Position My Hot Tub?

If you’re planning to add a hot tub to your backyard, then you may be wondering: how much space is required around a hot tub?

It’s best to leave about a foot of space around each side of the hot tub. It’s also important the hot tub is on stable ground and close to the house for easy refilling and maintenance.

If you’re interested in some small backyard hot tub ideas, check out our blog to learn our best positioning tips and tricks.

3. Why Is My Hot Tub Foaming?

If you’ve noticed an unusual amount of bubbles in your hot tub lately, then you might be curious about what causes a hot tub to foam. Below we list some common culprits and how you can get rid of foam in your hot tub.

Common Causes of Hot Tub Foam:

1. Moisturizers and lotions
2. Detergents
3. Deodorant
4. Makeup
5. Hair products

By rinsing these products off your body before entering the hot tub, you can reduce excessive foaming in your spa.

4. How Do I Remove Calcium Flakes from My Hot Tub?

Ever look at your hot tub and wonder, “what is the white stuff floating in my hot tub”? White flakes and particles found in hot tubs are usually the result of excess calcium and can be removed by following the steps listed below.

How to Get Rid of Calcium Buildup:

1. Use a test strip to determine the pH level of the hot tub water.
2. If it’s too high, use an acid to balance out the pH.
3. Break down calcium buildup with a scale preventer.
4. Finally, use a net or pool skimmer to remove the debris.

5. Can My Hot Tub Sit Empty?

Generally, leaving a hot tub empty is not an issue. If it’s winter, however, you will need to be careful not to leave any water inside since freezing can cause damage to the hot tub.

How to Empty a Hot Tub for Winter:

1. Ensure your hot tub is thoroughly cleaned, and remove the filters
2. Turn off the power to your hot tub
3. Locate the drainage valve and remove the valve cap
4. Connect a garden hose to the valve and run the hose to a nearby drain
5. Open the valve to empty the hot tub

Please note, it may take 1-2 hours to drain your hot tub.

Contact Us

6. How Much Does It Cost to Run My Hot Tub?

Whether you’re a seasoned spa user or someone looking to buy your first hot tub, you may be wondering: how much power does a hot tub use? Hot tub energy costs vary based on location, but you’ll likely notice an extra $40 to $50 per month on your utility bill when running a hot tub continuously.

7. How Do I Drain and Refill My Hot Tub?

If you use your hot tub year-round, it’s a good idea to change the water every 3 or 4 months to ensure you have the cleanest water possible. Below, we outline the steps you can take to change the water in a hot tub.

How to Change the Water in a Hot Tub:

1. Turn off power to the spa
2. Remove filters and locate the drainage valve
3. Open the valve and drain the hot tub through a hose
4. Thoroughly rinse and sanitize all surfaces of the hot tub
5. Close the drainage valve and refill the hot tub using a garden hose
6. Fill until the water is halfway up the neck jet opening
7. Reconnect power to the tub and start circulating the water
8. Add your startup chemicals once the tub is at 85 degrees

How Long Does It Take to Fill a Hot Tub with a Hose?

When using a garden hose, it should take about 30-45 minutes to fill your hot tub.

8. What Do I Do If My Hot Tub Freezes?

If your hot tub freezes, you’ll want to act fast to minimize the chances of damaging your spa.

How to Thaw a Hot Tub:

• Turn off power to the hot tub
• Place space heaters around the hot tub
• Add boiling water to the hot tub
• Empty excess water as it begins to melt

How to Prevent Freezing in The Winter

To prevent your hot tub from freezing in the winter, you’ll want to either keep it running at its usual temperature or empty it completely if you don’t plan on using it.

How to Keep a Hot Tub from Freezing During a Power Outage

In the event of a power outage, you’ll need to rely on proper insulation to keep the hot tub from freezing. Ensure you have quality heat shields and a thermal cover to keep the heat locked in.

9. How Do I Get Rid of My Old Hot Tub?

The easiest way to get rid of a hot tub is to contact a company that offers bath removal or hot tub removal services. In this case, you won’t have to lift a finger, but it may end up costing you. Luckily, there are cheaper and even free alternatives to getting rid of a hot tub.

How to Get Rid of a Hot Tub for Free

The cheapest way to dispose of an old hot tub is to break it down into small pieces. You can then easily move and dispose of these pieces yourself.

10. How Do I Eliminate Hot Tub Bacteria?

One of the main dangers of hot tubs is bacterial infections. Some signs of bacteria in your hot tub include:

• A sour smell
• Murky water
• Skin rashes after use

A skin condition known as hot tub folliculitis is caused by certain bacteria found in under-chlorinated hot tubs. These include staphylococcus, pseudomonas and even candida fungus.

How to kill Pseudomonas Bacteria in a Hot tub:

First, you’ll want to conduct a hot tub test to ensure your issue is bacteria. Then, you’ll want to perform a shock treatment which involves adding high levels of chlorine to the hot tub.

Talk to A Hot Tub Expert

Need more help with your hot tub care? Reach out to our team today to get the professional guidance you require. At Oakville Home Leisure, we’re committed to helping you make the most out of your outdoor spaces.